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How to Go to the Himalayas

Last Updated: May 31, 2022 References

This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA . Danielle Blinka is a Writer, Editor, Podcaster, Improv Performer, and Artist currently living in Houston, TX. She also has experience teaching English and writing to others. Danielle holds a Bachelor of Arts in English, Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Master of Arts in English with a concentration in writing, and Master of Public Administration from Lamar University. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 5,593 times.

Traveling to the Himalayas can be a thrilling, life changing experience, so you're probably really excited to plan your trip. The Himalayas are a mountain range in Asia that spreads along the Indian border with China, Nepal, Bhutan, and Pakistan. In addition to its scenic views, the area is home to a variety of interesting cultures. [1] X Research source You can trek through the Himalayas during the warmer months and ski the slopes during autumn and winter. While the easiest way to go to the Himalayas is to book a tour, you can also travel there on your own.

Booking a Guided Tour

• Since most tours book all of your accommodations for you, they make traveling the area super easy. You won't risk finding yourself far away from the place you booked for the night, which might happen if you're on your own.

Tip: If you want to go to a remote area, you need to book through a tour group. They’ll help you explore the mountains safely and can arrange for help and accommodations. [3] X Research source

• Where you start your trip will determine what you get to see. For instance, you might start your trip to the Himalayas in Nepal, Tibet, or India, which are the most popular areas to see. Most of the famous sites in the Himalayas are going to be in Nepal and Tibet.

• In some cases, a pricier tour may be a better value if it offers more.
• You might also look at which destinations you’ll see. For instance, a tour that takes you to Mt. Everest will likely cost more than a tour that visits a less popular area.

• If you’re into hiking, you might choose a tour that offers multiple treks through different parts of the Himalayas.
• If you just want to enjoy the scenery, you might pick a tour that takes you through a popular resort town.
• If you’re hoping to absorb the local culture, focus on tours that take you to the Buddhist monasteries and that allow you to mingle with locals.

• You might try the touring company Himachal Helicopter Skiing if you want to ski.
• For trekking tours, try Wild Frontiers, Work Expeditions, The Mountain Company, or Mountain Kingdoms.
• If you plan to go to Everest, you may try World Expeditions, Mountain Kingdoms, Exodus, Escape2Nepal, or KE Adventure Travel. [8] X Research source

• For instance, some tour companies meet you in New Delhi, India. Others might meet you in Beijing or Nepal.

• Your tour group should provide you an itinerary each day. If you’re not sure what’s on the schedule for a particular day, ask your tour guides.
• Your tour guides will help you stay safe during your travels, so follow their directions and advice, especially during long hikes.

Traveling without a Tour Group

• Keep in mind that Lhasa is at a high altitude, and it may take time for you to adjust to it. Don’t push yourself too hard on hikes or ski trips until you feel comfortable with the altitude.

Tip: If you plan to go to the mountains of Tibet, this is the trip for you. Lhasa is a city in Tibet, and the best time to go is from mid-May to September.

• While in Nepal, you can visit both Langtang National Park and Mt. Everest.
• It takes about 2 hours to travel between Kathmandu and Pokhara by car if you want to tour multiple sites in Nepal.

• If you want to see popular sites like Mt. Everest or Tibet, it’s best to fly to Lhasa, Kathmandu, or Pokhara.

• You might like to go to Manali if you want to taste the culture but don’t necessarily want to do a lot of hiking.
• From Manali, you can travel to the city of Ladakh, which allows you access to the Indian side of the Tibetan culture.

Meeting Health Recommendations

• Consult your doctor before you try any new exercises or increase the intensity of your workouts. They can tell you what’s safe for you.

• Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR)
• Diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis
• Varicella (chickenpox)
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B (if you might have sex, get a tattoo, or have a medical procedure)
• Japanese encephalitis (if traveling longer than 1 month)
• Yellow fever (ask your doctor)

Tip: You may not be required to get these vaccinations, but they are recommended.

• Tell your doctor you’re traveling to the Himalayas and what you plan to do.

Tip: Consider getting travel accident insurance in case you get injured. This could cover the costs of your treatment and possibly help you as you recover.

Attaining Travel Documents and Currency

• If you need a passport quickly, you can pay extra to have your application expedited, but this is typically expensive.

• If you’re going to Nepal, you’ll need a visa from Nepal. [20] X Research source You can start your application here: http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/page/tourist-visa
• To go to Tibet or any Chinese province, you’ll need a visa to visit China. Don’t include the word “Tibet” on your visa application, however, as Chinese officials may send back your application. Additionally, don’t include proof of travel plans to Tibet. [21] X Research source Visit here to apply for a Chinese visa: https://www.visaforchina.org/
• If you want to travel to New Delhi or Manali, get a visa from India. Apply for a visa to India here: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/

Tip: If you’re traveling between countries, make sure you have a visa for each country you’re visiting. For instance, you’d need a visa to both India and Nepal if you’re going to both areas.

• You may be able to pay by credit card and have your funds converted that way. Be aware that your credit card receipts will be in the currency of the country where you’re making the purchase.

• Wear modest dress because many areas are conservative. That means not taking off your shirt or wearing revealing tops.
• Pass mani walls and stupas clockwise.
• Remove your shoes before entering a monastery or sacred site.
• Offer donations of $1 to $5 to each person operating a monastery or sacred site.
• Don’t cross borders with guidebooks in your bag because they’ll likely be confiscated.
• Don’t bring up issues regarding Tibet, particularly while in other Chinese provinces.

Expert Q&A

• The Himalayas are generally safe for travelers. However, make sure you know your physical limits if you’re going to be out hiking and exploring. [24] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ https://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/the-himalayas-himalayas-facts/6341/
• ↑ https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2013/may/24/trekking-in-the-himalayas-nepal-everest
• ↑ https://www.cntraveller.com/article/travel-guide-himalayas
• ↑ https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/planning-your-dream-himalayan-trip
• ↑ https://www.kimkim.com/c/nepal-s-best-viewpoints-where-to-see-everest-and-other-himalayan-giants
• ↑ https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/southern-asia/nepal/nepal-mountain-safety
• ↑ https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/china/
• ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3254048/
• ↑ https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Nepal.html
• ↑ https://himalayajourney.com/china-visa-when-going-to-tibet-from-mainland-china/
• ↑ https://www.himalayanmentor.com/nepal-travel-information.html
• ↑ https://www.cntraveler.com/stories/2016-03-24/hiking-the-himalayas-what-to-know-before-you-go

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How to Plan a Dream Trip to the Himalayas

For those who are charmed by the outdoor adventures, the Himalayas is the place to be. If being close to nature is what you’re looking for, nothing can beat the unforgettable experience of seeing stunning scenery and gazing at the stars and clear skies above the Himalayas.

Irresistible is the ideal word to describe the temptation that the Himalayas are for travelers and explorers looking for more off-grid vacation spots. 

If you are looking for your next adventure and feel ready to start planning, check out our guide to visiting the Himalayas including important tips, where to fly to, what to know before departing, what to pack, how to travel and some of the best locations you can visit.

Where are the Himalayas

The Himalayas, or Himalaya; Sanskrit: himá and ā-laya, is a mountain range in South and East Asia separating the plains of the Indian subcontinent from the Tibetan Plateau. The range has many of Earth's highest peaks, including the highest, Mount Everest, at the border between Nepal and China. 

Getting to the Himalayas

There are several entry points to the Himalayas including from:

• Delhi, India
• Islamabad, Pakistan
• Lhasa, Tibet
• Paro, Bhutan
• Kathmandu, Nepal

Most international tourists fly into Tribhuvan International Airport, which is located just outside of Kathmandu, Nepal. Other popular airports to arrive in include Delhi, Dharamshala, Lakhimpur and Kullu.

If you fly into Nepal, you will likely arrive in Kathmandu and then travel to the city of Pokhara, a buzzing travellers hub and good starting point to the Himalayas.

How to Explore

Travelling independently through the Himalayas isn't recommended whether solo, with friends or in a group. This terrain can be a challenge even for the most experienced travellers. Lots of travel companies across the globe offer attractive Himalayan tour packages. However, you must double-check the trips, experience level and itineraries  as all are different. You must also decide whether to book online in-advance or wait till you arrive and go with a local operator. 

If you are a budget-friendly traveler, booking with a local company will save you a lot of money than going with an International operator. It is important to choose a reliable company so always check reviews before booking. 

Choose your destination and itinerary carefully, each is different. Make sure you also book a trip to match your experience level for example, if you are a complete beginner you don't really want to be booking a trek to Everest Base Camp but you can find easier expeditions around the trails of the Annapurna circuit. Or if you just want to relax you could just stay in Pokhara and take the scenery, sights and day trips on offer.

Where to Go

The places we have included on our list will take you on an incredible journey seeing spectacular locations. These magical places make the Himalayas an unforgettable experience by taking you close to nature and the great outdoors.

Here are some of the most amazing destinations you need to check out:

Pangong Lake, Ladakh Ensconced in the Himalayas, 4,300 meters above sea level, is the world’s highest saltwater lake, Pangong Lake. The reflection of the majestic hills on the crystal-clear waters of the lake makes Pangong Lake a place beyond any comparison for its mesmerizing beauty. At dusk, the beauty of the place is truly breathtaking, with the setting sun’s glow shimmering on the water to create scenery that’s sure to leave you spellbound. However, do take precautions as the weather can get harsh there. 

Chail, Himachal Pradesh You’ll be charmed by the peace and tranquility of this small hamlet with its tall Deodar trees giving it a lush green look. This place is easily reachable from Shimla. Situated at the height of 2,250 meters above sea level, Chail, with its unspoiled natural beauty, is an ideal place for camping, an abode of peace away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Nature lovers adore this place for its lush greenery, where they can explore unhindered. This place has scored a position in the record books for being home to the world’s highest cricket ground. 

Valley of Flowers National Park, Uttarakhand Stretching over 88 square kilometers across the Garhwal Himalayas, the Valley of Flowers National Park draws visitors with its alpine flowers. The national park is home to some exquisite flora and fauna, including more than 200 species of flowers, birds, and butterflies of various types and wild animals like the musk deer and the Himalayan black bear. The place with its waterfalls and meadows offers breathtaking scenery, too. Ghangaria, a beautiful village a few kilometers away, offers the nearest camping site as staying in the park itself isn’t allowed. The Valley of Flowers is a famous location, but also one deemed as ecologically fragile. 

Sangla Valley, Himachal Pradesh One of the best-kept secrets of the Himalayas is the Sangla Valley. Here’s a place where you won’t see the usual buzz of tourists. That makes the place an ideal getaway for those looking to experience nature in peace. With the Kinner Kailash peak towering over it, the valley is at the height of 2,600 meters above sea level. Taking a walk along the slopes of the valley while you hear the birds chirping is a very calming experience. The place with its lovely beauty is a photographer’s delight with the lush greenery of apple, cedar, walnut, and apricot trees welcoming them. 

Dharmasala, Himachal Pradesh Resting in the lap of nature, Dharmasala in Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra district is gifted with stunning natural beauty. The place has the snow-capped Dhauladhar Mountains as its backdrop, with the tall lush green conifer trees giving it a pristine look. Upper Dharmasala, also known as McLeodganj, welcomes trekkers with breathtakingly beautiful trekking routes offering stunning views of the Himalayas. The Triund Trek is the most popular route where trekkers reach the Triund peak in around 5 hours. Lie down on the soft grass and look up at the sky to take in the beauty of the stars at this amazingly peaceful place. 

Other Amazing Places in the Himalayas

• Tiger’s Nest Bhutan
• Jokhang Temple, Lhasa, Tibet
• Bhraka, Manang, Nepal
• Kagbeni, Lower Mustang, Nepal
• Shangrila, Tibet
• Punakha Dzong
• Marpha, Lower Mustang, Nepal
• Samye Monastery, Tibet
• Chemrey Monastery, Ladakh
• Bumthang, Bhutan  

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Popular Treks in the Nepalese Himalayas

If you are keen to go trekking then these are some of the most popular tours in Nepal :

• Poon Hill. Distance: 51 km, average duration: 4-5 days
• Annapurna Base Camp. Distance: 110 km, average duration: 7-10 days
• Everest Base Camp. Distance: 130 km, average duration: 12-16 days
• Manaslu Circuit. Distance: 177 km, average duration: 13-17 days
• Makalu Base Camp. Average duration: 18-22 days
• Upper Mustang Trek. Average duration: 10-12 days 
• Langtang Valley. Distance: 120 km, average duration: 7-11 days 
• Three Passes Trek. Distance: 166 km, average duration: 18-20 days 

Essential Things to Pack & Buy Before Departing

Most travel companies supply some equipment, but you will need to be prepared in advance. Be sure to buy:

• Hiking boots and a comfortable backpack 
• Sleeping bag
• Sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm
• Thermal clothing, waterproofs and gloves 
• A medical first aid kit 
• Altitude sickness tablets), water purification tablets and rehydration salts
• International sim or phone package allowing you to access the internet
• You might want to buy a VPN service for your phone or computer especially in areas where internet is restricted. We recommend Atlas VPN which works in different locations all over the world. 

The vast majority of travellers visit the Himalayas and enjoy the trip of a lifetime. Be sure to read a lot before departing like what to know before trekking in the Himalayas and get yourself fit and prepared for the alltitude. Once you are in the mountains gazing at the stars under an open sky it will leave you in awe. An adventure in the Himalayas will leave you with memories you’ll cherish forever. 

If you have ever been to the Himalayas and want to share your experience or advice leave a comment below.

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14 Tips for Planning a Trip to the Indian Himalayas

The most extensive of all mountain ranges, the Himalayas stretches across the lands of Pakistan, India , Bhutan, Nepal and eastern China. Home to the highest peaks on the planet, it represents the courageous and vivacious spirit of these countries’ nomadic tribes. If you’re planning a trip to the Indian Himalayas, these are the things you need to keep in mind.

View all trips, check your timings.

The Himalayas is made up of dramatic topography, lush valleys and extensive cold deserts that stretch on for miles. Whether you’re planning a trip to India’s little Tibet, Ladakh or the last Shangri-la, Bhutan; the ideal time to explore the Himalayas is from mid-May to mid-September. However, the peak trekking season in the Indian Himalayas goes from March to June.

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The popular trek routes in the Himalayas are well defined but for those who seek off-the-grid adventure, do your research well and check with the local authorities before venturing into the unknown.

Stop and breathe

Mountains aren’t going to expire anytime soon but if you keep going without acclimatizing to the fluctuating weather conditions then you will.

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Hire a guide

Don’t rely on your Google navigation and GPS tracking, sometimes even the best-planned itineraries fail you. If you’re going for an unexplored route, deeper into the dense ranges of the Himalayas then hire a local guide to make the best of it.

