Bhutan Cultural Tour

High altitudes pose challenges like lower oxygen levels, inducing symptoms such as headaches, nausea, lethargy, and breathlessness. These affect everyone, regardless of age or fitness. Acclimatization is crucial; avoid tranquilizers and antibiotics. Slow down activities, rest frequently, and reduce talking. Walk slowly, keep loads light, and observe silence with a smile. Consume liquids, avoid sudden exertion, and protect against cold. Don't bathe in streams, protect against dust and sun, and follow experienced guides. Prioritize rest, hydration, and warm clothing during winter.

Wi-Fi will be accessible in Kathmandu, but as we venture into the more secluded regions of Nepal, connectivity will be restricted. The tour guide will carry a satellite phone for emergency communication. Wi-Fi connection is more accessible in the Tibet region as well, while there are no such facilities in Mansarovar, and during the Parikrama. 

Options for e-sims are widely available in supported devices for cellular data, while mainstream social media including WhatsApp and Facebook are prohibited in China. The use of VPNs may allow for seamless communication with family back home. 

During May to September, temperatures in Nepal and Tibet range from 10 to 22°C during the day. Despite the moderate daytime temperatures, the intense sun at high altitudes can create a much warmer sensation. Nighttime temperatures may drop significantly, reaching as low as -5°C.

As altitude increases, the body requires time to adapt to lower oxygen levels through a process known as acclimatization. Proper acclimatization is crucial for maintaining health and ensuring a comfortable journey at high altitudes. Most individuals are affected by the reduced oxygen levels at elevations exceeding 2,500 meters. Diamox (Acetazolamide) has proven to be highly effective in facilitating acclimatization and countering High Altitude Sickness. Further details will be provided closer to the journey.

Please consult your doctor and undergo a medical examination before embarking on the Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar yatra. Given the high altitudes, it is advisable to begin exercises such as walking, jogging, yoga, and breathing exercises at least a month prior to ensure a successful journey.

The Touch Kailash Team will be providing a Duffel Bag, a 25l Backpack, and a Down Jacket (on a refundable basis), upon your arrival in Kathmandu. 

Documents:
Carry a small waist pouch or document bag to organize essential documents:
- Passport with photocopies
- Photographs
- Identity card
- Diary for addresses and contacts
- Ball pens with spare refills
- Maps/Charts/Books
- Travel cheques, credit cards & currency
- Airline/Railway tickets/vouchers
- Any other personal documents

Common Items:
- Big bag for equipment
- Small light trek bag
- Water bottle/Thermos flask (1 liter)

Clothing:
- Enough clothing for the entire journey, including trek suits, leisure wear, jogging trousers, T-shirts, polar fleece, shirts, salwar kameez, etc.
- Wool socks, thick tights, wool monkey cap, scarves, warm light gloves
- Wool/thermal long underwear
- Rainwear (umbrella or raincoat)

Footwear:
- Sports comfortable shoes/trainers (Nike, Adidas, etc.) with a spare pair
- A pair of light slippers

Toiletries:
- Toiletries kit (soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toilet rolls, towels, etc.)
- Sunscreen lotion/cream
- Facial tissues, wet wipes

Camping Items:
- Torch/candle/matchbox/lighter/batteries
- Knife
- Plastic mug
- Dusk masks/face masks

Personal & General Items:
- Regular medicines
- Dark sunglasses
- Favorite food for energy (nuts, biscuits, powdered juice)
- Kapoor/Vicks/Inhaler, etc.
- Binoculars/Camera/extra batteries
- Milk powder for tea

First Aid Kit:
- Typical backpacking kit for minor injuries
- Diamox/Aspirin/painkillers
- Lip balm/Mustard oil/Vaseline
- Plasters
- TCP, salt, mint, Vicks for sore throats

• The Currency for Nepal is Nepalese Rupee, while there are options to exchange at the airport, you may find better exchange rates at the numerous exchange centers in the Thamel Market. 
• The Currency used in Tibet is the Chinese Yuan, US Dollars or other currencies are not accepted. 
• While US Dollars and major currencies, including Indian Rupees, are accepted in Nepal, this is not the case in Tibet. If you intend to convert your money to Chinese Yuan, you can do so either at international airports or in Kathmandu.

This journey encompasses urban, rural, and remote areas in Nepal and Tibet, resulting in varying accommodations and amenities. Whether it's five-star hotels and guest houses or camping in the breathtaking Himalayan regions under the care of our staff, you can be confident that we will consistently offer the best possible facilities in every instance.

All Travelers must ensure that their passport is valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date of tour completion. 

• Indian Passport Holders do not require a visa to enter Nepal
• All foreign Passport Holders can get their 30 days multiple entry visa to Nepal at the Kathmandu Airport, or online from the Nepal Immigration Website
• All Visas and Permits along with other needful documents for Tibet will be arranged by Touch Kailash Team