Nar Phu Valley Nepal Trip 28 Oct - 10 Nov

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are you doing this?

In short, I love travel, planning travel, sharing travel, and REALLY love Nepal. I want to make this trip of a lifetime adventure more accessible to people who might not otherwise experience it.

Is this trip for me?

Are you someone who wants to take the trip of a lifetime, but aren’t sure where to begin? Have you dreamed of experiencing the magic of Nepal and seeing the majestic Himalayas? Are you an experienced hiker/trekker and ready for a new challenge? Are you more of a traveler than a tourist? Are you open-minded to new experiences (sights, sounds, food, people)? Are you kind, easygoing, and adaptable? Are you open to pushing yourself mentally and physically while taking in spectacular scenery? Then this trip is for you!

Why should I travel with this group?

Forget impersonal, organized group travel. This is a unique, small-group, personalized travel experience. Travel with a diverse but similarly-minded group of people together on this once-in-a-lifetime journey!

Why did you pick this trip over the more famous Everest Base Camp Trek or the Annapurna Circuit Trek?

Both of these other treks require a lot more time and are significantly more crowded with trekkers than Nar Phu Valley trek. My goal was to find something more unique, off the beaten path, challenging, and with some of the most amazing scenery and authentic cultural experiences in Nepal. With the Nar Phu Valley Trek, you can expect:

Dramatic landscapes, from verdant forests teeming with life to stark, high-altitude trails that seem to touch the cloud

Snow-capped peaks and cascading waterfalls

High mountain passes like the Kang La Pass (5,322 meters), rewarding you with breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Annapurna massif

Well-maintained and easy to follow trails

Villages along the trek where time seems to stand still and that are home to friendly and welcoming people, who will be happy to share their culture and traditions with you

A truly unforgettable experience with physical challenge, but also with an immense sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching these heights

How much will it cost?

Base cost for all 14 days is $1469 (see below for what is included/excluded). Cost may vary depending on arrival date and any additional requests (e.g. extra days, Kathmandu tour, Pokhara side trip, etc.). We’re doing everything we can to maximize the experience while keeping costs as low as possible. Trip prices may increase for anyone booking less than 60 days from trip start date (assuming any space left available).

What’s included?

Private airport transfers to and from hotel in Kathmandu

2-night stay in 3-star accommodations in Kathmandu (1 night before and 1 night after trek) OR 1-night stay in Kathmandu before trek and 1-night stay in Pokhara after trek

Daily breakfast at hotel stays

All meals, private transportation (not public like most trekking companies), accommodations, and trekking permits during trekking experience

An official, government-certified trekking guide with training in high altitude sickness and first aid (includes their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, insurance, and clothing)

Porter services to carry your heavier items during the trek (includes their food, accommodation, salary, equipment, insurance, and clothing)

What’s not included?

Airfare to and from Kathmandu at the start and end of your trip

Transportation from Pokhara to Kathmandu. We can help you arrange either bus ($10-$20, 6-12 hours) or airplane ($80-$120, 30 min flight) depending on your travel plans and desires (e.g. extended stay in Pokhara or immediate return to Kathmandu)

Nepal entry visa fee (paid for and obtained on arrival)

Personal expenses such as laundry, phone services, sweets, snacks, beverages and bar bills, device charging, wifi, and hot water on trek (it may be free of charge in some locations)

Food / meals not listed as included above

Travel Insurance (should include both rescue and medical assistance). More details below

Personal trekking equipment (you can bring with you or buy / rent in Kathmandu trekking stores)

Tips for drivers, guides, and porters (we can provide recommendations later)

How large will the group be?

In order to maximize the experience, I have limited the maximum group size to 8 people (not including the trekking team and myself). There is no minimum size for the group.

Do I need to be in good shape?

You should be in good shape prior to starting this trip. During the trekking experience, we will be hiking on average 6 hours a day at some higher elevations than you may be used to. It’s recommended that you work on your cardiovascular health, lower body, and core prior to taking the trip. Jogging, biking, swimming, yoga, or whatever your favorite exercises are great to keep up (or start) well before the trip (at least 3 weeks prior). If you have any concerns related to your health and ability to complete this experience, please consult your physician. This is considered a moderate to challenging trek.

Is this a luxury tour?

This is definitely not a luxury tour, at least in the traditional sense. The luxuries will come in the form of the very unique experiences we’ll have on this journey.

What are sleeping accommodations like?

