Ama Yangri Trek – 8 Days: A Journey Through the Heart of Helambu

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit for the Ama Yangri Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. Here’s why these periods are ideal:

Spring (March to May):

• Mild Weather: Temperatures are moderate, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C at lower elevations and cooler at higher altitudes.
• Rhododendron Bloom: The forests come alive with vibrant rhododendron flowers, creating a colorful and scenic landscape.
• Clear Views: The skies are generally clear, offering stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan range.

Autumn (September to November):

• Stable Weather: The weather is typically dry and stable, with clear skies and cooler temperatures, making it ideal for trekking.
• Beautiful Scenery: The landscapes are lush and green after the monsoon, and the visibility of the snow-capped peaks is excellent.
• Ideal Trekking Conditions: The trails are well-maintained, and the temperatures are perfect for trekking.

Avoid the monsoon season (June to August) as heavy rains can make the trails slippery and challenging, and the visibility of mountain peaks can be limited. Winter (December to February) can be cold, especially at higher altitudes, which may make trekking less comfortable.

Meals and Drinking Water

On the Ama Yangri Trek, meals are typically served in local teahouses or camping sites along the trail. The trek offers a combination of local Nepalese dishes and some international options to cater to different preferences. Expect a variety of hearty meals like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), noodles, and vegetable curries. In higher regions, the menu may be simpler, but it’s designed to provide the necessary energy for long days of trekking.

Drinking water will be provided along the way, and purified water can be purchased in teahouses or camp locations. However, it’s recommended to bring a water purification system (like tablets or a filter) to ensure access to clean drinking water throughout the trek.

Accommodation on the Ama Yangri Trek

Accommodation during the Ama Yangri Trek typically consists of local teahouses and campsites. In lower altitudes, you’ll stay in comfortable teahouses with basic amenities, including rooms with shared bathrooms. As you ascend, especially on camping days, the accommodation becomes more rustic. Camping will be set up on the 5th and 6th days of the trek, where Female Guide Holiday will provide all necessary camping equipment. Despite the simpler setup, the hospitality of the local communities ensures a warm and welcoming environment.

Wi-Fi and Electricity Availability

While trekking in the Ama Yangri region, Wi-Fi and electricity availability will vary depending on your location. In the lower regions, such as the starting points and teahouses, there will be basic electricity for charging devices and limited Wi-Fi for communication. However, during the camping sections of the trek (on days 5 and 6), there will be no electricity, so it’s essential to carry a headlamp or battery-powered light for the evenings. Be prepared for a more rustic experience during the higher-altitude camping days.

Guide and Porter Services

At Female Guide Holiday, we understand the importance of having experienced and professional guides. For groups of more than 6 trekkers, there will be an additional assistance guide to provide extra support. Our guides are not only knowledgeable about the terrain and culture but are also trained to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey.

Additionally, for every two trekkers, one porter will be assigned to carry personal luggage. The porters will also help with the camping gear during the camping days, ensuring you don’t have to carry the heavy loads yourself.

Weather and Climate

The weather during the Ama Yangri Trek varies depending on the season and altitude. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the best seasons to trek, offering mild temperatures and clear skies. In lower altitudes, temperatures will be relatively warm, while at higher altitudes, it can get chilly, especially in the early mornings and evenings.

During winter (December-February), temperatures can drop significantly, and snow can make the trails more difficult. Monsoon season (June-August) is best avoided due to heavy rainfall, which can lead to slippery trails and poor visibility.

Altitude Sickness and Preparation

As the Ama Yangri Trek takes you to high altitudes, it’s important to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. Symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and nausea can occur at altitudes above 2,500 meters, and the highest point of this trek reaches around 3,600 meters.

To prepare for altitude, it’s important to:

• Trek slowly and allow your body to acclimatize.
• Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol.
• Carry medication (such as Diamox) if advised by your doctor.

If symptoms of altitude sickness arise, it’s critical to descend to lower elevations and seek medical attention immediately. Female Guide Holiday ensures proper acclimatization days are incorporated into the itinerary.

Permits and TIMS

To trek in the Ama Yangri region, you will need two essential permits:

1. Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card – This is mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal.
2. Langtang National Park Permit – Required to trek in the protected area.

Both permits are available through Female Guide Holiday, and we will take care of the necessary paperwork for you.

