Nepal Hike, Bike & Raft Adventure |

Nepal Hike, Bike & Raft Adventure

  • Overview
  • Map & Itinerary
  • Essential Info
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Highlights

  • Get off the beaten track in Nepal and experience local life first as you trek, cycle and raft through awe-inspiring landscapes
  • Experience breath-taking scenery on this thrilling journey carefully created by Adventurous Ewe
  • Cycle trails against the backdrop of the impressive Langtang Himalayan range
  • Summit Poon Hill at sunrise and witness the colour changes over Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna Range
  • Raft Nepal’s world-class white water carving through gorges and lush jungle
  • Stay in remote farm villages and wander through the local bazaar, 17th century palace & fortress and ancient temples
  • Steeped heavily in ancient tradition and rich culture the Nepali people will leave a lasting impression on you
  • Enjoy this multi activity adventure in small groups accompanied by experienced Local Guides
  • Receive a complimentary Water-To-Go bottle when you depart on this trip to minimise our plastic foot-print in Nepal!

 

Overview

This carefully crafted itinerary takes you into the enthralling depths of Nepal where you will experience a thrilling off the beaten track journey by foot, by bike and by rafts.

Over a period of 9 days you will traverse the foothills of the Annapurna Range, cycle trails against the backdrop of the impressive Langtang Himalaya, trek through remote mountain villages and to the summit of Poon Hill at sunrise, raft Nepal’s world-class white water carving through gorges and lush jungle and stay in remote farm villages and wild camp on the banks of the river.

Not only will you be amidst the awe-inspiring views of Himalayan mountains and glacial rivers, you’ll experience the rich culture and traditions of Nepal with exploring ancient palaces, some which date back to the 16th century, and walk amidst ornate villages with the opportunity to see first hand the local way of life in these remote areas and the unique local cultures of the Gurung and Magar communities. You’ll conquer many, many stairs, wind your way through jungles and farmlands and cross many bridges spanning the flowing glacial rivers.

Travelling through Nepal and mixing with the local Nepali people will leave a lasting imprint on your soul. Something all adventurers should experience and cherish at least once in their life. Discover more than just the mountains of Nepal.

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch with us at info@adventurousewe.co.uk or call 01492 588 069.

Day 1

Overnight flight from UK to Kathmandu Nepal

On signing up for the trip, we will provide you with the recommended flights to book or alternately, we can book the flights for you through our ATOL protected Flight Agent at an additional cost. Flights are not included in your package to give you the flexibility to travel from your nearest airport, use your frequent flyer points or extend your stay in Nepal if you wish. The recommended flights for this will include airport transfers in Nepal.

There are direct flights from London and other major airports across the UK. Return flights from the UK to Kathmandu Airport are operated by Etihad, Qatar, British Airways, Oman Airways, Turkish Airways and Emirates.

Transfer from Kathmandu Airport to hotel

On arrival in to Kathmandu Airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel where you will meet your fellow team-mates and local Nepalese Guide. There will be a briefing of the journey ahead and your chance to ask any questions and make any last-minute preparations plus you’ll be equipped with your bike.

The remainder of the day is at your leisure or you can join an orientation walk around the inner part of the city through the back lanes and old market square (time permitting).

Included
Transfer: Private transfer
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Kathmandu Guesthouse or similar (twin share basis)

Day 2

Transfer to Nuwakot and The Famous Farm

Following breakfast your adventure begins with a private transfer heading northwards of Kathmandu valley. Winding through the valley the views of lush green hills and terraced farmlands provide a glimpse into the rural lifestyle of Nepal before you’re graced with an outlook of Himalayas and the Langtang range which dominates the skyline. Soon you’ll reach the township of Bidur and start travelling through pine forest to the delightful village and former citadel of Nuwakot (3.5hrs approx).  Above Nuwakot is the inspirationally restored The Famous Farm with its wonderful location and river-valley views. The farm is a cluster of three buildings which provide the semi luxurious Nepali country living.

Here you’ll have time to stroll around the village visiting 17th century palace and fortress, the bazaar and an ancient temple. There’s also time to jump in the saddle of your bike and have a pedal around the area to get in groove for a challenging bike ride the following couple of days.

Included
Transfers: Private vehicle transfer
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Farmhouse (share & save basis)  

Day 3

Cycle from Nuwakot and The Famous Farm to Dhading Besi

Waking early with a home cooked breakfast, today sees you taking on a classic cross country cycling journey. With your backdrop being the Langtang Himalayan range, vast green countryside and rural areas, you’ll never be short of remarkable view for your first day in the saddle. Your route kindly starts with a descent into town before heading up the trail to Samari Bhanjyang. Continuing on the trail drops down to the river and before a gradual incline for approx. 8kms to your destination of the day, Dhading Besi. Overnight in a local lodge.

Cycling info
Distance: 50kms
Ascent: approx 500m
Descent:  approx 700m
Time: approx. 5 – 6 hours

Included
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Local lodge (share & save basis)

Day 4

Cycle from Dhading Besi to Gorkha. Transfer to Bandipur

Get ready for a big yet great day on your bike. Starting out on good roadways till Murali Bhanjyang, your journey then starts to get a little rougher as you pedal along a jeep track that leads you up to Mathillo Rampur (9kms approx). Here you’ll be rewarded with great views of the famed peaks of Manaslu and Annapurna range of Himalaya. The trail then descends the dusty track to Tallo Rampur – the second largest valley floor in Nepal. Marvel at the Nepalese ingenuity of farming as you cycle through the village of Bunkghat and to the bridge before you tackle the steep trail up through sub-tropical forest for about 8kms. As you emerge from the forest, the route eases into a undulating jeep track all the way to the historic town of Gorkha where your cycling journey ends with a quick visit to the ancient Gorkha Palace, which dates back to the 16th century.

