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Hike the breathtaking beauty of India on our 15-day guided trek through Darjeeling, Sikkim, and the Singalila Ridge. This fully supported camping trek is designed for the intrepid traveller seeking a high-altitude challenge, journeying through Martam Village and witnessing the great Himalaya peaks. You will be rewarded with views of four of the five highest peaks on Earth: Kanchenjunga, Makalu, Lhotse, and Everest before experiencing an icon of travel: the Indian sleeper train from Siliguri to Kolkata. From lush tea plantations to thick rhododendron forests and traditional villages, walk in true comfort of carrying just your day pack on this full porterage camping trek.
Begin your adventure in the vibrant Delhi. Fly to Bagdogra and then drive to Gangtok. In Gangtok, explore the Enchey and Rumtek monasteries. Then, drive to Martam. ...
Begin your adventure in the vibrant Delhi. Fly to Bagdogra and then drive to Gangtok. In Gangtok, explore the Enchey and Rumtek monasteries. Then, drive to Martam. Transfer from Sikkim to Darjeeling to explore. Ride the toy train to Ghoom, subject to running and then join a ride to Rimbik, where you hike to Manedara. Trek through a verdant forest to Shepi village and then to Gurdum village. Climb a forest that ascends through Sandakphu before reaching Chandu. Trek along the Singalila Ridge, stopping at Sabargam. Journey to Phalut and then descend to Samaden. Make your way through a collection of small settlements to Ramman, descend to Sri Khola and continue till you reach Rimbik. Return to Darjeeling, visit a tea estate and explore the hill station. Drive to Silguri and take an overnight train to Kolkata. Traverse Kolkata on your own or with a guide and bring your adventure to a close here.
This package includes 14 nights of accommodations including 5 nights of full-service wild camping, 2 nights sleeper train and 1 night in a guesthouse/homestay. Trek each day carrying just your day pack with full porterage and support. Specified meals and transfers are included as well as tour leader, ensuring your adventure is both seamless and authentic.
Experience the thrill of trekking the Singalila Ridge, where you'll wake up to breathtaking sunrises over four of the world's five highest peaks, including the majestic Everest. This 15-day journey will take you from the lush tea plantations of Darjeeling through rhododendron forests to the doorstep of the mighty Himalayas.
Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to India. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
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Our adventure begins in Delhi, a vibrant and chaotic city dotted with architectural masterpieces. Upon your arrival in this beautiful city, head to your accommodation, the Deventure Sarovar Portico, to freshen up and settle in before meeting everyone else. This hotel is a newly renovated 4-star lodging situated on Main Patel Road. Indulge your senses with a culinary journey at our all-day dining restaurant or unwind by the shimmering rooftop swimming pool, all while enjoying seamless connectivity to the city's key landmarks.
Around 6 pm, say namaste to your tour leader and fellow travellers, when we convene as a group for the first time to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead. Your tour leader then ensures a fitting welcome by arranging a group dinner at a nearby restaurant.
If you wish to extend your stay in Delhi pre-tour, please contact us.
We transfer to the domestic airport terminal and fly to Bagdogra. As soon as we arrive, we join our vehicles and drive to Gangtok. The road soon leaves the plains, and at Sevoke, we cross the Teesta River and climb into the Doar Hills. At Rangpo, we take a break as we enter Sikkim. Border formalities take time – you need your passport and one photograph. We continue hiking and reach Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, at an elevation of 5,510 ft (1,680 m). The drive typically takes about five hours (78 mi/125 km), but can take up to 10 hours when landslides occur after heavy rain along the route. Your leader will advise if the journey is likely to be affected.
Your accommodation for tonight is Netuk House, a 3-star heritage boutique hotel. Originally the private residence of a high-ranking Sikkimese official, this enchanting hotel transports you to the 1950s, a time when the ancient Tibet Road bustled with silk traders. Now managed by a royal family, it serves as a mirror to traditional Sikkimese culture. Here, you'll discover a sanctuary that feels like home, complete with a serene garden, an inviting restaurant, and a sophisticated bar.
