How do I train for this adventure?

We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

We recommend that in the months leading up to your climb, that you make use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. You need significant strength in your legs and a sense of determination, as there are some demanding sections, which are made more challenging by the altitude. Be consistent in your training, walk as often as possible and increase the intensity of your workouts to gain the most benefit from them. 

While no trekking experience is required prior to registration, a good level of physical fitness is essential. Ample time is allocated each day to reach the next accommodation or campsite, so there is no need to rush. In fact, we advise that you trek slowly to aid acclimatisation and improve your chances of summit success. Please consult your GP or a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for this challenge. 

In addition to your physical training, it’s important to be mentally prepared for the challenge. You might encounter setbacks and difficult periods during the trek, but remind yourself that many people have achieved this feat before you, and you can do it too. Maintain a positive attitude, and remember your guide will be there to encourage and inspire you all the way!

What is the accommodation like?

Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share 3 star hotels and basic lodges.

Lodges are basic but comfortable, however they can get cold. You’ll need your thermals, fleece, beanie, gloves and a sleeping bag. 

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms can be requested at an additional cost (subject to availability). Please note, on this adventure single rooms are only available at the hotels in Kathmandu.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

What are the toilets like? 

Most hotels and lodges will have private amenities with water and flushing toilets. While trekking, toilets are likely to be basic squat-style with no toilet paper provided. When using toilet paper, it should not be flushed and instead be placed in the bins provided or in a recyclable brown paper bag or zip-lock bag to be disposed of later. Restrooms in restaurants and other public places will vary. At places such as Gorakshep, Lobuche and Dingboche, only squat toilets are available.

Are showers available? 

Yes, there are showers available at the hotels in Kathmandu. Showers are available at almost all teahouses for a small charge. It costs Rs 400-550 per person for a hot shower.

What is the food like? 

You can expect a selection of cooked and continental breakfast options each day. During the trek, morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea will be served at local teahouses. Daal bhaat power, 24 hour! This delicious local dish is also what the crew will be eating at lunch, and they know what's good. It's the best source of energy and will keep you going for the rest of the day. But don't worry, there will be other options to choose from, too. Dinners include a variety of cooked foods such as fried rice or noodles, pizza, momos, vegetables and more daal bhaat, and some other western dishes.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. 

Will I have mobile phone reception? 

If you have worldwide coverage, you can bring your own mobile phone and use it to make domestic or international calls. Please check with your mobile service provider prior to departure regarding international roaming and associated costs. Alternatively, you may wish to purchase a local SIM card. Please ensure your phone is unlocked prior to departure. 

Mobile phone reception will be limited during the trek, but generally fine in the city. There will be free Wi-Fi available at the hotels, and some teahouses will offer it for a small fee. 

Will I have access to electricity?

Nepal uses two round or three round pin power plugs (outlet types C, D and M), 220V/50Hz. 

Power outages are a reality of life in Kathmandu. Most hotels post a schedule of planned electricity cuts, which can last up to 16 hours a day, however they generally have generators which they use during these outages. While trekking, you will have less access to electricity and may incur a small fee to charge your devices. We recommend a powerbank (portable charger), which you can charge before embarking on the trek.

What do I need to pack? 

You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider. 

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.

How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?

See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.

What’s included in the travel cost?

Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost includes: 

• Internal domestic flights
• Transfers in private vehicle as per itinerary
• Twin-share accommodation in 3 star hotels and basic lodges
• Local English-speaking guides and trekking crew
• Porters (one porter between two participants)
• Meals as per itinerary
• Water on trekking days
• All entrance fees and national park permits as per itinerary

What’s not included in the travel cost?

Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details. 

Generally, the travel cost does not include: 

• International airfares
• Airport transfers
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Visa
• Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities

Are the travel costs subject to change?

We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please keep in mind they can change due to group size or factors out of our control.

How much spending money do I need?

We recommend that you allow Rs 4,000 (approximately AU$50) per day to cover any meals not included in the trip costs, souvenirs, gifts, drinks and any additional activities you may wish to participate in. It is possible to travel well on a smaller budget and you can always withdraw more money while away.

Is it customary to tip? 

Tipping in Nepal is expected, though not compulsory, and you are encouraged to tip only an amount you find appropriate. Your Team Leader will give you advice on customary tipping amounts and coordinate a tipping kitty to assist you and the team with the process. Usually around Rs 15,000 (approx. AUD$200) per person for the entire adventure. 

Do I need to have travel insurance?

Travel insurance is compulsory for all our international adventures. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

Do I need a visa to travel to Nepal?

Australian and New Zealand passport holders require a visa for entry into Nepal. We advise you to obtain your visa prior to departing Australia or New Zealand. For further information, please contact the relevant consulate. Passports are required to be valid for at least six months after the date you return to your home country. You must have a valid passport before you can apply for a visa.

Is it safe to travel to Nepal?

While in Nepal, we advise that you remain aware of your surroundings at all times. Never leave your belongings unattended, always keep an eye or a firm grip on cameras and shoulder bags, and avoid travelling alone, especially at night. Caution should be adopted in larger cities. When staying in hotels, secure all valuables and documents in a safe. These are the same safety precautions we recommend when travelling to any destination.

Can I drink the water in Nepal?

Do not drink the tap water. Tap water is safe to drink only after it is boiled. Purified bottled water is available everywhere in major cities and at teahouses along the trail, and is generally quite cheap. Before you purchase a bottle of water, check that the seal on the cap is not broken.

What weather can I expect?

The weather in Kathmandu is very pleasant, ranging from 20-28°C during the day most of the year. The average temperature during the trek will be around 15°C with a maximum temperature of 20°C during sunny days, and a minimum of -10°C in the morning and at night, for areas above 4,000 metres altitude. While trekking, temperatures will vary greatly and will usually drop as you climb in altitude. Lower altitude will be a reasonable temperature where you should be able to comfortably trek in a single layer. Layering is really important – early mornings/evenings and higher altitude will be cooler so make sure you have a warm jacket

Are credit cards widely accepted in Nepal?

Nepalese rupees (Rs) are not available for exchange in other countries. Australian dollars (AUD) and New Zealand (NZD) can be easily exchanged in Kathmandu on arrival, and credit cards are accepted in most major hotels. It is best you carry local currency in small denominations with you while on the trek.

Access to ATMs is limited and only available in Kathmandu, so we advise that you withdraw sufficient funds for the duration of the trek prior to departing the city. 

Do I require any vaccinations to travel to Nepal? 

Approximately two months prior to departure, you should visit your GP to begin your vaccinations. The most common vaccinations for Nepal include:

• Hepatitis A & B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus

Cholera is considered a medium risk in Nepal. Please consult your GP regarding protection against this disease.