Discover Nepal with ABC Trek and Bhutan – 15 Days

Best Time to Visit Nepal and Bhutan

The best time to visit both Nepal for the Annapurna Base Camp Trek and Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months provide the perfect weather conditions for trekking and exploring, with mild temperatures, clear skies, and lush landscapes. Spring is particularly beautiful in Bhutan, with blooming flowers adding to the already picturesque surroundings, while autumn offers clear skies and spectacular mountain views in both Nepal and Bhutan.

• Spring (March to May): Ideal for both Bhutan and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek with moderate temperatures and beautiful rhododendron blooms along the trek.
• Autumn (September to November): Offers clear skies and crisp weather, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities and sightseeing in both Nepal and Bhutan.

Difficulty Level

• Annapurna Base Camp Trek: The Annapurna Base Camp trek is classified as moderate in difficulty. It involves several days of steady uphill trekking, passing through varied terrain, including steep climbs and rugged trails. A reasonable level of fitness is required, and proper acclimatization is key to enjoying the trek safely.
• Bhutan Trekking: Most hikes in Bhutan, including the popular trek to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, are moderate in difficulty. With a moderate level of fitness, you can enjoy these hikes at a comfortable pace.

Visa and Passport Information

• Bhutan: All travelers to Bhutan require a visa, which must be arranged through an approved tour operator such as Female Guide Holiday. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date.
• Nepal: For the Annapurna Base Camp trek, most nationalities can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival in Nepal. Your passport should be valid for at least six months from your arrival date.

Travel Insurance

It’s highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage for both Bhutan and Nepal. Ensure the policy includes coverage for altitude sickness and medical evacuation, especially when trekking at high altitudes like Annapurna Base Camp.

Meals and Drinking Water

• Bhutan: Bhutanese cuisine typically includes rice, vegetables, and meat, with chili-based dishes as a staple. Bottled or purified water is recommended throughout your journey. Local eateries along the trekking routes offer traditional meals.
• Nepal: On the Annapurna Base Camp trek, teahouses along the route offer a variety of meals, from Nepali-style rice and lentils to international dishes. Always carry water purification tablets or opt for bottled water.

Accommodation

• Bhutan: Accommodation ranges from traditional guesthouses to luxury hotels. In rural areas, you’ll stay in traditional Bhutanese-style lodges that offer a comfortable and immersive experience.
• Nepal: During the Annapurna Base Camp trek, accommodation is provided in teahouses along the trail. These basic lodges offer a place to rest, eat, and socialize, ensuring comfort while on the trek.

Porters and Support

At Female Guide Holiday, we provide porters to help carry your gear on the Annapurna Base Camp trek. We ensure that porters are well-trained, well-equipped, and treated fairly, creating a supportive and respectful environment for all. We offer one porter for every two trekkers, helping you carry up to 20 kilograms of luggage. This allows you to focus on the trek without the burden of heavy packs.

Health and Fitness Preparation

To make the most of this incredible adventure, it’s essential to be in good health and physical condition. The ABC trek requires stamina, endurance, and strength training, particularly in the legs and core muscles. It’s advisable to start physical preparation 6-8 weeks before departure to ensure you’re fit for the trek. Proper acclimatization and hydration are crucial to avoiding altitude sickness.

Why Travel with Female Guide Holiday?

Choosing Female Guide Holiday means traveling with a company that prioritizes women’s safety, comfort, and empowerment. Our female guides, who are experienced and knowledgeable about the terrain, provide a unique and personalized approach to trekking, ensuring you have an unforgettable and enriching journey. With our expert guidance and support, you’ll not only experience the beauty of Nepal and Bhutan but also immerse yourself in the cultures and landscapes that make this region so magical.

Book Your Tour Today

Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure! Join Female Guide Holiday and explore the majestic Annapurna Base Camp and the serene kingdom of Bhutan. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time traveler, this 15-day journey promises a transformative experience that will stay with you forever. Book your tour today and begin your unforgettable journey through the heart of the Himalayas!

Important Note:

At Female Guide Holiday, your safety is our top priority. We reserve the right to cancel or modify the trip if we believe your safety may be at risk. Factors such as weather conditions, health concerns, and natural disasters in remote mountain regions may require changes to the itinerary. In such circumstances, we ask for your full cooperation with the group leader appointed by Female Guide Holiday. Please be assured that we will strive to adhere to the original itinerary whenever possible, while prioritizing your safety and well-being.

Packing and Gear List for Bhutan and ABC Trek

Embarking on the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek and a journey to Bhutan requires thoughtful packing, as you’ll be trekking through diverse landscapes and varying climates. To ensure you’re prepared, here’s a comprehensive packing and gear list that covers both your Bhutan trip and the Annapurna trek:

1. Trekking Essentials

• Backpack (30-40 liters): A comfortable, durable daypack for carrying your essentials during the trek.
• Duffel Bag: A large bag (15-20 kg weight limit) for the porters to carry your main luggage.
• Day Pack: A small backpack to carry daily necessities such as snacks, camera, water, and a first-aid kit.
• Water Bottle (1-2 liters): Refillable bottles to stay hydrated during your trek. Make sure to carry enough for long stretches without available water sources.
• Water Purification Tablets or Filter: Essential for refilling water from streams or other sources along the trek.

