Pumori Expedition (7,145 m)

Expedition Grade of Mount Pumori 

Mount Pumori, standing at 7,145 meters, is one of the prominent peaks in the Everest region and is often considered a stepping stone for those aiming to climb Everest itself. The grading of an expedition helps climbers understand its complexity, technical requirements, and overall challenge.

Grade: Technical and Challenging

• Altitude: The high altitude of Pumori presents inherent challenges associated with reduced oxygen levels, requiring climbers to be familiar with the use of supplemental oxygen and be aware of altitude sickness symptoms.

• Technical Climbing: Pumori involves sections of technical climbing. There are steep sections, ice walls, and crevasses that climbers must navigate, necessitating proficiency with climbing equipment like crampons, ice axes, and fixed ropes.

• Route Complexity: The route to Pumori's summit, especially the sections beyond the Base Camp, presents complex terrains, including mixed rock and ice sections, which demand a good level of climbing technique and experience.

• Weather Conditions: The Himalayan weather is unpredictable. Rapid changes, including sudden snowfalls and strong winds, can make the climb challenging, even for seasoned mountaineers.

• Physical Fitness: Due to its technical nature and high altitude, climbers need to be in top physical condition. Endurance, strength, and cardiovascular fitness are essential to handle prolonged exertion.

• Duration: The entire Pumori expedition can span over a month, including acclimatization, ascent, and descent. This prolonged exposure to high-altitude conditions and the rigors of climbing add to the challenge.

While Pumori is less challenging than the highest peaks like Everest or K2, it is significantly more challenging than trekking peaks like Island Peak or Mera Peak. It offers a blend of high-altitude trekking with sections of technical mountaineering, making it a comprehensive climbing experience. Mount Pumori is graded as a technical and challenging expedition, suitable for climbers with prior high-altitude mountaineering experience and a high level of physical fitness. 

Ensuring a comfortable stay for our climbers at every stage of the Pumori Expedition is a top priority for Luxury Holidays Nepal. Here's how we strive to make your accommodation as comfortable as possible:

Kathmandu

• 3-Star Hotels: We provide four nights' accommodation with breakfast at 3-star hotels in Kathmandu, conveniently located near tourist hubs for easy access to restaurants, shops, and historical landmarks.

On the Trek

• Teahouse Lodges: During the trek to and from Base Camp, you'll be accommodated in comfortable teahouses, which offer basic amenities like beds, blankets, and shared washrooms.

• Meals: 3 meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are provided, including tea and coffee. The food is freshly prepared and ranges from local cuisine to common international dishes.

Base Camp

• Personal Tents: Each member is assigned an individual high-quality tent designed for high-altitude conditions. These tents are equipped with foam mattresses and pillows.

• Dining Tent: A separate dining tent with tables and chairs is set up, providing a communal space for meals and socializing.

• Hygiene Facilities: Separate toilets and shower tents are set up to maintain hygiene at Base Camp.

• Heating: We use portable heaters in common areas, ensuring that you can relax in a warm environment after a challenging day of climbing.

• Solar and Generator Power: To keep your electronic devices charged, we provide solar panels and generator backup.

• Medical Tent: A separate tent stocked with a comprehensive first-aid kit and emergency oxygen supplies ensures immediate medical attention if needed.

High Camps

• High-Altitude Tents: At higher camps, we use specialized high-altitude tents designed to withstand extreme weather conditions.

• High-Altitude Food: Meals at higher camps are pre-prepared and designed to provide the necessary nutrients for high-altitude climbing.

• Emergency Supplies: Each high camp is stocked with emergency medical supplies and communication devices for immediate assistance.

Whether you are in Kathmandu, trekking to Base Camp, or gearing up for the summit push, we ensure your accommodation needs are met with the highest standards of comfort and safety. By offering these comfortable lodging options, we aim to provide you with opportunities to rest and rejuvenate, ensuring that you are physically and mentally prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.

To visit Nepal for tourism purposes, most foreign nationals are required to obtain a Tourist Visa. Here are some key points regarding the Tourist Visa for Nepal:

Visa Application

• Tourists can apply for a Nepal Tourist Visa prior to their arrival at a Nepali Embassy or Consulate in their home country.
• Alternatively, tourists can also obtain a visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or other designated entry points in Nepal.