Now your legs can have a welcomed rest as you have a private transfer to the hill-top village of Bandipur with its eagle’s nest location, provincial architecture, interesting walks and a warm welcome at The Old Inn. Transfer time is approx. 1 hour 15 mins.

Cycling info
Distance: 66kms
Ascent: approx 600m
Descent: approx 350m
Time: approx. 6 – 7 hours

Included
Transfer: Private transfer
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: The Old Inn (share & save basis)  

Day 5

Transfer from Bandipur to Damauli. Raft the blue waters of the Seti River

Start the day with a short transfer from Bandipur to Damauli (approx. 1 hour). Here you’ll rendezvous with your rafting crew on the shores of the Seti Khola River for a safety briefing. It’s then time to hit the pristine blue waters of the Seti River which runs from the mountains above Pokhara right down into the lowlands of the Chitwan area, and flows through some wonderfully-remote valleys. It’s the perfect river for first time rafters with a nice flow and less technical rapids. The whitewaters of Seti carve through gorges and channels allowing your skills as paddlers to grow as you head down river. The beauty of Seti extends beyond its warmish sparkling waters, to a spectacular gorge surrounded by flourishing jungle. It’s a great opportunity to spot wildlife along the river banks including monkeys, deer & a wide array of birds. Several villages are nestled neatly into the face of the gorge as well. The rapids are grade II & III. Overnight camp along the river banks.

Rafting info
Time: approx. 4 – 5 hours

Included
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Camping

Day 6

Raft Seti River and private transfer to Pokhara

Wake up to the sounds of river life and enjoy a camp brekkie on the shores. You’ll help take down camp, set up the rafts and leave no trace of our fortunate overnight stay. Today the scenery is stunning as you paddle some grade II and III rapids plus enjoy drifting and swimming in the river. The best grade III rapids are saved till last as the Seti meets with the Trisuli river and we soon reach ‘take-out’ point at Gaighat. Your crew prepares your last meal on the sandy river banks before you bid bidā’ī (goodbye) and continue with your onward journey towards Pokhara.

Against the backdrop of the Himalayan Peaks your private transfer will take you to Pokhara, the tranquil lakeside town and gateway to the Annapurna region. Enroute you’ll see the mighty Machhapuchhre (Fishtail mountain), which is off limits to climbing due to its religious significance and is dubbed the fishtail due to its distinctive summit feature. Continuing on you’ll soon see the still waters of Fewa Lake with it’s bobbing paddle boats dotted along the shoreline and the surrounding hillsides renowned for where the famed ‘Gurkha’ soldiers reside. The charm of Pokhara welcomes you where you’ll have time to explore the streets, experience the natural beauty of Phewa Lake by boat, enjoy a fresh juice of coffee on the lake shore at The Juicery Café famed for their ‘From Farm To Table’ ethos, climb up to the nearby World Peace Pagoda or simply relax and recharge your batteries.

Trip info
Rafting time: approx. 4 hours
Transfer time: approx. 3.5 hours

Included
Transfer: Private transfer
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: 3*Hotel (share & save basis)

Day 7

Private transfer from Pokhara to Nayapul and Kimche. Trek to Tadapani at 2590m

Following a comfy nights rest it’s time to make your way to the gateway of the famed trekking region of the Annapurna region. Your first stop is the small village of Nayapul (1.5hr approx) and then into the Annapurna Conservation Area through Modi river valley to Kimche (1hr approx) where you’ll lace up your boots for the start of your trekking journey.

A short uphill walk brings you to Ghandruk (1940m) an ornate ‘Gurung’ village which has grown large and prosperous on the pensions of re-tired Gurkha soldiers. From Ghandruk, your trail winds through some of the world’s tallest mountains with dramatic views of the peaks of Annapurna South, Gangapurna, Hiunchuli and the all-so-famous Machhapuchhre. Following a well deserved lunch at Ghandruk, the trek continues uphill for most part of the afternoon, through forests, climbing steadily with some steep sections as the route reaches Tadapani, a small mountain village in the Annapurna Himalaya where you can continue to enjoy the beautiful hospitality of the Nepalese people. Annapurna South and Hiunchuli become increasingly closer and even more impressive.

Trip info
Transfer time: approx. 2.5 hours
Trekking time: approx. 4 hours

Included
Meals: Breakfast only
Accommodation: Teahouse 

Day 8

Trek from Tadapani at 2590m to Ghorepani at 2750m 

Today’s trek starts with a picturesque descent down stone-paved steps through woodland to emerge at a stream where we cross a typical styled Nepalese bridge. What comes down must go back up with a tough 150m climb through dense forest leading to a clearing with a solitary lodge. You’ll be graced with superb panoramic view of the towering mountain peaks. A short distance away is a hamlet of Banthanti and then another stream crossing to wind your way up to the remote mountain village of Deurali. The climb continues before easing to a series of ups and downs through the woodlands with tantilising glimpses of the Himalayan peaks between the trees. There’s a break in the trees affording you an incredible viewpoint where you can admire the towering peaks rising amongst the clouds in the distance. Simply awe-inspiring in size and stature.

Finishing this great day of trekking in Ghorepani where you’ll overnight in a local teahouse.