Gangtok sits amid the hills, and on a clear day, we can see Kanchenjunga from the hotel. We have the morning for exploration. The Mall Road is the centre of Gangtok, and the nearby indoor vegetable market makes for an interesting wander. Either explore Gangtok solo, or your leader can take you to see some of the sights. About an hour’s walk from the hotel, there is the small Enchey monastery. Towering over the town, it was founded in 1840 by Lama Drubthob Karpo and was rebuilt in 1908 by the 10th chogyal (king) of Sikkim. From the monastery, head back to town via the Flower Show, a small exhibition of orchids and other local flowers. There is a handicraft centre close by, a government enterprise that offers community training in traditional handicrafts, including carpet weaving and wood carving.
After lunch, enjoy an hour’s drive to Rumtek monastery. Founded in the mid-1700s by the 12th Karmapa, it fell into ruin. When the 16th Karmapa arrived from Tibet, he rebuilt the monastery as the main seat of the Karmapa sect in exile. It is the largest monastery in Sikkim and contains a golden stupa with the remains of the 16th Karmapa. A 30-minute drive brings us to Martam, a picturesque Himalayan village in a peaceful corner of East Sikkim, where we’ll be spending the next two nights in its eco-resorts.
Approx. 6 km (4 miles), 4-5 hours walking
Today, we'll explore the charming village of Martam, historically known for its dairy production—the name itself translates to "butter spread." Home to a population of about 10,000 people from the Bhutia and Nepali communities, this village offers a peaceful setting for our day.
In the morning, we'll take a guided hike around the village to soak in the local atmosphere. Our walk will include a visit to the Nyingma Institute of Higher Buddhist Studies, a significant educational center where monks delve into advanced Buddhist philosophy. We can also see another small local monastery and the village's Krishna Mandir, a Hindu temple that reflects the area's diverse community.
After our morning exploration, we'll return to our hotel for lunch. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Leaving Sikkim, we drive to Darjeeling. The road winds all the way to the Testa River, where we enter West Bengal. It then weaves back into the hills to Darjeeling. We arrive by lunchtime. This afternoon, we tour one of the most famous hill stations of the British Raj. The region originally belonged to the chogyals of Sikkim before it was annexed by the Gurkhas. By the early 1800s, it was under the control of the British East India Company, which returned it to Sikkim rule. Encountering Dorje Ling Monastery, situated on a quiet forested ridge, two British soldiers thought it would make a great location for a sanatorium and with the permission of the Sikkim king, a hill station was born. Today, Darjeeling is a lively town, but the Mall still retains Victorian allure. Our stay includes a visit to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, where many popular Sherpa climbers are trained in mountaineering skills. There are interesting displays and photographs from some of the early Everest climbs.
Today’s drive is 80 km (50 mi) and will take about 4 hours. However, there may be delays due to landslides caused by heavy rain. Your leader will advise if this is the case.
Your home for tonight is the Sinclair Hotel, a charming 3-star accommodation that blends colonial-era style with modern amenities. Settle in and enjoy the stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. The hotel also features a multi-cuisine restaurant, a games room, and a bar to keep you entertained.
Approx. 2km (1 mile), 45mins- 1 hour walking, Elevation gain: 180 m (591 ft)
On a clear day, you can wake early to see the sunrise over Kanchenjunga from the hotel roof. After breakfast, we'll take a 40-minute ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site affectionately known as the "toy train." As the narrow-gauge steam train makes its way out of Darjeeling, it will stop to take on water and give you a chance to photograph the famous Batasia Loop, an engineering marvel where the track spirals around itself.