Duration and Validity

• The Tourist Visa is typically issued for multiple entries and allows a stay of up to 15, 30, or 90 days.
• The visa duration and validity depend on the applicant's preference and payment of the respective visa fee.

Visa Extension

• If tourists wish to extend their stay in Nepal beyond the initially granted duration, they can apply for a visa extension at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or at the Immigration Office in Pokhara.
• Visa extensions can usually be granted for a maximum period of up to 150 days in a calendar year.

Required Documents

• When applying for a Tourist Visa, tourists typically need to submit their passport with a minimum validity of six months, a completed visa application form, and the applicable visa fee.
• Tourists may also need to provide a recent passport-sized photograph and other supporting documents as requested by the Nepali Embassy/Consulate or immigration authorities.

Visa Fees

• The visa fees for a Tourist Visa vary depending on the duration of stay, such as 15 days, 30 days, or 90 days.
• The fees are payable in USD or the equivalent in other major currencies.

Visa-on-Arrival

• Tourists can obtain a Tourist Visa upon arrival at the immigration counters of Tribhuvan International Airport or other designated entry points.
• Visa-on-arrival services are available for most nationalities, and the required visa fees can be paid in cash (USD or major currencies) or by credit card.

It is important to note that visa regulations and requirements may change, so it is recommended to check with the nearest Nepali Embassy/Consulate or visit the official website of the Department of Immigration of Nepal for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the Tourist Visa requirements.

On-Arrival Visa Fee at Entry Points
15 Days – 30 USD
30 Days – 50 USD
90 Days – 125 USD

Nepal, nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, offers a range of options for travelers to enter the country. The most common and convenient way to reach Nepal is by air through Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the capital city. Numerous international airlines operate regular flights to Kathmandu from major cities around the world, making it easily accessible for travelers from different countries. Upon arrival at the airport, travelers will need to go through immigration and customs procedures. It is advisable to have all necessary travel documents, including a valid passport, visa, and any required permits, readily available for inspection.

To ensure a smooth start to the expedition, it is crucial to provide your arrival details in advance to us. This allows us to make appropriate arrangements for your airport pickup, where you will be picked up by a Luxury Holidays Nepal representative and transferred to your accommodation in Kathmandu. So, it is important to promptly inform our team if there are any delays or changes to your flight schedule so that we can adjust their arrangements accordingly.

Domestic flights in Nepal are the main intercommunication to reach the region where you are going for your expedition as most of these regions are disconnected by road transport. Your flights into Khumbu and any other region that are mentioned in your trip program will be reserved by us on your behalf. Due to the terrain and landscapes of Nepal domestic flights might get caught in weather delays which is why we recommend your return flight back home be changeable at any time.

Ensuring the health and well-being of our expedition members is a paramount concern for Luxury Holidays Nepal. We take a multi-faceted approach to health, focusing on prevention, preparedness, and immediate response to any health issues that may arise.

Pre-Expedition Preparations

• Medical Consultation: Before joining the expedition, we recommend a full medical check-up, and consult your physician about the health risks associated with high-altitude mountaineering.

• Vaccinations: Ensure all routine vaccinations are up-to-date, and consult your physician about other vaccinations you may need based on your travel plans.

• Fitness: Physical fitness is crucial for tackling the challenges of high-altitude climbing. Training should include cardio, strength, and endurance exercises.

During the Expedition

• Acclimatization: Our itinerary is designed with proper acclimatization days to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.

• Health Monitoring: Daily health checks for symptoms of altitude sickness or other health issues are conducted by our trained guides and medical staff.

• Nutrition: Meals are planned to provide the nutrients necessary for high-altitude trekking and climbing. Special dietary needs can usually be accommodated.

• Hydration: Clean water is provided for drinking and cooking to ensure adequate hydration and minimize health risks.

• Emergency Medical Kit: A comprehensive first-aid kit is available at all times, including medicines for common ailments and high-altitude sickness.

• Oxygen Supplies: Emergency oxygen cylinders are available at base camps and high camps for treating severe altitude sickness or other emergencies.

