Everest Three Passes Trek and Island Peak Climb Difficulty
The difficulty of Everest Three Passes, EBC and Island Peak Climb is moderate level. Participants should be strong and in good physical condition. You need to walk for 5-6 hours daily on an uneven, rocky and frequently steep terrain. No technical climbing and other special abilities are required.
The trek route includes many sections of stone stairs. You will spend considerable time at altitudes between 3500 m and 5200 m which makes hiking more strenuous. A physical training should be undertaken at least 3 months in advance to prepare before this trek.
Three high pass trek and Island Peak Climbing Accommodation
There will be tidy, clean, modern tea house lodges accommodation-the best that are available in each village. This trip package is based on shared rooms usually twin-share and sometimes triple shares. Hot showers are available in all tea house lodges for paying an additional cost.
Meals on Three Passes Trek and Island Peak Climbing
You will get three times meals-breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trips. Also the snacks as well as ample hot and cold drinks can buy by paying extra cost. Please expect local food such as dal Bhat as well as Western-style dishes such as pizza, yak steak, chowmin, Momo and other dishes. Many of the lodges have power available with typical Asian plugs -two nail like horizontal prongs and offer to recharge for a fee.
Seasons for the Trip-3 high pass trek and Island Peak Climbing
The best time of year, trekking to Everest Three Passes, EBC and Island Peak Climb are Spring from February, March, April and May and also Autumn from September, October, November and December. It is possible to make this trip in February and early September but it is cold and rain at this time of the year. Summer and rainy season is not really a good time for this trek.
WiFi and Internet Access
Hotels in Kathmandu generally have excellent WiFi connections. Most hotels offer free WiFi in public areas. While trekking WiFi may be available in tea houses and lodges for a small cost. The higher you go the use of WiFi and internet will be extra cost and likely the slower the speed.
Your tour leader will be able to offer some advice on communications in remote areas of the country. Please note that most tea houses do not have electrical outlets in rooms to charge devices but are shared in the main dining area with an additional cost. Past travelers have found portable solar chargers to be very useful.
Electricity on the Trip
Almost all lodges have electricity but it is not wholly reliable and lighting may not be bright enough to read by – a torch is essential. Electrical charging facilities are generally available only in the dining room (charged at approx. Rs 150-RS 350 per hour per device). Many of the lodges use solar power so sometimes there is not enough electricity for charging. Many lodges have Wi-Fi these days – in some areas it works well but in others, it is slow and temperamental.
Three Passes Trek and Island Peak Climbing-Seasons and Weathers
The main trekking season in Nepal is from September to mid-June when daytime temperatures at most altitudes are generally comfortable for walking, the sky is clear much of the time and rain and snow are occasional occurrences. Daytime temperatures will vary from 15ºC to 35ºC in the Kathmandu Valley to around 10ºC at 3,600 m and progressively lower the higher we go. Different seasons offer different advantages for trekking.
Drinking Water
Staying hydrated is important when undertaking any physical activity but particularly so at altitude where it is generally recommended to drink at least 3-4 liters per person per day. We strongly encourage you not to buy bottled water on trek as this contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in Nepal.
The tea houses sell boiled water for approx. Rs 150-300 per litre (the price increases the higher you trek) which should not require treating. This is also perfect for a bedtime refill as it can double up as a hot water bottle.
Alternatively, all tea houses will provide cold water free of charge, if requested. Although this should not drink untreated, we recommend to bring a reusable bottle with you and use an effective form of water treatment.
Handheld UV filters such as a ‘Ste Ripen’ are very effective, can treat 1 liter of water in a couple of minutes and the water is ready immediately – look for lightweight lithium battery models and remember that you will need to bring a wide-mouthed bottle (e.g. Nalgene) for use with these devices.
Everest Three Passes Trek and Island Peak Climbing-Equipment Lists
We provide one porter for every two travelers. Your trekking gear will be carried by porter. The porters carry maximum 10 Kg per trekkers. The flight from Kathmandu to Lukla only allows for a weight limit of 10 Kg for luggage, and 5 Kg for hand luggage. Some of your luggage can leave in Kathmandu but you will need to take all your trekking gear with you. Available for Rent: Sleeping Bag (NPR 200 – 300 NPR per day)
Cold Weather
Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
Scarf
Warm gloves
Warm hat
Warm layers
Conservative Dress
Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)
Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)
Documents
Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
Passport (required) (With photocopies)
Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies)
Essentials
Binoculars (optional)
Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
Cash, credit and debit cards
Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
Ear plug
First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, band aids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes,
antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra
prescription drugs you may be taking)
Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
Fleece top/sweater
Footwear
Hat
Locks for bags
Long pants/jeans
Money belt
Outlet adapter
Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
Reusable water bottle
Shirts/t-shirts
Sleepwear
Small travel towel
Sunglasses
Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
Watch and alarm clock
Waterproof backpack cover
Windproof rain jacket
Health and Safety
Face masks (required)
Hand sanitizer (required)
Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
Rubber gloves
High Altitude Trekking
Down jacket (Recommended for winter season)
Hiking boots (Worn frequently prior to departure)
Pack liners to waterproof bags
Reusable water bottler – minimum 1 litre (Aluminum or Nalgene polypropylene are best)
Sandals (For wearing around camp in the evenings)
Sleeping bag and liner, 4 season
Spare boot laces
Thermal base layer
Waterproof gloves
Whistle
Windproof rain gear
Wool socks
Laundry
Laundry facilities are offered by some of tea house and hotel for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Passports
As a general rule, your passport has a minimum of 6 months validity remaining. Your passport details are required to complete your booking. Please ensure the passport details you provide are accurate. Any errors provided may result in extra fees for making corrections in bookings. We recommend taking copies of the main passport pages and other important documents with you as well as leave copies at home with family or friends.
