FAQs: Ten Peak/ Tharpuchuli Himalayan Diamond Adventure

01. How difficult is to climb Tharpuchuli Peak?

Tharpuchuli Peak, also known as Tent Peak, is a popular trekking peak located in the Annapurna region of Nepal. At 5,663 meters (18,575 feet) in elevation, it is considered a relatively easy peak to climb compared to some of the other peaks in the region. However, it still requires a good level of physical fitness, basic mountaineering skills, and experience at high altitude. The climb involves traversing a rock fall zone, negotiating a huge glacier and moraine, crossing crevasses, and making steep ascents on snow and ice. Some technical sections also require the use of ropes and other climbing equipment. Therefore, climbers should have prior mountaineering experience and training before attempting Tharpuchuli Peak.

02. Can I learn mountaineering skills on the Peak Base Camp?

Whether you are a novice or professional climber, the climbing guide will assess your skills and mountaineering experience. They will provide you with a lot of instruction at the base camp before heading to the summit. This may include practicing climbing on icy slopes, traversing glaciers, and learning how to use crampons and jumars on the ice. You will also be instructed on active rappelling techniques, how to properly place safety equipment, and how to properly rack your climbing equipment system.

03. What is the best time of a year to climb Tharpuchuli peak?

The best times of year to climb Tharpuchuli Peak are generally in the pre-monsoon season from March to May or in the post-monsoon season from September to November. During these months, the weather is generally clear and dry, providing good visibility and stable conditions for climbing.

However, at Himalayan Diamond Adventure, we highly recommend that our clients climb during the autumn season from September to November and the spring season from April to May for a safe, successful, and enjoyable climbing trip. During September to October, there is a time for harvesting and subtropical flower blooming, and there are also great festival ceremonies. During April to May, it is the alpine flower blooming season and also a time for harvesting. These seasons add more enjoyment to the trip.

04. How long does it take to climb Tharpuchuli/ Ten peak?

The duration of the climb to Tharpuchuli Peak, also known as Tent Peak, can vary depending on several factors, including the climber's experience, physical fitness, and the chosen route. Typically, it takes around 16 to 20 days to climb the peak, including acclimatization and rest days.

The climb usually begins in Kathmandu, followed by a drive to Pokhara and then to the Nayapul village. From Nayapul, trekkers usually follow the trail to Ghorepani Poon Hill and then continue to the Annapurna Base Camp. From the base camp, climbers start the ascent to the peak. The ascent usually takes around 3-4 days, depending on the weather conditions and the chosen route.

After reaching the summit, climbers descend back to the base camp and follow the same trail to Nayapul and then back to Pokhara. The overall duration of the climb may also depend on the itinerary and the trekking agency you choose

05. How does it look like accommodation and meal options on the way to Ghorepani and Annapurna base camp?

Accommodation and meal options on the way to Ghorepani and Annapurna Base Camp vary depending on the location and altitude.

In lower elevations, such as Ghorepani and Ghandruk, there are a variety of accommodation options including teahouses, lodges, and guesthouses. These accommodations offer basic amenities such as a bed, a shared bathroom, and a common dining area. Some may also offer hot showers for an additional cost. The meal options at these accommodations are usually basic and include local Nepali dishes such as dal bhat (rice and lentils) and momos (dumplings). Some may also offer Western dishes such as pasta or pizza.

As you gain altitude and move towards Machhapuchre base and Annapurna Base Camp, the accommodation options become more basic and fewer in number. The teahouses may be more crowded, and the rooms may not have a private bathroom or shower. The meals are typically simple and filling, with options such as porridge, pancakes, and soups for breakfast, and rice, noodles, and curries for lunch and dinner.

06. How Is the Base Camp Services Like of peak?

We have established a permanent base camp for the climbing season, which will operate from early September to December during the autumn and from March to the end of May in the spring. During your stay at the Tharpuchuli base camp, you will be housed in a spacious North Face dome tent, shared with one other person. The tent is equipped with a waterproof floor mat and mattress for your comfort. Our dining hall features a carpeted floor, comfortable armchairs, and a clean, well-lit table powered by solar electricity. As meals are crucial for climbers, our chef prepares hygienic meals using fresh vegetables, meats, and fruits, and serves hot drinks such as tea, coffee, juice, and hot chocolate. Our goal is to provide better service than other trekking agencies.

