2009 Trek for Freedom Itinerary

Gokyo Cho La Pass – Everest Base Camp Trek to Save the Children

Fixed Departure 07 October 2009

Introduction

The trek to Gokyo Village & Everest base camp is one of the most famous in the world. It takes you into the heart of the Nepalese Himalayas, which is loaded with spectacular mountains vistas; and is also popular for the memories of the hospitality and kindness of the friendly Sherpa’s living there. Picturesque villages, a great variety of cultures and traditions, festivals, and monasteries, combine to make this an extraordinary event. The Sagarmatha National Park is considered to be the home of the Yeti, and it is as rich with flora and fauna, as it is in folklore.

Inviting  to the ambitious trekker, this moderate to challenging graded trek takes you to the foot of Mt. Everest traversing across the high Cho La pass at an elevation of 5,420 m. Also included is the opportunity to trek to the summit of both Gokyo Ri (5340m.) and Mount Kala Pattar (5,554m.) for magnificent views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Makalu and Cho Oyu .A visit to Everest Base Camp will give you the chance to have a closer look at the spectacular Khumbu Icefall. Beginners or inexperienced climbers can take this trek, but this trek requires one to be moderately fit.

Trek Highlights

Some of the highlights of your journey will include the legendary scenic mountain flight to Lukla; Sherpa villages; Gokyo Lakes; amazing views in the shadow of Mt. Everest; Cho Oyu; Ngozumpa Glacier; trekking up to the 4th & 5th lakes and hiking to Gokyo Lake; Everest Base Camp, Kalapathar, and the stunning Tengboche Monastery.

Trip grade: 4/Strenuous: This trek can be strenuous, but we will have 4 guides accompany us so that individuals may seek their own pace. Any age group within reason should be fine. The maximum elevation is 5,550m (Kalapathar). One should be in reasonably good shape with weekly yoga, running, walking, or aerobics as a pre trip conditioner.

Itinerary in Details of our Trek For Freedom 2009

October 1-2009: Arrival in Kathmandu and check into our pre-arranged Hotel in Thamel, the heart of the international tourist center.

October 2: A 9:30 am meeting with representatives from Volunteer Nepal, and Papa from Nepal Orphans Home to welcome you and acquaint you with the days that lie just ahead. This will be a free day for individual or guided tours to some of the mystical and profoundly moving temples as well as the very famous Pashumpati Ghats.

October 3: A very comfortable Tourist Bus will arrive at 8am for the 10 hour ride to Lawajuni; Nepal Orphans Home in Narti, Nepal. We will be met by our ex-Kamlari girls offering Tikas and flowered Malas. We will be sharing our evening meal with the girls and in a relaxed atmosphere get to know them. We will stay in Lamahi, 9km west of Narti in a very comfortable hotel. Lamahi is a small yet bustling village intersected by the main east west road for the Terai region. This is an excellent place for photographers and writers alike as the sights and sounds of village life; woman with massive loads on their heads walking effortlessly in the colorful market place; while the sun settles a cinnamon caste on the fruit and vegetables sellers as the day draws down.

October 4: We will meet with members of SWAN, the local Tharu organization that Nepal Orphans Home has worked closely with for the past couple years in our combined efforts to free and care for ex-Kamlari girls. We will travel to some of the smaller villages in the immediate area in an effort to better understand the culture and learn many of the reasons why the Kamlari system exist. The afternoon will be spent with the girls in our Lawajuni Home, and letting them share with us their stories and hope for the future.

October 5: We will say goodbye to the girls of Lawajuni and begin a pleasant days journey back to Kathmandu, and your Hotel.

October 6: This will be a free day for sightseeing and taking advantage of some of the excellent Thamel restaurants for a final carbo loading. We will have a Pre-trek departure briefing and introduction to the trek leaders in the evening with dinner and a short Nepalese Cultural program to follow.

October 7: Kathmandu – Lukla – Phakding (2,800m)
In the morning we will fly from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,800m). We set out on a trail that leads north from the airstrip to the edge of Lukla Plateau. After, an easy walk through several villages we will reach  Phakding (2,800m). We will have done a relaxing 4-5 hours walk and will settle in at the guest house by late afternoon tea time.