Get your permits

There are certain restricted routes in the Himalayas that require a local authority permit to cross from one village to another. Make sure you get your permits for an uninterrupted adventure.

Set a budget

Like any other mountain range, the Himalayas have set rules for every trail that is easy, moderate and difficult. The most difficult trails will be the most expensive and depending on the elevation scale the budget drops from moderate to easy.

Cash over plastic money

There are still certain villages around these parts where ATM machines don’t work. The small food joints and accommodations only accept cash transactions. Make sure you have enough cash to sustain the entire trip.

Pack strategically

During summers, the temperature can drop to as low as 5 degree Celsius and during winter it can dip to -30 to -35 degree Celsius. It is vital that you pack your clothing and equipment according to the altitude.

What to pack?

Weight management is a tricky business when you’re out on a mountain expedition. Here’s what you should pack to survive unexpected Himalayan weather conditions.

Sleeping bag. Insulated and water-resistant shoes. Wind-proof jacket and an extra pair of woollen socks. Ski pants.

Keep essentials handy

Aside from basic toiletries, the essential priorities change in the Himalayas. For a seamless Himalayan sojourn don’t forget items like sunglasses, toilet kit, trekking pole and power bank.

Maintain good health

This is actually the most crucial of all tips. You need to be physically, as well as mentally, fit before embarking upon a grand trip to the Himalayas. Start pumping those numbers at the gym and get a thorough medical checkup.

Store enough food

Unless you want to create a rendition of Leonardo DiCaprio’s raw Bison scene from The Revenant , fill mini zip lock bags with plenty of protein bars, ready-to-eat snacks, and packed food.

Stay hydrated

Another basic yet extremely important tip to highlight on your trip to the Himalayas, stay hydrated.

Medicine kit

Chances are that you might not be able to find urgent medical help on your travels at unexplored sites, so pack your go-to antibiotics and medicines.

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How to Trek the Himalayas for $30 a Day

T he Points & Miles Backpacker is a weekly column appearing every Monday. TPG Contributor Brian Biros , who has backpacked the globe for the past 15 years, discusses how to fund this adventurous, budgeted and increasingly popular form of travel with points and miles. He'll also explore all things backpacking-related. Read his story here and his high-level approach here .

There are mountains, and then there are the Himalayas. No disrespect to the Rockies, Alps and Andes, but there's really no feeling that compares with being dwarfed by the towering, jagged peaks of Nepal. And you can get that sensation without breaking your back or your bank, because treks through the Everest and Annapurna regions of the south Asian nation can be surprisingly accessible and affordable.

Of course, summiting Mount Everest is an accomplishment very few will ever attain. It's not only physically treacherous, but also prohibitively expensive. Climbers wishing to summit the highest mountain above sea level can dish out $20,000 to the Nepalese government in fees alone, and the cost of a full expedition starts at double that price, and can run well over $100,000.

But nontechnical trekking through the Himalayas is much, much more reasonable on the same lower altitude paths used by professional mountaineers. Nepal is a long way away, but it's reachable on points, too, putting it well within reach for savvy points travelers. Once there, it really is possible to live on $30 a day or less while trekking through the most magnificent mountain landscape on the planet.

Daily Budget

Lodging : $0 to $5 Food and Drink : $20 to $25

And that's about it. "Teahouses" provide lodging and cost nearly nothing because it's expected that you'll eat dinner and breakfast there during your stay. But food is plenty cheap around Nepal, too. I felt like a hobbit eating breakfast followed later by second breakfast. But even at four meals a day, I was rarely spending more than $25 total on food and tea. Just bring plenty of Nepalese rupees — no one takes credit cards and you'll find zero ATMs on these treks.

You can also skip the beers until the trek is over. Transportation costs drive the price of booze high, and it's a pain to dispose of the cans and bottles. Plus, you'll already be challenged to stay hydrated with the extreme elevation.

Up front costs are also reasonable. Nepal's entry visa costs $40 and hiking permits are around $40 and $50. But you don't want to cut corners on the preparation. You'll definitely need traveler's health insurance with medical evacuation, and quality hiking shoes, clothes and gear.

Bring your own methods for treating water , and don't buy bottled water . Hiking is the main event, and the continuous 360-degree views are all free. Obviously, there are plenty of good opportunities to spend more than this budget, but the point is you can trek through the Himalayas for less than what it costs to stay at home.

How to Get to Nepal on Points

Round-trip economy award tickets to Kathmandu (KTM) cost about 80,000 American AAdvantage miles, 85,000 United MileagePlus miles or 90,000 Delta SkyMiles. The best value and availability may be found using AA miles on Etihad, Qatar or Cathay Pacific. Business class costs are roughly double, and availability is much more scarce.

However, cheap economy cash fares can be found, too, which you can pay for with points. The standard cost is $1,000 to $1,200 but can drop as low as $600 round-trip. Using Chase Ultimate Rewards points , that's only 40,000 points round-trip!

Consider a Guide

One of the most common questions about trekking the Himalayas is, "Do you need a guide?" But the better question is, "Do you want a guide?"

I trekked the Everest region with two friends, and we split a guide and a sherpa. Years later, I trekked the Annapurna Circuit with two friends, and we didn't have either. There are advantages to both. It's simply a matter of preference.

Hiking With a Guide

If you don't have trekking experience, a guide can ease a lot of the logistical burden. However, the main benefit of hiking with a guide is that he or she should have a deep knowledge of the area. Aside from textbook facts about tectonic plates, the culture of the local population is fascinating. If you have a curious mind, a skilled guide should have an answer to nearly every question that comes to mind. So don't be shy.

Of course, hiring a guide and maybe a sherpa to help carry supplies will double the baseline daily cost or more, but that is still only $60 per day. And you're directly supporting the local population where the average monthly salary is roughly the cost of a nice dinner in the US.

Hiking Without a Guide

If you're content wandering through the mountains unsupervised and comfortable with the weight of your pack, you don't need to hire a guide to trek the Himalayas. Generally, the routes follow a valley or river, so it's hard to get too lost (save for the occasional wrong turn). Just make sure you have a reliable guidebook and a large, detailed map.

While guides are flexible and usually willing to adjust routes as you go, they may be less flexible with trip duration. You may find yourself in a village, for example, where you want to rest your feet and relax for a few days. Or you may want a multiday side trip. Or you may decide on the backside of the Annapurna Circuit you're over it and want to fly the rest of the way from Jomsom. You likely won't get money back if you decide to cut your trip short. And while guides are generally willing to extend treks to work longer, they may run into scheduling conflicts with the short trekking seasons, which only last from April to May and late September to early November.

Get a Good Guide Book and Map

If you are trekking the Annapurna region, I highly recommend " Trekking the Annapurna Circuit & Trekking South of Annapurna: Along the New NATT Trails Which Avoid the Road ." Sure, it definitely loses some style points with that title, but it does clearly explain what makes the book so great.

Years ago, the trail along the first several days of the Annapurna Circuit was converted to a road. This was much more convenient for locals who previously had to hike to get anywhere and relied solely on sherpas for outside goods. For hikers, however, a walk on a road is much less appealing.

Fortunately, new trails have been created that, as the title mentions, avoid the roads and make the Annapurna Circuit a true trek once again. The German and Nepalese hikers that created and marked these new Natural Annapurna Trekking Trails (NATT) also wrote the guide book. The fourth edition is available on Kindle in the US, otherwise some Amazon UK listings will ship internationally. You'll also want the map to accompany the book. Both the book and map can be bought locally in Nepal, but it's best to get them long before for planning.

For a great overall guide to trekking Nepal, including the Everest region, check out " Lonely Planet Trekking in the Nepal Himalaya ."

Even if you hire a guide, a good guide book and map is still highly recommended. Start reading, planning, shopping and prepping well beforehand.

I know no one ever says to "pack heavy" for a backpacking trip, but this suggestion is especially important when you are carrying the weight of your belongings on your back for weeks at elevation.

Halfway through day one of the Annapurna Circuit, I paid a local man $10 to carry a small bag of stuff I really didn't need back to my hotel. My friends also shed things along the way. Anything in the "maybe" pile should be left behind long before you begin. If you don't, you'll end up leaving it behind a week into your trek and never see it again.

Save the Shower

Showers are available at some teahouses, but you usually have to pay for the wood or gas to heat the water. You'll quickly get used to not needing a shower every night. In general, don't worry too much about hygiene. Splash your face with water, wipe down with a wash cloth and save the shower for after your trek. You will get smelly, and no one will care.

Merino wool garments are lightweight and can hold up against odor for much longer, meaning you'll pack less and trek longer before you start to miss your shower.

Rent Equipment Locally

You'll need a warm sleeping bag (negative 10 degrees Celsius), but you can rent this in Kathmandu for about a dollar per day from many places including, most likely, your lodging. Even though you'll be wearing layers within the bag, a silk sleeping bag liner will provide a few extra degrees warmth (and peace of mind if you don't trust the cleanliness). I've mentioned my love for silk liners' usefulness and versatility before, and it's definitely a worthy piece to add to your travel arsenal.

I'm also a fan of trekking poles that can also be rented in Kathmandu for a dollar per day. They ease the impact on your knees and will help you up the long, steady inclines. They also saved me from falling on my face on more than one occasion.

The one thing you don't want to rent on arrival? Boots. Make sure your hiking boots are well broken in before your trip, and always wear two pairs of socks — one inner liner pair and an outer pair for warmth (no cotton)! I got blisters a few days into the Annapurna Circuit and hiked in my friend's imitation Crocs for four days while wearing my other friend's liner socks. Please learn from my mistakes. Someone needs to make that experience worthwhile.

Annapurna Circuit Tips

If you're trekking the Annapurna region, the Annapurna Circuit is rightfully the most popular option. Three weeks is suggested for the trek, but it's possible to cut out a week or more by making some tough sacrifices.

• Don't Bypass the Beginning: Many trekkers will use the new roads to jump in a jeep and bypass the first few days of the circuit. But the hike from Besisahar to Chame is the greenest portion of the entire trek. Don't sacrifice these days in the jungle just because you can. Follow the NATT trails and you'll spend minimal time hiking the road.
• Take the Side Trek to Tilicho Lake: This is arguably the most beautiful portion of the entire Annapurna Circuit, and a highlight you don't want to miss.
• Explore the Mustang Territory: After you cross the Thorong La Pass, you'll want to relax for a couple nights in the next town of Muktinath. This is also the heart of Mustang territory. But you won't find any Ford vehicles here. A day trip to the Mustang villages is like stepping back 300 years.
• Abbreviate the Backside: If you're short on time, you can always jump in a bus or jeep on the backside and get down to Pokhara quickly. Once you pass Thorong La and leave Muktinath, the trek becomes much less climactic.
• Unwind in Pokhara: The circuit ends in Pokhara, an average-size town on a pretty lake, but a megalopolis compared to what you've seen on the circuit. Relax here with a few days on the lake, or even try some cheap adventure sports if you have the budget.

Everest Region Tips

• Don't Just Go to Base Camp: When I arrived in Kathmandu the first time, I had every intention of trekking to Everest Base Camp, but that's where people challenged me with the question, "Why?" Nepal's Everest Base Camp (not be confused with Tibet's Everest Base Camp which was recently closed to tourists ) isn't a pretty viewpoint of Mount Everest. In fact, you can't even see it from camp. It's a strategic acclimatization camp for climbers preparing to summit Mount Everest, and makes a great stop on a trek with multiple passes and peaks. But as a sole destination, there are better options.
• Summit Gokyo Ri: The best alternate to the Everest Base Camp Trek is the trek to Gokyo. The path diverts away from Base Camp a few days before and arrives in the picturesque town of Gokyo and its famous lakes. The nearby summit of Gokyo Ri, which is the same elevation as Everest Base Camp, has a 360 degree view that includes four of the 14 highest peaks in the world — Mount Everest included. Like Everest Base Camp, this trek is roughly 12 days long.
• Take the Three Passes Trek: This route wasn't well established when I trekked the area, but it looks like one of the best treks to see the highlights of the Everest region, including Everest Base Camp and Gokyo. Set aside at least 16 to 18 days for this trek, with three weeks or more being ideal.

The beauty of the Himalayas isn't reserved for the Sir Edmund Hillarys of the world. Logistics are easier than you'd expect and Kathmandu is definitely reachable on points. Be sure to look out for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which I discussed in an earlier article on climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, but almost anyone can get into shape and save up the few bucks necessary to experience the world's mightiest mountains.

I f you're looking to back that pack up and get some guidance, send your questions to [email protected] !

All photos courtesy of the author.

Expert tips for your first trek to the Indian Himalaya

May 22, 2013 • 5 min read

Yearning to explore the forbidding peaks of the Indian Himalaya , but not sure where to start? These expert tips from a seasoned trekker will help you dodge the newbie mistakes and ensure your journey exceeds expectations.

Planning your trip

Thorough planning (or lack of it) can make or break a trip, so take the time to master your budget, time your trek and assemble the perfect itinerary.

Design an itinerary

Do your interests lie in centuries-old culture or do remote mountain passes appeal? For ancient monasteries, Ladakh or Little Tibet are the places to go. If you want to trek through luxuriant forests then consider exploring Sikkim . For spectacular mountain views, the little-trekked trails of the Garhwal are on par with the best in the Himalaya.

Above all, don’t be too ambitious with your itinerary. Allow plenty of contingency days for acclimatisation, inclement weather, porters that disappear without notice for half a day, village celebrations, or taking an extra day to savour a stunning campsite. Understanding the Himalaya would take lifetimes to achieve, so don't expect to master the mountains on a single trip.

Set your budget

If you're trekking independently, work out the cost of hiring a guide, porters, food, accommodation and transportation - and then double it. That should take care of all other unforeseen costs that always seem to creep into a tight budget. If your arrangements are made by a trekking agency, plan to keep money at hand for tips (likely to come to 10% of your total budget).

Time your trek

March until June are often considered peak trekking season, but make sure you stay weather-aware throughout your trip. The Himalaya are subject to a weather pattern so complex that even experienced travellers can find themselves caught out. The regions of Himachal, Uttaranchal Darjeeling and Sikkim are subject to heavy monsoon rains so avoid July and August if possible. The Indian Himalaya also experience a long and cold winter from mid November until March – during this period, it’s best to head to Nepal.

Safety first

Your travel planning needs to go beyond government travel advisories. Trekking is a specialist activity so read up on acclimatisation (it could save your life) and don't assume you can rely heavily on your GPS when you're out there. Even the most detailed contour maps tend to be unreliable in some remote areas, so your best investment by far would be hiring an experienced local guide.