Our train journey ends at Ghoom, the highest railway station in India. Here, we'll meet our vehicles for the four-hour drive to Rimbik (7,500ft/2,286m), the starting point of our trek. From Rimbik, it's a gentle 45-minute uphill walk through lush rhododendron forests to our campsite at Manedara for our first night. As we near the village, we'll be rewarded with stunning views of the Kabru Dome and Kabru South peaks.
Note: The toy train's operation is subject to daily conditions. If it is not running today, there will be another opportunity on Day 13). Any baggage not needed during the trek can be left at our hotel in Darjeeling until we return on Day 12.
Sleeping altitude: 2,450m (8,040ft)
Approx. 9 km (6 miles), 3-4 hours walking, Elevation gain: 440 m (1,444 ft)
Your trek to Gurdum begins today. The journey starts on an easy trail that winds through small settlements and local farmland. After about two hours of gradual walking through a scenic forest, you'll reach the village of Shepi. From there, the path descends to the Gurdum Khola river. You'll cross the river via a bridge before tackling a steep, one-hour climb that leads directly to Gurdum village, where you will set up camp for the night.
Sleeping altitude: 2,400m (7,875ft)
Approx. 14 km (9 miles), 7-8 hours walking, Elevation gain: 1,490 m (4,888 ft)
It’s a relatively challenging but rewarding day as we finish our ascent to the Singalila Ridge. The trail climbs steeply in places until we emerge at a forest clearing. From here, it undulates through rhododendron forest to the ridgetop at Sandakhphu (3,636 m/11,929 ft), the highest point of our trek. On a clear day, the hike is well worth the effort as it presents us with a magnificent Himalayan panorama. The views from here are truly amazing – the dramatic slopes of Kanchenjunga lie ahead, and Everest, Lhotse and Makalu come into view in the distance. After lunch at Sandakhphu, it is a gradual walk on a rough jeep track to our camp at Chandu.
Sleeping altitude: 3,570m (11,715ft)
Approx. 13 km (8 miles), 4-5 hours walking, Elevation gain: 390 m (1,280 ft)
Today, we will trek along the Singalila Ridge, which marks the border between Nepal and India. At various points throughout the day, our trail will cross from one country into the other. The path follows the ridge, undulating through forests of chestnut, oak, and silver fir trees. As we walk, we'll be treated to constant, commanding panoramic views of the Himalayas. In the spring, the landscape is brightened by dwarf rhododendrons and primulas.
Our day concludes at Sabargam, where we will set up a spectacular wild camp. This location is renowned for its sublime views. From our campsite, we anticipate a magnificent sunset and sunrise over a line-up of major Himalayan peaks, including Kanchenjunga, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu, as well as a host of others in the range.
Sleeping altitude: 3,536m (11,601ft)
Approx. 23 km (14 miles), 7-8 hours walking, Elevation gain: 606 m (1,988 ft)
Today involves a full day of trekking along an undulating trail that follows the ridge to Phalut before we descend to our campsite in Samaden. Phalut, situated at 3,600m (11,810ft), is a key junction and viewpoint in the Singalila National Park. On a clear day, the views from the ridge are breathtaking. The Kanchenjunga range appears incredibly close, while the more distant Everest range, including Lhotse and Makalu, can also be seen. Just behind the lodge in Phalut, a viewpoint offers a panoramic spectacle of these Himalayan giants.
From Phalut, we begin our descent towards Samaden. This beautiful trail takes us through lush forests of oak, conifers, pine, and rhododendrons, which create a vibrant explosion of colour in the spring. We will set up camp for the night in Samaden, a small, picturesque settlement known for its excellent mountain views.
Sleeping altitude: 2,480m (8,135ft)
Approx. 14 km (9 miles), 6-7 hours walking, Elevation gain: 730 m (2,395 ft)
Our final trek meanders through a collection of tiny settlements (inhabited by Rais, Sherpas and Tamangs) to Ramman, where terraced fields and villages dot the landscape. We descend along a jeep track to Sri Khola for lunch, after which we cross a suspension bridge and continue for another 2hr 30min along a road, passing through more villages to Rimbik, a large Sherpa village in the forest landscapes of Singalila National Park. We stay in a small lodge with lovely views across the valley.
