Trip Facts
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Spring and Autumn
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Flight and Trek
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2 - 15
Overview
The Gangapurna Expedition stands as one of Nepal’s notable and splendid mountains. Situated at an elevation of 7,455 meters (24,459 feet), Mount Gangapurna is located between Annapurna III and Tilicho Peak within the Annapurna region. In 1965, a German expedition led by Gunther Hauser successfully ascended the mountain via the East Ridge, marking the inaugural conquest of Gangapurna. Since then, this challenging expedition has become accessible to a multitude of mountaineers, attracting adventurers seeking the thrill of conquering its formidable slopes. Embarking on the Mount Gangapurna Expedition offers awe-inspiring vistas of the Himalayan range, encompassing majestic peaks such as Manaslu (8,163 meters), Annapurna I (8,091 meters), Annapurna II (7,937 meters), Annapurna III (7,555 meters), Annapurna IV (7,525 meters), Tilicho Peak (7,134 meters), Pisang Peak (6,091 meters), Chulu West Peak (6,419 meters), Chulu East Mountain, Thorung Mountain, and more. Moreover, one can relish the sight of sprawling plains, verdant valleys, and diverse communities nestled in the surrounding landscape. It is important to note that the Mount Gangapurna Expedition poses significant challenges, demanding climbers to navigate through treacherous snow-covered terrain and overcome technical obstacles. Hence, this expedition holds immense appeal for those seeking a thrilling and adventure-filled experience.
Itinerary
When you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will be there to greet you and give you a warm welcome to Nepal. They will then assist you in transferring to your pre-booked hotel. After completing the check-in process, you can take some time to rest and relax in the comfort of your hotel room.
Later on, a member of our office staff will accompany you on a brief tour of Thamel. This tour is designed to familiarize you with the area and help you locate some useful amenities such as good restaurants, ATMs, currency exchange services, and other important places that you may require during your stay in Thamel.
The following morning, after having breakfast, you will set off on a day-long sightseeing tour of the Kathmandu Valley. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to visit some significant and revered sites such as the Pashupatinath Temple and Swyambhunath, both of which hold great historical and religious importance and are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Additionally, you will have the chance to witness the grandeur of the Boudhanath Stupa, the largest Buddhist stupa, as well as explore the remarkable artistic and architectural heritage of Kathmandu Durbar Square, which showcases the rich ancient culture of Nepal. A visit to Patan City will captivate you with its renowned fine arts and historical architecture. Afterward, you will return to your hotel, where you can take some time to discover the local surroundings, enjoy a delicious dinner, and perhaps take a leisurely stroll through the renowned streets of the city. Finally, the day will conclude with an authentic Nepalese dinner at a cultural restaurant, providing a fitting end to your day’s adventures.
We dedicate a day to finalize documents, check gears and equipment, and ensure everything is in order. If there are any missing items, you have the opportunity to go for final shopping before heading to the mountains.
7 – 8 hrs drive to Besi Sahar.
5-6 hrs off & On road drive
5 hrs trek to Chame.
5 – 6 hrs trek.
Acclimatize at Manang.
5 hrs trek to Gangapurna Base Camp.
To summit Gangapurna, it is necessary to set-up three high camps where gear, food, and fuel must be carried. Despite being physically strong and fit at lower altitudes, one’s physical performance significantly decreases at high elevations. Therefore, a team of Climbing Sherpas, assembled from all clients, will be responsible for setting up the route to ensure a successful summit.
By having a personal Climbing Sherpa, the issue of limited climbing support on the summit day is avoided. In case of emergencies, the traditional expedition leader bears the responsibility for multiple individuals, including themselves, who may have reduced physical capabilities due to high altitude. In contrast, a Climbing Sherpa solely focuses on their own client and possesses superior physical abilities at high elevations due to their natural genetic predisposition. This collaborative effort among the expedition Climbing Sherpas ensures optimal support and safety. Our Climbing Sherpas are extensively trained and experienced in high-altitude climbs, having undertaken numerous expeditions in Nepal and Tibet over the seasons.
Base Camp cleaning is the most vital part of expedition. After cleaning and packing up we trek down to Khangsara.
4 – 5 hrs trek.
It is about 9 hrs trek. On the way we pass Thorong La Pass and arrive at Muktinath.
4 – 5 hrs trek to Jomsom.
Early morning flight to Pokhara. You’ll be flying above the world’s deepest gorge. Explore Pokhara & overnight in Hotel.
Fly back to Kathmandu, transfer to hotel & enjoy your day.
After a leisurely day in Kathmandu, enjoy a farewell dinner and celebration. You can request your guide to take you on a sightseeing trip within the Kathmandu Valley, where you can visit various museums, including the Narayanhiti Museum, which was once the residence of Nepal’s last king. Additionally, you can explore the hilltop of Nagarkot for panoramic views. Following sightseeing at the valley’s world heritage sites, savor a farewell dinner while enjoying the company of your Nepali friends and guide. You may even discuss plans to extend your stay for activities such as a Chitwan jungle safari or rafting adventures with the assistance of your guide.