Travel Insurance

We highly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers trekking at high altitudes, emergency evacuations, and medical expenses. This is essential for ensuring you are prepared for any unforeseen circumstances during the trek, such as accidents or weather-related issues.

Passport and Visa

To enter Nepal, you will need a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date of arrival. A tourist visa is required for most nationalities, which can be obtained upon arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport or online in advance.

 Last-Minute Booking

While we encourage booking in advance, Female Guide Holiday does accept last-minute bookings (subject to availability). However, to ensure availability and to allow for proper preparation, we recommend booking as early as possible, especially during peak trekking seasons.

Online Briefing

Before the trek, Female Guide Holiday offers an online briefing for trekkers. This virtual meeting will cover important details about the trek, preparation, what to pack, and safety guidelines. It’s a great way to ensure you are fully prepared for your upcoming adventure.

Physical Fitness and Preparation

While the Ama Yangri Trek is considered a moderate-level trek, it’s important to prepare physically by engaging in regular cardio exercises, such as hiking, running, or cycling. Focus on building endurance and strength, especially for uphill climbs. Trekking with a light backpack for short hikes before the trip will also help.

Important Note

At Female Guide Holiday, your safety is our top priority. We reserve the right to modify or cancel the trip if we believe that factors like harsh weather conditions, altitude sickness, or other external issues pose a threat to the safety of the group.

The mountainous environment is unpredictable, and elements such as severe weather, natural disasters, or health concerns may require changes to the itinerary. We ask for your understanding and cooperation in such situations. Female Guide Holiday will always prioritize your well-being and safety, and we appreciate your flexibility and support during unexpected events.

Trekking Gears and Packing List

When preparing for your Ama Yangri Trek with Female Guide Holiday, it’s essential to pack wisely to ensure comfort and safety throughout the journey. The trek involves a mix of teahouse stays and camping, so you’ll need to carry your personal gear, as well as be prepared for changing weather conditions in the mountains. Here’s a comprehensive list of recommended trekking gear to bring along for the adventure:

Essential Trekking Gear

Backpack/Daypack

• Size: 30-40 liters (for carrying your essentials during the day).
• Features: Comfortable straps, waterproof cover, and lightweight.
• Duffel Bag
• A duffel bag will be provided by Female Guide Holiday for carrying your trekking gear, which will be carried by the porter.
• Capacity: 60-80 liters.
• Sleeping Bag
• Sleeping bag will be provided by us (ensure it’s a 4-season sleeping bag suitable for temperatures as low as -10°C to -15°C).
• Bring an inner liner for extra comfort and hygiene.

Clothing

• Trekking Pants
• Quick-drying, lightweight trekking pants (2 pairs).
• Consider zip-off pants for flexibility, allowing you to switch between pants and shorts as needed.
• Trekking Shirts
• Moisture-wicking long-sleeve shirts (2-3).
• Lightweight, breathable fabrics (avoid cotton, which can trap moisture).
• Base Layers
• Thermal base layers (tops and bottoms) for warmth at higher altitudes.
• Insulating Layer
• A fleece jacket or a down jacket to provide warmth during cold evenings and mornings.
• Waterproof Jacket & Pants
• A waterproof, windproof jacket (preferably Gore-Tex or similar) for protection against rain and wind.
• Waterproof pants for added protection in wet weather.
• Trekking Boots
• Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots that provide ankle support and good grip. Ensure they’re broken in before the trek to avoid blisters.
• Gaiters
• Optional, but useful to keep snow, dirt, and debris out of your boots.
• Camp Shoes
• Lightweight sandals or flip-flops for wearing in the evenings after the trek.
• Warm Hat/Beanie
• A warm hat to protect your head and ears from the cold.
• Sun Hat
• A wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection.
• Gloves
• Warm gloves for higher altitudes and lightweight gloves for trekking.
• Socks
• 5-6 pairs of moisture-wicking, padded trekking socks. Consider a mix of merino wool or synthetic socks for comfort.
• Buff / Neck Gaiter
• A versatile neck gaiter or buff to protect your neck from sunburn and wind.
• Underwear
• Comfortable and moisture-wicking underwear (5-6 pairs).
• Accessories and Equipment
• Headlamp/Flashlight
• A headlamp with extra batteries is essential for the nights, especially during camping days when there may be no electricity.
• Trekking Poles
• Collapsible trekking poles for added stability and comfort on uneven terrain.
• Water Bottle/Bladder
• 1-2 water bottles (1L each) or a hydration bladder to stay hydrated during the trek.
• A water purification system (e.g., purification tablets, a filter, or UV pen) is highly recommended to ensure you have safe drinking water.
• Sunglasses
• UV-protective sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s rays at higher altitudes.
• Sun Protection
• High SPF sunscreen for your face and lips (SPF 30 or higher).
• Lip balm with SPF protection.
• First Aid Kit
• A personal first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, blister pads, painkillers, personal medications, etc.
• Toiletries
• Basic toiletries like toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, biodegradable soap, and toilet paper.
• Towel (quick-drying and lightweight).
• Snacks and Energy Bars
• High-energy snacks such as nuts, energy bars, or chocolate to refuel during the trek.
• Camera/Smartphone
• A camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
• A smartphone for emergency communication and navigation, though keep in mind that Wi-Fi and mobile reception may be limited in higher altitudes.
• Trekking Route Map
• A map of the trekking route for reference (this will be provided by us as well).