Note: the guest house is a basic home-stay property. Although all bedrooms have attached bathrooms (including toilets), shower facilities are limited, and some bedrooms may only provide a sink and “bucket” wash option.
Sleeping altitude: 2,286m (7,500ft)
Today, we'll drive back to Darjeeling. The road will take us through scenic landscapes as it winds up and down the ridges. Along the way, we'll stop at a tea estate. Here, you'll get a firsthand look at how the world-famous Darjeeling tea is grown, harvested, and processed. You'll learn about the different types of tea and the intricate steps involved in creating the final product.
We'll arrive in Darjeeling by mid-afternoon. The rest of the day is yours to explore this historic hill station at your own pace. Our hotel is conveniently located near the Mall, a popular pedestrian-only promenade. It's an excellent spot for an evening stroll, offering various shops, cafes, and great views.
You'll have the morning free to do some more exploring. If you missed out on the Darjeeling "Toy Train" yesterday, now is your chance to take a ride. You can also visit the Ghoom Monastery, one of the oldest in the region and home to a 15-foot statue of the Maitreya Buddha.
In the afternoon, we'll drive about 2-3 hours to Siliguri. From there, we'll board an overnight train to Kolkata. Train schedules in India often change, but we expect to depart around 8 or 9 p.m.
Upon arrival in Kolkata in the early hours of the morning, you will have the day to explore the city at your leisure. Formerly the capital of British India, Kolkata has a rich and complex history. It was a key hub for the Indian independence movement and saw a large influx of Bengali refugees in the early 20th century. This history is visible in its architecture and culture. You might choose to visit landmarks like the Victoria Memorial, a grand marble building dedicated to Queen Victoria, or walk through the bustling New Market area. The city offers a vibrant mix of sights, sounds, and smells that create a truly unique experience.
If you would rather not navigate Kolkata alone, your leader can usually arrange a short guided city tour for you (pay locally).
Your final accommodation for the trip is the Hotel Peerless Inn, a well-known 4-star hotel positioned right in the heart of the city, a 20-minute walk from the historical Esplanade area and a 10-minute walk from downtown Kolkata. The hotel features restaurants that offer authentic Bengali fine dining and multi-cuisine buffets where you can choose to have your farewell dinner.
Savour one last breakfast, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible adventure before a transfer to the airport for your onward journey home. If you’d like a little more adventure, however, consider joining our five-day Golden Triangle extension. Encompassing Delhi, Jaipur and Agra, the trip is a whirlwind of culture, taking in the Taj Mahal, Red Fort of Akbar and much more. Please contact us.
NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
- The departure point is Delhi
- The finish point is Kolkata
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Delhi. The closest airport to Delhi is Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and is about 15–20 km from central Delhi.
- Airport transfers are included. The start hotel is approximately 30 minutes drive from Delhi Airport.
As Sikkim has a pretty wet climate, even by Himalayan standards, our departures are carefully timed to take advantage of the likely best weather conditions (within reason). Delhi is hot in the daytime, especially on spring departures (highs of mid-30 degrees Celsius), and reasonably warm at night (cool on the October departure). Darjeeling and Gangtok is warm during the day with cool to cold nightly temperatures. Weather on trek will vary with the altitude but is generally comfortable for walking during the day (it can be really quite hot when the sun is out, particularly on the spring departure). At night on trek, it can get very cold with temperatures down to as low as -5C (23F). In late October, please bring warm clothes for the evenings. Frost must be expected at night above about 9,845ft (3,000m) on spring departures, and above about 6,560ft (2,000m) on October departures.
