WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE TRAIL

Daily Routine:

Trekking in Nepal is not like hiking through an uninhabited national park. Local people, and occasionally other groups of trekkers, are constantly passing by on the trails that have been the main method of getting from village to village for countless generations. Often the Nepali will be carrying extraordinarily heavy loads of unexpected items, and the warm and friendly nature of the people is part of what makes our stays in local villages so amazing.

In addition to the Gryphon there will be one or two local Trek Guides and one porter for every two clients. Since we will be staying in mountain lodges (tea houses), there is no need for us to carry camping gear and our day packs will be relatively light. The Nepalese rise early, eat a light breakfast, a large lunch, and a last meal just before dark, we will follow a similar schedule. After breakfast, usually cold except for coffee or tea, we set off on our day’s hike, we have about five to seven hours of walking to cover each day. We will either stop at a mountain lodge along the way for lunch, or take a box lunch with us from our lodge.

As much as possible on the trip we like to take a leisurely pace. We allow plenty of time to stop and take photos or explore some of the side trails. In consideration of the safety of the group as a whole and for your own safety, we ask that you stay with the group at all times unless otherwise advised by your guide.

We will arrive at our nightly accommodation late in the afternoon with enough time to relax and watch the sunsets before dinner. After dinner there are opportunities to socialize with other trekkers and local villagers.

Weather

Nepal has a typical monsoonal, two-season year, the wet season and the dry season. November, the start of the dry season, is in many ways the best time of the year in Nepal. With the monsoon only recently finished the country-side is green and lush and Nepal is at its most beautiful. Rice is harvested and there are some more important and colorful festivals to enjoy. At this time of the year the air is sparkling clean, visibility is excellent and the Himalayan views are as near perfect as you can ask. Further more the weather is still balmy, neither too hot nor too cold. For obvious reasons, this is also the peak tourist season.

April, the tail end of the dry season, is the second-best time. This is also called "flower month" by the Nepali. The weather gets warmer so high-altitude treks are no longer as arduous, although by the end of the dry season, before the monsoon breaks, it starts to get too hot for comfort. Visibility is not as good as earlier in the dry season since the country is now very dry, and dust in the air reduces that crystal Himalayan clarity. In compensation, Nepal's wonderful rhododendrons and many other flowers are in bloom so there's plenty of color to be seen along the trekking trails.

At either time of year the mountain weather can change, and cover any of the traditional four seasons. As we travel we will pass through several temperate zones; Subtropical, Lower Temperate, Upper Temperate, and Sub-Alpine. Because of this the temperatures and weather will vary during our trek. Daytime temperatures will rarely be above 75F, or below 50F. Nighttime temperatures will be lower, but rarely below 40F.

In the Kathmandu Valley, the daytime weather is pleasant year round. It never reaches freezing in the valley, so at it's worst it is sweater or warm-jacket weather. Pokhara is slightly warmer than Kathmandu, and will probably be T-shirt weather when we are there.

Fitness Level

This trip can be enjoyed by almost anyone with a reasonable degree of fitness! If you regularly engage in some sort of physical labor or aerobic exercise at work or play, then this trip is possible for you. You will be expected to load and unload your own gear, carry a small backpack containing all your clothes and personal items, and participate in long day-hikes.

We will not be covering large distances each day, but the terrain is uneven and will include hiking at altitudes up to 13,000ft.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your physical ability and the demands of this trip please contact us and we will be glad to help you out.

Conservation

It has always been our motto that "we take only photographs and leave only footprints", and we hope that you will try to help us achieve our goal of keeping our impact to a minimum. Each environment that we travel in has specific environmental concerns and your guides will discuss these local issues and minimal impact practices on the trip.

Fortunately for us, the mountain lodges will take care of disposing of most of our waste for us. It is still good to remember as we pack that all the trash we leave at the lodges gets carried out on someone’s back.

Cultural Climate

Nepal is a small kingdom nestled high in the Himalayas. This is what is classically considered “third world,” with only about 10% of the country connected to electricity. The country is home to several distinct peoples and religions. While over 30 languages are spoken in Nepal, the most common is Nepali. Hinduism is the dominant religion, although there is also a strong Buddhist, and a smaller Muslim presence.

Nepal is both a democracy with an elected parliament, and the world’s only Hindu monarchy with a hereditary royal family. The ratification of a new constitution, in 1990 replaced the old council system of government with the current democratic configuration.

Like the geography, the population of Nepal extremely diverse and highly complex. There are over 50 distinct ethnic groups, each with their own culture and traditions. Simplistically, Nepal is the meeting point for the Indo-Aryan people of India with the Tibeto-Burmese of the Himalaya, but this gives little hint of the dynamic ethnic mosaic that has developed and continues to change to this day.

The challenge for us as visitors to Nepal is to respect the rights and beliefs of the local people, and to minimize our impact - culturally and environmentally. Remember Nepal is not an adventure park or museum established for our convenience, but home to a vital, changing culture. Life for many is extremely hard, but despite the scarcity of material possessions, there are many qualities shown by the Nepalese that shame the so-called developed world. Our very presence in Nepal will have an effect - we want to avoid having a negative one.

