Mountaineers who had abandoned expeditions in the last spring season following the devastating April earthquake are set to get their climbing permits extended for two more years, according to a high-level official at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation.
Pushpa Raj Katuwal, Under Secretary at MoCTA, told THT that the ministry had already initiated a necessary process to extend climbing permits issued to 103 expedition teams for 32 mountains in the last spring season.
“The ministry has also forwarded its decision to extend climbing permits by two more years to the Ministry of Finance as MoF’s consent is necessary to waive the royalty,” he told this daily.
According to him, the decision will come into force after getting approval from the Council of Ministers. “MoCTA will seek the Cabinet’s approval once it receives the MoF’s consent,” he said, adding that the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs would also be consulted to make necessary changes to the existing provision of the mountaineering regulation.
The mountaineers can apply at the Department of Tourism to validate their old permit anytime within 2017 but they need to give at least two weeks to DoT for processing their documents, the MoCTA’s decision reads.
“The decision aims to support the country’s mountaineering sector which was worst hit by multiple disasters in the last two years.”
At least 801 world climbers, including 265 wishing to scale Mt Everest, had cancelled their expeditions after the devastating earthquake flattened parts of the country on April 25, killing nearly 9,000 people.
The world’s highest peak also witnessed a massive avalanche triggered by the earthquake on its base camp where 19 mountaineers and their support staff were buried.
According to Gyanendra Shrestha, a DoT official, only a 14-member team of Austrian climbers has submitted an application to the department seeking a permit for scaling Mt Everest the next spring.
DoT charges each foreign climber $ 11,000 to issue a climbing permit for Mt Everest in the spring season (March-May).
A version of this article appears in print on January 14, 2016, of The Himalayan Times.
Source: The Himalayan Times
Everest Base Camp Heli Trek
Everest Base Camp Heli Trek Itinerary
Everest base camp heli trek begins with a spectacular helicopter flight to Lukla directly from Kathmandu Kathmandu. From Lukla, we will walk past the dense forest of pine and rhododendrons in Sagarmatha National Park and pass through small ethnic villages to the Sherpa Land of Namche Bazaar. We have scheduled 2 nights at Namche Bazar and 2 nights at Dingboche for acclimatization purposes. On these days, we climb high and sleep low allowing our bodies to adapt to the increasing altitude. We will follow the classic Everest Base Camp trekking route to the Base Camp via Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Gorekshep. We then move further to Kalapathar for the unobstructed view of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and surrounding mountains. From Kalapathar, we will retrace to Gorekshep for breakfast and board a helicopter flight all the way back to Kathmandu the same day instead of walking all the way to Lukla to catch a plane flight back. The helicopter tour flight also allows us to witness the Himalayas from a closer view and high above the grounds. We offer Charter flights from Everest to Kathmandu for individuals, families, friends, and corporate. We also have another trip that combines Everest and Gokyo Region with a helicopter flight back to Kathmandu, have a look at our Everest Base Camp Gokyo Lakes Heli TrekWhat makes Everest Base Camp Heli Trek different?
Instead of walking all the way down to Lukla to catch a flight back to Kathmandu, we will board a helicopter flight back to Kathmandu from Gorekshep. Also, this trip includes a direct helicopter flight to Lukla from Kathmandu, giving you a more comfortable and guaranteed start to the trek. All-inclusive Everest base camp trek and Kalapathar with proper acclimatization in just 2 weeks. Get the best alternative to the normal Everest Base Camp Trek. Being a short trek in Everest, this package is for those who have a very limited time for exploration. Since you will be flying to Kathmandu from Gorekshep on a helicopter, you can avoid the same returning trail back to Lukla. You will be saved from the peril of frequent flight cancellations in Lukla due to unpredictable weather. Highland Expeditions make complete arrangements for logistics for a comfortable trek.Everest Base Camp Heli Trek Highlights
- Helicopter flight to Lukla from Kathmandu at the start.
- Trek to Everest base camp and Kalapathar following a well-paced itinerary with proper acclimatization
- All meals with hot drinks and unlimited hot water included during the trek
- Expert guide and high staff-to-client ratio, equipped with oxygen and comprehensive medical kit
- Complimentary use of thick down jacket, warm sleeping bag and waterproof duffel bag
- Return all the way to Kathmandu on a helicopter from Gorekshep
Is this trek for you?