Trek info
Trekking time: approx. 5 hours

Included
Meals: Breakfast only
Accommodation: Teahouse

Day 9

Sunrise trek to Poon Hill (3210m) and on to Hille. Return private transfer to Pokhara

Rising early for a pre-dawn hike (45 mins) to the summit of Poon Hill at 3210m, the highest point of your trek, in time for sunrise. This moment will stay with you for many years to come whilst you try and take in the uninterrupted, panoramic views of some of the largest and most photogenic Himalayan mountains, including Dhaulagiri, Nilgiri, Machhapuchhare, Annapurna II and Lamjung as they change colours with the rising sun. It’s then time to return to your teahouse for breakfast and back down to Ghorepani village. Beyond the village is a long forested stretch that is abundant with rhododendron flowers in spring and summer. Continuing down past a cluster of lodges at Nayathanti, crossing a stream to venture back into the forest again. Another bridge crossing will take you into the settlement of Banthanti where the forest gives way to pastures and farmlands as you approach the large village of Ulleri. Now its time to fastening your laces ready for a 500m steep descent down the 3,421 steps to Bhurungdi river bridge. Trail now rises to cross another bridge to enter the village of Tirkhedhunga and on to Hille where you’ll board your private jeeps back to Nayapul (1.5hrs approx) and onwards to Pokhara (1.5hrs approx). Overnight in a local guesthouse and enjoy a well deserved shower following an epic day in the mountains.

Trip info
Trekking time: approx. 6 hours
Transfer time: approx. 3 hours

Included
Meals: Breakfast only
Accommodation: 3* Hotel (share & save basis)

Day 10

Pokhara to Kathmandu

It’s time to depart the gateway to the Annapurna’s and return to Kathmandu. With a morning flight From Pokhara to Kathmandu you’ll have plenty of free time to explore this endlessly fascinating streets, hidden medieval temples, or simply relax in local coffee shop, this place is a mixing pot full of things to see and experience which will kindle all your senses.

Trip info
Flight time: Morning flight departure. Flight length, approx. 25 mins. 

Included
Meals: Breakfast only
Transfers: private transfers to and from domestic airports to your accommodation
Accommodation: Kathmandu Guesthouse (share & save basis)

Day 11

Return home

Following breakfast you’ll leave the hustle and bustle of Nepal’s capital city Kathmandu and return home filled with so many fascinating memories and stories worth sharing.

Included
Meals:  Breakfast only
Transfer:  Private transfers to and from domestic airports

Why go

Exclusively curated itinerary by Adventurous Ewe

Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit the tourism industry which employs 1 in 10 people worldwide, we’re keen to promote sustainable adventures to help support local communities and give you the chance to have a more meaningful travel experience.

This Nepal Hike, Bike & Raft Adventure has been designed to deliver an amazing experience and showcase the some of the most stunning landscapes across Nepal whilst also giving you the chance to step out of your comfort zone and gain a greater understanding of the mountains, the local environment, local communities and the culture whilst providing a thrilling journey along the way.

Book and travel with confidence

As well as carefully crafting amazing and meaningful adventures across the planet, we’ve made booking them as flexible, safe and as simple as possible. With the ongoing impact of COVID-19, we’ve made a number of updates to our safety guidelines, flexible booking conditions and trip departures. For more info, please our Book and Travel with Confidence page. 

Booking security
Adventurous Ewe Financial Guarantee

Any monies paid to Adventurous Ewe for a trip are immediately placed into a Trust account and not used for the day-to-day operations of the company. So, in the unlikely event of our insolvency, money paid in respect of future travel will be refunded, in full. This pledge has been honoured since the foundation of Adventurous Ewe in 2007. No client has suffered financial loss outside our T&C’s whilst travelling with us.

Financial security

Rest assured, your money is safe in any and all circumstances. There has been and always will be full financial protection on your booking. If your adventure needs to be cancelled for any reason, like say a global pandemic, you won’t be left stuck and you’ll be offered plenty of alternative options thanks to our financial protection through our insurance with Towergate Travel through Zurich Insurance PLC. What’s more, in the very unlikely event of Adventurous Ewe going under, you’ll get your money back and be repatriated if you were on a trip at the time.

Pre-trip info

On booking your Nepal Hike, Bike & Raft Adventure, you’ll receive all the exciting trip info via our free mobile travel app.

You’ll have access to your itinerary, trip countdown, live updates, contact info, weather forecasts, know before you go trip info, kit lists and much more at the touch of a button 24 hours a day via your mobile phone. No more unnecessary use of reams of paper to benefit the environment and the need of carrying around documents with you. A’ppy days.

Pre-trip support

With being a small family business we pride ourselves with providing personal, professional and friendly service. We appreciate that everyone has different levels of experience and reasons for wishing to embark on this Nepal Hike, Bike & Raft Adventure and therefore require varying levels of support and guidance.

We’re here to help you every step of the way from the moment you join the flock all the way through to completing the challenge and beyond. Jim and Sue’s knowledge and expertise stems from dozens of years of travelling and exploring the destinations that we visit in order to fully support you in the lead up to your adventure.

We have both been fortunate enough to have travelled extensively through Nepal and are best place to help you with any questions, no matter how big or small.

Flights
International flights
Overnight flight from UK to Kathmandu, Nepal

On signing up for this trip, we will provide you with the recommended flights to book or alternately, we can book the flights for you through our ATOL & ABTA protected Flight Agent at an additional cost. 

Flights are not included in your package to give you the flexibility to travel from your nearest airport, use your frequent flyer points or extend your stay in Nepal if you wish. The recommended flights for this will include airport transfers in Nepal.

There are direct flights from London and other major airports across the UK. Return flights from the UK to Kathmandu Airport are operated by Etihad, Qatar, British Airways, Oman Airways, Turkish Airways and Emirates.

Internal flights in Nepal

For this trip there is a return internal flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu at a cost of $US125 per person with payment made directly to our local operator.