Although the departures are timed to coincide when the weather is normally good, in any mountain area the weather is never wholly predictable and you should be prepared and equipped to deal with any differences in weather beyond the conditions described above. The Singalila Ridge is quite exposed and strong wind and rain cannot be discounted at any time of year. You need to carry waterproofs and warm clothes for the evenings.
This trip is rated 4 out of 7, Moderate & Challenging.
Level 1 Easy: Ideal for those new to walking trips. The pace will be easy, and the itinerary often includes some half-day walks to allow for visits or free time. Expect two to four hours of walking per day on easy paths, with some minor ascent or descent.
Average distance per day: 2.5mi-4mi (4km-6km)Maximum distance per day: 5mi (8km)Average elevation gain per day: 165ft-985ft (50m-300m)Maximum elevation gain per day: 1,640ft (500m)
Level 2 Easy & Moderate: Expect generally easy trails, but with some ascent and descent on most days. Some walks may meet the criteria for Activity Level 3 (Moderate). Therefore, you should be comfortable with three to five hours of walking per day and enjoy reasonably regular walks at home. The paths will be non-technical but could involve some short uneven sections. Maximum ascents will be no more than 2,295ft (700m), while longer days with less ascent could cover up to 8.5mi (14km).
Average distance per day: 4.5mi-7mi (7km-11km)Maximum distance per day: 8.5mi (14km)Average elevation gain per day: 655ft-1,970ft (200m-600m)Maximum elevation gain per day: 2,295ft (700m)
Level 3 Moderate: The inclusion of more hilly or even mountainous terrain makes this grade suitable for fit and frequent hikers. Underfoot conditions could be rocky or with some loose gravel; on wider trails, we may encounter some steep drops to one side. The maximum ascent could be up to 3,600ft (1,100m) in one day. We typically walk for four to seven hours per day.
Average distance per day: 5mi-9mi (8km-15km)Maximum distance per day: 11mi (18km)Average elevation gain per day: 985ft-2,625ft (300m-800m)Maximum elevation gain per day: 3,600ft (1,100m)
Level 4 Moderate & Challenging: An adventure made for experienced hikers and hill walkers with good fitness, normally in mountainous terrain and sometimes at altitude with varied and occasionally challenging conditions underfoot. Walks on some days may meet the criteria for Activity Level 5 (Challenging). Expect five to seven hours of walking per day.
Average distance per day: 5.5mi-10.5mi (9km-17km)Maximum distance per day: 12.5mi (20km)Average elevation gain per day: 1,640ft-2,955ft (500m-900m)Maximum elevation gain per day: 4,265ft (1,300m)
Level 5 Challenging: Ideal for experienced mountain hikers and trekkers with very good fitness. You could be walking longer distances (maximum 15.5mi/25km) for consecutive days. In the mountains, the maximum ascent would be 4,920ft (1,500m) in a day. You should feel comfortable walking six to eight hours per day, with sections of technical terrain (uneven ground with some loose rock, some narrow paths). Most itineraries include some days walking at altitude.
Average distance per day: 6mi-12.5mi (10km-20km)Maximum distance per day: 15.5mi (25km)Average elevation gain per day: 2,955ft-3,280ft (900m-1,000m)Maximum elevation gain per day: 4,920ft (1,500m)
Level 6 Challenging & Tough: For experienced mountain hikers and trekkers only. Expect high mountain terrain, remote areas and probably consecutive days at high altitude. Excellent fitness and mobility levels are essential. Expect technical terrain on some days and walks of seven to nine hours per day.
Average distance per day: 6mi-12.5mi (10km-20km)Maximum distance per day: 15.5mi (25km)Average elevation gain per day: 2,955ft-3,940ft (900m-1,200m)Maximum elevation gain per day: 5,580ft (1,700m)
Level 7 Tough: Our toughest Walking & Trekking trips normally involve the ascent of a summit, usually above the snowline and at high altitude. Expect technical terrain on most days, often using crampons and ice axes. Average daily hikes are between eight and 10 hours. Previous experience and excellent fitness and mobility are essential.