In a totally different culture it is also inevitable that the visitor will make a gaffe at some point. Most Nepalese make allowances, but they do appreciate it when a genuine effort is made to observe local customs. Our efforts to respect and participate in local beliefs will not only enrich our experience but also make us welcome visitors.

Some tips to help you fit in:

Since the majority of Nepali people live in rural areas, their outlook on life is simple and traditional. In fact, they take special delight in the company of foreign visitors but there are certain things that are alien or embarrassing to Nepalese people.

Particularly in the smaller mountain villages, you may be the center of attention. Remember that no matter how ordinary you feel, to the average Nepali you are something special. Staring is not considered rude or discourteous in Nepal and you may find that people (especially children) will want to watch your every move.

Nepal is conservative with clothing, and your reception by locals can vary greatly on the way you dress. Men should always wear a shirt (don't go around bare chested) and are encouraged to wear long pants. In view of local customs, men should try not to wear shorts, and women should avoid them altogether. For women in town; a skirt of mid-calf length is preferable to slacks or pants. Slacks with sarong or skirt over them, and a (at least half-sleeved) blouse or shirt are probably most appropriate.

Always remove your shoes before entering a Nepali home, or Temple. Visitors to Hindu temple or Buddhist shrines are expected to be unshoed as a mark of respect.
Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Nepali men often walk around hand-in-hand, but this does not have the same implications as it does in San Francisco.

The Nepali feel raising your voice or shouting shows extremely bad manners and will not solve your problem, what ever it might be. Always try to remain cool, calm and collect.

Bodily contact is rarely made, even for shaking hands, although amongst young Nepali men with western connections it is becoming more accepted. Do not be offended if a Nepalese lady hesitates to shake hands. Women do not normally shake hands when they greet one another, but instead press the palms together in a prayer-like gesture known as "Namaste".

Don't encourage begging children. If you want to help there are lots of excellent aid organizations which will make good use of your contribution and local schools will be only too happy with a gift of ball-point pens. Seriously.

In a Nepali home the kitchen is off limits to guests. Avoid polluting food by inadvertently touching it or bringing it into contact with a used plate or utensil. Using you own fork or spoon to serve out more food will do this. Putting your used plate on a buffet table risks making the food still on the table “jutho” or polluted. Notice how Nepalese drink from cup or water vessel without letting it touch their lips. (We understand this takes a little practice for westerners.) In typical and traditional Nepali houses, plates, knives, forks and spoons may be absent from the dinner table. While eating, Nepalese people use their right hand. However, this does not mean that the guests are not permitted to use forks and spoons.

Some of the Nepali Gods do not permit animal sacrifices. Beef is strictly prohibited among both Hindus and Buddhists. No female animal is ever killed for food.

Entry to most temples, stupas and shrines is not restricted. However, some sensitive religious enclosures and sites may prohibit entry to non-Hindus. Signboards are usually displayed in this case.

If you wish to enter a shrine, where allowed, you may go around in a clockwise direction. The Nepali believe in putting their Gods to their right when circling a shrine. The front side of the shrines are usually marked by a lotus carved stone on the pavement or a slightly recessed square pit. The image of the carrier of the deity or symbol may be seen on the pedestal in front. These define the territoriality of the shrine. Reference to these elements will put you in a proper perspective.

Nepal's attitude towards religion is very tolerant one, and many different religions flourish and mingle here. However handing out religious materials is strictly regulated by the government.

Leather products, such as belts, jackets, shoes and bags are prohibited in most religious places. Please leave them outside. Your friend or the watchman will take care of these while you are inside.

People

Kathmandu is a cultural melting pot for Nepal. Virtually all of the different Nepali people are represented here. The Newars are very prevalent and their architecture is what dominates the Kathmandu skyline. At Newar weddings there are 84 traditional dishes served to symbolize the couple’s union. While some westerners find Nepal food to be bland, Newari food is varied, spicy, and interesting.

Once we leave Pokhara, the smaller villages are predominately Thikali and Gurung. The Thikalis have emerged as Nepal’s natural entrepreneurs. They once played an important role in the salt trade between the Indian sub-continent and Tibet, now most Thikalis have small farms or serve as hoteliers. Originally Buddhist, many pragmatic Thikalis have converted to Hinduism.

The Gurung people contributed the soldiers that made up the famed Ghurka regiments. The largest Gurung settlement we visit is the town of Ghandruk towards the end of our trek. A Tibeto-Burmese people, many Gurungs are farmers and sheep herders. With fields of rice, wheat, maize, or millet grown on the steeply terraced hillsides up to an hours walk below the villages perched on top of the ridge lines. During the summer months the sheep, often kept as a village flock, are herded to higher pastures, being brought back down after the monsoons.

