Flight Information
The Pumori Expedition includes domestic flights between Kathmandu and Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. These flights offer breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape but are subject to weather conditions, which can cause delays or cancellations. It’s advisable to keep buffer days in your schedule to accommodate potential changes. International flights to and from Kathmandu are not included in the package. Ensure you arrive in Kathmandu at least a day before your expedition to allow time for the pre-trip briefing and gear preparation.
Nepal Visa Information
A Nepal visa is mandatory for all foreign travelers and can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. A 30-day visa costs $60 USD, while a 60-day visa is available for $120 USD. To obtain the visa, ensure you have a valid passport with at least six months of validity, a recent passport-sized photo, and the visa fee in cash (USD is preferred). For a smoother experience, you can also apply for a visa online in advance through the Department of Immigration website.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is essential for the Pumori Expedition and must cover high-altitude trekking and mountaineering. Your insurance should include coverage for medical emergencies, helicopter evacuation, trip cancellations, and repatriation. Ensure your policy is valid for altitudes up to 7,145 meters and includes coverage for extreme weather, accidental injuries, and any unforeseen circumstances. Carry a copy of your insurance policy and emergency contact details during the trip.
Health and Physical Fitness
Climbing Mt. Pumori requires excellent physical fitness and prior experience with high-altitude trekking or climbing. Prepare for the expedition with a rigorous training regimen that includes cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and endurance activities. It is essential to acclimatize properly during the trek to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. A medical check-up is recommended before the trip to ensure you are fit for the challenges of high-altitude climbing.
Weather Conditions
The weather in the Everest region is unpredictable and varies significantly by season. Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) offer the best conditions for the Pumori Expedition, with stable weather, clear skies, and manageable temperatures. Winters are extremely cold, and monsoons bring heavy rainfall and poor visibility, making these seasons less favorable. Be prepared for sudden weather changes and pack appropriately for extreme cold, wind, and snow.
Altitude Considerations
The Pumori Expedition involves trekking and climbing at extremely high altitudes, reaching up to 7,145 meters. Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is a potential risk and should not be taken lightly. Symptoms include headache, nausea, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Proper acclimatization is critical to minimize these risks, and our itinerary includes acclimatization days to help your body adjust. It is essential to stay hydrated, ascend gradually, and communicate any symptoms to your guide immediately. Emergency oxygen and evacuation protocols will be in place to ensure safety.
Cultural Considerations
Nepal is a culturally rich and diverse country, and respecting local customs and traditions is essential during the Pumori Expedition. The Everest region is home to the Sherpa community, known for their warm hospitality and deep spiritual connection to the mountains. When visiting monasteries such as Tyangboche, dress modestly and ask for permission before taking photographs. Always walk clockwise around religious monuments and refrain from touching sacred items. Respect for the local culture will enhance your experience and foster positive interactions with the community.
Tipping Guidelines
Tipping is a customary practice in Nepal, and it is a way to show appreciation for the services provided by your trekking and expedition team. For the Pumori Expedition, it is customary to tip guides, porters, and climbing Sherpas. The recommended tipping amount varies but typically ranges from $150–$200 per trekker for guides and $100–$150 per trekker for porters. A minimum summit bonus of $800 USD is expected for climbing Sherpas. Tips can be given collectively or individually, based on your preference.
Safety & Security
Your safety is our top priority during the Pumori Expedition. Our experienced guides and Sherpas are well-trained in high-altitude rescue and first aid. The itinerary is designed to allow proper acclimatization and minimize risks. Emergency oxygen, medical kits, and communication systems, including satellite phones and walkie-talkies, are available throughout the expedition. In Kathmandu and trekking regions, security is generally good, but it’s advised to keep your valuables safe and carry a copy of your passport and travel documents.
Currency and Money Matters
The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). While in Kathmandu, you can exchange foreign currency at banks, licensed money exchange counters, or withdraw cash from ATMs. In the trekking regions, cash is essential as cards are not widely accepted. It’s advisable to carry small denominations for easier transactions. US Dollars are widely accepted for tipping and larger payments, but ensure you have sufficient NPR for local expenses. Plan your budget for personal items, tips, and emergency situations.
Transportation
The Pumori Expedition includes all necessary transportation, such as private vehicle transfers between airports, hotels, and trekking start points. Domestic flights between Kathmandu and Lukla are part of the itinerary, offering scenic views of the Himalayas. These flights, however, are subject to weather conditions, and delays or cancellations may occur. During the trek, porters and yaks transport equipment and luggage, ensuring smooth logistics in remote areas.
Electricity and Charging
Electricity is available in Kathmandu and major villages along the trekking route, such as Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. Charging facilities in teahouses may be limited and often require an additional fee. At the Base Camp, solar panels and generators are provided for lighting and charging electronic devices. Carrying a power bank or portable solar charger is recommended for convenience during the expedition.
Festivals and Public Holidays
Nepal celebrates a variety of vibrant festivals throughout the year, reflecting its rich cultural diversity. Key festivals include Dashain, Tihar, and Buddha Jayanti, which may coincide with your expedition. These festivals often bring closures to government offices and businesses but add a unique cultural element to your journey. Witnessing traditional celebrations in villages along the trekking route is a memorable experience.
Food and Dining
During the expedition, you will be provided with three meals a day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, prepared with care to meet nutritional needs at high altitudes. Meals at teahouses and Base Camp include a mix of local Nepali dishes like dal bhat (rice and lentils), pasta, noodles, soups, and snacks. Tea and coffee are readily available. Special dietary preferences can be accommodated with prior notice.
Cancellations and Weather-Related Changes
Weather in the Everest region can be unpredictable, potentially causing delays in flights or itinerary adjustments. In such cases, your safety and comfort are prioritized, and alternative arrangements are made. It is advisable to include buffer days in your schedule and obtain comprehensive travel insurance to cover cancellations, delays, or emergency evacuations.
Language and Communication
Nepali is the national language of Nepal, but English is widely spoken in the tourism sector. Along the trek, you will encounter Sherpa people who often speak Tibetan dialects in addition to Nepali and English. Communication with your guides and staff will be in English. For emergencies, satellite phones and walkie-talkies are provided during the expedition. Wi-Fi is available at some teahouses, but connectivity becomes limited as you ascend.
Packing List and Gear Recommendations
A detailed packing list is essential for a high-altitude expedition like Pumori. This includes specialized climbing equipment (ropes, harnesses, crampons, ice axes), clothing layers for extreme cold, sturdy trekking boots, and personal items like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a headlamp. A full list tailored to the expedition can ensure climbers are adequately prepared for the challenges of the journey.
Emergency Evacuation Procedures
Understanding emergency evacuation protocols is crucial for safety. In case of severe altitude sickness or other medical emergencies, helicopter evacuation is available from certain points. The team carries oxygen cylinders, medical kits, and satellite communication devices to handle emergencies efficiently.
Training and Preparation
Physical and technical preparation is critical for the Pumori Expedition. Climbers are advised to undergo strength, endurance, and high-altitude training several months before the trip. Previous experience in mountaineering or technical climbing is recommended for safety and success.