October 8: Phakding – Namche Bazaar (2,800m – 3,440m)
We begin the days hike following up a soft trail passing thru several villages and into a beautiful pine forest, arriving in Jorsalee (2800m). From Jorsalee we follow the Dudhkosi River for about one hour and begin a steep trail ascent to reach Namche. Namche Bazaar is the administrative capital of the region; historically it was the staging point for trading expeditions to Tibet and to this day its Saturday market remains an important event bringing traders from villages a week's walk away. We will settle in here to allow an acclimatization day. While here we will take a hike to Thame, where intricately carved mane stones mark the path to this large valley with a picturesque gompa on the hillside overlooking the valley. The trail is mixed steep and casual and from it you will receive your first breath taking view of Mount’s Everest (8,848m), Nuptse (7,879m) and Lhotse (8,383m). Walking time takes about 4-5 hours from Namche Bazaar. We will relax and repair to good food and friends in the Tea House on this night.

October 9: Namche Bazaar – Khumjung Valley Excursion- Rest Day (3,440m – 3,790m)
We will spend a full day in Namche Bazaar, enjoying the markets and, or hiking as individuals prefer. From the Bazaar the trail leads a steep one hour climb to Shyangboche. From the top of Shyangboche, one can rest and soak in the majesty of Mount’s Everest (8848m), Ama Dablam (6856m), Themserku (6608m), Nuptse (7879m), and Lotse (8383m). Full of the splendor we will take the trail down to Khumjung, where we can see the Sir Edmund Hillary School and hospital. Our total walk on this day will be about 3-4 hours. We will remain in our Tea House for a second night.

October 10: Namche-Dole (4,200m)
We will wake early in order to climb to the Thame monastery, and enjoy its quiet simplicity before the sun is too high. Resting there for a bit in the hallowed grounds before reversing our hike and then skirting across the top of Namche before climbing to Syangboche, and through to two serene Sherpa villages, Khumjung 3790 m and Khunde 3890 m. Sir Edmund Hillary established his first hospital in Khunde and a school in Khumjung. The Khumjung Gompa (Temple by another name) possesses what the villagers consider to be proof of the Yeti. This is the primary area for Yeti sightings and the locals might regale you with many of their stories. We will have advanced our proximity to the base camp by about 4.5 hours when we overnight in Dole at our next guesthouse.

October 11: Dole-Machhermo (4,470m)
Leaving the main trail to Mt. Everest, we will climb high on a ridge to 4000m past a large chorten (Temple) at the village of Mong, said to be the birthplace of the Saint Lama Sange Dorje; the reincarnate lama of Rongbuk Monastery in Tibet, who introduced Buddhism to the Khumbu. From there we will descend to the village of Phortse Tenga by the Dudh Kosi (river). From Phortse the trail climbs steeply through forests of rhododendrons (not in bloom at this time) followed by stands of juniper and large conifers as the altitude increases. You will pass through Sherpa kharkas (high pasture summer settlements used by Sherpas to graze their herds of yaks allowing their lower winter pastures to recover), and the villages of Tongba 3950m and Gyele 3960m on our way to Dole. You will have great views of Khumbila and Tawachee peaks throughout the day; walking time 4-5 hours. Once in Machhermo we will settle in for yet another relaxing and refreshing night among friends at the teahouse.

October 12: Machhermo-Gokyo (4,790m)
Today you have a short and fairly leisurely trek to allow you to acclimatize to the altitude. In the morning there is a steep but beautiful climb through conifer and rhododendron forests and stands of juniper to Lhabarma 4220m and Luza 4360m. There are kharkas ( pasture settlements) wherever there is a flat spot and the slightest hint of water. We will continue to climb along the side of the valley, high above the river to Machhermo (4,410m.) for about 4-5 hours where we will arrive at a splendid and inviting guesthouse for the evenings repair.

October 13: Climb Gokyo Ri - Thangna/Dragnag (4700m)
In the morning we will climb to Gokyo Ri Peak from where the trail descends, with mesmerizing views of the fine mountains and natural beauty, towards Thangna which is considered  the base of Cho -La Pass. It is a wonderful trip from Gokyo Lake to Thangna (4700m). In Thangna the  teahouse facilities are fairly basic, but the food is fine and comfort easily had. This day’s walk is yet again 4-5 hours in duration.

October 14: Thagna (Chola high camp) trek to Dzonglha (4830m)
A day of excitement; we will rise around 4am in Cross Cho La pass (5300 meters) then trek to Dzongla (4830m). in order to reach the pass by 9-10AM. Much later than this and the weather conditions will greatly affect our journey. We cross over at an altitude of 5330 meters where we may be exposed to strong winds that grow stronger with the day. We start to climb steeply on a well worn and easy to follow path. We may at this point encounter some snow with this altitude.  As you reach the top, you are rewarded by the most magnificent views yet of Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku, and Mt. Everest.  The trail will descend steeply now towards Dzonglha (4,830 m) passing once again, rich pine forests; actual walking time on this day 6-7 hours. We will settle in for the night in Dzonglha at a very comfortable teahouse.