Please note, the mountainous terrain is often subject to changeable weather which makes flying conditions complex. In addition, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Nepal does not operate to the same standards as those of western nations. The EU has recently chosen to highlight the relatively poor safety record in Nepal, and as of December 2013 all Nepalese registered airlines have been included on the EU ‘Banned list’ preventing them from flying in EU airspace. While no Nepalese registered airlines currently fly within the EU, the EU have instigated this ban to encourage the CAA of Nepal to tighten its systems governing Nepalese aviation.

Flying in Nepal

Flying within Nepal is therefore a known risk and the current travel advice issued by the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office provides an overview which we encourage you to read. For emergency situations, we have an approved list of helicopter companies for our use through our local tour operator. Adventurous Ewe is supportive of the EU’s move to put pressure on the CAA of Nepal in this way. We are hopeful that this will make a difference to all who fly in Nepal. Please consider the information above when deciding to book this trek and the optional Everest scenic tour flight.

Flights between Pokhara and Kathmandu are often delayed due to poor weather and there have been occasions when groups have had to have their treks rescheduled. Your Leader will give you the most up to date information regarding flights. Please note, adverse weather conditions in Nepal may occasionally mean that your flight from Pokhara cannot operate and we may have to return to Kathmandu by road. Adventurous Ewe has built in an additional back-up plan accommodate this.

Luggage Allowance 

Domestic flights in Nepal have strict weight limits of 20kg of check-in luggage and 5kg of carry-on hand luggage per person which is included with your flight ticket. Excess baggage (up to 5kg per person only) will be charged and is payable at your own expense.

Nepal’s only international airport, Tribhuvan International Airport, has a single runway that services both domestic and international flights. Cancellations and delays are frequent, especially during peak tourist seasons or in poor weather. Travellers have on occasion missed international connections as a result of this, particularly if flights from Pokhara to Kathmandu are delayed. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance and contact numbers for your airlines before departure. Ultimately any prolonged delay of your return to Kathmandu may result in missing your international flight; in such circumstances, for those who have booked flights through our Flight Travel Agent, Adventurous Ewe will make every effort to rebook flight inclusive package participants onto the next available flight (in the appropriate booking class and with the same international carrier).

Land only participants should be aware that in these circumstances Adventurous Ewe cannot be held responsible for you missing onward travel arrangements.

Travel between Kathmandu and Pokhara  

There is an alternative means of travelling from Pokhara by road as opposed to flying. It is a long overland journey of 200kms which takes approximately 6+ hours. Should you decide to travel via road transport, this will be at your own expense with no refunds for travel by road available.

Passport

All nationalities require a full passport that must be valid for 6 months beyond the intended length of stay. For the most up to date info, please visit the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website

Visa

Most nationalities require a visa for Nepal, and we highly recommend that you secure your visa prior to travel to avoid any lengthy queues or unnecessary hassles. Applications can be made directly through the Nepal Embassy (by post or in person) by visiting https://uk.nepalembassy.gov.np/visa/.  All Nepal tourist visas are multiple entry. The current cost for a visa in advance is GB£25 for a 15-day visa, GB£40 for a 30-day visa or GB£90 for a 100-day visa for UK passport holders (plus postage fees if applying by post).

On arrival in the immigration hall at Kathmandu there are 3 queues and if you have obtained your visa in advance you can go straight to (3) – immigration.

If you were unable to obtain your tourist visa in advance, you can avoid the queue for the first stage of the visa process on arrival at Kathmandu Airport by printing off the application form found online. Please complete this form before you travel and attach one passport sized photo. If you travel with this form you can then go directly to the cashier to pay for your visa.

Also, please visit the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office website, or your respective nationality governing website, for the latest travel information on Nepal.

Travel Insurance & Global Rescue

Travel Insurance is an important part of any booking. It is compulsory that everyone who travels with us has taken out adequate travel insurance which includes, among other things, cover for the full value of your trip, medical (emergency, evacuation and repatriation) arrangements, activities undertaken, personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects and COVID-19 travel cover.

For UK residents we have partnered with Campbell & Irvine Direct to provide you with a travel insurance. If you would like to obtain cover for your trip please feel free to contact specialist Insurance Brokers, Campbell Irvine Direct for a quote.

You must send your Travel Insurance Policy to Adventurous Ewe no less than 8 weeks prior to departure.

Global Rescue Membership

For peace of mind whilst trekking in the mountains, Global Rescue provides short term membership giving access to travel, security, medical advisory and evacuation services up to $US500,000.  They’re a specialised field rescue company, and assist from the point of illness or injury by getting you to the closest and most appropriate medical facilities to get stabilised. Once fit to fly if you require additional inpatient treatment Global Rescue will further evacuate and repatriate to your home hospital on record. These services are all covered through their upfront membership fee with no claims process.  For more info, please click here

Vaccinations & Allergies

For the most up to date info on vaccinations, please consult with your GP or travel healthcare practitioner 8 weeks in advance of travel. There are no mandatory vaccination requirements. Recommended vaccinations are: Polio, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Typhoid, Hepatitis A. For up to date vaccination information please check the NHS government website ‘Fit for Travel’.

COVID-19

Rest assured we continuously monitor and activate the guidelines and recommendations put in place by the respective governments and World Health Organisation as a result of COVID-19. You will receive our operational guidelines for this expedition when you join the trip and hand sanitiser and face masks will be provided for travel. Rest assured your safety and wellbeing is our top priority at all times. For the most up to date info, please click here.

Malaria 

There is low to no risk of malaria throughout Nepal and antimalarial tablets are not usually advised although may be considered for certain higher risk groups; you may wish to consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice. The risk is highest in the low lying southern ‘terai’ districts bordering India.

Yellow Fever 

A yellow fever certificate is only required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission or for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through a country with risk of transmission.