We will be staying in a 3-star hotel in one of main touristic areas (Thamel) of Kathmandu and Pokhara (if choosing to stay there at end of trek). For the trekking experience, we will be staying in very rustic and authentic lodges and teahouses. Imagine it to be something akin to a “summer camp” experience. All rooms are double occupancy (two twins), but we may be able to make single occupancy arrangements in advance and with an upcharge (at cost). You can share your room with your traveling companion or another member of the group (if traveling solo).

What if I want my own room?

Please coordinate this in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate. There will likely be a single supplement upcharge for each location where it is available.

What do I need to bring?

We’ll provide a more detailed list later, but here are some items you will likely need to bring or buy/rent in Kathmandu:

Hiking shorts, trekking pants, lightweight underwear, t-shirts (ideally quick drying), thermal underwear, light waterproof jacket, Gore-Tex jacket, fleece jacket or pullover, down jacket/coat liner, gloves, hat, medium-sized backpack if carrying your own stuff or smaller daypack if using a porter, electricity adapters (euro), e-book reader, glasses and sunglasses, medications for the whole trip, toiletries, quick-drying towel, soap, wet wipes, sanitizer, water purification tablets or water filter device, refillable water bottles and/or bladders, hat, sunscreen, lip balm, sleeping bag, trekking poles (optional and can be obtained in Kathmandu), headlamp, portable device charger/battery, good hiking boots, lighter shoes/sandals to wear post hike on trek, sweatpants/joggers, tennis/walking shoes for Kathmandu

Do I have to carry all of my own stuff?

The choice is yours and depends on your desired comfort level. The trek fee includes porter services so you will only need to carry what you will need during the day while trekking (water, snacks, clothing layers, etc.). Some reasonable weight restrictions apply and will be shared at a later time.

Do I have to worry about altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness can occur at any altitude, but it is most likely to occur above 8,000 feet (2,400 meters). Symptoms of altitude sickness can include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, shortness of breath, and fatigue. In severe cases, altitude sickness can lead to death.

There are a few things you can do to prevent altitude sickness, such as ascending gradually, spending a few days at a lower altitude before ascending to a higher altitude, drinking plenty of fluids, avoid/limiting alcohol and smoking, taking over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, and maximizing your cardiovascular health prior to the trip. We’ll help with the ascent part!

You can also speak to your physician about taking Diamox medication to help with any potential effects.

The highest point of the trek is about 17,440 feet (5,315 meters). The highest lodging point is at about 13,944 feet (4,250 meters). For comparison, Pike’s Peak in Colorado is about 14,100 feet (4,300 meters). Kathmandu is at an elevation of about 4,600 feet (1,400 meters).

What’s the weather going to be like?

The weather in Kathmandu in October/November is generally mild and pleasant. There is less rainfall and the skies are clearer. The average temperature in October/November is around 20°C / 68°F during the day and 7°C / 45°F at night.

In Nar Phu Valley, generally, expect warm and sunny days with temperatures ranging from 15°C / 59°F at lower altitudes (around 2,000 meters) to a cooler 5°C / 41°F at night. At the higher elevations, days will be pleasant, ranging from 5°C to 10°C / 41°F to 50°F. Nights will be much colder, dropping below freezing to around -5°C / 23°F.

This allows for comfortable trekking during the day with some layering needed for mornings and evenings.

Will my cellphone work?

Most likely your current cellphone plan will not work (without modification) in Kathmandu. If you don’t have international roaming available to you, you will either need to purchase an eSim (through an app like airalo) or purchase a physical sim upon arrival. Physical sims are widely available in Kathmandu. Coverage during the trek is likely to be very spotty at best. Some lodges will have very basic wifi for a nominal fee.

What kind of power outlets do they have?

Type C: This is the most common type of outlet in Nepal. It has two round pins, and is also known as the "Euro" plug. The standard voltage for power outlets in Nepal is 230 V. Please check your devices prior to departure to see if you need a converter (in most cases you won’t).

What is Kathmandu like?

Kathmandu is a city of contrasts. It is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and culture. The city is home to a diverse population of Hindus, Buddhists, and Muslims. The architecture in Kathmandu is a mix of ancient temples and modern buildings. The streets are crowded with people, cars, and rickshaws. The air is filled with the sound of traffic, the smell of incense, and the call to prayer. I like to think of Kathmandu as beautifully chaotic.

Are there ATMs easily available?