Check your gear

There's no one to impress in a remote mountain pass, so forget fashion and make sure your gear is sturdy enough to withstand the changeable mountain weather. There is no reason to invest in all the latest outdoor gear, provided your trekking gear is in good shape. Unlike Nepal, good gear still comes at a premium in India. If your arrangements are being made by an agent, double-check what is included. When in doubt you’re best to at least bring your own sleeping bag and sleeping mat and even your favourite (lightweight) tent.

Tips for the trek

So you made it to the mountains; here's how to protect your gear, pace yourself and befriend the locals.

Be positive and pace yourself

Being in the right frame of mind is equally as important as your physical preparation. High altitudes aren't the place to unleash fraught emotions, so try to keep calm during frustrating moments, and leave enough leeway in your itinerary that you won't feel flustered if your plans go awry. Keep your trekking to the same pace as the locals. Your trekking mantra should be ‘short steps, deep breaths’, particularly when ascending steep passes or completing long uphill stretches. And don't cross rivers or swift flowing streams barefoot: your boots will always dry out, but sprained ankles equal end of trek.

Protect your gear

Use a sturdy kitbag for your trekking gear: these can easily be replaced after constant contact with thorn bushes, jagged rocks and being offloaded into dusty campsites, but don’t risk damaging your expensive rucksack (by having it strapped directly to a mule). And while it's tempting to walk with your camera at the ready, your chances of spotting a snow leopard on a distant ridge are on par with winning the lottery. Dusty trails and expensive cameras don’t mix, and a slip on the trail could result in untold damage to your photography gear.

Keep your essentials at hand

Always carry your water- and wind-proof jacket with you, together with a dry pair of socks and a spare sunhat (or two - they're all too easy to leave behind after a rest stop). A supply of stuff bags is a good investment, to ease the constant cycle of packing and repacking. Buy an umbrella locally, not just to keep off the sun and rain, but also to shield your modesty during mountainside bathroom breaks.

Be courteous and flash a smile

Get into the habit of saying a Salam , Namaste or Julay while on the trail. Remember that the local people are always interested (or amused) that you have travelled half way around the world to meet them. Carry a few photographs from home to show them your family or friends, and that will help to break down the cultural barriers. But don't assume you can get snap-happy with local people: photography in some remote regions can cause offence. Wait for permission (a smile at least) before bringing out your camera.

Respect the environment

Don't start wood fires or pollute water sources - you might be thousands of miles from home, but the smallest careless actions can be disastrous for local ecosystems and people. Plan to leave with the rest of the trek crew to ensure that your campsite is cleaned up and garbage carried out (it's eco-conscious, and also avoids the possibility of any of your belongings being accidentally discarded).

Medical matters

Bring your essential medication, but be selective about taking other medicines along with you. Many brands can be purchased without prescription in India. But whatever your medical background, do not treat local people. Except in extreme emergencies, you will do more harm than good. Supplying antibiotics may seem helpful, but it may discourage the patient from seeking long-term advice from a local medical practitioner.

Ready to lace up your hiking boots? Make some room in your rucksack for a copy of Lonely Planet's Trekking in the Indian Himalaya travel guide .

Not cut out for camping? Try one of Lonely Planet's expert-reviewed Nepal hotels and hostels instead.

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5 things you need to pack for a trip to the Himalayas

Don't forget these items when you head to the scenic mountain range in nepal.

The Himalayas, in Nepal , are like no other place on Earth. Towering peaks, clean air, and a welcoming cultural climate have brought me back not once, not twice, but three times over the years — and, along the way, I’ve picked up a trick or two about what to pack. Here’s what you should bring with you if you’re considering a trek to the Himalayas.

1. A water bottle

You should pack both a hard-sided plastic or metal bottle and a hydration pack. Bringing your own water storage will help relieve this fragile ecosystem of the scourge of discarded single-use plastic bottles, which you’ll see littering the trails as you hike. It’s best to not add to the problem.

The hard-sided bottle makes refilling and filtering easy. Though the water in the Himalayas can be fairly clear of organic matter, it’s what you can’t see that can make your time in the mountains uncomfortable. For that reason, consider packing a Steripen, which is a device that uses UV light to kill any parasites that can cause digestive problems. Fill the water bottle from any tap source or stream, run the Steripen for a minute and you will have clean, great-tasting water.

Once the water is safe to drink, transfer it to the hydration pack to keep yourself hydrated while you trek. The pack and its ever-present straw will help ensure that you drink often, which will help you stay strong enough to keep going.

One additional bonus of bringing your own bottle: you can fill it with hot water just before you go to bed and use it to keep your toes toasty until dawn. Then, zap it with your Steripen in the morning, and you’re ready to hit the trail!

2. A notebook

Even if you don’t journal every day, a small notebook can serve many purposes.

Some Moleskine-brand notebooks have a pocket in the back where you can store important small documents, receipts, business cards, or other mementos — I cut a hole through a few pages to make an easy storage area for a SpacePen.

Notebooks are a great way to communicate, as well. I have had friends draw maps and directions to must-see spots so I’m not entirely dependent on my phone’s map (and battery). If you don’t have business cards with you, just rip out a page and pass on your contact information to new friends you will undoubtedly make along the way.

They are also great for jotting down new phrases you learn while on the road, for keeping score during card games, and tracking expenses — should you be so inclined to stay on budget. Plus, they’re on hand to store all the enlightening ideas that pop into your head as you try your best to check out from your day-to-day worries and enjoy time on the road.

3. A good camera

Yes, your phone’s camera will work, but for truly spectacular shots, you’ll want to bring something with a decent zoom and extra storage. I suggest an entry-level DSLR and an 18–200mm lens, if you want to keep things simple and compact. Electricity can be spotty — or costly — at times in the Himalayas, so bring two extra batteries if you can fit them.

Cameras with GPS, which are relatively new to the market, are a boon to the frequent traveller: no need to remember exactly where you were when you took that amazing photo, since, with these cameras, it’s all recorded as you shoot.

4. Sunglasses

Some of my trips to Nepal started in Seattle, where during any month but July and August, I don’t have a clue where my sunglasses are. That can be a real problem in the Himalayas. The sun is intense at high altitudes, which, in the absence of decent shades, can turn a fun trip into a bad one in just one day. There are sunglasses for sale in Nepal, but quality can be questionable. And while we’re on the topic of the sun, bring some sunscreen, too. And a hat.

5. Photos of home

You’re travelling far from home because you want to see something new and exciting. Why not bring something new to those you visit? Bringing pictures from home (I prefer printed pictures for ease of use) helps break through any language barrier you may experience. You can also pack photos of your family, your actual house, or pets; these are all great conversation starters, and a way to bring your worldview to those you visit.

Bonus items: Credit card and cash

Yes, there are ATMs in Nepal, and tourism is the country’s top industry, but that doesn’t mean getting to your cash is as easy as it is when you are close to home. I suggest most travellers bring enough cash to cover a few days of travel. Dollars, Euros, and pounds are easiest to exchange once you are on the ground (though the exchange rate will be less competitive than one you’d get from your bank).

Trekking in Nepal’s Himalayas can be a life-changing, affirming experience. The key to an amazing trip is being prepared with the essentials, so serendipity can take over and reveal the world to you.

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Travel Guide To Himalayas

If you're addicted to the most expensive white powder there is, this is the height of excitement: India's Himalayan province of Himachal Pradesh is an ideal destination for active holiday seekers - and one of the few places in the world where you can go heli-skiing from 5,000 metres. Don't wait for the chairlift: helicopter is the only way up. In the summer, it is the trekking, rafting and paragliding which attract the more adventurous traveller.

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Things to do in Himalayas

First challenge, heli-skiing from 5,000 metres with Himachal Helicopter Skiing (00 61 3 9593 9853; fax: 9525 3405; <a href=http://www.himachal.com target="_blank">www.himachal.com</a>). It is an expensive but exhilarating activity. You don't queue for a chairlift in the morning: you jump into a helicopter at 8.30am sharp to be dropped you into thigh-deep snow in a mountain wilderness four minutes later. It's the only way up (and down) - at least when the skies are clear. And you will have to undergo 'avalanche transceiver practice' - as the Himachal brochure warns: 'The danger of avalanches is always present!' But the experience and sights are breathtaking - little wonder almost half of Himachal's clients come back, some year after year.

Manali is also a good base for trekking, rafting, paragliding and skiing. The treks out of Manali follow trade and grazing routes which have been followed for many generations. Its other attractions are at best described as subtle. Set among pine forests, the town is a chaotic tangle of markets, busy streets and stone houses, arranged along a gushing glacial river. Try mo-mo (pastry parcels of meat and vegetables[/i]) at the Tibetan café - if it's open.

How to get to Himalayas

The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport in the Kullu Valley. But it's best to arrange as much of your journey as possible with your tour company. If you go with Himachal Helicopter Skiing, fly to New Delhi, where you will be met and transported to Manali. If you are making your own way to Manali, you can take a taxi from Bhuntar - the round trip takes about two hours. There are also daily bus services from Delhi to Manali, which operate overnight and take 18 hours.

AIRLINES FROM THE UK

British Airways (0845 779 9977; www.british-airways.com ) flies to Delhi seven days a week from Heathrow. From there, Jagson and Archana airlines operate daily flights to Bhuntar airport.

WHO TO GO WITH

For heli-skiing, contact Himachal Helicopter Skiing, at HHS Australia, GPO Box 2489V, Melbourne 3001, Australia (00 61 3 9593 9853; fax: 9525 3405; <a href=http://www.himachal.com target="_blank">www.himachal.com</a>). A one-week trip with Himachal Helicopter Skiing costs approximately US$5,750 per person (based on two people sharing), from New Delhi. 'Fat' skis are provided without charge, but guests must bring their own boots, googles and specialist clothing. Flights to India and hotel accommodation in New Delhi are also not included. Clients are advised to arrive in Delhi one day before departure for Manali, and to plan an extra night at the end to allow for bad weather.

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India to Nepal: where to go in the Himalaya

‘Himalaya’ translates from Sanskrit as ‘land of snow’, and its white arc of peaks is visible from space. This geological giant sweeps from the Pakistan-India border, past Nepalese peaks, Bhutanese villages and the Tibetan Plateau, to taper down into China’s Yunnan province.

A visit to this region doesn’t have to mean days of trekking. Below the snowline, you can ride mountain railways in India, spot rhinos in Nepal or traverse the Friendship Highway through Tibet. You can’t fit all this into one trip, so our specialists have summed up each country to help you choose.

Because the world’s highest peaks cluster mainly in Nepal , the country is most synonymous with the term Himalaya. Its calling card is a mountainscape of snow-crowned peaks, but they don’t exist in a vacuum. You’ll find a culture, a belief system and wildlife that has developed within the steep-sided valleys below.

For me, Nepal’s draw is the variety of experiences you can fit into a two-week trip . You’ll start in Kathmandu’s old town, where medieval temples, palaces and Buddhist monasteries vie for attention amid vegetable markets and craft bazaars.

From the capital, you might travel onto Bhaktapur , Nepal’s best-preserved medieval city, or the village of Bandipur , whose streets are lined with traditional wooden Mawari mansions.

To the south, you can explore Chitwan National Park’s river plains and jungle by 4x4 or dugout canoe. In the grasslands you’re likely to see one-horned rhinos and elephants, while the subtropical forests shelter vultures, eagles and a long list of elusive mammals, including the Bengal tiger.

As for the mountains themselves, you have a choice of treks or, if you just want to admire the view, a scenic Everest flight from Kathmandu.

Tibet’s Friendship Highway

If you’re seeking adventure — that doesn’t necessarily involve intense physical activity — the Tibetan Himalaya calls. Places to stay are basic (there’s the occasional outdoor drop toilet), but in return you’ll experience one of the Himalaya’s remotest areas and some of the best mountain views in the world.

You don’t have to deliberate about where to go. The Friendship Highway , which runs from Lhasa in Tibet to Kathmandu, is the only real route to follow. You’ll need around two and a half weeks, accompanied by a driver and guide.

Most of Tibet’s towns and villages are interspersed along the highway at an altitude of around 3,500 m (11,500 ft). As you move along the road, passing the second-largest city of Shigatse , the Himalaya really come into view.

The scenery becomes stark and barren as the Himalaya massif looms closer. When Everest finally appears ahead of you, there’s no mistaking its triangular shape dominating the horizon.

You’ll overnight at the highest monastery in the world, Rombuk. The north face of Everest looms large from your bedroom window, and in the evening everyone gathers to watch the sun set over the range.

From here you could take a slight detour to Everest Base Camp . Unlike its Nepali counterpart (yes, there are two), you can reach it by car.

China’s Yunnan province

If you’re tempted by Tibet but it feels a little too off-piste, China’s Yunnan province is a good alternative, where prayer wheels, Buddhist monasteries and Tibetan-speaking villages give you a feel for life in the Tibetan Himalaya proper.

China and India’s foothills bookend the east and west of the Himalaya respectively, but the geography in the Yunnan is more extreme. Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the deepest ravines in the world, forcing its way through the surprisingly green Haba Mountains. There’s a viewing platform, if you’re driving nearby, but you’ll need to complete a two-day trek to do it justice.

Farther north is Shangri-La , (residents believe it was the inspiration for James Hilton’s novel Lost Horizon ). From here, you can visit Songzanlin, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in China outside of Tibet, and luxuriate in some high-class hotels, including the Banyan Tree Ringha.

If you’d like to hike, continue to Tacheng, a small village of black-roofed farmhouses, where semi-wild boar roam and some of the oldest trees in the world grow.

Yunnan combines well with Sichuan province (of panda research station fame) for a two-week trip across western China .

The Indian Himalaya

Sikkim and west bengal.

Squeezed between Nepal and Bhutan  is a thumb-shaped section of the Indian Himalaya. Once the independent Kingdom of Sikkim, it became part of India in 1975 but retained a distinct personality. You can visit the region’s Buddhist monasteries and hike to rarely visited villages along steep valleys brightened by rhododendron groves.

Gangtok , the kingdom’s capital, is where you’ll find Chogyal Palace, the former royal residence, as well as a pedestrians-only high street of tiny eateries.

Pelling is the (village-like) second city, overlooked by the sheer walls of Kangchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain. On a clear day, you can see across to Everest (which, from this angle, looks small by comparison).

On a two-week trip across the region , you can cross the southern Sikkimese border into the narrow band of West Bengal that sweeps north above Bangladesh. Darjeeling , a former British hill station, is set to a backdrop of forested hills and tea plantations. Unlike Shimla, the town has shaken off its colonial beginnings and is a hub for Nepalese, Tibetan and West Bengali people — visit the nightly market to peruse goods from across the subcontinent.