Medical Support

• Trained Staff: Our team includes staff trained in first-aid and high-altitude medicine, capable of handling common health issues that may arise during the expedition.

• Evacuation Plans: In the event of serious illness or injury, we have emergency evacuation plans in place, and all team members are equipped with communication devices for immediate assistance.

• Insurance: We require all participants to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and climbing, including emergency evacuation and medical treatment.

Post-Expedition

• Debriefing: After the climb, a medical assessment can be arranged to ensure that members are in good health before leaving Nepal.

• Follow-Up: In case of illness or injury during the expedition, we can facilitate follow-up treatments or consultations.

By prioritizing health and safety at every stage of the Pumori Expedition, Luxury Holidays Nepal aims to mitigate risks and enable you to focus on the awe-inspiring experience of climbing one of the most beautiful peaks in the Himalayas.

Safe drinking water is crucial during the Pumori Expedition to stay hydrated and prevent waterborne illnesses. Here are some important points regarding drinking water:

Bottled Water: It's recommended to bring a sufficient supply of bottled water for the early stages of the expedition. You can purchase bottled water in Kathmandu or major towns before heading to more remote areas. Ensure that the seals of the bottles are intact to guarantee their safety.

Water Purification Methods: As you move away from populated areas, bottled water may become scarce or expensive. In such cases, it's advisable to have a reliable water purification system or methods to treat water from natural sources. This can include:

• Water Purification Tablets: These tablets contain chemicals that help eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses. Follow the instructions provided with the tablets for proper usage.
• Water Filters: Portable water filters, such as pump filters or straw filters, can effectively remove contaminants from water sources. These filters physically strain out bacteria, protozoa, and sediment.
• UV Sterilizers: UV light sterilization devices can be used to treat water by eliminating harmful microorganisms. These devices emit UV light that destroys the DNA of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa.
• Boiling Water: Boiling water is another effective method to make it safe for drinking. Bring the water to a rolling boil for at least one minute to kill any pathogens. Allow the water to cool before consuming.

Hydration Bladders and Water Bottles: Use hydration bladders or water bottles with built-in filters to have a convenient and portable water supply during the trek. These containers often feature filters or straws that remove impurities as you drink.

Refilling Stations: Some lodges and tea houses along the trekking route may have refilling stations or provide boiled water for a fee. Confirm the reliability and safety of these sources before refilling your water containers.

Avoid Tap Water and Unreliable Sources: It's crucial to avoid drinking tap water or water from unreliable sources, such as streams, without proper treatment. These sources can carry contaminants that may cause waterborne illnesses.

Remember to stay hydrated by drinking water regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty. Dehydration can occur at high altitudes, and proper hydration is essential for acclimatization and maintaining your overall well-being during the expedition.

Ensuring that you have adequate insurance coverage is a mandatory requirement for participating in our Pumori Expedition. Here's a comprehensive guide on what your insurance should cover:

High-Altitude Trekking and Climbing

• Climbing Coverage: Your insurance must cover mountaineering and high-altitude trekking up to the altitude of 7,145 meters (the height of Pumori).

• Technical Climbing: As Pumori is a technical peak, ensure that your policy includes coverage for the use of ropes, harnesses, and other specialized climbing equipment.

Emergency Evacuation

• Helicopter Rescue: Given Pumori's remote location, helicopter evacuation might be the only viable option in severe emergencies. Make sure your insurance covers this.

• Medical Evacuation: Coverage should extend to include medical evacuation to the nearest healthcare facility and, if necessary, repatriation to your home country.

Medical Treatment

• General Medical: Coverage should include hospital stays, diagnostic tests, and treatment related to injuries or illnesses occurring during the expedition.

• High-Altitude Sickness: Special attention should be given to ensure coverage for high-altitude sickness treatment, which can be costly and complicated.

Accidental Death and Disability

• Death Benefit: In the unfortunate event of death, the insurance should provide a death benefit to a named beneficiary.

• Disability Benefit: Similar coverage should be available in case of disability resulting from an accident during the expedition.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

• Refunds: Should you need to cancel or cut short your trip for covered reasons (like severe illness), your insurance should offer reimbursement for non-refundable trip costs.