Optional Items

• Travel Insurance Documents
• Copies of your travel insurance policy, which should cover trekking at high altitudes, emergency evacuation, and medical expenses.
• Book/Journal
• A small book or journal for keeping a record of your trekking experiences.
• Extra Camera Batteries/Power Bank
• Extra camera batteries or a power bank for charging devices during the trek.
• Plastic Ziplock Bags
• For keeping dirty or wet clothes separate from clean items.
• Personal Identification
• Passport copy and TIMS Card (provided by Female Guide Holiday).

Important Notes

• Waterproofing: Due to the unpredictability of mountain weather, make sure your gear (especially your backpack) is waterproof or has a waterproof cover to protect it from rain and snow.
• Luggage: You’ll need to carry only your personal essentials during the trek. Larger items like extra clothing and trekking gear will be carried by your porter in a duffel bag.
• Packing for the Ama Yangri Trek requires a mix of lightweight and durable gear to ensure comfort and safety while trekking through varied terrain and weather conditions. Be sure to check that your equipment is in good condition before your trip and that it fits well, especially your boots and backpack, as comfort is key to an enjoyable trekking experience.
• Female Guide Holiday ensures that your trek will be safe, comfortable, and memorable by providing the necessary equipment and expert guidance. Happy trekking!

Booking Policy

To confirm your booking for the Ama Yangri Trek with Female Guide Holiday, the following payment policy applies:

Deposit at Booking

A 20% deposit of the total trek amount is required at the time of booking to secure your spot on the trek. This ensures that your reservation is confirmed.

Remaining Balance

The remaining 80% of the total trek cost can be paid upon your arrival in Kathmandu before the trek begins. This payment can be made in cash or through other available methods.

Credit Card Payments

If you prefer to pay the remaining balance via credit card, please note that a 4% service charge will be applied by the bank to the total amount.
By following these payment guidelines, your trek booking will be confirmed, and your adventure will be reserved with Female Guide Holiday.

Cancellation Policy

We understand that plans may change, and if you need to cancel your booking, the following cancellation charges will apply, depending on how far in advance you cancel your trek:

• 45 to 60 days before departure: 35% of the total trek cost will be deducted.
• 30 to 44 days before departure: 50% of the total trek cost will be deducted.
• 15 to 29 days before departure: 70% of the total trek cost will be deducted.
• 7 to 14 days before departure: 85% of the total trek cost will be deducted.
• Less than 7 days before departure: 100% of the total trek cost will be deducted.
• Please be aware that if you cancel within 7 days of the departure date, you will forfeit the entire cost of the trek. We strongly recommend reaching out to us directly if you need to cancel during this time, and we will do our best to discuss your situation.

Cancellation by the Organizer

In the rare case that Female Guide Holiday cancels the trek due to unforeseen circumstances (such as extreme weather conditions, natural disasters, or safety concerns), you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule the trek for a later date.
Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities, and we will make every effort to ensure your experience is as smooth as possible.

Force Majeure

In the event of a Force Majeure situation during the trek—such as natural disasters, extreme weather, political unrest, or unforeseen circumstances—the trek may be delayed, modified, or canceled for safety reasons. We will strive to provide alternative arrangements where possible, but we are not liable for any additional costs incurred as a result.
We will notify trekkers promptly if such an event arises, and refunds or compensation will be considered on a case-by-case basis. The safety and well-being of our trekkers are always our top priority during such circumstances.