Dengue fever is a known risk in Nepal. It is a tropical viral disease spread by mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for Dengue, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. As of August 2019, there has been a recent outbreak of Dengue fever in southeast Nepal and we therefore recommend you take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites (such as wearing full length trousers, long sleeves and applying insect repellent during the day as well as at dawn and dusk).

The hiking section of this itinerary travels at altitude where there is a risk of being affected by Acute Mountain Sickness. Our itinerary is designed to enable you to acclimatise to these altitudes, but you should be aware that it is still possible for you to be affected.

Severe allergies

If you have a severe allergy please inform us at the time of booking. We will do all we can to help, but unfortunately we are unable to guarantee an allergy free environment on this trip. You will need to carry your own treatment for the allergy with you, as ‘adrenaline auto-injectors’ are not carried as standard by AE leaders and crew. Whilst your leader is aware of our trekkers medical history, please also inform your leader on arrival of your allergy, and let them know where you keep your adrenaline pen.

 

Safety and wellbeing

Adventurous Ewe puts the safety and well-being of you, our leaders & crew and the communities we visit at the centre of all our operations, always. Your safety and well-being is our top priority.

The Nepal Hike, Bike & Raft Adventure is intentionally challenging and requires individual preparation as the trip is designed to take you out of your every-day comfort zone and achieve something amazing. Rest assured we have a thorough Safety Management System, indepth risk assessments and risk management systems in place.

Support

You will be accompanied by local qualified Mountain Guide/s and a UK High Altitude Mountain Leader for groups over 8 people. All our Guides are Remote First Aid trained and have extensive experience in leading teams in this region. They will be ultimately responsible for your safety on this trip.There will be radio or phone contact between Adventurous Ewe Mountain Leader, Local Leaders & crew and the Office Base in Kathmandu during your trek. Your Mountain Leader will also carry a Satellite phone for emergencies only and have 24-hour contact with Adventurous Ewe office in UK. In the unlikely event evacuation be required the National Park rescue service. All staff are highly trained with the evacuation procedures. A member of our staff will be carrying medical supplies should it be required.

If for any reason you need to leave the group early and come off the mountains, Sherpas will assist you with your descent and will arrange transfers, accommodation and medical care if necessary. All costs incurred due to an early descent will need to be covered by yourself before departing the hotel, this is why we insist on suitable travel insurance cover.

Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check the Foreign & Commonwealth Office Travel advice website for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all areas your itinerary covers.

We also ask that you please ensure you use your alcohol-based hand sanitiser at all times to minimise the spread of any germs throughout your fellow flock of trekkers!

Leaders & crew
UK Guide

Your UK Leader will have many years leading teams in Nepal and be an experienced altitude guide. Our Leaders are carefully selected to ensure you have the best experience on your trek and with a bit of humour thrown in for good measure. Your UK Mountain Leader will also have Remote First Aid qualifications.

Local Guides

Our Local Guides are very experienced, knowledgeable and have the renowed warmth and hospitality of the Sherpa people. They are constantly self-driven to go above and beyond to ensure you will have an amazing experience. Mountain climbing, cycling and rafting for the local guides is more than just a career, it’s a passion which they are proud to share with others. Our Guides are responsible for ensuring the complete safety, well-being and enjoyment of the team whilst also retaining a flexible and supportive attitude. The Leaders/s have satellite phone, radio and mobile phone contact with base, the local office in Kathmandu and Adventurous Ewe’s HQ.

Porters welfare

We understand porters, and the whole mountain crew in general, are the heart and soul of our adventures and we believe that fair treatment of our crew on the mountain is not merely an industry requirement but the tenet of every Nepalese expedition. Ensuring our crew is well paid, insured and cared for is a priority for us. When we trek, the entire group ‑ you, the guides and porters alike ‑ are a team who share the same needs for safety and well-being in this mountain environment.

Group size

We pride ourselves in small group travel to minimise the impact on the environment, to maximise your safety and wellbeing and to make your experience more authentic.

The minimum group size for the Nepal Hike, Bike & Raft trip to run is 6 people and the maximum group size is 16 people.

You are most welcome to join this trip as a solo traveller with with a group of friends, family, colleagues, etc. You are also welcome to use this trip as a fundraiser for the charity of your choice.

If you have a group of over 8 people, we would be more than happy to run a private trip for your team, your charity or your company. For any further info or to chat about running a bespoke trip, we’d love to hear from you at info@adventurousewe.co.uk or call 01492 588 069.

Level of difficulty

The Nepal Hike, Bike & Raft trip is graded as Tough’ as it involves 9 consecutive days of activity, some of which is at altitude. However, it is achievable and has been designed as a a thrilling multi activity adventure and ideal introduction to trekking in the Himalayas.

Trekking

The maximum altitude is 3210m and we recommend this trek to those who want a thorough overview of the Nepalese Himalaya. The hiking is mostly on well-established trails. The route crosses numerous modern suspension bridges over rivers and valleys; all have mesh sides and none are especially high. Anyone with a strong fear of heights or vertigo may find the bridge crossings a challenge though the guides will give you additional support. During the trek you will be required to carry your own kit including snacks, drinking water, wet weather gear and personal items such medication and of course your camera.

Please also be prepared for varied conditions and temperatures especially as you ascend higher into the Annapurna region. You are likely to be cold, washing facilities are minimal and the loos are different from the luxuries at home. Though please remember that everyone on your trek will be experiencing the same and as a team pursuit, we encourage strong teamwork and support.

Cycling

Whilst the mountain biking is not on technical trails, some sections are on gravel and rough tarmac, so it advisable that you train on a variety of terrains including gravel trails or bridleways to get accustomed to cycling on this terrain. There are some steep sections to test your stamina though the views are spectacular across towering mountains, forests, farmlands, villages and vast countryside. 

