Preparing for Pikey Peak, Nepal 

What volunteer work will we be doing?

Ways to help before the trip

1. Create a fundraising page: Creating a fundraising page is a fantastic way to contribute beyond the minimum requirement. Not only does 25% of each person's contribution go directly toward the project, but all additional funds raised or donated will also be allocated to the project. 

2. Spread the word: Let your friends and family know about the exciting trip you're about to embark on. Encourage them to join you on this adventure, as the more, the merrier. Together, we can make an even greater impact and create unforgettable memories.

3. Host a donated book drive for children: Help provide educational resources by organizing a book drive. Donated books, including second-hand ones, are greatly appreciated. We believe in the power of upcycling to support education, and your efforts will make a difference in the lives of children. These books will be distributed to various schools and orphanages that we are connected with in the community, bringing joy and knowledge to young minds.

Ways to help during the trip

1. Provide support whenever needed: During our time together, we will be working closely with local families to build greenhouse infrastructures and gardens. Some community members may feel shy about asking for help due to language barriers. As a compassionate volunteer, keep a watchful eye out and lend a smile and a helping hand whenever you see an opportunity to assist. Small gestures can make a big difference.

2. Connect with the locals: One of the intangible yet profound benefits of this trip is the opportunity to connect with the local community. For many people in the villages, interacting with foreigners may be a rare experience or even a first. Take the time to get to know each other, share interests, work together, and perhaps exchange photos from home. Building friendships and connections across borders is a truly special experience. Many locals use social media platforms like Facebook and would love to stay connected even after you leave. Having a friend from foreign lands is something they cherish.

3. Be an ambassador and provide moral support: Your presence alone as a foreigner investing time and funds in their well-being lets the locals know that they matter. Your dedication motivates them to strive for a better future for their community. By working together, they gain valuable experience and confidence in organizing and collaborating with foreigners. This project serves as a practical opportunity for them to develop problem-solving skills as a community.

A note on getting there and homestays

• Getting there: To reach our project location, we'll embark on a scenic 300km jeep ride through the rocky terrains to the district of Solukhumbu, home to Mount Everest. This journey will take approximately 10-12 hours, offering breathtaking views of the Solu and Khumbu regions. Take this time to relax, enjoy the countryside, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings.

• Our homestays: Once we arrive, typically around 7-8 PM, our host families will warmly welcome us with a delicious dinner. The rooms that they prepare for us will provide a comfortable space to rest and recharge, preparing you for the rewarding days ahead.

What does trekking in the Himalayas look like?

A typical trekking day

• Average walking distance: Depending on the topography, length of the trek, incline, and altitude, you'll walk 4-8 hours a day, with a lunch break in between. Breakfast to finishing hiking constitutes a group activity, and you'll have free time in the late afternoon and evenings.

• Typical daily schedule:

  • 6:30 AM: Wake up, tea/coffee, pack bags

  • 7:30 AM: Breakfast, stretching/meditation

  • 8:30 AM: Trek to a lunch destination

  • 12:00 PM: Lunch, rest/nap

  • 1:30 PM: Walk to teahouse/camping destination

  • 6:30 PM: Dinner, evening activities/relaxing

• Fun around camp: The fun continues off the trail, with downtime during food preparation, after meals, and in the mornings before departure. Feel free to bring games, instruments, hobbies, or other forms of entertainment to share with fellow trekkers and staff, including the locals who may enjoy it the most!

Our guiding staff

• English-speaking guide: Each group will have an experienced guide to lead the way and answer your questions.

• Porters: Porters will carry personal items not needed on the trail, ensuring a comfortable trekking experience. Please note: by coming on this trip, you are creating valuable jobs in Nepal. We prioritize fair wages, access to first aid care, weight restrictions, and fair tip distribution.

Accommodation and FACILITIES

• On the trail: Expect to stay in traditional Nepali teahouses, offering clean and basic rooms generally for double occupancy.

• Camping experience: For two nights, we'll camp in a remote area at altitude. Cozy tents will be provided, and food and drinks will be prepared and served in a makeshift nomadic hut nearby.

• Facilities outside of Kathmandu: Be prepared for eastern squat toilets and no hot showers. We encourage minimizing waste, so bring washcloths or handkerchiefs for personal hygiene, and our staff will provide washing bins and warm water.