As per your flight schedule you’ll be dropped to airport 3 hours prior to the flight time and your trip to Nepal ends here.
Package Includes
- The package includes the following services and amenities:
- Airport/hotel transfers in Kathmandu.
- Private ground transportation in Kathmandu as per the itinerary.
- Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu for 3 nights before and 2 nights after the trek on a bed and breakfast basis (shared room).
- Full-day sightseeing of Kathmandu's heritage sites with a professional English-speaking tour guide.
- Entrance fees for heritage sites visited during the city tour.
- Experienced and licensed high-altitude trekking and climbing guide throughout the trekking and climbing period.
- Provision of trekking and mountaineering equipment, including kitchen tents, store tents, dining tents, toilet tents, tables, chairs, and cooking utensils at the advanced base camp and high camp.
- Common climbing equipment such as fixed and main ropes, ice bars, ice screws, and snow bars.
- Services of a cook and kitchen staff at the base camp.
- Full board meals and accommodation during the trek.
- Food and fuel supply for base camp and higher camps for both team members and crew.
- Daily weather report service from Seattle-based sources.
- Expedition royalty and climbing permit issued by the Nepal Government for Mt. Gangapurna.
- Government royalties and fees.
- One experienced and licensed climbing/expedition guide (Sherpa) per client.
- Wages, equipment, medical and accidental insurance for all staff involved in the trekking and expedition.
- Group emergency equipment and medical supplies.
- Medical consultation services at the base camp.
- Equipment allowances and wages for climbing Sherpas, cooks, and kitchen staff.
- Equipment allowances and wages for Government Liaison Officers.
- Solar equipment for lighting and charging electronic devices.
- Generator at the base camp for computer and device charging.
- Headset radios for communication in the mountains.
- Satellite phones (personal use at the participant's expense).
- Internet access at the base camp (personal use at the participant's expense).
- Appropriate high-altitude food for climbing crew at base camp and above.
- Rope fixing costs.
- Heater provision in the base camp dining room.
- Emergency oxygen, masks, and regulators.
- Travel and rescue arrangements.
- Icefall usage charge.
- 5 bottles of 3LTR Poisk Oxygen per member.
- Welcome and farewell dinners with beverages.
- Please note that personal expenses, international flights, visas, travel insurance, and tips/gratuities are not included in the package.
Package Excludes
- The following items are not included in the package:
- Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu due to early arrival, late departure, or early return from the mountain, beyond the scheduled itinerary.
- Additional cost of helicopter transportation to or from Pokhara if required due to weather conditions. The cost will be shared among the clients.
- Personal trekking and climbing gear.
- Meals in Kathmandu, except for breakfast and farewell dinner.
- Alcohol and beverages during the trek and climbing.
- Personal expenses such as phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, shower facilities, etc.
- Emergency medical evacuation and any medical costs.
- Any other items not specifically listed in the 'Price Includes' section.
- Please note that these items are not covered in the package and should be budgeted separately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A: To attempt the Gangapurna Expedition, mountaineers are typically required to have extensive experience in high-altitude mountaineering and have successfully summited other challenging peaks. Previous experience on 6,000-meter and 7,000-meter peaks is often recommended to gain the necessary skills, physical conditioning, and mental fortitude for climbing Gangapurna.
Moreover, aspiring climbers should possess technical climbing skills, including ice and mixed climbing, as well as experience with using climbing gear like crampons, ice axes, and ropes. Familiarity with crevasse rescue techniques and high-altitude acclimatization is also crucial for a successful and safe climb.
A: Nepal experiences four distinct seasons, namely autumn (September, October, November), winter (December, January, February), spring (March, April, May), and monsoon (June, July, August). During autumn, the mountain evenings turn chilly, but the days are pleasant and sunny, with temperatures ranging from about 20°C to possibly -10°C at night. Mornings are usually clear, followed by the formation of clouds in the evening, which dissipate overnight to reveal breathtaking starry skies.
In winter, many high passes, including Thorong-La pass, Dhaulagiri circuit, Tilicho (Musukanta Pass) in Annapurna trekking, Chola Pass, Renjo La Pass, Khongma La Pass, Amalaptse Pass, Rolwaling Pass, Serpent col in the Everest region, Lauribina Pass, Ganja Pass, and Gosainkunda in Langtang, are typically closed. It is best to opt for short and easier treks in the mid-hills during this time, as heavy snowfall in January, February, and March makes the trails hazardous.
For trekking and climbing in Nepal, the optimal seasons are spring (March, April, May) and autumn (September, October, November). However, it is essential to be prepared for sudden weather changes and be equipped accordingly.
A: Sherpas and expedition guides are fully prepared for any crisis that may occur during the expeditions. The guides are experienced in first aid and can provide necessary medical assistance. In the case of extreme emergencies, the individuals are rescued by helicopter. However, it is essential for participants to have personal insurance in place before embarking on the expedition.
- An international ID.
- Two recent passport-style photographs (taken within the last six months).
- Information about your occupation.
- Your home address.
- A copy of your insurance policy.
- Details about your mountaineering experience.
Keep in mind that better preparation will make your expedition more enjoyable!
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