Rafting

Experience of whitewater rafting is not necessary but you will be paddling and balancing for the majority of time that you are on the raft so fitness and stamina are key. The Seti River is a class II – III river and ideal intro to whitewater rafting. You will be accompanied by experienced guides throughout your rafting journey.

Preparation is key to help you get the most enjoyment and reward from this trip. A good level of fitness, endurance and some gritty determination will help you conquer each day.

Altitude

When you ascend above 2500 metres your body has to acclimatise to the decreasing amount of the oxygen available. To allow your body to adjust we have structured this trek so that you ascend slowly, allowing acclimatisation to occur. However, during the acclimatisation process, you may experience some of the following symptoms – headaches, tiredness, disturbed sleep, shortness of breath, cough, loss of appetite, nausea, palpitations and swelling of the hands and face.

Individuals acclimatise at different rates and we would expect the majority of the team to notice the effects of being at high altitude, and while most will only feel discomfort and headaches, it is not uncommon for a small number of people to need extra care which will be provided by our leaders and crew.

During your pre-trek briefing, altitude sickness will be discussed in more detail and advice on how to best cope with it. The most important thing is not to fear it, but to respect it. Know the signs & symptoms of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness), be aware of how it affects the body and report any illness to your leader straight away. Our leaders and crew are there to help and are fully experienced with high altitude conditions and all the scenarios that trekking at these altitudes bring. You’re in good hands.

In most cases, AMS can be avoided following these guidelines:

  • Drink around 3-5 litres each day to achieve suitable hydration levels. Try and avoid tea & coffee and definitely no alcohol
  • Walk slowly, even when in the teahouses
  • Keep warm, especially at night
  • Eat well, even when you don’t feel like eating

All our trips that spend time at altitude follow our standard altitude safety measures. A number of medical conditions or medications can also reduce your body’s ability to acclimatise, and thus will affect your performance at altitude and make you more susceptible to AMS. If you are worried about any pre-existing condition (e.g. heart problems), or unsure of your physical ability, you must seek medical advice prior to booking. 

Please note that while we endeavour to assist you with achieving your personal goals, however there may be times when your leader makes the decision to either delay or stop your ascent based on your medical conditions and AMS symptoms. Please respect this decision for it is for your own safety and welfare.

Training

A bespoke training programme will be provided when join the team for this adventure to help you with your preparations. We also have exclusive offers with our Training Partners and Communities – Her Spirit and the Bath Kettlebell Society. For more info, please visit our Training & Preparation page.

The more you are prepared, the more you will enjoy the challenge.
Our motto is: Train hard, smile harder and enjoy the journey!

Training weekends

We have a variety of tailored training weekends available to ensure you’re fully prepared for your trekking adventure. These training weekends are the perfect way to help you gauge your fitness and training progress under the careful guidance of our experienced leaders. Plus the leaders will chat through your specific trip and also provide guidance and tips relating to clothing and equipment, health and well-being, packing, mountain huts, trekking skills (walking on different terrain/at altitude/using trekking poles), teamwork and much more to ensure you are fully prepared and ready for your adventure ahead.

We predominantly host our training weekends in Snowdonia given the wide variety of terrain available to practice and where Chief Ewe’s, Jim or Sue, can meet you too. It’s a great way for you to meet fellow members of the flock and ask any questions, no matter how big or small. We’re here to make sure you’re ready. For further info, please email info@adventurousewe.co.uk or call 01492 588 069.

Kit

A full kit list will be provided when you register for this trip or you can download the Trip Notes and find the list on page 21. Good kit can make the difference between a fantastic adventure and an uncomfortable one.

All equipment is provided for the mountain biking and white-water rafting sections. You are required to bring your own bike helmet and you’re welcome to bring your own pedals and SPD’s if you wish.  Rafts are 7-person, self-bailing (6 participants + 1 guide) with certified lifejackets, helmets and paddles.

Rest assured any equipment that we supply will be hygienically cleaned and sanitised.

Exclusive Kit Discount Codes

To help you get the very best from your Nepal Hike, Bike & Raft Adventure we will provide you with an exclusive Adventurous Ewe discount code to use in Joe Brown / The Climbers Shop and ashmei athletic apparel both online and in store. They offer a large choice of kit that the staff themselves use while climbing, hiking, mountaineering, running, travelling or enjoying expeditions across the globe and they pride themselves on sharing their experience and knowledge of equipment so you can choose the right gear to suit you and this mountain adventure.

Weather

The main adventure season in Nepal is from October to mid-May when daytime temperatures at most altitudes are generally comfortable for trekking, the sky is predominantly clear and rain & snow occur occasionally. Daytime temperatures will vary from 15ºC to 35ºC in the Kathmandu Valley to around 10ºC at 3,600m.

Different seasons offer different advantages for this trip.

Post Monsoon/autumn: Mid-September to November.

This is the main trekking season in Nepal. Day temperatures in Kathmandu are approximately above 20ºC. Skies are usually clear and days on trek are sunny and mild with clear mountain views. Nights will be colder with temperatures dropping as low as to minus 10ºC at the highest altitudes.

Winter: December to end February.

Despite the cooler conditions this is an ideal time to trek in Nepal. Skies are usually very clear especially in December and the mountain views are at their best. Nights will be very cold with temperatures down to minus 15ºC to minus 20ºC at the highest altitudes but days are pleasant and sunny. The trails are also much less busy at this time of year. In Kathmandu maximum daytime temperatures are 19ºC.

Pre-monsoon/spring: March to May.

Both day and night temperatures will be warmer in general but often a haze will build up in the afternoons. It is very hot in the lowlands and temperatures rise to 35ºC in Kathmandu. Flowers bloom in this season and this is one of the reasons people chose to trek in Spring.