Nepal Visa
All foreign nationals require a visa to enter Nepal. Visas are obtainable from embassies abroad or on arrival at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan airport. If getting the visa at the airport be prepared for long queues. You will also need to provide one passport photo and the following fees in US dollars cash only: Multi entry visa valid for 15 days – US $30: Multi Entry Visa for 30 days – US $50 and multiple entry visa valid for 90 days – US $125. All travelers are required to produce proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 to get visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport.
Money Matters
Every traveler is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travelers may drink more than others while other travelers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. As currency exchange rates in Nepal fluctuate often. The exchange rate for Nepal now is 1 USD = 133 NPR (Nepalese Rupees).
There are many ATM machines that accept both Visa and MasterCard but these are limited to Kathmandu, Pokhara and Namche Bazaar. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops but they may charge a 4% to 6% transaction fee.
Departure Tax
All departure taxes should be included in your international flight ticket.
Tipping
Tipping is expected – though not compulsory – and shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do this individually, or your CEO will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $1-$2 USD per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service, for porters during the trekking portion of your trip, the recommended amount is 300-500 Rs (4-7 USD) per day; ask guide for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. Also at the end of each trip if you felt your guide and porter did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $20-30 USD per person, per week can be used.
Safety and Security
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelry at home – you won’t need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
Protests and Demonstrations
Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately.
Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities have a balanced approach to safety. Swimming is always at your own risk.
Drugs and Smoke
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is not acceptable for our travelers, also illegal in Nepal.
Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. We have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Local Dress
In Nepal the dress standard is more conservative than it is back home. When packing try to pick loose, lightweight, long clothing that will keep you cool in the usually hot and humid climate of summers. In predominately Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim countries we ask that you dress respectfully and avoid very short shorts/skirts and singlets/tank tops when visiting temples or mosques or other holy sites. While visiting monasteries, please make sure you wear long trousers and open your shoes and stay quiet before entering the monasteries.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a our tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
International Flights-Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Personal Health
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements.
Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons your guide are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In Asia pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug.
Important notes
1. You will be trekking on hilly terrain, generally on well-defined paths, walking anywhere between 2 to 7 hours per day, on average about 5 hours a day. Altitude may exceed 5545 meters.
2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. For this it needs extra cost.
3. In case of weather conditions leading to cancellations or delays in flights, this trip will operate on an alternate itinerary.
4. You must bring an emergency fund of USD 500 in cash with you on this trip, which you may need to use in case of delayed or cancelled flights.
5. We advise allowing a few extra days in Kathmandu at the end of your trip should your return flights from Lukla be delayed due to weather conditions.
6. The minimum age for this trip is 15 at time of travel.
7. You may be asked to provide 2 passport size photographs for your trekking permit.
Altitude Sickness
Travelers to altitudes higher than 2,50 m are at risk of altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS). This can be life-threatening and affect anyone, even people who are very physically fit. There is a higher risk for those who have had altitude sickness before, who exercise or drink alcohol before adjusting to the altitude, or who have health problems that affect breathing.
If your tour travels to high altitude, see your doctor for advice specific to you and your situation before you depart. It is important to be aware of the normal altitude symptoms that you may encounter BUT NOT worry about:
1.Periods of sleeplessness
2.Occasional loss of appetite
3.Vivid, wild dreams at around 2500-3800m in altitude
4.Unexpected momentary shortness of breath, day and night
5.Periodic breathing that wakes you occasionally
6.Blocked nose
7.Dry cough
8.Mild headache
If you are feeling nauseous, dizzy, or experience other symptoms, please be sure to let your guide know immediately so that we can monitor your condition. Please be aware that should your guide deem it unsafe for you to continue trekking at any time, they will arrange for you to descend to a lower altitude.
Medical Facilities and Treatment
Medical facilities in Nepal are very limited, particularly outside Kathmandu. In Kathmandu, treatment at international-standard clinics is expensive and up-front payment for services is generally required. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment, including evacuation by helicopter.
Alcohol and Caffeine-Alcohol and trekking don’t mix. We highly recommend that you limit your alcohol consumption in Kathmandu prior to your trip. Celebrate your achievements after your trek. Both alcohol and caffeine increase dehydration. Limit your intake of both when hiking at high altitudes.
Monsoon-The monsoon season is from June to September and weather conditions can disrupt travel during this time due to flooding and landslides. Disruption of air travel and airport closures are also possible. Be prepared that the itinerary may need to change at short notice.
Lukla Flights
Weather conditions in the Himalayas can change rapidly and we may be forced to change the trip itinerary accordingly. Travelers need to be prepared for all weather conditions. In the Himalayas weather can cancel or delay the scheduled flight(s) to/from Lukla airport.
To be sure that you make your trek, or return from it, it may be necessary to make this flight by a chartered helicopter. Helicopters can operate in some weather that aircraft cannot. Should a helicopter be needed, it will be at the expense of the travelers, and not something covered by Mission Eco Trek.
Please keep approximately USD 500 (one way) accessible in case this situation presents itself. Hopefully weather delays will not occur, or if they do it will be for a limited time. Should the delays stretch into days and neither helicopter nor flight are a viable option, a collective decision will be made by the group on how to proceed. This is especially true if the delays are prior to the trek, as the original trek may no longer be feasible. We are here to help with this process.
Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $700 (or equivalent) cash as an ’emergency’ fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This includes the USD $500 cash emergency helicopter funds.
Drones in Nepal
Please note that drones and the flying of drones are prohibited in Nepal. If you violate these regulations the police may take you into custody.
Solo Travelers
Single travelers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travelers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