October 15: Dzonglha to Lobuche (4910m)
From Dzonglha, the trail levels before a gradual undulation to the small Sherpa settlement of Lobuche (4,910m). This is heartwarming small village situated on a peaceful stream. We will have arrived and settled into the teahouse in time for a most memorable sunset on Nuptse. Our days walking time again about 4-5 hours.

October 16: Lobuche – Gorak shep - Everest Base Camp (4,930m - 5,160m)
From Lobuche the trail is pretty flat initially with a gradual increase in  several small rise and falls in elevation to lead us to Gorak shep in about 2 hours time. Here we will rest and breath in sights you have never imagined could be so mesmerizing, this is the Everest Base Camp. You will be free to walk about on your own and meet others in the camp. We will then return to Dingbouche where we will rest for the night in a tea house. Walking time today will have been 5-6 hours.

October 17: Gorak Shep – (Kalapathar) - Dingbouche (4,240m)
At Gorak Shep, the trail leads to Kalapattar (5,545m).  Kalapattar affords some of the most beautiful sights one will ever imagine of Mt. Everest (8,848m), Ama Dablam (6,856m), Themserku (6,608m), Nuptse (7,879m), and Lhotse (8,383m). Walking time takes about 4-5 hours. We will sleep well in the guest house in an area of penetrating mystical beauty. For those who have signed on for the Island Peak Base Camp climb the following two days are for you. Those who have decided not to will continue on to Phortse the following day with our guides.

October 18: Dingbouche - Island peak Base Camp (5,000m)
We will hike to meet our climbing guides at the Island Peak Base Camp at Pareshaya Gyab, and review basic climbing techniques. Tents will be set up and waiting for us by our porters. We will bed early in order to rise at 12am and start the climb for the summit by 1am. This climb requires more determination and being physically strong than climbing experience. This is high altitude climbing.

October 19: Island Peak Summit (6,160m) - Chhukung
From our climbing start at 1am we will move to High Camp (18,372'); here an extra day is built in if needed for weather or extra acclimatization. The climbing includes moderate glacier travel to a classic airy ridge leading to the summit (20,305’). In a straight shot we will have reached the summit by 7am where we will see the sun glistening off Lhotse (27,892'), Makalu (27,802'), and Baruntse (25,328'). We continue down through Base Camp after the summit climb, and then down to Chukkung for the evening. Walking time from the Base Camp to Chukkung will take another 4-5 hours. We will stay there in the guesthouse and be reunited with our fellow trekkers.

October 20: Chhukung - Tengbouche
The hike along the trail from Chhukung to Dingboche where the trail descends to Pangboche, where an interesting Gompa sits above the main village. This is the oldest monastery in the region dating  from the first introduction of Buddhism in the Khumbu. You are in the midst of the Himalaya here, with spectacular views all round. We ascend gradually through the forests to Tyangboche. There we find the main Monastery of the Khumbu area. The views from here are unforgettable. Tyangboche lies at the base of Kangtaiga and the spur of this ridge affords panoramic views of the main peaks of Khumbu including Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Walking times today will be 5-6 hours. A good meal and nights sleep at the teahouse follows.

October 21: Namche Bazaar  
The downhill trek along the river takes us the breathtaking view of  Ama Dablam as it towers above us. Everest's Southwest ridge will also reveal itself. We then descend to Namche to celebrate with  yak steaks, (vegetarians are well provided for with a hearty alternative) beer,(teas and coffees), rich pastries and one of the best nights of sleep you will ever have in the mountains! You will feel very fit at this point and deserving of a night of epicurean delights and shared memories.

October 22: Namche-Lukla
This is our last day on the trail. We hike from Namche to Lukla, crossing numerous suspension bridges and re-entering the fertile valleys and thick air of the lower Dudh Kosi. Walking times around 5-6 hours before reaching the guesthouse.

October 23: Lukla-Kathmandu
The scenic morning flight back to Kathmandu is a chance to add to an already great set of photos. We will return you to our Hotel in time for an afternoon in Kathmandu exploring or just relaxing.

October 24: Kathmandu-Rafting- Overnight at River Beach
In the morning we will drive two and one half hours to Charaudi, the rafting put-in-point where we will meet our raft crew. The crew will give a short introduction on safety procedure. The entire day we will encounter several big and small rapids but the climax will be just after Majhimtar where the “upset” rapid is located; The Colorado River rating scale list this rapid from 3 to 4. We will over night at River Beach Camp, enjoying an evening  BBQ over the camp fire. Vegetarians will once again not be disappointed.