You can take a scenic ride on the Darjeeling Mountain Railway to the nearby town of Ghoom, where Tenzing Norgay’s Himalayan Mountaineering Institute houses a museum dedicated to mountain climbing. A sunrise visit to Tiger Hill beforehand will (weather depending) put you face to face with the Everest massif. And, for a little relaxation, spend a few nights on a Himalayan tea estate, such as Glenburn .

The western foothills

By Himalayan standards, it’s not particularly high here, but these rolls of green that ripple out from the harsher peaks give you the most variety over a two-week trip . Every town and village could be a base for a gentle walk, passing through thick evergreen forests and highland meadows with the snow-capped higher Himalaya peeking out above.

Just a few hours north of Delhi is Kalka, the start of the Kalka-Shimla toy trainline , which weaves for 96 km (60 miles) up the Siwalik Hills. You disembark in Shimla , where the 19th-century British colonial government ruled during humid Indian summers. The British influence is still palpable in the hill town’s half-timbered hall and mock-Tudor frontages.

Farther into the hills, the town of Dharamshala clings to a steep ridge like a snowdrift. The upper town, McLeod Ganj, converges around the flickering Tibetan prayer flags of the Tsuglagkhang Complex. This is the Dalai Lama’s home in exile and now an important Buddhist monastery for the red-robed monks you’ll see about town.

The region is also important to the Sikh community, who regularly pilgrimage across the Himalaya to visit Amritsar’s Golden Temple, their most sacred shrine. My initial sighting of its gilded walls, reflected off the surrounding sacred pool, pips when I first saw the Taj Mahal.

The tiny mountain kingdom of Bhutan

Few people acquire a Bhutan passport stamp, but there’s something very special about this fiercely independent, staunchly traditional country that measures progress by Gross National Happiness.

Bhutan can’t claim the nicest hotels, the most elegant dining options or the best value for money. On the other hand, few places have preserved their culture so successfully — even new buildings must be constructed using traditional architectural methods.

Aside from Tiger’s Nest Monastery , which hangs off a cliff near Paro , you’re not going to cross off a list of must-see sights. Instead, time here is best spent venturing into the countryside, stopping to walk through tiny villages that have bloomed around 17th-century dzongs (fortresses). Plan your trip around a Bhutanese festival to see communities gathered together.

A hike through Bhutanese countryside takes you past landscapes dotted with chortens (shrines), prayer flags and prayer wheels set into the streams and turned by the water. The Druk Path, an old trading route between Paro and Thimphu , winds through quiet forestry trails and yak pastures.

Visit in spring and the valley walls are bright with rhododendrons. And, in the central Phobjikha Valley , you can see where most of Asia’s black-necked cranes over winter.

Read more about trips to the Himalaya

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13 days from $4,065pp

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12 days from $4,255pp

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10 days from $17,100pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• Walking in India: on foot through the Himalaya & the Western Ghats
• Nepal trekking: walking on the roof of the world
• Outdoor activity trip ideas with Audley
• Off-the-beaten-track with Audley

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Climbing Himalayas is on every mountaineer's bucket list and reaching majestic heights has never been easier. Take an adventure through the Himalayas  (check here the best time to go  and how to go ) and start your journey in Himachal Pradesh , home to Dalai Lama or Rishikesh, the gateway into the heart of the mountains. Wander at Nanga Parbat, the world's highest mountain and conquer the sky. TourRadar lists more than 40 trekking companies  in Nepal and 10 trekking companies in India .

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Where does the Himalayan mountains start and end?

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9 Tips for Trekkers Dreaming of the Himalaya

These tips will help you get the best out of your Himalayan Trekking Adventures.

At this point, most of us have probably read the stories about the tragic events over the past week in Nepal. On October 14, Cyclone Hud Hud brushed the Nepali Himalaya on its way inland from the Bay of Bengal. It caused blizzard conditions, rapid snow accumulations, and avalanches that had deadly consequences for the people caught in its path, including several dozen trekkers. While storms of this magnitude are rare during the popular Nepal trekking seasons (April to May and October to November), they, and other things that can kill you, are not unheard of. And trekking in places like backcountry Nepal and elsewhere can be dangerous because of the remote nature and lack of emergency infrastructure. Does this mean don’t go trekking in Nepal? Absolutely not! Here are nine things to consider when planning your dream trek.

1. DIY or Outfitter? Choosing whether to organize a trek through an outfitter or “do-it-yourself” should be a decision made based on your experience and comfort in the mountains. The spectrum ranges from a trip organized with a Western company (who will often provide certified guides, excellent logistics, satellite communication, extensive medical kits, and staff with the knowledge to use them) to a trip organized with a local company (standards of guides, logistics, and emergency preparedness vary) to you trekking solo with your backpack. All can be enjoyable and appropriate ways to experience the Himalaya. Just be sure your choice matches your experience and ability to make decisions when things go wrong. If you choose an outfitter, don’t choose based solely on price. Do some research, and ask for recommendations of companies with whom others have had positive experiences.

2. Do You Need a Guide or a Porter? If you choose to DIY, recognizing the difference between porters and guides in Nepal, and knowing which one you need, is essential. A porter often has little or no mountain knowledge or equipment. While they can be very strong and helpful in carrying your bag, they cannot make decisions for you in the high mountains or have any responsibility for your safety. In fact, it is really our job as trekkers to ensure they have appropriate clothing and eyewear and stay healthy. A guide, on the other hand, should have mountain experience, first-aid training, and some sort of guide’s certification (from the Khumbu Climbing Center or Nepal Mountaineering Association for Nepalis; from the International Federated Mountain Guides Associations for non-Nepalis). Guides offer a significant safety net to your trek, if they meet these standards.

3. Understand the Basics of Altitude. Treks in the Himalaya often go to extreme high altitudes, all without touching snow, ropes, or crampons. Both the Annapurna Circuit and the Everest Base Camp trek take you to over 18,000 feet. In the U.S., only the two tallest peaks in Alaska reach this high. These altitudes combined with trekkers’ lack of preparedness lead to multiple deaths each year. Every trekker should understand how to recognize, avoid, and treat high-altitude illnesses. The website Altitude.org is a great place to begin your education. On your trek don’t miss attending one of the Himalayan Rescue Association ’s free daily altitude clinics located on Nepal’s most popular trekking routes.

4. Weather Forecasts. Guide companies like mine, Alpenglow Expeditions , pay thousands of dollars a year for daily forecasts and analysis from meteorologists whenever we have groups high in the Himalaya. This cost will be out of reach for most trekkers. Alternative free forecasts on the web now do a good job at predicting major weather shifts and big storms. Two good sites for the Himalaya are www.mountain-forecast.com and www.meteoexploration.com . Learn about weather and what these charts mean before you get to the mountains. Simple online weather courses are widely available.

5. Communications. Good comms are an absolute necessity for safety while trekking in the Himalaya. There is really no alternative to a satellite phone (mobile phone service, while theoretically available in some trekking regions, in unreliable and almost guaranteed to be non-functional in the case of an emergency). Sat phone rentals with prepaid minutes are now inexpensive, and can be used to check weather, keep someone up to date on your location, and initiate a rescue if there is an emergency. The best satellite networks for the Himalaya are Thuraya and Inmarsat. Emergency locator devices like the Spot and DeLorme, while better than nothing, do not come close to the communication ability of aan actual satellite phone.

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7. Join Global Rescue. Helicopter rescues from high altitudes are now commonplace, and make trekking and climbing in Nepal much safer than in the past. But these rescues are very expensive. Global Rescue is a well-tested provider of evacuation and medical services in the case of emergency, and the cost of a plan is tiny compared to the cost of a rescue. Some travel insurance policies will also cover evacuation, but be sure to read the fine print. Bottom line, if you don’t have Global Rescue, have a plan for how you will pay for your helicopter rescue (up to $10,000) on the spot in the case of an emergency (legitimate trekking operators will have a “pay later” agreement with the helicopter companies).

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8. Support the Khumbu Climbing Center and Porters Progress. These two organizations, the Khumbu Climbing Center and Porters Progress , help to train, outfit, and improve working standards for high-altitude workers and porters in Nepal. Whether you choose to have local guides and/or porters on your trek, chances are they’ve been helped by one of these groups.

9. Be conservative. Along with all of these considerations, the most important factor in safety in the mountains is still your personal decision making. After a few days of trekking in beautiful weather soaking in incredible mountain scenery and Nepali culture, it is easy to forget how truly dangerous the high mountains are. Be conservative in your decisions! If weather, acclimatization, or health are not what they should be for you or your teammates, play it safe and descend, turn around, or take a rest day. The mountains are entirely unforgiving of mistakes.

Adrian Ballinger is an IFMGA guide, the founder of Alpenglow Expeditions, and has guided more than 30 expeditions in Nepal over the past two decades, including six to the summit of Mount Everest. Alpenglow Expeditions offers guided treks and climbs to iconic peaks and mountain ranges around the world.

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What you need to know about visiting the Himalayas

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• langtang-national-park-himalayas

written by Daniel Stables

updated 28.01.2019

There is no mountain range mightier than the Himalayas, an awe-inspiring crest of snow-blanketed peaks which lifts the plains of the Indian subcontinent to the Roof of the World, the Tibetan Plateau. In the process, it notches up nine of the world’s ten highest mountains, including the greatest of them all: Mount Everest . Needless to say, the region has made Nepal a magnet for seasoned mountaineers looking to test their chops in the world’s most demanding terrain, but you don’t need to be a pro to experience the majesty of the Himalayas up close. Even if you’re a complete beginner you can trek Nepal’s more accessible routes, including the popular Langtang National Park, and experience some of the planet’s most spectacular scenery as you go.

The best places to begin exploring the Nepalese Himalayas

Trekking in langtang national park, exploring the everest region, what to pack for visiting the himalayas, tailor-made travel itineraries for nepal, created by local experts.

11 days  / from 3248 USD

Exclusive Everest

Trek in the Everest region of Nepal's Himalayas, absorbing spectacular views at every step, including Everest rising above the Nuptse Ridge, Lhotse, the iconic peak of Ama Dablam and other Himalayan giants too. Top this off with a shot of warm Nepalese culture for an experience of a lifetime.

13 days  / from 1950 USD

Himalayan Family Adventure

Experience Nepal's hill villages and jungle lowlands as you embark on a family-friendly adventure of a lifetime. Expect mini mountain treks, overnight camps, river rafting and wildlife safaris. Come here for action, stunning mountain scenery and a look around bustling Kathmandu too.

13 days  / from 2200 USD

The UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Nepal

Set in the heart of the Himalayas, the landlocked South-Asian country of Nepal is home to a wealth of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From wild jungles to ancient civilisations, Nepal offers a combination of history, culture and nature; perfect for the most well-seasoned of travellers.

12 days  / from 1387 USD

A Taste of Annapurna

Experience the great Nepalese outdoors in all its glory with this moderate trek: pass through picturesque mountain villages like Ghorepani; soak up a stunning sunrise from Poon Hill; marvel at the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, all with this unique adventure trek!

For many first-time Himalayan adventurers, the first port of call is Pokhara , a city in the middle of the country which has long been one of Nepal’s tourism hotspots. The appropriately named Lakeside neighbourhood, on the shores of the beautiful Phewa Tal, is as buzzy a backpacker enclave as you’ll find anywhere.

Packed with hotels, bars, restaurants and trekking shops, this is the perfect place to prepare for your first adventures in the Himalayas – and to unwind again afterwards. There’s nothing more comforting after days or weeks in the mountains than a steaming glass of masala chai and a slice of Pokhara’s famous apple pie.

Pokhara is a major gateway to the Himalayas and a lively city to boot © Phanupong Chuataew/Shutterstock

Pokhara is a major gateway to the Annapurna range, which looms dramatically some 25km to the north, dominated by the fishtail-shaped peak of Machapuchare. You can barely move for trekking agencies in town, so you’ll have no problem hiring equipment, guides and porters, should you want to.

Be sure to check that your agency properly insures the people it employs. Porters, in particular, are among the poorest people in Nepal and are vulnerable to exploitation, but employing them in the right way can be helpful to them. New trekkers may prefer to join an organised trip, where everything is sorted out for you – again, this is easy to arrange at agencies in town.

There are many different Annapurna trailheads beginning just a short taxi or bus ride from Pokhara. That, combined with the area’s potential for short, easy treks – some taking just a few days – makes this the most popular destination in Nepal for first-time trekkers.

Pokhara also offers other spectacular ways to experience the Himalayas. You can warm up for a longer trek by hiking up to the World Peace Stupa, a gleaming white Buddhist monument which affords spectacular views over Phewa Tal and the mountains. For an even more unforgettable perspective on the Himalayas, try paragliding from the Sarangkot viewpoint, as giant Himalayan griffon vultures soar in thermal vents around you and the lake shimmers beneath.

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The Langtang region , north of Kathmandu near the border with Tibet, became the first national park in the Nepalese Himalayas in 1976. Today, it remains one of the best places in Nepal (and, by extension, the world) for trekking – and it has the considerable added bonus of far smaller crowds than the Annapurna and Everest regions. The shortest version of the Langtang National Park trek takes around a week, including a couple of days’ bumpy bus travel to and from Kathmandu . The trek takes in stunningly diverse landscapes, from the verdant alpine meadows and ancient forests of the valley floor to the sheer icy face of the Langtang Glacier.

Nepal is famous for the flowers which blanket the mountain meadows in spring, and this is one of the best places to see them; the changing colours of autumn are also beautiful in Langtang National Park. Animals which live in this environment include tahr goats, Himalayan black bears and red pandas. Budding cryptozoologists might also want to keep their ears to the ground for reports of the fabled yeti, long a part of Himalayan folklore, which is said to roam the mountainsides here.

The Tamang people of the Langtang region have a rich traditional culture which blends Buddhism and shamanism; you can experience it firsthand in the guesthouses and villages of the valley. Already an oppressed minority group, things got infinitely worse for the Tamangs here when the area was devastated by the earthquake of 2015. By visiting, you are directly benefitting them and helping to preserve their unique and beautiful culture. It’s not just trekking that’s on the agenda here, either – white water rafting and climbing are two alternative ways to explore Langtang National Park.

Gosainkunda Lake in Langtang National Park © Marina Khlybova / Shutterstock

For many visitors to Nepal, the lure of Everest is irresistible. Cresting the 8,848-metre summit of the world’s tallest mountain is one of the world’s great adventure experiences – and is strictly for people who know what they’re doing. Even relative beginners, though, can take in the stunning scenery of the region on the trek to Everest Base Camp, in itself one of the world’s most iconic mountain routes.