Food and water

• Meals: Breakfast and dinner are typically eaten at the lodging sites. Vegetarian meals are common due to the influence of Tibetan Buddhism in the region. The staple diet is dal bhaat (lentils and rice) with vegetables. Momos (handmade dumplings) are a local favorite. Special dietary restrictions or allergies can be indicated in the application form. Bring snacks and comfort foods from home for variety.

• Water: Our staff will provide safe, treated Himalayan water at the lodges. Leave your bottles at the dining table for refills.

Electricity and internet

• Charging batteries: Limited opportunities are available on the trail. Bring a headlamp, extra camera batteries, and a battery bank. To prevent batteries from draining in cold temperatures, keep them warm in your sleeping bag at night.

• Power outlets: Nepal has power outlets that are compatible with standard US plugs.

• Internet connectivity: cell signal is available in most trekking regions, but it can be erratic at higher altitudes. Some teahouses provide paid Wi-Fi, and having an NCell SIM card with data can offer messaging capabilities.

Training for the trek

Preparing yourself for the trek is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, especially since we are going to altitude. Here are some training tips to help you get in shape and build the necessary endurance:

1. Focus on cardiovascular fitness: High-altitude treks and climbs demand good cardiovascular fitness. Engage in activities that elevate your heart rate, such as brisk walking, hiking, cycling, or running. These exercises will enhance your aerobic capacity and endurance. Begin your training program well in advance, ideally 3-4 months before the trip.

2. Simulate trekking conditions: To better prepare for the demands of trekking, incorporate specific training elements into your routine. This can include walking up and down hills while wearing your hiking boots, carrying a weighted pack, and using stairs whenever possible to mimic ascents and descents. Breaking in new boots before arriving to Nepal is an excellent idea.

3. Prepare for altitude: If possible, spend at least a night or two at an elevation of 3,000 meters (9,843 feet) or above within two weeks before your trek. This allows your body to adjust to the thinner air. Alternatively, you can wear a mask while during workouts to simulate lower oxygen intake. Or, consider taking daily supplements such as green chlorophyll capsules and ginkgo biloba one month before the trek.

What’s the climate like, and what should I pack?

Himalayan conditions

When trekking in the Himalayas, it's essential to be prepared for diverse weather conditions that can change rapidly. Here's what you need to know:

1. Layer up: Pack a system of layers to adapt to changing temperatures. You'll experience everything from hot sun to rain, wind, and even snow. Carrying a rain jacket and rain pants in your day pack is highly recommended in case of unexpected showers and wind.

2. Be ready for varied conditions: As you ascend, the environment transitions from lush greenery to a harsh, icy landscape. Prepare for a range of conditions, including hot, cold, wind, rain, snow, hail, and bright sun. Dressing appropriately and wearing sun protection will ensure your comfort and safety.

What we provide

To ensure the comfort of our group, we provide certain items to each person. This includes a 55 L trail duffel bag, sleeping bag and liner, and a down jacket for down time at camp. These borrowed items will be distributed during the pre-trek briefing. Please note that any damages to the gear are the participant's responsibility.

What You Can Purchase Locally

Local trekking gear: If you would like to buy trekking gear or specific items upon arrival, the Thamel area in Kathmandu (where we are staying) offers everything you need at affordable prices. If you plan to buy gear locally, please make sure your flight arrives early enough to do so - we will not have much time to shop after we meet for our pre-trek briefing.

First aid: Additionally, Kathmandu has pharmacies where you can purchase altitude sickness medication (Diamox), vitamins, diarrhea medication, and electrolytes without a prescription. We definitely recommend making a stop at any local pharmacy to pick up Diamox before we leave Kathmandu.

Luggage & Laundry

• Pack with consideration: Pack lightly for the trail, as porters will carry the trail duffel bags. Each porter handles a maximum load of 25 kg (55 lbs) for two people. Your duffel bag will be picked up from your room each morning and delivered to the day's destination. Access to your duffel bag will be available only when you reach the lodge at the end of the day. Extra luggage that isn’t needed for the trek can be left free of charge at our hotel in Kathmandu.