Please remember that in any mountain area the weather is never predictable. You should be prepared and equipped to deal with any differences in weather beyond the conditions described above.

We recommend that you check the mountain weather forecast in the days leading up to your trek by clicking here.     

Accommodation
10 nights: Guesthouse/Lodge (7 nights), teahouses (2 nights) & camping (1 night)

Guesthouses/Lodges

In Kathmandu you will typically stay at the Kathmandu Guesthouse, a 3-star hotel located within the Thamel district and 18 minutes’ walk from Kathmandu Durbar Square, a royal palace complex. All rooms have ensuite facilities and there is a restaurant, a bar and an outdoor courtyard. There is complimentary Wi-Fi in the hotel lobby and Wi-Fi throughout. 

In Pokhara you will typically stay at Mount Kailash Resort or similar which is centrally located. All rooms have ensuite facilities and there is a pool, restaurant, bar and outdoor courtyard.

Teahouses

The teahouses in the remote villages are basic but adequate; please be realistic about what to expect in the mountains. The hub of the teahouse is the dining room, which is generally a heated area via stoves and often attractively decorated. Most teahouses sell snacks and other essentials such as tissues, soap and toilet paper. Almost all lodges have electricity but it is not wholly reliable and lighting may not be bright enough to read by – a head torch is essential. Electrical charging facilities are generally available only in the dining room (charged at approx. Rs150-350 per hour per device). Many of the lodges use solar power so sometimes there is not enough electricity for charging.

You will usually stay in twin-share bedrooms throughout this trip. Beds with foam mattresses, bedsheets and a pillow are provided. Bedrooms are unheated and get cold at night so a sleeping bag is essential. Most teahouses have only one or two basic toilets and sometimes these are located outside the main lodge building. Toilets are usually Asian ’squat’ style; although many lodges have now installed ‘western style’ seated ones. Toilet paper is not provided so you should bring your own or buy it locally. Some lodges now have hot ‘showers’ (charged at approx. Rs250-500 per shower).

Standards of cleanliness vary especially in the peak trekking season and in winter when the water freezes at night. Please report any problems to your leader or the lodge and be vigilant in your personal hygiene regime at all times. As a general rule, the higher altitude you go to, the more basic the lodges and the more expensive food and services become.

Camping

You will spend one night camping during your white-water rafting journey. You’ll need to provide your own sleeping bag, thermarest (or similar, which are also good to use in the teahouses) and pillow. We’d also ask you to help the crew pack down the campsite and ensure we leave no trace of our stay.

For more info or to request a single room, please get in touch with us at info@adventurousewe.co.uk.

Food & drinks

Included – Breakfast (10), Lunch (5), Dinner (5)

Meals are included as outlined in your itinerary. Breakfast is provided each day. Lunch and dinner is not included on some days of your itinerary to give you the flexibility to order what meals you wish be it local foods or more western style meals where available. It also ensures the trip is supporting local businesses in the region. Rest assured we will provide recommendations of where to eat based on health and hygiene factors.

In the teahouses breakfast typically comprises of a choice of bread (a slice of toast, chapatti or Tibetan bread), eggs, and a choice between either muesli or porridge. Hot tea/coffee will also be served. On specific days, there will not be a choice for breakfast and either a trekkers breakfast (egg, hash brown, baked beans and toast) or a pancake with jam/honey will be served – these options are not available in all teahouses.

Lunch will be taken at a teahouse enroute – sometimes one of your guides will go ahead with the group’s order to make it more efficient. Dinner will be in the same teahouse that you overnight in (this is custom in Nepal). Although most lodges have almost identical menus, they are reasonably extensive and offer a varied selection, ranging from traditional Nepalese dhal baht to pizza. Another popular snack is momos; a type of Nepalese dumpling. Although meat is available in the teahouses, we advise against eating it on trek.

If you wish to order additional dishes and/or snacks, you should budget accordingly. Boiled drinking water will be provided at breakfast, lunch and dinner. All the lodges and teahouses sell snacks, chocolate bars, soft drinks and beer.

Whilst the teahouses can cater for vegetarians, albeit sometimes with a more limited choice, if you have a gluten free diet or vegan, then we strongly recommend you bring some extra food and snacks with you to supplement the food on trek. Unfortunately there will be a limited variety available for you given the nature of the trip and being in Nepal, it can be very hard (and sometimes impossible) to cater for a wide range of dietary choices and you will have to supplement your diet with food/snacks from home.  If you have specific dietary requirements please do get in touch and we can further discuss the options available to you. 

In Pokhara and Kathmandu your evening meals will be at the hotel and local restaurants.

Water

Staying hydrated is important when undertaking any physical activity but particularly so at altitude where it is generally recommended to drink at least 3-4 litres per person per day. We strongly encourage you not to buy bottled water on trek as this contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in Nepal.

The teahouses sell boiled water for approx. Rs150-300 per litre (the price increases the higher you trek) which should not require treating. This is also perfect for a bedtime refill as it can double up as a hot water bottle. It is not recommended to drink untreated water from the taps or streams enroute. Adventurous Ewe has partnered with Water-to-Go, a filtration system that eliminates over 99.99% of all microbiological contaminants from any non-salt water source – for more info please click here. Adventurous Ewe trekkers will receive a free Water-to-Go bottle when departing for our Annapurna trek, and better still, 15% of the purchase value for replacement filters will be donated to our environmental charity partner, Cool Earth. Please note that if the water freezes it will clog up the filter – in this event, defrost before use by sitting the filter in lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes. Please help us reduce the volume of single use plastic in this pristine environment.