EBC is no picnic – it takes about two weeks, and the elevation and the cold both present bigger challenges than on the Annapurna Circuit . On the other hand, the altitude means that you have to take it slow – there is no other way – and the trekking itself is not particularly challenging assuming you’re reasonably fit. What’s more, once you get to Base Camp, you might just spark the passion and obsession of a lifetime, as you gaze upwards and dream of one day coming back to conquer the world’s mightiest peak.

Well-trodden routes in both the Everest and Annapurna regions are lined with trekking lodges, often referred to as ‘teahouses’, where you can rest up for the night in a basic but comfortable room, meet the locals, and acclimatise to the altitude. The food is one of the defining characteristics of Himalayan trekking; long after you come home, you’ll find yourself yearning for the hearty comfort of plates piled high with chow mein, Tibetan momos (steamed dumplings), and the ubiquitous daal bhaat.

The view from Everest Base Camp © Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

If you’re a first-time trekker, then you might be tempted to splurge on high-tech equipment before you leave, but there’s really no need – most of what you’ll need you can buy or rent in either Kathmandu or Pokhara. Needless to say, a pair of sturdy hiking boots is essential, as is a comfortable backpack and a sleeping bag.

Sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm are also must-haves, no matter what time of year you’re hiking, while thermals, waterproofs and gloves are also useful. A basic medical kit should contain Diamox (for altitude sickness), blister plasters, Immodium, antiseptic cream, water purification tablets and rehydration salts.

The most obvious health issue associated with the Himalayas relates to the altitude. You’ll probably read and hear some horror stories about AMS (acute mountain sickness), but in reality you’re not likely to experience anything more than common minor symptoms: dizziness, headaches and a sore throat. These will normally go away once the body has acclimatised to the altitude; it’s important not to ascend any further until you’ve stopped experiencing symptoms of altitude sickness. If symptoms get worse, descend immediately. Other than the altitude, the main health issue you’re likely to encounter is stomach problems. As elsewhere in Nepal, stick to bottled water, or that which has been properly purified or boiled.

For the vast majority of visitors, the Himalayas are relatively trouble-free. Whether you decide to brave Everest Base Camp, take your first mountaineering steps on the well-worn trails of the Annapurna, or content yourself with the occasional excursion from the creature comforts of Pokhara, the Himalayas hold the promise of the adventure of a lifetime.

Daniel has authored, co-authored or contributed to more than 30 travel books for Rough Guides, Insight Guides, DK Eyewitness and Berlitz, on destinations as far afield as Indonesia, Nepal, Oman, Mexico, Tokyo, Thailand and Spain. He regularly writes articles for a variety of travel publications, online and in print, including BBC Travel, The Independent, Lonely Planet, and National Geographic Traveller. Read more of his work at danielstables.co.uk .

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Trip Highlights of Himalaya Tour

• Get the heavenly beauty of mountains in our Himalaya tour.
• The feeling of pride and happiness.
• Unforgettable memories in the true wonders of nature.
• Exposure to a different lifestyle of local people.
• Fantastic scenarios and enchanting natural beauty.
• View Mount Everest , the World’s highest Mountain, from the closest point on the Himalaya tour.
• Visit the World’s heritage sites of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan.
• A fantastic view of sunrise and sunset over the Himalayas panorama from Nagarkot.
• Experience the daily life of the village people of Nepal on our Himalaya tour.

Overview of Himalaya Tour

The Himalaya tour is the best for travelers who love the Himalayas. Suppose you like to see the best view of the Himalayas without trekking. We will go to new and surrounding places. This Tour will bring people close to nature and enchant Nepal’s beauty.

It also covers the main cities of the country. The Tour also includes significant places in Nepal. You will visit the major sights of the Kathmandu Valley. Bhaktapur, Patan, Dhulikhel, and Pokhara. The main highlight of this Himalayan Tour is to experience a unique Nepali lifestyle.

You will get into a rural lifestyle in a completely natural environment. Also, you get to meet local people with an excellent mountain view. Nepal is a country full of natural beauty, and the high Himalayas surround it. It is a land of eternal beauty and attraction, filled with colorful cultures.

The Nepal Himalayan tour takes you to ancient history and picturesque scenery. We can do Rafting in Rivers, brooks, flora, fauna, forests, and panoramic mountains . The Historical and cultural places and ethnic societies make it a unique destination.

Visit Dhulikhel and Pokhara for the best mountain view.

Our Himalayan tour starts from Kathmandu Valley. The historical and cultural places visited will give you insights into the city. The place’s ancient art and architecture will delight your day. Cobbling down the stoned streets, we will take the route of Bhaktapur and Patan.

Go to Nagarkot for a breath of mountain air, rice terraces, and high Himalayas. Leaving Dhulikhel, we will travel to the exotic city. Pokhara is the ideal place for all types of travelers.

You are a regular tourist, an adventure trekker, or with your family on the Himalaya Tour. We will visit Phewa Lake , Mahendra Cave, and the gorge of the Seti River. The breathtaking Annapurna view will make your day enjoyable.

Davis Falls and boating on the calm Phewa Lake are the major appeals of the beautiful city of Pokhara. You will enjoy nature at its best with the stunning view of snow-capped mountains. The boating in Phewa Lake is another highlight of our Himalayan tour.

The Himalayas tour is for everyone.

Our Nepal Himalayan tour covers the famous places of Nepal to visit. It is a mix of sightseeing, culture, and nature together for the enjoyment of the visitors. The main highlights of this Tour are the spectacular Himalayas. Get a of Beautiful countryside and a heritage site in Kathmandu.

The trip can also be an educational tour. It involves discovering Nepal’s heritage sites and ancient places of ancient kings. The memorable part will be the sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas.

The Nepal Himalayan tour is suitable for any size of any age group. While visiting Kathmandu Valley , We will cover almost all the heritage sites. The visit included art and architecture, monasteries, and old royal palaces.

Get the best views of the High Himalayas.

The Himalaya Tour to Pokhara will give the Annapurna region Mountains view. Pokhara is famous as a city of Natural beauty and a paradise town for tourists. Boating in Phewa Lake with the views of the Annapurna ranges will be bonos.

We will also get Mount. Fishtail Himal seems incredible to most visitors. Moreover, extra adventure activities like Paragliding, Zip Flyers, and Ultra-Lights are also there. Hot Air Balloons and Cable car rides give tourists the most enjoyable experience.

You will visit the Heritage sites of Kathmandu, including Buddhist Stupas and Hindu Temples. The Old Durbar Squares or Royal Palaces on our Himalayan tour. The trip to Dhulikhel offers you views of the beautiful Himalayan range.

Itinerary of Himalaya Tour

Day 01: kathmandu arrival, transfer to hotel..

Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu for your Himalaya tour. Our representative will meet you after you finish your immigration formalities. You can get a SIM card if needed, and we will take you to your hotel.

You will have time to settle in and freshen up after your long flight. We will have a short meeting for a briefing about your program. The evening is free at your leisure; you can enjoy a delicious dinner in one of the best restaurants. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 02: Full day Sight seeing of Kathmandu valley

After breakfast, you will meet your tour guide for your Himalaya tour. Leave for the sightseeing tour around Kathmandu Valley. We are covering the famous Hindu temples of Pashupatinath. The Swyambhunath ( Monkey Temple) is very ancient. The biggest Buddhist Stupa at Boudhanath is in UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Patan’s fine arts and historical architecture ( the city of fine arts) reflect the ancient Nepalese culture, highlighting our guided tour. We will drop you at your hotel, and you have free time to explore around. have dinner, and perhaps stroll through the famous streets.

Day 03: From Kathmandu tour of Bhaktapur and drive to Nagarkot

After breakfast, our Himalaya tour will start. We will drive to Bhaktapur (known as the city of devotees). Bhaktapur lies 14 km east of Kathmandu. We will visit Durbar Square in Bhaktapur to view and carve woodwork. It includes the temples in the square and the surrounding homes. After attending Bhaktapur Durbar Square, we will proceed to Changu Narayan. It is one of the oldest temples in the valley and is also World Heritage-listed.

From here, you can go hiking to Nagarkot on our Himalaya tour. It offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. This small hill station in Nepal is the famous viewpoint for sunrise and mountain vistas.

The main thing to see on this trail is the local villages. Along the route, it still exhibits a countryside lifestyle. It is even though it is so close to the city. You will learn about the lifestyles of ethnic groups like the Tamangs and the Newars.

Nagarkot is famous for sunrise and sunset views from the Mountains. It is one of the most popular hill stations. You can get a magnificent panoramic view of the Himalayan range from Dhaulagiri in the west and Mt. Everest in the east.

The first rays of the sun fired the peaks, glowing a multitude of pink, gold, and red. As it lights up the Himalayas, the hues become beautiful, gracing your hiking pursuits.

Day 04: Nagarkot drive to Kathmandu and drive or fly to Pokhara

After breakfast, our Himalaya tour journey will start. We will drive back to Kathmandu. It takes about one and a half hours to go.

You can take a 6-hour drive to Pokhara or a 25-minute flight from here. After checking in to your hotel, you will be free and can walk around the Phew Lake area.

Day 05: Pokhara / sunrise view at Sarangkot and tour of Pokhara city, Overnight at Pokhara

Today, our Himalaya tour starts early morning drive to Sarangkot. You see the Sunrise over the Himalayan Peaks. Sarangkot provides the best sunrise views and the best Himalayan and countryside views. Drive back to the hotel, have breakfast, and we will leave for the tour of Pokhara city.

We will visit Bindavasini Temple, Seti George, Devis Falls, and Mahendra Caves. Enjoy relaxing and boating on the Phewa Tal (lake). The evening will be yours to spend as you wish.

Day 06: Pokhara drive or fly back to Kathmandu, Overnight at Kathmandu hotel.

After breakfast, We will fly back to Kathmandu on the Himalaya tour. The drive is about 7 hours by scenic road; the flight takes 25 minutes to reach Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. Last-minute shopping time and look around Kathmandu streets.

Day 07: Final departure

You can extend your Himalaya tour trip with us if it is your final day here. We will take you to the Airport. We wish you a happy journey and hope to see you again.

Fixed Departure Dates

Note: We can run a trip for solo travelers, couple, friends and family with children. Our private trips are running everyday. If you are looking for a group joining trip please contact us .

Includes/Excludes

What's included.

• Kathmandu Airport to Hotel and back to Airport transfers by private car.
• Your hotel twin-sharing accommodation in Kathmandu includes breakfast.
• Your hotel twin-sharing accommodation in Pokhara includes breakfast.
• Guided Tour as per itinerary with expert tour guide and private car.
• Comprehensive pre-departure information and trip dossiers.
• Above the Himalaya Gifts.
• Welcome/Farewell Nepali Dinner in Kathmandu.
• Official paperwork, Service charges, and all Government Taxes.
• Local transportation to and from the starting and ending points of the tour by private car.

What's Excluded?

• Lunch and dinner.
• Nepal entry visa fee you can get at Nepal Airport.
• Monuments, Tempel’s entrance fees.
• International Airfare/Airport tax, City tour Sightseeing entry fees.
• Tips and gratitude.
• Any other expenses which are not mentioned in the Price Include section

Essential Information - Himalaya Tour

Boating in pokhara phewa lake.

Nepal Himalaya Tour offers you unlimited fun, mesmerizing views, and serenity. We will arrange the vacations according to your schedule and comfort. The days and places will be as per your preferences and choices. But for sure, the mesmerizing places of this beautiful country will confuse you.

Every place here is unique. Where is it, the lake or the city of Pokhara? The Conservation areas, filled with rare wildlife and plant species, are unique.

From the highest mountains to the deepest gorges, Nepal has everything to offer. You can go on trekking , expeditions, and hiking. Or, you can also go on fantastic sightseeing in various places. Especially the mountain areas that have magnificent beauty. They are the best places you must visit before you die.

The snow-capped mountains not only offer scenic beauty but also make your heart warm. The Nepal Himalaya tour gives you happiness and pride when you reach the top of them. It feels like you have conquered the World. Your problems and worries seem small. Even your life looks less significant in front of these gorgeous mountains.

Himalaya tour Packing list ideas

The best packing for the Himalaya tour is here. You can check the weather before packing, even if you aren’t traveling for weeks or months. Better to check the average highs and lows to help you expect your wardrobe needs as you prepare.

• Clothing and Accessories
• Good walking shoes, an extra pair of trainer
• One pair of flip-flops or sandals
• Shirts (short and long-sleeved)
• Socks and underwear
• Pants/shorts/jeans
• Bathing suit
• Raincoat and umbrella
• Bring one warm jacket for the sunrise tour.
• Lightweight fleece or sweater if you travel in winter
• Suppose you travel in winter from December to February. You will need cold enough either belonging. A shirt, coat, trousers, thermal wear, and warm socks: woolen hat, light gloves, scarf.
• Shampoo/conditioner
• Hairbrush/comb
• Hand sanitizer
• small medicine box
• SPF 15 lip balm
• Insect repellent
• ATM card ( You need to call your bank before traveling to Nepal and tell them to unblock your card.)
• Personal credit card
• Bring Cash of about USD 60 to pay their on-arrival visa fees and for some coffee and tea at the airport lounge. You can bring small notes that are easier to exchange for your Himalayan tour.
• Electronics
• An adaptor/converter, Nepal uses the two-pin plug.
• Camera with extra batteries or charger

Official Documents

• Passport: A passport is most valid six months before you arrive here. Get a copy of it.
• Few passport-size photographs for a visa and to get the local SIM card
• A copy of the tour itinerary
• A list of significant phone numbers
• Carry-on bag

Packaging the following things is also good; It suits your flight delay.

• Airline boarding pass
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Extra clothes
• Cell phone and charger

Meals during the Himalaya tour

We give buffet breakfast in 2 to 5-star hotels on our Nepal tour. During lunch, our guide will take you to a good restaurant with choices of Nepali and Western menus. You can choose to dine in the Hotel for dinner in the city. There are many excellent restaurants in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

What are the hotel standards during the Himalayan tour?

A budget to 5-star hotels is available during the Himalaya tour . We can choose the hotels as per your interest and budget. All the hotels we choose have an excellent location. It also has a unique charm and exceptional standards. Hotels are clean and have comfortable rooms with extra friendly staff. They are always at your service.

Our Tour Leaders for your Himalaya Tour

All our tour guides are professional. They get training and take exams from the Government of Nepal. Have excellent English and other languages. They speak French, Japanese, Spanish, and German.

All our guides have an in-depth knowledge of the local culture. They can explain religion, arts, and architecture, monuments. They know all the Temples with their historical and cultural value. They will provide you with everything needed during your Nepal Himalayan tour.