• What you’ll carry: During the day, you will be carrying just a day pack with Himalayan trail essentials: rain jacket/poncho, fleece top, sun hat, sunglasses, water bottle/thermos, and snacks.

• Laundry considerations: While laundry services are available in Kathmandu, washing clothes on the trail can be inconvenient. It's recommended to reuse bags to separate clean and dirty garments until you return to Kathmandu.

Packing List

• Dress conservatively: Respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially in rural mountain villages. Avoid bare shoulders and knees, as they are culturally inappropriate.

• Be prepared: Please refer to the packing list below to be prepared for the Himalayan conditions. Here’s a video showing what I packed for an 8-day trek in Nepal. 

What travel considerations should I be aware of?

Altitude sickness

At high altitudes above 2,800 m (9,186 ft), altitude sickness becomes a concern. Symptoms include headache, breathlessness, loss of appetite, nausea, difficulty sleeping, dry cough, and fatigue. Acclimatization is crucial, so taking rest days to allow your body to adjust is important. Drinking plenty of water and ascending slowly are key. Acetazolamide (Diamox) is a commonly used medication to prevent and treat altitude sickness, available over the counter in Kathmandu. However, it should be noted that individuals with sulpha allergies should avoid them. Natural supplements like concentrated chlorophyll and Ginkgo Biloba can also support your body's adaptation to high altitude, and a regimen can be started 2-4 weeks before arriving to Nepal.

Lukla flight delays

Flights to and from Lukla can be subject to delays due to mountain weather conditions or technical issues. It's important to keep this in mind, and we have allocated an extra day as a safety buffer at the end of our itinerary. Additionally, in case of flight cancellations, alternative transportation options such as jeeps may be arranged.

Handling Emergencies

In the event of an emergency or illness while trekking, your trip leader and local trekking guide should be your first point of contact. They are trained to provide support and can coordinate any necessary logistics in collaboration with your travel insurance agency.

Immunizations

While there are no official immunization requirements for entering Nepal, it's advisable to consult with your doctor regarding vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Meningitis, Cholera, Typhoid, Tetanus-Diphtheria, Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Japanese Encephalitis B.

Money and tips

Getting cash: Cash is preferred in Nepal, and ATMs and money-changers are available at the airport and in Kathmandu but will be very limited elsewhere. It's advisable to get cash for tips and personal expenses before leaving Kathmandu, as many places and taxis only accept cash.

Debit and credit cards: Bringing two debit cards is advisable, just in case one doesn’t work. We recommend the Charles Schwab Investor Debit Card because it will refund you all ATM withdrawal fees. A credit card with no foreign transaction fees will be helpful for souvenir purchases from certain shops, hotel stays, and restaurants in bigger cities.

Regarding tips: Basic facilities like meals and accommodation are included in your trip cost, but tips for the staff are not covered. A suggested amount of $250 per participant is typically divided among the staff, with the guide receiving 25-30% of the total.

visA Requirements

To enter Nepal, you will need a visa. A single-entry visa for 15/30/90 days costs $30/$50/$125 respectively. You can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport. It's recommended to carry USD cash and have a 2" x 2" photo in case the automated kiosks are not functioning.

Cultural Awareness

Nepal has many traditional religious beliefs and age-old customs that may be unfamiliar.  To travel mindfully with respect for local cultures, please abide by the following points to avoid causing offense by mistake.

• To show gratitude and respect, use both hands rather than one when giving or receiving something, even money. It’s seen as a gesture of respect.

• Do walk around a stupa in a clockwise direction so that the outer walls are always on your right. If you encounter a stone wall covered with Tibetan inscriptions, do the same.

• Don’t offer food to a Nepalese after tasting it, nor eat from a common pot, and avoid touching your lips to a shared drinking vessel.

• You should eat everything that is put in front of you. If you feel that you have been given too much food, ask them to take some away before you start eating. This is perfectly acceptable and is more appreciated than wasting food.

• Don’t eat or offer things with your left hand because that is normally used for toilet hygienic purposes.

• The sight of men holding hands is common, but men and women holding hands, and general acts of affection, are frowned upon. 

• Don’t take photographs of locals, holy shrines, and temples unless they have clearly given their consent.

By keeping these considerations in mind, you can ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience during your trip to Nepal.