Average distance per day: 6mi-12.5mi (10km-20km)Maximum distance per day: 15.5mi (25km)Average elevation gain per day: 2,955ft-4,265ft (900m-1,300m)Maximum elevation gain per day: 6,230ft (1,900m)
Suitability: There are six days of fully supported point-to-point walking plus one day walk, with an average of four to six hours of walking per day. The trek is on a full-service camping basis. Previous experience of hill walking is required, this is a a good introduction to trekking at altitude but worth noting if you are not used to walking distances over consecutive days, this can present a challenge for some. The Activity Level is assessed and based on the general lower altitude limit (relatively) and the overall duration of the trekking days.
Altitude: This trip spends time above 9,842ft (3,000m); please refer to the Altitude Warning within the Trip Notes for more information and advice on how to limit the effects of altitude sickness. Maximum altitude: 11,934ft (3,636m), Average altitude: 9,701ft (2,957m). Maximum sleeping altitude: 11,713ft (3,570m)
Route: Walking hours stated within the itinerary are given as approximates only and vary depending on the group’s pace. They include normal rest stops but not a longer lunch break. Driving times given are approximations and do not include stops for photos, lunch, toilets etc.
Camping: On trek, temperatures can get very cold at night and a good four-season sleeping bag and liner are recommended. The campsite will be set-up by your Porters including dining tent and toilet tent. Please note, the toilet facilities are basic “wild camping”, a tent is placed over a hole dug in the ground and the excess dirt is used to cover any waste after each use.
Phones: This trip is a great way to experience a remote area of the world, so please bear in mind we travel through areas where phone signal is rare and our local teams are not permitted to carry satellite phones.
Tour Leader: The trip is led by a qualified English-speaking local leader. On trek, there is a cook, assistants and mules to carry the baggage. Our Indian team has proved very popular with clients with their incredible knowledge, passion and hospitality adding greatly to the experience. There is no better way to experience Indian culture than letting an Indian guide show you around their country.
Transport Sleeper Train: The overnight train from Siliguri to Kolkata will be booked in two-tier (or three-tier depending on - availability) air-conditioned sleeper (see accommodation section for further information).
Domestic Flights: Please note the domestic flight from Delhi to Bagdogra has the following baggage allowance (this may be lower than your international flight allowance). Hand baggage: One bag up to 7kg and 115 cm (L+W+H : dimension: 55cm x 35cm x 25cm) per person Check-in baggage: 15kg allowance per person (one piece only) Please note, electronic devices, power packs and batteries should be packed in hand luggage as these are not permitted in your hold/main luggage. Excess baggage charge: Approximately 500 – 600 rupees (US$6 – 7) per 1 kilogram over 15kg
We experience a mixture of accommodations on this trip, including hotels, full-service wild camping, a local lodge (in Rimbick) and the sleeper train from Siliguri to Kolkata. We choose hotels that are conveniently located (close to villages and attractions) or with good transport connections. We aim to use smaller, locally owned properties wherever possible. These are typically two to three-star (local rating) and with a mix of heritage and modern styles.
Full Service Camping: The trek itself is on a full-service camping basis, meaning our camp staff put up and dismantle the tents, cook, and do the camp chores. You need only carry your backpack for the day. Most of the camping on this trek is wild camping. We stay in two-person tents, which have enough room inside for your kitbags. Single-occupancy tents are smaller to avoid too much empty space, which loses warmth. Sleeping mats and sleeping bags are not provided – please see the packing section. We also have a dining tent with table and folding chairs, and at least one toilet tent (usually two) for use during the evenings. Please note, the toilets are based on “wild camping” principles – a hole in the ground with excess dirt used to cover waste (no flushing here). There is no running water available while camping; however, we camp close to a water source and the camp staff provide bowls of warm water to wash with. Please ensure you always wash your hands with water and soap after using the toilet and before meals, additional use of hand sanitiser is also recommended.