Everest Base Camp Heli Trek reaches up to a maximum elevation of [5,500m/18,195ft] at Kalapathar and a maximum elevation [5,140m/16,865ft] of overnight at Gorekshep for one night. Physically challenging involves daily trekking of approximately 6-8 hours. Our itinerary is well-staged to allow the best possible acclimatization but you will need to ensure you are physically prepared for the trek. No previous trekking experience is required but you should be moderately fit and must enjoy walking for several days continuously and be adaptable to high-altitude conditions.Why trek with Highland Expeditions?
At, Highland Expeditions it is our aim to provide a wonderful holiday in our part of the world. We ensure that our clients enjoy the holiday as much as possible with minimized risks and a hassle-free trip should it be monetary, physical, or emotional. All the logistical arrangements required for the trip will be done prior to your arrival providing you with hassle-free travel. On the trek, your trip will be led by an experienced and medically trained guide/leader with a high staff-to-client ratio. Considering safety as our utmost priority, all our Everest Base Camp trek groups are backed up by a supplementary oxygen system, oximeter, and medical kit be it a group of 1 participant or 12 participants. On a trek, all meals and accommodation are included. We provide you with the option of an OPEN/CHOICE menu meaning you can choose your meal straight from the menu. Our itineraries are also devised keeping every aspect in mind such as acclimatization, good campsites, real-life experiences, etc. We also provide a sleeping bag, down jacket, and waterproof duffel bag to each participant.Trip Map
Everest Base Camp Trek 14 Days
Everest Base Camp Trek 14 days Overview
The Everest Base Camp Trek 14 Days is a popular alternative for people who have limited time and want to trek to the famous Mt. Everest base camp safely and without rush. The package lets you immerse yourself in the full Everest experience and get close to the highest mountains in the world in just 14 days. Likewise, the trek follows proper acclimatization and a well-paced itinerary to provide comfort and safety. Many people have Everest base camp on their bucket lists. Whether they want to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, savor the iconic history, or simply say, ‘I was there,’ it remains one of the great objectives for walking enthusiasts. Our expert team specially devises the 14-day Everest Base Camp trek with years of experience in this adventure field. Altitude, acclimatization, good campsites, and trails are the main factors considered when designing the itinerary, keeping in mind that our clients will enjoy the trek from beginning to end. This trip follows the same approach as the standard All-inclusive Everest base camp trek. Our trek starts from Kathmandu with a scenic mountain flight to Lukla, and the real trek begins from Lukla, following the Dudh Koshi River. Additionally, Highland Expeditions provides a high staff-to-client ratio, ensuring safety first and efficiently catering to the participants’ needs. Trek to Everest Base Camp and fly back to Kathmandu on a helicopter in 13 Days. Sounds interesting? Check out our Everest Base Camp Heli Trek 13 Days
Everest Base Camp Gokyo Lakes Trek
Everest Base Camp Gokyo Lake Trek Overview
Everest Base Camp Gokyo Lakes Trek is an incredible three-week adventure to the Himalayas that combines the iconic Everest Base Camp journey with the breathtaking beauty of the Gokyo Valley. This trek connects two of Everest’s most renowned valleys (Everest and Gokyo), taking you across the challenging Cho La Pass at 5,420 meters. This trek offers many unique experiences, from exploring enchanting Gokyo Valley to marveling at the serene Gokyo Lakes, hiking up Gokyo Ri for spectacular vistas, and ascending to the iconic viewpoint, Kalapathar. The EBC Trek with Gokyo Valley perfectly blends adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion, offering all-in-one experiences. The trek begins from the lower hills & heads up by the banks of the Dudh Kosi River on our way to the bustling town of Namche and the Sagarmatha National Park. In addition, you don’t have to be a skilled climber, but the Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes Trek require some level of fitness to enjoy the trails.
Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek
Itinerary Overview
Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek begins with your arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal. Your trip leader will receive you at the airport and escort you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Your trip leader will inform you of the briefing time for later that day. We recommend arriving in Kathmandu by afternoon as the briefing will be scheduled around later afternoon on Day 01. The trip briefing is a great way to get acquainted with fellow travellers, meet your guides and most importantly learn more about the trip and the region you are going to tread. This way it ensures you are fully prepared, informed and ready to start the trek the following day. Your trek begins on Day 02 as you fly to Lukla on a helicopter from Kathmandu. Instead of driving to Ramechap to catch plane flight to Lukla, we will fly directly to Lukla on helicopter from Kathmandu airport. This gives a more comfortable and guaranteed start to the trip as helicopter are more reliable way of getting into Lukla. The flight time is about 40 mins from Kathmandu to Lukla and your journey commences from here onwards. We will follow the standard route to the base camp while following a careful approach and proper acclimatization. Two major acclimatization days are scheduled in Namche and Dingboche. On both days you will climb high and sleep low, adapting yourself to the increasing altitude. We trek to Everest base camp and retrace to Gorekshep for the final night on the trek. From Gorekshep, we will fly out on a helicopter to Kathmandu avoiding the downhill walk. An experienced trip leader with a higher staff ratio (1 assistant guide for every 3 trekkers and 1 porter for every 2 trekkers) depending on your group size will accompany you and guide you throughout the trek. Service is paramount and we do not compromise on the services you deserve. We have crafted a well-devised itinerary including two acclimatization days and a well-paced itinerary.What makes our Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek different?
For those seeking an extra layer of comfort and opulence amidst the rugged grandeur of the Himalayas, the Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return presents an enticing option. Picture yourself enjoying top-notch services while surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Khumbu region. This high-end experience combines the excitement of a helicopter ride with the best in luxury, making sure that every part of your adventure feels elegant. From helicopter flights both at the start and end, super comfy stays, high staff to client ratio, experienced trek leader, all inclusive trip, this special trek gives a new meaning to luxury at high altitudes. If you’re looking for a mix of thrill and indulgence, the Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return is the way to go, offering a unique journey that goes beyond the usual. Our Luxury Everest base camp trek is an all-inclusive trip. Accommodation in Kathmandu and on the trek are included. All meals are included during the trek and hot water will be provided too. All ground transfers, trekking permits, and airfare are included. We also included the helicopter flight all the way back to Kathmandu at the end of the trek. This trip is suitable for people with no previous experience of trekking at high altitudes. Safety is of the highest importance when travelling with Highland Expeditions and on this trip, you will have a safety backup of a supplementary oxygen system, Oximeter, and First Aid Kit. We also provide a higher staff ratio, there will provide 1 assistant guide for every 3 participants.Is this trek suitable for you?
Our Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek reaches up to a maximum elevation of [5,500m/18,195ft] at Kalapathar with a maximum elevation of overnight at [5,140m/16,865ft] at Gorekshep for one night. Our trek follows a properly planned acclimatization but you should be fit enough to walk for 10 days at an increasing altitude starting from [2,800m/9,185ft] at Lukla. A daily walk of 6 hrs on average is expected to carry your small backpack (5 kgs) which should consist of your valuables, water, camera, snacks etc. Your main duffel bag will be carried by the porter and you will be guided by an experienced leader with assistant guides to assist throughout the trek. If you are looking for an upscale Everest base camp trek then this trek is a perfect fit for you offering a chance to trek to Everest base camp in premium way.Luxury Everest Base Camp Trek Highlights
- Trek to Everest Base Camp and Kalapathar following a well-paced itinerary with proper rest and acclimatization days
- Stay at a 5-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast included
- Fly to Lukla on a helicopter from Kathmandu airport, avoiding the 5 hrs Ramechap drive and plane flight to Lukla
- Stay at luxury lodges for three nights and comfortable lodges for five nights during the trek
- All meals, hot drinks and unlimited hot water included during the trek
- High staff-to-client ratio to assist on the trek (1 lead guide, 1 assistant guide for every 3 trekkers and 1 porter for every 2 trekkers)
- Expert guides equipped with supplementary oxygen system and comprehensive medical kit
- Return all the way to Kathmandu on a helicopter from Gorekshep
- Complimentary use of a thick down jacket, warm sleeping bag and a waterproof duffel bag