2. Clothing

• Base Layer (Thermal Innerwear): Lightweight moisture-wicking thermal layers (top and bottom) for both cold and warm weather.
• Trekking Pants: Lightweight, durable, and quick-drying trekking pants. Choose options that are flexible and comfortable for long walks.
• Trekking Shirts: Long-sleeved and short-sleeved shirts made of moisture-wicking fabrics, which will help in keeping you dry during your trek.
• Fleece Jacket: Essential for keeping warm in higher altitudes and cold climates.
• Down Jacket: A compact and warm down jacket to wear during chilly evenings or at higher elevations.
• Waterproof Jacket and Pants: To protect you from rain or wind during your trek.
• Trekking Socks: 4-5 pairs of wool or synthetic socks that wick moisture and help prevent blisters.
• Warm Hat (Beanie): To protect your head and ears from cold temperatures.
• Sun Hat or Cap: A wide-brimmed hat for sun protection during the day.
• Gloves: A pair of lightweight trekking gloves for daytime and a pair of insulated, warm gloves for the evenings and high-altitude trekking.

3. Footwear

• Trekking Boots: High-quality, waterproof boots with ankle support to handle rough and uneven terrains. Make sure they’re broken in before your trek.
• Camp Shoes/Sandals: Lightweight, comfortable shoes for use at the teahouses in the evening.
• Gaiters: To protect your legs and boots from snow, mud, and dirt.

4. Sleeping Gear

• Sleeping Bag: A high-quality sleeping bag rated for temperatures as low as -10°C to -15°C (14°F to 5°F). Some teahouses provide blankets, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own sleeping bag.
• Sleeping Bag Liner: A lightweight liner for extra warmth and hygiene.

5. Personal Items

• Sunscreen: High SPF sunscreen for your face, neck, and ears to protect against UV rays.
• Lip Balm with SPF: Protect your lips from drying out or chapping.
• Sunglasses: UV-protection sunglasses to guard against the harsh sunlight and snow glare, especially at high altitudes.
• Headlamp or Flashlight: A headlamp is ideal for trekking and moving around in the dark. Don’t forget extra batteries.
• Trekking Poles: To help maintain balance and reduce strain on your knees during long treks.
• Towel: A quick-dry towel for personal use.
• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, hand sanitizer, and any personal hygiene items you may need.
• Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, chocolate, or any other high-calorie, lightweight snacks to keep you energized on the trail.

6. Health and Safety Items

• First Aid Kit: Basic medical supplies such as plasters, antiseptic wipes, blister treatments, and pain relievers.
• Personal Medications: If you take regular medication, make sure to bring enough for the entire trek.
• Altitude Sickness Medication: Acetazolamide (Diamox) for altitude sickness prevention (check with your doctor beforehand).
• Hand Sanitizer: For hygiene when clean water is not readily available.
• Insect Repellent: To protect against mosquitoes and other bugs in both the Bhutanese lowlands and the trekking areas in Nepal.
• Tissues and Wet Wipes: For hygiene and to stay fresh during the trek.

7. Electronics and Documents

• Camera and Extra Batteries: The Himalayan landscapes are breathtaking. A good camera to capture memories is a must!
• Power Bank: A portable charger for keeping your electronics powered up during the trek. (Teahouses along the ABC trek typically have charging facilities, but you may need to pay a small fee.)
• Travel Adapter: To charge devices in Bhutan (uses 230V, 50Hz with two-pin and three-pin plugs).
• Passport: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Bhutan and Nepal.
• Travel Insurance: A comprehensive insurance policy that covers trekking, medical evacuations, and any emergencies.
• Cash (Bhutanese Ngultrum & Nepali Rupees): Make sure to carry enough cash for personal expenses, as ATMs can be sparse in remote areas.
• Permits and Documents: Include necessary permits for trekking, including your TIMS card, ACAP (Annapurna Conservation Area Permit), and any Bhutanese travel permits.

8. Optional Items

• Camera Tripod: If you enjoy photography, a tripod can help capture stunning scenic views.
• Binoculars: For bird watching or observing distant landscapes.
• Notebook or Book: For journaling or reading during downtime.
• Small Lock: To secure your bags while staying at teahouses and hotels.

9. Specific Gear for Bhutan

• Traditional Bhutanese Clothing (optional): Bhutan has a rich cultural heritage, and in some locations, traditional attire such as the Gho for men and Kira for women may be worn. If visiting monasteries or royal locations, it’s respectful to have a traditional dress, but it’s not mandatory.
• Rain Gear: While you’ll need waterproofs for the trek, Bhutan also experiences heavy rainfall, especially during the monsoon season. Make sure to have a reliable rain jacket and an umbrella for urban exploration.
• Walking Shoes: For sightseeing around Bhutan’s towns and monasteries.

Final Thoughts

Proper packing is key to a comfortable and successful trekking experience. Ensure that you pack light but wisely, keeping in mind the variable weather conditions and terrain in both Nepal and Bhutan. With the right clothing, gear, and essential items, you’ll be prepared to handle the diverse challenges on your trek to Annapurna Base Camp and your exploration of Bhutan’s stunning natural beauty and rich culture.

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.