Sherpas and Porters

One of Nepal's most famous ethnic groups are the Sherpas, even though they form only a tiny part of the total population. Sherpas first came into prominence when the 1921 Mt. Everest reconnaissance team hired them. Though the most famous Sherpa settlements are near the Everest region, they are found throughout the eastern part of Nepal.

We use local Sherpa Guides and Porters to support our treks. All of the outfitters that we use are licensed and regulated by the Nepalese Government. By using smaller co-operative services we avoid the congestion and impersonal nature of larger guiding services.

Security

Nepal is generally very safe with one of the lowest crime rates of all countries. Violent crime is very rare, however petty theft is common and it is always wise to keep an eye on one's luggage in busy areas. Pick-pockets are a world phenomenon.

Western women are sometimes harassed with stares and catcalls on the streets in the cities. This is harmless, if annoying, and a firm disapproval will usually end any such behavior.
As in any poor country with enough "rich" foreigners, Nepal has its share of street beggars and middle-men touts trying to sell you everything from information to drugs. There is no need to be intimidated by them. If you are not interested, mind your own business or tell them to leave you alone. They will.

There is a domestic terrorist group locally referred to as Maoist Rebels. They have never directed their activities towards tourists, focusing only on actions to disrupt the current government. For us the most annoying thing about the Maoist Rebels are the strikes that sometimes shut down all public services. Occasionally the rebels will stop trekking groups to demand a "donation," both our Gryphons and our Local Guides are experienced at dealing with these situations, and all "bashti" monies paid are included in your trip costs.

Groups of trekkers have never been detained, and the rebels interactions with trekking groups revolve around getting their share of a valuable source of income. To help account for any potential difficulties we have left an extra day at the end of our trek. We also avoid trekking in areas prone to Maoist activity.

Photography

Photography is generally not prohibited. However there are some facades or images where photography is restricted. Ask before a temple compound whether it is permissible to enter and take photographs. If you wish to be more considerate, do not use flashbulbs inside when someone is worshiping.

Just as in your home country it is impolite to intrude with a camera, unless it is clearly OK with the people you are photographing. Please do not take any photograph of someone performing a ritual without their prior permission. Please do not exchange addresses or offer copies of photos unless you definitely intend to follow it up later.

Eating and Drinking

On the trail our guides will supervise and supplement the fare from available from the tea houses, ensuring both the hygienic standards and the quality of the meals prepared. Nepal also has it's own "Nepalese cuisine". However, other cuisine like Indian, Chinese, Italian, French, Japanese and Thai are available in most of the hotels and restaurants in Kathmandu and Pokhara.

A typical Nepalese meal consists of Rice, Lentil, Chicken, Vegetables and Pickle. Vegetarians and most dietary restrictions are easily accommodated.

Alcohol

Hard alcohol, and beer where available, are not included in the price of the trip. Nor are carbonated drinks (Coke etc.) included. While these items are generally more expensive than local fare, keep in mind that they have been brought in on somebody�s back, and the empty containers will leave the same way. Nepali Raksi is a traditional liquor, made out of rice, which is generally cheaper and also widely available.

Medical Matters

Your guide will carry a comprehensive medical kit for any accidents that may occur. It is your responsibility to bring sufficient quantities of any specific medications you require. For the altitudes at which we will be traveling medications such as Diamox, and similar, are not usually necessary.

If you wish to have access to a supply of this type of medication you must bring a filled prescription from your own doctor. Please advise the guides of medications you will be carrying.

Advise us of any side effects of any medication you take and of any dietary requirements related to taking them. Be sure to let your group leader know of any drugs to which you are allergic. You will be isolated from modern medical facilities, so attention to medical matters is vital.

Vaccinations

Generally speaking, there are no specific vaccinations required for travel to Nepal. When visiting any third world country it is always wise to consult your doctor or Travelers Medical Center with any questions or concerns. Due to the chance of cuts and scratches on the trail, we strongly advise that you be up to date with your Tetanus vaccine. Many travelers also choose to get vaccinations against hepatitis.

Dental

Due to the remoteness of our trips it is advisable to have a check-up before departure.

Visas

In order to enter Nepal, holders of European, American, Asian and other passports need a visa for holiday or business purposes.

All the passports must be valid at least six months beyond the intended length of stay. Visitors arriving without a Nepalese visa can receive a 60 day visa at the Airport immigration Counter for about $30 US.

You can get a visa before you go (always safest), from a Nepali embassy with very little fuss. The application form for the Embassy in Washington D.C. can be downloaded at www.nepalembassyusa.org, or for London at www.nepembassy.org.uk. There will be an 800-1,100 rpp departure tax at the airport before you leave.

Washing and Toilet Facilities

"Normal" flush toilets will often be available in Kathmandu and Pokhara. On the trail they will only be available in the hotels and tea houses where we stay. At all other times "squat toilets" are the norm. This may be as basic as a couple of boards set over a pit.

When away from the villages we will be heading off behind rocks and trees, and we require all participants to use good low-impact skills (burning of toilet paper and burying of waste, etc.).