Sleeper Train: Experience an icon of travel, the Indian sleeper train! Our journey takes us from Siliguri to Kolkata, skipping the long drive, while also allowing us to interact with the local people and sample the snacks often sold on board. The accommodation is basic: we normally stay in two-tier sleepers, the compartments sectioned off from the aisle by privacy curtains. Seats are allocated at the time the tickets are issued, so the whole group isn’t always together; however, our tour leader is an expert at making the journey as hassle-free as possible and will regularly check in with you. Sleeper trains are not enclosed compartments, bed bunks are set up within a carriage with curtains for some privacy. Within the sleeper train, you may be sharing a compartment of four beds with members of the public depending on how the seats are allocated.
Guesthouse: The guesthouse in Rimbick is a basic homestay property, shower facilities are limited and some bedrooms may only provide a sink and bucket wash option.
Heating: The weather can get cold in some of the higher regions and although most hotels should offer heating, not all do. You can request more blankets if needed or the hotel may be able to provide a standing heater for your room. Please talk to your tour leader if you need help in this matter.
Hot Water/Showers: It’s common for hotels in India to have limited times in the day for hot water use to save energy. If you find your shower is cold, please let your leader or reception know so they can make sure the water heater is on.
Single Supplement: Single rooms and tents (excluding sleeper train) are available for a supplement at an additional cost. The price depends on the season you are travelling. Please contact us.
Food
- Allow at least 1,600-2,000 rupees (approximately US$20-US$25) per day for lunch and dinner (where not included). You can eat out cheaply in India, but if you go to the more expensive restaurants most of the time, you will spend the upper limits of the suggested amount. Please note, service in restaurants can be quite slow. Tea and soft drinks are reasonably priced. A (large) bottle of beer is approximately 400 rupees (approximately US$5).- While camping, we have a cook and assistants who prepare simple but plentiful nutritious food. Breakfasts will be porridge, cereals, eggs and toast with plenty of tea, coffee or hot chocolate. Lunches will usually be a picnic lunch with soup, various kinds of local breads, cheese, eggs, tinned fish, and meat and fruit where available. There is afternoon tea and biscuits on arrival at camp followed later by dinner, which is usually soup, a pasta, rice or potato-based main course with fresh vegetables, followed by dessert, tea, coffee or hot chocolate.
Drinking Water
- Staying hydrated is important when undertaking any physical activity. However, we strongly encourage you not to buy bottled water as this contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution in India- On trek, the cooks collect and boil drinking water from the mountain streams and fill up your water bottles for you, but you may need to collect water during the day and may wish to use your own water purification treatment as well. Purification tablets can be an economical way to treat your water, most taking between 30 minutes to one hour to purify one litre of water and are easy to used in water bladders/hydration packs. Purification tablets which contain chlorine dioxide are reported not to leave an obvious taste as other tablets may.- We suggest you may like to bring a reusable bottle with a wide opening and use a Steripen to treat any non-boiled water. A Steripen is a handheld UV water purifier – small, lightweight and battery powered, so easy to pack. It’s quick to use, far more effective than purification tablets, and the water is ready immediately. It’s fine to use a Steripen on non-boiled water so long as it isn’t cloudy or full of sediment (which is uncommon in these regions).- Steripens are widely stocked on Amazon, outdoor shops and other online retailers; look for the latest models but avoid USB charging ones. Models that take lithium batteries are best as they last longer, especially in cold conditions.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.Payment DetailAll pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 100 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 100 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.Single SupplementAll accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.General Cancellation Policies- Outside of 100 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee- Within 100 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurancePlease Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.LiabilityThe participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.Child PolicyPlease consult travel consultant on age limit.Changes to ItinerariesLocal conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.Changes in PricesWhile we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.Cancellation by The Tour OperatorThe tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.Force Majeure'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.EvacuationsIn rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.Travel InsuranceIn view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.