Water-to-Go Bottle

Adventurous Ewe has partnered with Water-to-Go, a filtration system that eliminates over 99.99% of all microbiological contaminants from any non-salt water source – for more info please click here. Adventurous Ewe trekkers will receive a free Water-to-Go bottle when departing on our Annapurna Explorer Trek, and better still, 15% of the purchase value for replacement filters will be donated to our environmental charity partner, Cool Earth. Please note that if the water freezes it will clog up the filter – in this event, defrost before use by sitting the filter in lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes. Please help us reduce the volume of single use plastic in this pristine environment.

Payment info

Deposit: £195 per person is required on booking.
Balance: £2080 per person is due no later than 6 weeks prior to the trip start date.
Total cost: £2275 per person

Monthly payment plan
A monthly payment plan can be arranged for this trip. Please contact us for more information or to set up your plan. Simply email
info@adventurousewe.co.uk or call 01492 588 069.

Book & Travel with Confidence
As well as carefully crafting amazing and meaningful adventures across the planet, we’ve made booking them as flexible, safe and as simple as possible. 

For the latest info regarding booking and travelling with Adventurous Ewe, please visit our website.

Fundraising
You’re welcome to fundraise for a charity of your choice if you wish to do so. All sponsorship monies are to be sent directly to your chosen charity.

Stay connected

All your trip info will be sent to you through a mobile travel app which is free to download. You will receive an email from Adventurous Ewe with your personalised log in code for this app.

For the latest and greatest from the land of adventures, simply follow us at:
Facebook: @adventurousewe
Instagram: @adventurousewe
Twitter: @adventurousewe
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LinkedIn: Adventurous-Ewe-Ltd

You’re most welcome to use the hashtags
#ewecandoit #letsgoadventure

Departure & Return Duration Availability Deposit Total Cost* (*Total cost includes the deposit)

What's Included?

Pre-trip:

  • Personalised trip support in the lead up to your trek from Adventurous Ewe
  • Training guide
  • Discount on personal kit from Joe Brown, The Climber’s Shop and ashmei athletic apparel both in shop and online
  • Trip info supplied via our free mobile travel platform
  • Public liability insurance
  • Financial Protection for your booking
  • Monthly payment plan available
  • Risk assessment and emergency management planning
  • Free Adventurous Ewe Water-to-Go Bottle

During your trip:

  • Adventurous Ewe UK Leader (for groups over 8 people)
  • Local Mountain Guides, Cycling Guides & Rafting Guides
  • All ground crew per your
  • VHF radio comms & satellite phone
  • Private transfers per your itinerary including airport transfers in Nepal
  • Accommodation – 10 nights (7 x guesthouse, 2 x teahouse, 1 x farmhouse & 1 x camping)
  • All meals as stated in the itinerary (all breakfasts, 5 lunches and 5 dinners)
  • Mountain bikes and rafting equipment
  • Medical kit and supplies
  • All logistical and safety management whilst in Nepal
  • All trip management and hygienic cleaning procedures of equipment before, during and post trek.

What's Not Included?

  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Return flights to Kathmandu Nepal. These can be arranged for you at an additional cost through our Flight Agent who is ATOL protected
  • Regional flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu at $US125 per person local payment
  • Visa
  • Vaccinations
  • UK/Nepal entry requirements per COVID-19
  • Personal spending money and drinks
  • Meals not listed in your itinerary
  • Snacks, electrolytes, water purification tablets
  • Kit and equipment as listed on your kit list and medication
  • Tips for local crew
  • Single room supplement where available
  • Any associated costs with leaving the trip early.

 

TRIP EXTENSION

If you wish to extend your stay in Nepal, we can help you with plenty of recommendations of things to do and see. For more information, please contact us at info@adventurousewe.co.uk.

Sustainable and Responsible Travel

Adventurous Ewe is committed to delivering our trips in a responsible and ethical manner with sustainability at its core. We respect and aim to operate our adventures to benefit local people, their economy and the environment!

Some of the ethical features embedded in our Nepal Hike, Bike & Rafting adventure are:

  • Carefully creating the itinerary to get off the beaten track and support local remote communities
  • Using local crew who are qualified Leaders, support crew and drivers who are all extremely knowledgeable and experienced and armed with a big friendly smile
  • Fair wages and ethical treatment of porters and guides
  • Staying in smaller-scale locally owned accommodation
  • Buying locally produced food and drink, and dining in locally owned restaurants
  • Minimising plastic waste wherever possible with providing our travellers a free Water-to-Go bottle
  • Careful management of limited energy and water resources
  • Offering real life experiences which promote cross-cultural understanding
  • Respect the local people and their property. Do not take photos without introducing yourself and ask permission before snapping away
  • Nepal is a conservative country therefore women should have their legs and shoulders covered and men should wear full-length trousers and tops with long sleeves.
  • When visiting ancient and sacred sites don’t climb on ruins, avoid touching any religious object, and when you walk around monuments and temples, do so in a clockwise direction, that is – keep the monument on your right. It is generally not a problem to enter temples, but take your shoes off when you do and don’t take photos while you’re in there
  • The litter problem in Nepal is growing and has increased with the wider availability of pre-packaged goods. Keep your waste to a minimum – avoid accepting plastic bags from shops and take a reusable bag with you. You are welcome to bring a rubbish bag on your trek, so you can pick up any additional litter you might spot and take particularly harmful waste, such as batteries, back to Kathmandu with you.
  • Operating with a ‘leave no trace’ ethos – take only memories, leave only footprints
  • Adventurous Ewe will make a financial contribution to the environmental charity, Cool Earth, as part of our business partnership.
Location
Asia & Australasia
Duration
11 days & 10 nights
Difficulty
Cost From
£