Yes, there are ATMs widely available in Kathmandu. They are nearly nonexistent once we begin the trekking experience. You will need to bring cash with you for that part of the trip (we’ll discuss recommended amounts later). The approximate exchange rate is $1 equals about Rs 131.

How much do I need to put as a deposit to hold my space? When is the balance due?

We kindly ask that you pay a $300 deposit to secure your space on the trip. It is fully refundable up to 90 days before the trip starts. The balance is due 30 days prior to departure and is non-refundable.

What if the trip fills up? Will there be a waitlist?

In the event all spaces are filled with confirmed reservations and deposits, I will maintain a waitlist of those still interested in the trip. Should anyone cancel their reservation, I will contact those on the waitlist in the order in which I have received their registration information.

What if I need to cancel?

Any monies paid 90 days or more prior to the trip start date are fully refundable should you need to cancel. Unfortunately, less than 30 days prior to trip start, the money is non-refundable. For this reason (and others), we highly recommend trip insurance (see below).

Do I need a visa?

Yes, but it is a very simple process and, in most cases, can be done on arrival at the airport by just paying the fee. For current information, please check here: https://www.immigration.gov.np/page/visa-on-arrival

Do I need insurance?

Although not mandatory, it is HIGHLY recommended in the event you need to cancel or alter your travel plans. It is also helpful in the extremely unlikely event you need medical care or evacuation while you are traveling. There are many options available out there, but definitely choose one that covers trekking in Nepal. I recommend World Nomads; however feel free to chose whomever you like. If you are considering not getting insurance, please discuss with me so that can cover pros and cons.

What time should I fly into Kathmandu on the first day?

International flights arrive into Kathmandu airport (KTM) at all hours of the day. That said, the optimum time to arrive (based on hotel accommodations and trekking departure) is the morning/afternoon/evening prior to the first trekking day. Should you need or want to arrive at any other time of day, we can make arrangements to accommodate this; however there may be additional (minimal) charges associated with late night/early morning arrivals. Please consult with me prior to booking your flights if you have any questions. If you want to arrive earlier to explore Kathmandu and allow some time to overcome any potential jetlag, please let m know. I can help with accommodations and set you up with an excellent local tour guide.

What if I want to arrive earlier/stay longer and see other things?

That’s an EXCELLENT idea if you are able. I am happy to provide recommendations on things to see, do, and visit if you can. If you’ve never been to Kathmandu or Pokhara, they are definitely worth a visit if you have extra time.

What are some helpful Nepali phrases?

Learning a few simple phrases can go a very long way as a traveler. Check this out for some common phrases. “Hello” and “thank you” are probably the most important. https://www.treknomads.com/blog/common-nepali-phrases/

What is Nepali cuisine like?

Nepali cuisine is a diverse and delicious blend of Indian, Tibetan, and Chinese influences. It is characterized by its use of fresh ingredients, its emphasis on spices, and its hearty and flavorful dishes. Two of their most well-known and well-loved dishes are dal bhat and momos.

Dal Bhat: This is the national dish of Nepal and consists of rice, lentil soup, and vegetable curry. It is a filling and nutritious meal that is often served with a side of pickle or yogurt.

Momos: These are steamed dumplings that are filled with a variety of ingredients, such as vegetables, meat, or cheese. They are often served with a dipping sauce made of tomato chutney or chili sauce.

Nepali cuisine is also known for its use of spices. Some of the most common spices used in Nepali cooking include turmeric, coriander, cumin, ginger, garlic, and chili peppers. These spices give Nepali dishes their unique flavor and aroma.

I have dietary restrictions, can you accommodate them?

We will do our best to accommodate, but please communicate any restrictions or concerns prior to booking.

What’s the time difference in Nepal?

At the time of the trip, Kathmandu, Nepal will be 9 hours and 45 minutes ahead of New York.

How do I reserve a spot???

Just let me know! Once you share all of your pertinent details and pay the $300 refundable (up to 90 days prior to trip start), you’re in!!

Anything else I should know?

Here are some additional pointers to make sure you get the most of this experience:

Expect the unexpected. Although this trip is fairly structured, this is adventure travel

As mentioned above, try to be more of a traveler and less of a tourist

Always seek the beauty and fun of an experience and people. There’s charm everywhere

Try everything you can (be openminded) and be open to pushing your boundaries

Breathe deeply and fully

Pack some patience and a lot of kindness