• Delays: Coverage for trip delays due to weather, airline strikes, or other unforeseen circumstances should also be included.

Additional Coverage

• Personal Belongings: It's advisable to have coverage for loss, theft, or damage to personal belongings like gear, documents, and other valuable items.

• Liability: Personal liability coverage can protect you in case you accidentally cause injury to someone else or damage property.

Things to Consider

• Validity: Ensure that the insurance is valid for the entire duration of your trip, from departure to arrival.

• Geographical Coverage: Make sure that Nepal is included in the geographical coverage of your policy.

• Exclusions: Read the policy carefully to understand what is not covered and consider purchasing additional riders to fill any gaps in coverage.

By ensuring you have comprehensive insurance coverage, you can undertake the Pumori Expedition with peace of mind, knowing you're well protected against the financial risks associated with high-altitude climbing and trekking. 

Safety is a top priority when undertaking the Pumori Expedition or any other outdoor adventure in Nepal. Here are some important safety considerations to keep in mind:

Experienced Guides and Support Staff: Engaging experienced guides and support staff is crucial for ensuring safety during the Pumori Expedition. These professionals have in-depth knowledge of the region, terrain, and weather conditions. They are trained in mountaineering skills, emergency response, and first aid, providing valuable guidance and support throughout the expedition.

Physical Fitness and Training: Prioritizing physical fitness and undergoing proper training is essential for the demands of high-altitude climbing. Adequate physical conditioning helps improve the endurance, strength, and stamina required for the expedition. Consulting with a healthcare professional ensures you are in good health and physically capable of undertaking the challenges involved.

Altitude Acclimatization: Allowing sufficient time for proper altitude acclimatization is vital to reduce the risk of altitude sickness. Ascending gradually and incorporating rest days at higher altitudes allows your body to adjust to the decreasing oxygen levels. This helps minimize the chances of altitude-related illnesses and ensures a safer and more enjoyable climb.

Weather Awareness: Being informed about weather conditions and forecasts is crucial for planning a safe climb. Weather in mountainous areas can be unpredictable, so staying updated on weather changes is important. Planning the expedition during favorable weather windows and being prepared for sudden changes in conditions helps mitigate potential risks.

Proper Equipment and Gear: Investing in high-quality mountaineering equipment and gear is essential for safety during the expedition. This includes suitable clothing for varying weather conditions, sturdy footwear, climbing equipment, and protective gear. Ensuring that your equipment is well-maintained and in good condition is crucial for optimal performance and safety.

Emergency Preparedness: Carrying a comprehensive first aid kit and having basic first aid knowledge is important for addressing minor injuries and illnesses during the expedition. It is advisable to carry communication devices such as a satellite phone or walkie-talkie for emergency communication. Understanding evacuation procedures and having contingency plans in place for emergencies is crucial for swift and effective response.

Environmental Responsibility: Respecting the environment and practicing Leave No Trace principles is important to minimize your impact on the natural surroundings. Follow designated trails, dispose of waste properly, and be mindful of the fragile ecosystem. Adhering to environmental responsibility ensures the preservation of the natural beauty for future generations.

Personal Safety Measures: Following safety guidelines provided by guides and support staff is essential. Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, particularly during challenging sections of the climb. Promptly communicate any concerns or issues to guides or fellow climbers. Prioritizing personal safety through responsible decision-making and caution is crucial throughout the expedition.

By considering these points and adhering to the explanations provided, you can ensure a safer and more successful Pumori Expedition experience, enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the region while minimizing potential risks and challenges.

Internet access and having a local SIM card can greatly enhance your communication and connectivity during your expedition in Nepal. Here's some information about internet and SIM cards in Nepal:

Internet Access: Internet access is readily available in urban areas like Kathmandu and Pokhara, with numerous hotels, cafes, and restaurants offering Wi-Fi facilities. However, in more remote and rural areas, internet connectivity may be limited or unavailable. Trekking regions and base camps often have little to no internet access. It's advisable to inform your loved ones and contacts about the limited connectivity in advance, and set expectations accordingly.