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Suppose you add the Everest mountain flight during our Himalayas tour. You can enjoy the best view of the Himalayas. Get stunning views of the magical mountains, such as Mt Everest (8848 m). Nuptse (7879m), Lhotse(8501 m), Cho Oyu(8000 m), Kanchenjunga (8584 m), and Makalu(8475 m).

Your heart will burst with enormous happiness by seeing those sparkling mountains. Get the view of the Top 10 Highest Mountain in the World.

Another best thing about our Himalayas tour is visiting the UNESCO Site. They are in the World Heritage sites of Kathmandu Valley. You are exploring the historical and traditional essence. Another option is the sunrise outlook from Nagarkot Hill.

That presents the ever-refreshing remembrance. Get a magnificent panoramic view of the Himalayan range. You can enjoy the idea of the eastern Himalayas sunrise at Nagarkot. After breakfast, drive back to Kathmandu. En route, continue with sightseeing of the world heritage sites of Patan. Durbar Squares of Bhaktapur at the end.

Enjoy your time in Pokhara.

After the visit to Kathmandu on our Himalayan tour , we will reach Pokhara. Here, you will see beautiful views of sunrise and sunset. In Sarangkot, the sun splashes hues of red on the Himalayan range.

On a clear day, the panoramic ranges of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri. We will also see the Machhapuchhre and Ganesh Himal ranges from here.

You’ll enjoy the rare combination of the long arrays of snowed peaks: Crystal clear lakes, panoramic mountain ranges, and a warm climate.

Adventure lovers can go for Paragliding, Skydiving, Canoeing, or Zip flyer. In that case, we can extend your stay in Pokhara, providing you with a memorable experience.

Best tour for family.

The Himalaya tour is where you will taste all kinds of activities and adventures in Nepal. So, this tour gives an excellent introduction to the joys and adventures of Nepal.

You will also witness the different cultures and traditions in a small area. You can bring your children and grandparents on your tour. This is an easy and suitable tour for all your family members.

This tour’s diversity of cultures and scenery is one of the best ways to experience Nepal. We know that in Nepal, we have many different ethnic groups. They all have their own cultures and traditions. The festivals, foods, and clothing are so unique because of all those differences.

Due to various cultural and adventure activities, the taste is being added to this tour. The wishes of travelers on the Nepal Himalaya tour are taken as per your interest. Take the cultural towns of Kathmandu and Patan. Get a glimpse of the mighty Nagarkot and views of magnificent Himalayan vistas.

Most Asked Questions by Travellers

How much does it cost to visit the himalayas.

There is no standard rate for your visit to Nepal Himalaya. They choose because the cost can vary from person to person based on the types of services. Along with this, the types of tour packages make the price different.

The duration of your visit and the number of people on your trip also matter. From which agency you booked the packages and mode of transportation? It would cost approximately 800 to 1000 USD to visit and take Himalaya Tour.

What is the best time to visit the Himalayas?

There are no restrictions for traveling in the Himalayan region. However, finding the best climbing season makes your journey remarkable without any doubt. Mainly, there are two best times to visit the Himalayas.

They are the spring season (March to May) and the autumn season (September to November). These seasons are favorable because of their moderate temperature and climatic conditions in the Himalayas tour.

Which is correct Himalaya or Himalayas?

The mountains in the European countries give the name the Alps. The Apennines, the Andes, etc., are the plural form given to them. This Himalayas is the plural form of Himalayas, but it failed to appreciate.

Thus, both the Himalayas and the Himalayas are the correct forms. The mountains in European countries are the Alps. The Apennines, the Andes, etc., are the plural form of them.

This Himalayas appears to be the plural form of Himalayas, but it failed to appreciate. Thus, both the Himalayas and the Himalayas are correct. These forms both represent the plural form of mountains. Both represent the plural form of mountains.

What is the main trekking region of the Himalayas?

Well, we are talking about the best trekking region of the Himalayas. It would include two regions: the Annapurna region and the Everest region.

Both of these parts offer you distinct features for exploring. But, it usually has a limonoid to explore the Annapurna region compared to the Everest region.

What is the highest temperature in the Himalayas?

June-July records the highest temperatures in the Himalaya tour. During this time, there is a high chance of rainfall. At this time, the daytime temperatures will reach as high as 12 degrees Celsius.

Which month has the lowest temperatures in the Himalayas?

The winter season is the coldest month for Himalaya tours. Thus, the Himalayas’ temperatures tend to decrease post-monsoon (July).

Traveling in January & February is challenging. It records the lowest night temperatures of -22 degrees Celsius. You will need to bring hot clothes for trekking this season.

How can I go from Himalaya to Kathmandu?

Nepal is a beautiful place where you can see mountains in every part. If you have a short span and still want to explore the beautiful Himalayas, then the Himalayan tour is best for you.

Visiting places such as Kathmandu, Dhulikhel, and Pokhara is the best. Sarangkot and Nagarkot would serve you the best natural beauty for mountain views.

Can we see the Himalayas from Kathmandu?

Nepal possesses dozens of big mountains. No wonder you can see a glimpse of the Himalayas from every part of Nepal. Kathmandu offers a view of Himal Chuli 7893m., Ganesh II 7150m, and Ganesh V 6950 m. We can also see  Sisa Pangma 8013m, Langtang 7246m, etc. from Kathmandu.

How much does it cost for a trip to Nepal?

The most significant advantage of traveling in Nepa is visiting beautiful places at a very reasonable price. The average daily cost during your trip to Nepal will range from $90 to $100.

This cost of the Himalaya tour includes all the expenses. It includes your transportation, food, and accommodation costs. Your personal expenses, bar bills, and tips are extra.

Why do tourists visit the Himalayas?

There are enormous reasons for tourists to visit the Himalayas. A tourist wants to explore places full of adventurous and natural beauty. Nepal is the target market for tourists as it possesses various spectacular factors.

The snow-capped mountains, including Mt. Everest. The ever-flowing rivers, sparkling lakes, and wildlife creatures. Also, the dynamic cultures and temples with religious and spiritual importance.

What is included in the tour package?

Your Himalaya tour packages will include accommodation in the best hotels. All, airport pickup and drop-off, transportation, and a guided tour.

We will do the necessary paperwork for your trip. You will get a small gift Above The Himalayan Trekking. We offer you a special welcoming and farewell Nepali dinner in Kathmandu.

What are the major attractions of the Himalaya tour?

Himalaya tour will lead you to the heavenly beauty of the Mountains. You will get exposure to the dynamic lifestyle of the local people during your visit. Fantastic scenarios and cherishing natural beauty will surround you. It also gives you a feeling of pleasure and happiness.

Reviews on Himalaya Tour

Best Nepal Himalaya Tour

I did a Himalaya tour with Above The Himalaya; I did an eight-day tour as I had limited time in Nepal. I got to know this company from my friend’s recommendation. I immediately contacted them, and they put me on this tour.

I enjoy the time. The company arranged everything on quick, short notice. I am fascinated by the arts, architecture, and design of Durbar Square. The Temples and Stupa here were magnificent and unique.

The visit to Pokhara is the best part of the trek. This city has a peaceful inside with the best mountain view and lakes. I enjoy the time here.

I recommend the best tour in Nepal.

Lucas Murphy.

Himalaya Tour- Trip of a life time with Above The Himalaya

We have booked a Nepal Himalaya tour with this company. First, we spent time in Kathmandu, and our guide, Ajay, was fantastic. Very genuine and knowledgeable about the Kathmandu temple’s history and culture. He was very flexible and tried to meet our every need. The hotel they chose for the tour was the best.

We chose standard options with a 3-star hotel—private car transportation, which was the best. On top of the time, we also did a Mountain flight over Everest. We were lucky the weather was clear and got the best mountain view.

It was a fantastic trip; we got as much out of my short visit as we hoped.

Thank you, Puru and Above The Himalaya Team.

James Rubio

Best Himalaya Tour

We had a fantastic one-week Himalaya Tour. The Views from Dhulikhel and Sarangkot were incredible. We had a great tour guide and driver.

I highly recommend Above the Himalayan Trekking. They make arranging the best Himalaya tour for us.

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How to Plan a Trip to Himalayas

The top mountains in the Himalayas somehow became the pilgrimage sites for Hinduism and Buddhism among religions in the world. Thus, Himalayan culture is dually affected by it’s nature and religions, and this equally gave a maximum influence to all southern Asian culture. Plan a great trip to Himalayas with us now.

The Himalaya ranges are the youngest and highest plateau on earth. It stretched almost 300 kilometer to south-north and more than 4000 kilometers to the east-west, encompasses from west Kashmir to east of Yarlung Tsangpo river bend near Namchag Barwa mountain in Tibet. The Himalayas covering a total of almost 600,000 square kilometers and crossed trough travel destinations such as, Ladakh in India, Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. World’s vital rivers like Ganges and Yarlung Tsangpo are flowing from Gang Rinpoche (Mounta kailash) in the Himalayas, and it dependently sustains around 600 million people. According to Geological survey statement, it was a big lake before 40 million years encountering Indian and European subcontinents together. Plan great  tours  by talking with one of Adventure Travel Himalayas travel experts,  Himalayan tour operator . Involve in  Himalayan travel forum  to get best advices and share your amazing travel experience.

• Note : Currently Covid-19 restricted areas are marked as regions under China. Bhutan and Nepal are recently opened to tourist!

Tibet and Tibetan Plateau

Tibet is roof of the world in the Himalayas and the plateau lies in East Asia. It also covers all Tibetan areas in ancient formal regions of  Kham  and  Amdo . Tibetan plateau is the original homeland of the Tibetan people andnow it also shelters to a considerable number of Han Chinese and Hui people settlers. Tibet stands an average elevation of 14,000 fts from the sea level with Mount Everest rising 29,032 fts. Tibet has other world class destinations such as Lhasa, Mount Kalish and Holy lake.  Planning a trip to Tibet requires  Tibet travel permit  which meant to a region called the Tibet autonomous region (TAR) under China. Independent trip is not allowed to this region and contact a local tour operator to plan a trip Himalayas of Tibet for you. Read Tibet travel faqs to make sure an easy traveling in Tibet.

When to go?

The best time to go to Tibet is from Mid-April to Mid-September. Note: March is a prolitically sensitive month (Tibet entry permit is not issuing for the whole month)

How to get to Tibet?

There are two ports arrival in Lhasa. They are from mainland China or from Nepal.

From Mainland China : You can apply  Tibet travel permit  with a travel agency in Lhasa once you obtained Chinese visa.

• By train : You can take a train to Lhasa from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chongqing, Chengdu and Xining. Most bigger cities are available with train stop to Lhasa. Check Tibet train schedule and ticket booking service.
• By Flight : You can also take a flight from Beijing, Shanghai, Chongqing, Lanzhou, Chengdu and Xining.

From Kathmandu, Nepal : You can apply Tibet group visa with the help of a local travel agency.

• By overland : Book tour with travel agency in Lhasa and pick you from Kyirong and Semi-kot, Tibet Nepal border.
• By Flight : It just takes 1 hour 50 minutes from Kathmandu to Lhasa. Check all our  tours in Tibet before you travel to Tibet.

Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan

In many aspects,  Bhutan  is a large family with a small territory on the map. With a population of 6,80,000 people in harmony and its nature, Bhutan is 100% high-value destination in the Himalayas. Its untouched valleys and mountains make the country a real Shangri-La and you feel the eldest style of culture scarcely found. More than 70 percent of the people live on subsistence farming, sparsely populated villages across the rugged terrain of the Himalayas. Check this cultural tour to Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan for recommendation.

On September 24, 2023, Bhutan was officially declared and reopened to tourists. It has been welcomed ten thousand travelers since the country was reopened. With lowering the fixed minimum daily rate to US$200, it’s heartedly welcoming over affordable tours to Bhutan. An exact  Bhutan travel information  regarding visas and travel tip is less, you should focus more to plan a trip to Himalayas of Bhutan. You may interest plan a holiday on your trip by checking  festival calendar .

Even if the best time to visit Bhutan is from April to End of September, but winter vacations are also a great experience.

How to get?

By Flight : Flights into is a typical and exciting experience with outstanding view of the Himalaya ranges and some top mountains. You can take flights from Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Bodh Gaya, Dhaka, Kathmandu, Guwahati, Singapore and Mumbai. Check all our  tours in Bhutan .

Plan a Trip to Himalayas of Nepal

Nepal is the best option for  trekking adventures in the Himalayas . And, a great expedition and Sherpa support are indispensable for an ultimate adventure you might take. Read the best guide to traveling in Nepal for the first time.

Covers 147181 Sq. Km. Nepal is small country neighboured with Tibet from the north and southeast by India respectively. It’s altitude ranges from 61 meters to the height of Mt. Everest and Nepal is renowned as the country of Mt. Everest. Rich in natural resources and cultural diversity, Nepal is a preferred destination for world class tourists all around the world. Trip to Nepal is also cheap and valuable for any traveler independently affordable. Plan a trip to Himalayas of Nepal with Yulkor for the best. Check our  Adventure Travel Himalayas office  location in Kathmandu if you are near and check all  tours in Nepal .

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Karma Valley Travel (Adventuretravelhimalayas.com) is a 100% locally founded and owned travel agency based in Lhasa, Tibet. Our travel teams are having unlimited experience of 15+ years in the travel industry.

For any questions, feedbacks and tour inquiries, please feel free to Get in Touch with Us . We will get back to you as soon as possible!

Tour Inquiry: [email protected]

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Customizable Tour

Customizable itineraries where you may choose transport, stay & sightseeing as per your taste & comfort

Pay Rs. 1,000 per person now and hold the package at this price, payment as per policy can be made in the next 24/48 hrs. Holding of seats are subject to availability and in case of non availability of selected seats you can choose from a wide range of departures. To avail this option, click "Book Now".