October 25: After breakfast we will start driving to Narti in the Dang region to meet the girls you have saved. The bus ride will take about 6 hours allowing us the afternoon in Lawajuni to meet the girls your trek has saved. Each trekker will have given freedom to one girl who will then be a member of the Nepal Orphans Home family. She will be raised and cared for like any daughter should be, looked after and helped into her future as she grows older. You will be able to establish the amount of communication you are most comfortable having with the girl you have freed; letters and photos exchanged over time would be nice; though no further expectation of support from you is expected.

October 26: In what is bound to be an emotional goodbye we will leave Lawajuni for our journey back to Kathmandu. You will be provided accommodations on this night at the same Hotel you have come to know. Except for the evening of meeting your guides and the cultural program all Hotel meals are not included in your pre-paid Trek for Freedom. For those of you who would like to visit Nepal Orphans Home’s three other Dhapasi Homes we will arrange this for your convenience on the 27th or after. Dhapasi is about 30 minutes from Thamel. There we have one home that is exclusively ex-Kamlari with 26 girls; a boys home with 26, and the original Papa’s House with 47 girls, 14 of whom are ex-Kamlari.

Nepal Orphans Home Inc, a 501(c)3 Charity will provide each participant a tax receipt for your entire fee. It is incumbent upon you to see what portion can be exempted. The current cost of caring for one girl for one year is $800.00 if she does not need any abnormal medical or dental care. Some of our girls have required braces which has set that amount on its ear for them; and a few have required minor surgeries and other treatments that have increased their cost substantially. We never know what might be required though and have based this cost on the overall cost of our operation divided by the number of girls present.

We request that interested parties please familiarize themselves with Nepal Orphans Home at www.nepalorphanshome.org and sign up for the notice of our monthly newsletter. All questions are welcome at any time and with the difference in time accounted for please expect a reply within 24 hours.

The Cost for the trek per person: US $2890.00

The Cost for the trek with Island Peak  per person:  US $3390.00, based upon 3 or more going.

A deposit of $750.00 per person will be required on or before September 1, 2009. This is a popular trekking time and we must make reservations early at the guest houses along the route. This deposit will not be refundable as it is advanced to others. The balance must be received in a cleared check or Paypal payment by your arrival in Kathmandu.

To reserve your space now, click on the “Pay Now” button below. You will be taken to a secure PayPal payment page to make your $750 deposit.

If payment by check is preferred, please make the check payable to Nepal Orphans Home and mail to Nepal Orphans Home, PO Box 1254, Davidson, NC 28036. Please allow two extra weeks for bank clearance. We will furnish the banking information upon request.

Trek Cost Includes

• TREK NEPAL FOR FREEDOM provides you to use down sleeping bag and duffle bags for the trekking.
• All meals included in the trek (morning cup of tea, breakfast, lunch, afternoon cup of tea and dinner).
• National Park entrance fees & trekking permits.
• TREK FOR FREEDOM –T-shirt.
• Group medical kit.
• Airport arrival and transfers.
• Domestic Flight (Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu).
• Both way flight to lukla for Leaders & Guides and Sherpa.
• Domestic airport taxes.
• All staff insurance.
• Warm clothing and other required trekking gear for porters like Gortex jacket & trousers, trekking shoes / boots, sleeping bag / blanket, woolen hat, woolen gloves, woolen socks, sun glasses etc.
• All lodging between October 1st and October 27th.
• One day rafting and night accommodation in tents, including lunch, dinner and breakfast.
• All climbing gears for Island peak and climbing Sherpas and assistance.
• Expert Government licensed and experienced guides.
• Everest Trek itinerary and Map.
• All the accommodation in mountain lodges.
• Porters to carry your duffle bag; each two people will be provided one porter.

Trek Cost Excludes

• Your international flights.
• Visa fees and visa extension costs (You may get a visa upon arrival in KTM airport).
• Medical examination (if required) and vaccination costs.
• Personal expenditure, bar bills, laundry, purchased bottled water on the trek; telephone calls etc.
• Tipping at the end of the trip which is expected. Each guide is typically given a minimum of $100 by the group. There will be four guides with us. Each porter hopes to receive $30. from the trekker for whom he has carried gear.
• Meals in Kathmandu except welcome dinner.
• Personal clothing and equipment.
• Travel insurance.
• Any extension of any other trips.
• Charges accrued as a result of flight delays or cancellation or needed for helicopter rescued which is beyond Nepal Social Trek’s control.
• Anything not mentioned in the trip cost includes.

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