Key Information
The trek takes place a two- to three-day walk below Lukla, where the regular trek in the Everest region usually begins. We have chosen a route that brings trekkers through villages and areas where next to no trekkers have been through. Due to the very reason that no outsiders visit these areas, the trails are narrow and involves ‘technical’ trekking. This trek is suitable for the more accomplished/avid hikers.
The idea is to bring travelers off the beaten path to show ‘Real Nepal,’ its culture, and a pristine environment untouched by the tourism industry. The Rai ethnic clan of Nepal mostly populates this area. Their matrimonial practice is unique. When both the bride and the groom are to be along with their families, they agree on the partnership and get engaged. Upon engagement, they start living together. It could be years or even decades before their marriage’s final solemnization takes place due to financial constraints.
Both the bride and groom’s families face a massive financial burden to conduct such marriage ceremonies. They have to slaughter pigs and chickens and provide a free flow of alcoholic beverages several days before and after the actual service.
This wedding ceremony’s date has to be set by their Shaman, who looks for auspicious signs. This unique program includes a trek to see mountains along the trail with a cultural immersion by witnessing a Rai ethnic group’s wedding. We were the first and so far only trekking company to have brought foreigners to these villages.
This package has been designed to get to see the real Nepal and experience a once-in-a-lifetime cultural event. It is also a great photographic opportunity, meeting people who are not in a tourist part of Nepal.
Part of the proceeds from this trip will go towards helping both families’ wedding expenses. It is estimated that between 100 – 200 relatives and villagers will attend this wedding event on each side of the families – which is a substantial financial burden.
Arrive in Kathmandu. You will be met by our representative and brought to your hotel. You will meet the rest of the group during the trek briefing.
We take a short flight to Phaplu. The flights can be delayed by foggy weather. We get on local jeeps at Phaplu to be driven to the trek’s starting point on a rough jeep track. The drive will be bumpy but very scenic, and you will see parts of Nepal where very few tourists come.
We either stay in a basic guesthouse or camp, depending on when we get to our stop.
We start the trek with a climb on a village track (usually narrower than the popular areas’ trekking trails). We stop at a Rai village for lunch. We continue on our uphill hike to a lovely village where the inhabitants are of Rai and Sherpa ethnic groups. We camp away from the settlement in a pristine wooded or terraced field area. Overnight camp. 4-5 hours hike.
We continue on our upward hike through a beautiful forest where we might meet a few villagers on the trail. We stop for lunch at the shepherds’ transit point for their animals on the way to higher pastures during the summer.
The trail is less strenuous after lunch as we continue through oak and rhododendron forest. We camp at a lovely opening in a forest away from the village.
Today we hike through a trail that is rarely used by villagers. We continue to trek through a forest. The forest turns to a combination of trees and shrubs as we gain altitude. Our chef and his kitchen crew will prepare lunch for us on the way.
We continue on our ascent until we get to some shepherd’s huts. Our team will set up camp here. We will have another lovely night away from civilization in nature.
We hike up to the top of a small hill for forty-five minutes. We will see panoramic views of Mount Thamserku, 6,608m, Kusum Kanggaru, 6,367m, Charpate Himal (Kyashar), 6,769m, and Mera Peak, 6,476m, as well as other Himalayan peaks.
We retrace our steps back through the rhododendron and oak forest to the Kirat ani Sherwi village with a stop for lunch in the woods.
We have a descend passing by Chortens (Buddhist monuments) on a forested part of the trail. We will see terraced fields as we get closer to the village. This is the village of one of our longest-serving staff.
Don’t be surprised with villagers paying a visit to our campsite. It is a scarce occasion when outsiders, let alone foreigners visit these villages.
We have a steep descent to the valley and cross a river over a suspension bridge. We have a climb up to the town where we spent the first night. We stop there for lunch. You might find the town “modern” after the recent few days in the villages and forest area. We continue our hike on a gentle uphill for about an hour. The trail levels off from the top with some descends to our final stop for the night.
An extra day to witness the wedding.
We get on the jeeps back to Phaplu to catch our flight back to Kathmandu the next day.
This is an extra day if the flight is canceled either at the beginning or the end of the trip. We will use the extra day to drive to or from the start or the end of the trek.
You will be brought to the airport three hours before your international flight time.
Trek FAQ
From 3 years old to some in their 70s, most of our clients have done and completed their treks with almost no exercise or training.
Do you offer hotel/airport pick-up?
We offer hotel and airport pick-up. As you continue with your booking, there will be an option to input flight details or hotel name.
Do I need a Visa?
A visa for Nepal can be acquired on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, and at border entry points in Kakadvitta, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Gaddachowki on the Nepal-India border, and Kerung on the Nepal-China border.
Outside of Nepal, A visa can also be obtained at the nearest Nepal Embassy or Diplomatic Mission.
For more information, go to the Department of Immigration, Kalikasthan, Kathmandu.
What should I bring on a Trek?
Being adequately equipped is one of the keys to a successful trek. For information to help you select the best type of clothing and equipment for your trip, please see our Clothing and Equipment Guide.
Also, see our Links page for details of specialist retailers who will offer further advice and assistance with purchasing new clothing or equipment.
If you have more questions, please check this article to reference equipment to pack or contact us.
Here are some helpful articles:
Am I too old to go trekking?
Arriving at Kathmandu airport.
Should I bring cash or ATM cards?
What are the differences between camping and lodge trekking?
What to pack for a trek?
Do I need to train for a trek?
What is a typical day on a trek like?
What is the food like on the trek?
The Benefits of using trekking poles.
What do I need to know about high altitude?
High altitude myths.
How to trek safely?
For more articles, you can go to our blogs.