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• Darjeeling 2 Nights
• Pelling 2 Nights
• Gangtok 2 Nights
• Kalimpong 2 Nights

accommodation

sightseeing

PACKAGE ITINERARY

Crescent Resort

As Per Hotel Plan

Darjeeling local sightseeing two points

Udaan Olive Hotel & Spa

Sacred Khecheopalri Lake

Kanchendzonga Falls

Pemayangtse Monastery

Hotel Dew Pond

Baba Mandir

Mayfair Himalayan Spa Resort

No Sightseeing

• Accommodation at mentioned hotels or Similar as per meal plans mentioned.
• Transportation by appropriate vehicles as per itineraries and packages.
• Vehicle will be strictly on point to point basis (Not on disposal basis).
• All parking charges and Road taxes, toll taxes.
• Assistance by our representatives during airport/station transfers.
• Guide Charges
• Parking and Porter Charges
• Personal Expenses : such as Laundry, Telephone Calls, Alcoholic & Non Alcoholic Beverages, Food  (if not included)
• Additional Sightseeing or usage of vehicle not mentioned in the itinerary
• Any services not mentioned in the itinerary
• High Season Surcharge

IMPORTANT 

• In case of non availability of the rooms the booking will be shifted to similar category hotels.
• Any Indian National visiting Sikkim is required to carry a Photo ID Proof  (Voter ID / Passport / Driving License)  in order to obtain Tsomgo Lake permit for the above.
• Non Indian Passport holders are not allowed to visit Baba Mandir.
• Non Indian Passport holders are required to obtain inner line permit.
• Please note the following points about the sightseeing tours in our itineraries along with timings at each of the destinations :
• Darjeeling Morning Sightseeing Covering 03 Points for 03 Hrs 0400-0700 Hrs /0430-0730 Hrs   (Subject to clear weather condition)
• Darjeeling Local Sightseeing Covering 07 Points for 04 Hrs 0900-1300 Hrs/ 1330-
• 1730 Hrs (Only in morning or Afternoon as per any of the given timings)
• Darjeeling Rock Gardens and Ganga Maiya Park Sightseeing for 04 Hrs  0900 Hrs-1300 Hrs / 13.30 Hrs-17.30 Hrs (Only in morning or Afternoon as per any of the given timings)
• Kalimpong Local sightseeing for 03 Hrs  0900 Hrs-1200 Hrs
• Gangtok - Morning Sightseeing Covering 03 Points for 03 Hrs 0500 Hrs-0800  Hrs (Not included in package)
• Gangtok Local City Tour for 04 Hrs  0900-1300 Hrs
• Gangtok Tsomgo Lake Tour for 05 Hrs  0800-1400 Hrs
• Pemayangtse Full Day Local Sightseeing for 05 Hrs  0900 Hrs-1300 Hrs / 1400-1700(01 Hr lunch break will be provided from 1300Hrs to 1400Hrs)
• Please carefully note the opening and closing days of each of the sightseeing points given in the itinerary. Most of the 7 sightseeing points in Darjeeling are closed  on Thursday  s, Forests are also closed on Thursdays, In Gangtok, Institute of Tibetology Institute of Handicrafts and handlooms are closed on Sundays. Nathula Pass is subject to the availability of permits and is closed  on Monday  and Tuesday.

PAYMENT POLICY

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• 30 or more days before departure ?? : Rs 5000 per person
• 30-15 days before departure ?????? ?????????????????????????????????????????????????? : 50% of total amount
• Less than 15 days before departure ?????????????????????????????? : 100% of the total amount

Advance Booking Fee

• 30 days or more before date of departure: 25% of total cost
• 29 - 20 days before date of departure: 50% of total cost
• 19 days or less before date of departure: 100% of total cost

Important : The booking stands liable to be cancelled if 100% payment is not received less than 20 days before date of departure.

CANCELLATION POLICY

You or any member of your party may cancel their travel arrangements at any time. Written notification or an e-mail to that effect from the person who made the booking must be received at our office. The cancellation charges applicable are as per the published cancellation policy below:

Cancellation charges per person

• 30 days or more before departure: 25% of total cost
• 29 – 20 days before departure: 50% of total cost
• Less than 19 days before departure: 100% of total cost

If we change or cancel your holiday

We do plan the arrangements in advance. It is unlikely that we will have to make any changes to your travel arrangements. Occasionally, we may have to make changes and we reserve the right to do so at any time. If there are any changes, we will advise you of them at the earliest possible date. We also reserve the right under any circumstances to cancel your travel arrangements by assigning reasons to you.

If we are unable to provide the booked travel arrangements due to reasons beyond our control (e.g. bad weather):

• We shall first try to offer alternative dates for the tour if the tour hasn’t already commenced.
• If the tour has already commenced, then we shall refund the booking price/fee charged to you on a pro-rata basis depending on the portion of the tour utilized by you.
• In all circumstances, however, our liability shall be limited to refunding to you the price we charged as tour fees.

If you want to change your holiday plan

After confirmation of services, if you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way (e.g. your chosen departure date or accommodation), we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes must be in writing from the person who made the booking. All cost incurred due to amendment will be borne by you.

If you have a complaint

If you face any problem during your holiday, please inform the relevant supplier (e.g. your hotelier, transporter etc.) and/or our representative immediately who will endeavour to set things right. If your complaint is not resolved locally, please follow this up within 28 days of your return home by writing to us, with your booking reference and all other relevant information. However, please be advised that while we are happy to assist you in the redressal of your complaint, if any, we will be able to extend only our best efforts in managing/coordinating your complaint with the respective service provider. All third party service providers are independent contractors who are at no time under our control or supervision.

All booking vouchers and tickets will be provided 3 days before departure.

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 Cancellation Policy

If You Cancel Your Holiday

?? ?????????? You, or any member of your party, may cancel their travel arrangements at any time. Written notification or an e-mail to that effect from the person who made the booking must be received at our offices. The applicable cancellation charges are as per the published cancellation policy below.

?????????????????????? Prior to 30 days or more: ???????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????? Booking Fee

?????????????????????? Between 30-20 days ahead of departure: ?????????????????????? 50% of tour cost

?????????????????????? Between 20-15 days of departure: ?????????????????????????????????????????????????? 75% of tour cost

?????????????????????? 15 days to date of departure: ?????????????????????????????????????? ?????????????????????????????? 100%.

?????????????????????? In case of no show: ?????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????? 100%

If We Change or Cancel Your Holiday

?? ?????????? We do plan the arrangements in advance. It is unlikely that we will have to make any changes to your travel arrangements. Occasionally, we may have to make changes and we reserve the right to do so at any time. If there are any changes, we will advise you of them at the earliest possible date. We also reserve the right in any circumstances to cancel your travel arrangements by assigning reasons to you.

?? ?????????? If we are unable to provide the booked travel arrangements due to reasons beyond our control (for instance, bad weather):

?? ?????????? we shall first try to offer you alternative dates for the tour if the tour hasn???t already commenced;

?? ?????????? If the tour has already commenced, then we shall refund the booking price/fee charged from you on a pro-rata basis depending on portion of the tour standing utilized by you

?? ?????????? In all circumstances, however, our liability shall be limited refunding to you the price we charged as the tour fees.

Change Your Holiday Plan

After confirmation of services, if you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the person who made the booking. All cost incurred due to amendment will be borne by yourself.

If You Have a Complaint

If you have a problem during your holiday, PLEASE INFORM THE RELEVANT SUPPLIER, (e.g. your hotelier, transporter etc.) and/or our representative IMMEDIATELY who will endeavour to put things right. If your complaint is not resolved locally, please follow this up within 28 days of your return home by writing to us, giving your booking reference and all other relevant information. However, please be advised that while we are happy to assist you in the redressal of your complaint, if any, we will be able to extend only our best efforts in managing/coordinating your complaint with the respective service provider. All third party service providers are independent contractors who at no time are under our control or supervision.

Our Liability to You

We accept responsibility for ensuring that your travel arrangements, which you book with us, are supplied as represented and promised to you. If any parts of your travel arrangements are not provided as promised, due to the fault of our employees, agents, we will pay you appropriate compensation if this has affected the enjoyment of your travel arrangements. Our liability in all cases shall be limited to the costs of your travel arrangements.

We do not accept any responsibility for any third party services or service providers, like hotels, transport etc. For example, travel delays are the responsibility of the transporters and inefficient hospitality is the responsibility of the hotels.

We are only your tour operator and at no time do we act as managers for your respective responsibilities and personal obligations. We are therefore not responsible for your acts, misdemeanour, omissions and neither are we responsible for managing any of your personal affairs; for example, we are not responsible for ensuring the safety of your personal belongings, travel documents, etc. at any time before the commencement of the tour or after it or during the tour.

Holiday Insurance

It will be your responsibility to purchase any sort of holiday insurance cover and we are not responsible for the same.

Exactness Not Guaranteed

We cannot and do not guarantee the exactness of any service that may be provided to you. For instance, photographs of the interiors of the hotel rooms posted on our website have been sourced from the respective Hotel management; the visual appeal of a room selected by you cannot and is not guaranteed by us. Similarly, while we assure you of enjoyable holidays, we cannot and do not guarantee or represent that such tour will be as per your mental perception, imagination or thought about such tours.

General Important Notes

Incase there is any change in price the same will be communicated to yourself and only after your confirmation, we will proceed further. There will be no reduction for un-utilized services

Surcharges may be applicable over and above the holiday price for the requested period. The same will be advised at the time of booking or prior to confirmations.

You need to make an advance payment at the time of confirming the tour and make the balance payment 35 days prior to the departure of the tour.

Forfeiture of Deposits

We shall be within our rights to forfeit the non- refundable interest free deposit paid by you. In the event you cancel the booking, or on failure on your part to adhere to the tour payment schedule as informed in the documentation Check List, or in the event the visa of any country is not granted or you are unable to travel on the tour booked due to any reason whatsoever, including medical ground or sickness, the non-refundable interest free deposits shall stand forfeited, and the scale of cancellation setout in the How To Book section of the brochure shall be applicable and binding.

Important Notes

Please be advised that these are the sole and complete terms and conditions governing the tour operations, supplemented only by the User Agreement. No employees of our Company or our agents have the authority to amend, modify or change these conditions, and you are advised to rely on the terms "as is". Yatra reserves the right to change or modify these Terms and Conditions at any time without notice.

DETAILED DAY WISE ITINERARY

Day 1 - bagdogra / new jalpaiguri - darjeeling.

Welcome on arrival at Bagdogra Airport / New Jalpaiguri Railway Station and transfer to Darjeeling (95kms/3hrs). Once the summer capital of India, Darjeeling is a land of infinite variety and charm. It will cater you a mix-experience of lively nature & charming Himalayan people. It is the place of Dorje, the mystic thunderbolt of the Lama-Religion. Surrounded by Tea gardens; this little town faces some of the highest peaks of the Himalayas. Take rest and then walk around town to appreciate the new culture you are in. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 2 - Darjeeling local sightseeing two points (04 AM to 07AM) and best points (9.30 AM to 1.30 PM or 2.00 PM to 6.00 PM)

Early morning start for Tiger Hill to watch the spectacular sunrise and its amazing effects on the Mt. Kanchendzonga (World’s 3rd highest peak), Visit Ghoom Monastery (SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY). Breakfast at the Hotel followed by half day local Best points sightseeing covering Padmaja N. Zoological Garden (Closed on Thursday), Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (Closed on Thursday), Tibetan Refugee Self-help Center (Closed on Sunday), Ropeway (entry fees not included), walk around visit to the Mall and Local Market (Closed on Thursday). Evening Free for shopping & individual activity, overnight at hotel.

Day 3 - Darjeeling to Pelling (110kms / 5 hours approx.)

Morning transfer to Pelling (110kms/5hrs approx). Pemayangtse is a very small Himalayan village in West Sikkim. Pelling is the nearest motor able point from Mt. Kanchendzonga, worlds 03rd highest peak, offers a good sunrise and all day long view of Kanchendzonga and the entire Eastern Himalayan range.

Day 4 - Pelling local sightseeing (9.30am to 1.30pm or 2.00pm to 6.00pm)

After breakfast start for half day sightseeing in an around Pemayangtse, Sacred Khecheopalri Lake, Kanchendzonga Falls, Pemayangtse Monastery – the 2nd oldest monastery of Sikkim, & Darap Village. Evening free for individual activity and leisure.

Day 5 - Pelling to Gangtok

Morning transfer to Gangtok (127kms/5.5hrs). At an altitude of 5500ft Gangtok is the capital of the state of Sikkim, a beautiful and clean town promising of the best monasteries and landscapes. Evening free for individual activity and leisure, overnight at hotel.

Day 6 - Excursion Trip to Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir

After breakfast, start for a half day trip to Tsomgo lake (12400ft), 32kms from Gangtok City. The lake is almost about 1Km long, oval in shape and 15 mtrs deep. The lake is considered sacred by the local people; further 12Kms visit the Baba Mandir dedicated to the memory of soldier Harbhajan Singh. Evening free at Gangtok for shopping and individual activity.

Day 7 - Transfer to Kalimpong and local sightseeing

Morning after breakfast transfer to Kalimpong (80Kms / 02 Hours) and later the half day Local Sight Seeing In and Around Kalimpong City, covering Zong Dog Palri Fo- Brong Monastery (Durpin Dara Monastery ), Flower & Orchid Nurseries, Dello Hill. Evening free for individual activity. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 8 - Kalimpong - Bagdogra / New Jalpaiguri

Morning after breakfast departure transfer to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station / Bagdogra Airport (75 Kms / 03 Hours).Tour Ends.

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Uttarakhand tunnel rescue: The race to save 40 trapped workers

• Published 2 days ago

Rescue operations to save 40 workers trapped inside a collapsed tunnel in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand have been ongoing since Sunday morning.

What happened?

Forty workers, who were building the Silkyara tunnel, were trapped when part of it caved in due to a landslide nearby on Sunday.

The landslide caused heavy debris to fall on the tunnel, leading to its collapse. The mounds of debris cut off oxygen supply to the workers.

Officials said the men were trapped some 200m into the tunnel but none of them were injured.

As of Friday afternoon, rescue workers had dug through 24m of the 60m debris needed to lay a pipe that would help the trapped men crawl out of the tunnel.

"If the work continues at this rate, it will take another 40-48 hours to rescue the workers," Col Deepak Patil, official in charge of rescue operations, said on Friday.

What is this tunnel?

The tunnel in Uttarkashi district is part of the federal government's ambitious $1.5bn (£1.2bn) highway project to improve connectivity to famous pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand. The mountainous state, where several Himalayan peaks and glaciers are located, is home to some of the holiest sites for Hindus.

This 4.5km (2.7 miles) tunnel is meant to provide all weather connectivity to Yamunotri, one of the four most revered Hindu pilgrimages site in the Himalayas. It is expected to reduce travel distance between Uttarkashi and Yamunotri town by 26km (16 miles).

Thousands of devotees flock to the temple at Yamunotri every year as it is the starting point for the Himalayan Char Dham Yatra pilgrimage, which goes through Gangotri and Kedarnath before culminating in the temple town of Badrinath.

Construction of the tunnel was approved by the federal government in 2018.

Environment experts have criticised its construction despite the fragile ecology of the region. "When you are aligning a tunnel in an area that is very close to the highly fragile Himalayas, the authorities should have conducted some geological investigation," Navin Juyal, a geologist, told The Hindu . "Then the fragility of this place should have been brought to the notice of the authorities."