Local SIM Card: Getting a local SIM card in Nepal is a convenient way to have access to mobile data and stay connected during your expedition. Nepal has several major telecommunications providers such as NTC (Nepal Telecom) and Ncell, offering SIM cards and prepaid packages for voice calls, texts, and data. You can easily purchase a local SIM card at the airport upon arrival or at various shops and kiosks in urban areas. To obtain a SIM card, you will need to provide a copy of your passport and a passport-sized photo, along with completing a registration form. Different SIM card packages are available, offering varying data allowances and validity periods. Choose a package that suits your communication needs during the expedition. Make sure to check the coverage and network availability in the specific regions you'll be visiting, as coverage can vary in more remote areas.

Internet Cafes: In some areas, particularly in towns and cities, you may find internet cafes where you can access the internet for a fee.
These internet cafes typically provide desktop computers with internet connectivity, allowing you to browse the web, check emails, or make online calls.

It's important to note that internet connectivity and mobile network coverage can be affected by various factors, including weather conditions, geographic location, and infrastructure limitations. Therefore, it's advisable to plan and manage your communication needs accordingly, especially when venturing into remote areas during the expedition.

Vaccinations and immunizations are important aspects of preparing for a Pumori expedition to protect against various diseases and ensure the health and safety of climbers. Here are some key points to consider regarding vaccinations:

Routine Vaccinations: It is important to ensure that routine vaccinations, such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTaP), varicella (chickenpox), polio, and influenza, are up to date before embarking on the expedition.

Hepatitis A and B: Vaccination against hepatitis A and B is recommended for all travelers, including those going on a Mount Everest expedition. These diseases can be transmitted through contaminated food, water, or bodily fluids and can have serious health implications.

Typhoid: Typhoid fever can be contracted through contaminated food and water. A typhoid vaccination is advisable, especially for those planning to spend an extended period in Nepal.

Meningococcal Meningitis: Meningococcal meningitis is a rare but potentially severe bacterial infection that can occur in crowded places or close quarters. Although the risk is relatively low, some climbers may opt to receive the meningococcal vaccine as a precautionary measure.

Tetanus and Rabies: Ensuring that tetanus vaccination is up to date is important in case of any injuries during the expedition. Rabies vaccination may also be considered, particularly if there is a possibility of close contact with animals.

It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or a travel medicine specialist well in advance of the expedition to receive personalized advice on the necessary vaccinations based on individual health, medical history, and current vaccination status. It is also important to follow general hygiene practices, such as handwashing and consuming safe food and water, to minimize the risk of infectious diseases during the expedition.

Tipping is a common practice in Nepal, including for expedition staff, guides, and porters. While tipping is not mandatory, it is customary and appreciated as a way to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the individuals who have supported you during your Pumori Expedition. Here are some general guidelines for tipping:

• Expedition Guides: It is recommended to allocate a tip for the expedition guides who have provided guidance, leadership, and support throughout the climb. The amount can vary depend
• ing on the length and complexity of the expedition, but a typical range is around $20 to $30 per day for the lead guide.
• Climbing Sherpas: Climbing Sherpas play a crucial role in supporting the expedition and ensuring your safety during the ascent. It is customary to tip the Sherpas individually based on their level of involvement and assistance. The recommended range is around $15 to $20 per day for each climbing Sherpa.
• Support Staff: This includes cooks, kitchen helpers, porters, and other support staff involved in the expedition. The recommended range for tipping support staff is around $10 to $15 per day, to be divided among the team.
• Base Camp Staff: If you have a dedicated base camp team, such as a cook and kitchen helper, it is customary to tip them separately. The recommended amount is around $10 to $15 per day, to be divided among the base camp staff.
• Group Tip: It is common for expedition members to contribute to a group tip that can be given to the entire staff as a collective token of appreciation. The recommended amount for a group tip is around $50 to $100 per member, depending on the size of the group and the duration of the expedition.

Remember that these are general guidelines, and tipping is ultimately based on your discretion and satisfaction with the services provided. It's a good idea to prepare a separate envelope with the total tip amount in Nepalese Rupees (NPR) or US Dollars (USD) to distribute at the end of the expedition. 

1. Introduction of Nepal
2. Before Traveling Nepal
3. While You are in Nepal
4. Before You Plan a Nepal Trip