Who are the people trapped?

Most of the workers trapped in the tunnel are migrant labourers from states in northern and eastern India.

Among the 40 workers, officials report that 15 are from Jharkhand, eight from Uttar Pradesh, five from Odisha, four from Bihar, three from Bengal, and two each from Assam and Uttarakhand, with one from Himachal Pradesh.

The Jharkhand government has sent a three-member team to aid rescue workers.

Sharman Batra, 21, is one of the few workers who noticed the debris beginning to fall from the ceiling of the tunnel on Sunday morning.

He and some other workers - Anand Tudu, 24, Santosh Pandit, 40 and Pem Yadav, 29 - were able to escape before a part of the tunnel collapsed, cutting them off from the 40 men trapped inside.

They are now waiting outside for their friends.

"When something like this happens, one feels depressed and sad," Mr Batra told the BBC. "I don't feel like eating. I feel low".

Their families have asked them to stop risking their lives by working at the tunnel construction site. They have also been sent money by their families and asked to come back home. But Mr Batra and the other workers say they will return only after their friends inside are rescued.

How are the workers surviving in the tunnel?

Authorities said they established contact with the trapped men on Sunday night using walkie-talkies.

A pipeline, which was laid for supplying water to the tunnel for construction work, is being used to supply the trapped men with oxygen, food - chickpeas, dried fruits, almonds and puffed rice - and water.

"The food items are providing them enough calories and it can help them for up to nine days," RCS Pawar, chief medical officer of Uttarkashi district, told Reuters .

Officials say the workers have been sent medicines for fever, headache and nausea through the pipes.

Family members of some of the workers told the BBC that they were worried about the health of their relatives.

Reports say a six-bed medical facility has been set up near the tunnel while hospitals nearby are on standby.

What is the rescue plan?

The plan involves drilling through the debris to create space for a pipe that the men can use to crawl out of the tunnel.

Officials said they had to drill through 60m of debris to lay the pipe. They initially expected the rescue operation to be complete by Tuesday or Wednesday night.

The drilling pace faced hindrances due to "natural obstacles" complicating the rescuers' efforts to reach them, Ashok Kumar, the chief of Uttarakhand police, told the BBC.

On Wednesday night, new equipment - a powerful horizontal drill with an augur or drill bit - was flown in by military aircraft in three parts and assembled at the accident site.

The new drill was expected to speed up the rescue process. Workers are drilling a hole that is wide enough to fit a metal pipe of 900mm diameter for the trapped men to crawl through.

Authorities say another machine will be airlifted from the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh on Saturday as backup so that the rescue operation can continue uninterrupted.

The tunnel is very wide inside and has a thick 400m lining, says Col Deepak Patil.

"There are lots of big lights and a lot of air inside for two kilometres," he told the BBC. "So there's not going to be any problem inside in terms of leaving [the tunnel]. We're also pumping in a lot of air."

With additional reporting by Andrew Clarance in Uttarkashi

BBC News India is now on YouTube. Click here to subscribe and watch our documentaries, explainers and features.

Read more India stories from the BBC:

• The Indian artist who painted for British rulers
• Indian fashion designers face eco-chic dilemma
• New machine brings hope to Indians stuck in tunnel
• India beat NZ to reach final after Kohli record century
• Why Delhi lags behind Beijing in the battle to breathe

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More From Forbes

The best places to travel in december 2023.

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The last month of the year can be a great month to travel, with surprisingly decent prices at certain times of the month. Additionally, if timed right, you can avoid some of the bigger crowds while enjoying the festive decorations. Here are some of the best places to travel in December.

People visit a Christmas market at the Old Town Square in Prague, Czech Republic, Dec. 16, 2022. TO ... [+] GO WITH "Feature: Czechs cut back on Christmas as inflation bites" (Photo by Deng Yaomin/Xinhua via Getty Images)

Best Places To Travel In December

There are several options that should be on your radar if you plan on traveling in December. Whether you want warmer weather or want to take in the cold, below you’ll find a few destinations that can suit your travel goals.

Mexico can be one of the best places to visit, thanks to warmer weather and the dryer climate, especially in the southern and central regions (though you won’t need a heavy parka if you want to visit the north). Hurricane season is also usually over by the beginning of December, so a visit to the Mexican coasts is safe.

Additionally, Mexico is not only close, but it is also cheaper than other warm-weather destinations. However, if you plan on visiting one of the more popular Mexican resorts, note that it will likely be crowded, and prices may be up as many people visit during the winter season.

If you don’t mind a little cold, Mexico City is a good place to visit during the Christmas season, especially the downtown area, if you want to take in the decorations and see what Mexico’s largest city has to offer. There are plenty of indoor activities, such as museums and cheap restaurants, to explore. If you’re set on visiting the beach, a visit to Puerto Escondido is a good place to consider, as it can be a bit cheaper, has plenty of activities in the surrounding areas, and can be a great place to surf or even go whale watching in December.

The 10 Best Resorts In The Florida Keys

Airbnb s most desired ski rentals the best hotels in turks caicos and more travel news, luxury maui s grand wailea resort leis it out beautifully and now s the time to book for the holidays.

If you want to visit a place that looks like it came out of a fairy tale, don’t mind the cold, and want to see holiday decor, a visit to Prague might be the place you’re looking for. Prague will be cold during this time of year, with the possibility of snow, but it also adds to the coziness and charm of a warm meal in a local restaurant. Rain is not so common during the winter months.

The city is walkable, on the cheaper side compared to other parts of Europe, and is safe. The architecture includes the largest castle in the world, Gothic cathedrals, baroque buildings, a walkable bridge lined with statues, and the infamous Astronomical Clock. There are also beautiful Christmas markets to stroll through where visitors can try various pastries and warm drinks like mulled wine and hot chocolate.

You may also want to visit Karlovy Vary, a spa town with 13 main springs and about 300 smaller hot springs to enjoy. A bus ride from Prague to the town is the easiest way to visit.

If Czechia sounds great but is a bit too far, Quebec City might be a better option that is closer to home. Quebec City is also going to be a (very) cold destination with several Christmas markets and plenty of decor to take in. It is generally not too touristy around December, so prices may be lower.

The architecture in Quebec City is also something to marvel at, with unique buildings in the Old Quebec area. Old Quebec is also very walkable, which allows travelers to explore at their own pace. Quebec City also has winter activities that include skiing, skijoring, kaléidoscopes, and even a visit to an ice hotel. There is also the Quebec City Winter Carnival with food, snow sculptures, and rides. If you plan on staying until the New Year, be sure to partake in the New Year's Eve in Québec City (Toboggan) activities.

You may also plan to visit Montmorency Falls (larger than Niagra Falls), which is less than 30 minutes away from Old Quebec City. Also near Old Quebec City is the Mont-Sainte-Anne ski resort, which has plenty to offer in the winter.

If you want a warm city escape without traveling internationally, Florida may be your answer. With hurricane season usually ending on November 30, Florida is likely going to be safer from weather disruptions. Miami is one of the top destinations, thanks to a variety of activities to partake in.

You may want to visit No Vacancy, Miami Beach, the public art exhibition that runs through mid-December. There are also plenty of light shows to enjoy during the holiday season. Football fans may want to get tickets to the Dallas Cowboys vs. Miami Dolphins game, which is set to take place on Christmas Eve. There is also the Capital One Orange Bowl football game on December 30.

The Florida Keys, Fort Lauderdale, and Everglades National Park are all within reach of Miami. Additionally, if you want a more tropical location, you can visit Bimini, Bahamas, which is only two hours by boat.

Why Are These The Best?

The destinations above all have plenty to offer, are relatively safe, and have interesting activities within reach. They are also somewhat less crowded.

What Are Notable Things To Do/Places To See Here?

All of the destinations above have much to offer in regards to entertainment. They all have their own versions of winter activities that are unique to this time of year. Additionally, they are not far from other, less popular, and less expensive destinations.

Why Is December A Good Month To Visit?

December is a great time to visit because of the charm and unique perspective that these destinations offer to travelers. Aside from the cold and possibility of snow, they are also drier with less rainfall during these times of the year.

December can be a great time to travel if you want to enjoy winter activities and festive decorations. These destinations have plenty to explore and aren’t as expensive as some other popular destinations. They are also relatively safe to travel to.

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Chris Christie to travel to Israel

MERRIMACK, N.H. — Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie will be visiting Israel on Sunday, making him the first Republican presidential candidate to travel to the country since the outbreak of the war.

During a town hall in Merrimack, New Hampshire, on Thursday, Christie said he plans to talk to families of the people taken hostage by Hamas on Oct. 7, members of the Israel Defense Forces and government officials.

He told reporters he's unable to share more specifics about whom he's talking with until he gets there because of safety concerns.

Christie told the audience he is leaving for his trip Friday. He said he wants to "see it for myself," adding, "I don’t think you can try to be president of the United States and be afraid to go and see what’s happening on the ground."

“If you really want to lead, you need to go over and show the people of Israel, that one person running for president of United States cares enough to get on an airplane and get over there and do what needs to be done to find out how we fix this problem,” Christie later added. 

Follow live updates of the Israel-Hamas war here. 

Christie said the goal of his trip is to learn. “I’m just going to, like, ask a lot of questions and then shut up and listen, and hopefully it’ll make me a better candidate. And I’m confident it will make me a better president,” he said.

Christie told reporters Israel’s foreign ministry invited him come to Israel. Asked whether the ministry reached out to every candidate, he said, “I have no idea, but I can just tell you that they said they appreciated the things I was saying and the stance I was taking, if I was interested in coming over, they will be able to welcome me. And I made the decision to come.”

During the debate hosted by NBC News on Wednesday night, Christie said if he were in the Oval Office on the phone with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, he would say, “America is here no matter what it is you need at any time to preserve the state of Israel.”

This is not Christie’s first time visiting a conflict zone while running for president. He made a surprise trip to Ukraine in early August.

CNN, which first broke this story, reports he is also planning to visit a part of southern Israel known as the Gaza envelope, a populated area that is about five miles from the Gaza Strip.

Christie is scheduled to give a foreign policy address at the Hudson Institute, a conservative think tank in Washington, on Wednesday.

Emma Barnett is a 2024 NBC News campaign embed.

Kelly O’Donnell is Senior White House correspondent for NBC News.

Shaquille Brewster is a political reporter for NBC News and MSNBC.

Indian officials consider five new plans to rescue men trapped in tunnel

[1/2] A new auger machine arrives at the site where road workers are trapped in a tunnel after a portion of it collapsed, in Uttarkashi in the northern state of Uttarakhand, India, November 18, 2023. REUTERS/Saurabh Sharma Acquire Licensing Rights

SILKYARA, India, Nov 19 (Reuters) - Indian authorities were exploring five new plans to rescue workers trapped inside a collapsed tunnel in the Indian Himalayas after a week of failed attempts.

Forty-one men, stuck in the highway tunnel in Uttarakhand state since Nov. 12, are safe and being fed through a pipe, the authorities say. The cause of the accident has not been determined, although the hillside region is prone to landslides, earthquakes and floods.

Rescuers had been drilling horizontally through the debris toward the trapped workers in the 4.5-km (3-mile) tunnel until the auger drilling machine broke on Friday and a new one was flown in.

Drilling was suspended and it would take four or five more days "to get the good news", Bhaskar Khulbe, officer on special duty for the tunnel project, said on Friday.

Now the rescue team is considering alternatives including a perpendicular tunnel with two proposed routes and insertion of a pipe six inches (15 cm) wide as a lifeline, according to a government document reviewed by Reuters.

The trapped workers have received Vitamin C and medicines including anti-depression tablets, said RCS Panwar, a health official involved in the rescue efforts.

The health department has set up a camp for health checkups near the site and kept 10 ambulances on standby.

Reporting by Saurabh Sharma in Silkyara; Writing by Munsif Vengattil; Editing by William Mallard

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

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Traveling for Thanksgiving? Stormy weather could snarl pre-holiday travel plans.

Ahead of what is expected to be one of the busiest Thanksgiving travel seasons in years, forecasters are warning of stormy weather that could impact flights and long road trips in the days before the holiday.

Rain, thunderstorms and winds from a storm system set to move across parts of the country will affect different regions between Sunday and Wednesday, with possible lingering effects on the holiday itself, AccuWeather meteorologist Brandon Buckingham told USA TODAY.

"The start of the potential for impactful weather in the form of severe thunderstorms really begins to ramp up during the afternoon and evening (Sunday) across the Southern Plains and then by the end of the day on Monday it's going to slide eastward into the Southern United States, then Tuesday across the Southeast," Buckingham said.

AAA, which tracks holiday travel, predicted 55.4 million Americans will travel more than 50 miles for Thanksgiving between November 22 and November 26, making it the third-highest amount of travel over Thanksgiving since 2000, behind only 2005 and 2019. Most of those travelers, about 49.1 million, will go by road, AAA said.

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Early travelers heading out on Monday across the Eastern Seaboard and into the Great Lakes region should be spared some of the heavy rain and thunderstorms that might cause heavier traffic and delays later in the week, Buckingham said.

"A pre-Thanksgiving storm may bring travel impacts from the central to the eastern U.S. early next week," the National Weather Service said in an advisory. "Areas of severe thunderstorms, gusty winds, heavy rain, and heavy snow are all possible."

Thanksgiving Day itself and the days following should be be milder in most of the country, Buckingham said. Anyone with plans to hit the slopes and ski resorts in interior western states – Nevada, Utah, Idaho and Wyoming – are in for some good news Thursday and Friday with the potential for mountain snow.

Here's what you need to know ahead of your holiday travels:

Showers, thunderstorms expected in the South

The highest-impact weather on Monday is expected in the southern tier of the United States, including Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi, according to Buckingham.

The storm system is expected to slowly press eastward into Tuesday, bringing with it a risk for severe weather, including thunderstorms, in parts of the South, he said.

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Steady rain could snarl flights, road travel in the East

The same storm system that impacted central and Southern states Monday and earlier Tuesday will shift toward the Eastern Seaboard later Tuesday, Buckingham said. During the day on Tuesday, a "shield of steady rain" coupled with winds will creep into the Northeast.

Tuesday night and Wednesday morning could be critical periods for major hubs in the mid-Atlantic and Northeast with heavy rain from Washington, D.C., to Boston.

"That could definitely slow down travel by road or by air during the day on Tuesday," he said.

From northeastern Pennsylvania through northern New England, there could be enough cold air at the start of rainfall for road conditions to be slippery with a mixture of ice and snow late Tuesday and Wednesday, according to AccuWeather .

Blustery winds on Thanksgiving Day might also pose some challenges for parades that include large balloons, Buckingham said.