07. Do I need a permit for the Tharpuchuli Peak?

Climbers are required to obtain permits to trek into the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) and TIMS CARDS, and climbing without proper permits is illegal and can result in serious consequences. As a trekking agency, Himalayan Diamond Adventure takes care of all necessary trekking and climbing permits for our clients before embarking on the adventure trip. The guide or group leader is responsible for keeping the permits at all times and registering them at various checkpoints throughout the journey, including Police checkpoints, Ghorepani, Thikhedunga, and Chhomrung.

08. What kind of travel insurance do I need it?

It is essential for foreign travelers to secure insurance coverage while trekking or climbing in Nepal. Although trekking in Nepal is generally safe, but if you're going to mountaineering in Nepal then the travel insurance is compulsory. During trip it can be posed physical challenges and hazards, especially at high altitudes, where altitude sickness is prevalent among trekkers, especially foreign travelers who may not have acclimatized properly. Physical injuries can also occur on mountain trails, and in emergency situations, foreign trekkers may need to be rescued by helicopter and transported to hospitals in Kathmandu, which can be costly if the traveler does not have insurance coverage.

We recommend that you have insurance worth a minimum of USD 100,000.00, with coverage for high-altitude medical emergencies up to 6,000 meters, natural disasters, accidents, helicopter evacuation, hospitalization, loss of personal belongings, trip interruptions, delays, and cancellations.

09. What kind of equipment and gears do I need?

Here is a list of personal gear and equipment recommended for trekkers and climbers. We highly recommend bringing equipment that has been tested and certified by the Union of International Alpinist Association (UIAA) for mountaineering to ensure safety. At Himalayan Diamond Adventure, we prioritize trustworthy and comfortable equipment to help you achieve your goals. You can refer to our Travel Advice or peak equipment packing list for detailed information on the equipment and gear checklist for 2023. https://www.himalayandiamond.com/gears-pack-list-for-peak-himalayan-diamond-adventure/

10. What Happens If There Is an Emergency?

Our first priority is your safety and security during your stay in the mountains. If you experience an emergency, become ill, or lose your belongings while trekking or climbing in the mountains, it is important to inform your trekking guide or accompanying agency immediately. We will arrange for a helicopter to rescue you immediately and provide medical attention, or report the incident to the nearest police station to recover your lost belongings. Rest assured that we will take appropriate steps to ensure your safety and well-being in a timely manner.

11. What Essential Documents Do I Need to Bring with Me on Tour?

❖ Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and at least 2 blank visa pages

❖ Travel insurance policy document

❖ Photocopies of your passport's personal information page

❖ One or more recent passport-sized photos with a white background (1.5 inch x 1.5 inch)

❖ Completed and signed Nepal visa application form

❖ Proof of accommodation in Nepal (such as a hotel reservation or address)

❖ Valid return flight or travel ticket

❖ Proof of sufficient financial means, such as recent bank statements

❖ Mastercard, Visa, and some cash in USD

❖ Proof of payment of the Nepal visa fee

❖ To obtain a visa for Nepal, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the travel date and you must present either a completed COVID-19 vaccination certificate with QR code or a valid PCR test negative result taken within 72 hours prior to boarding

12. How Do You Stay Healthy During a Trek in Nepal?

To maintain good health during a trek in Nepal, it's important to maintain a balanced diet and proper hydration. Avoid consuming junk, stale, heavily spiced, and roasted foods, as well as meat, fish, eggs, and samosas. Instead, opt for fresh, locally prepared meals and ask your guide for recommendations. Drink only boiled, filtered, or bottled water, and check the expiration date of bottled drinks like Coca Cola and Sprite. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or tea. Walk at a comfortable pace to prevent acute mountain sickness, and make sure to keep your body warm by wearing appropriate clothing.

13. Is Nepal Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Nepal is a safe destination for solo female travelers, as the government takes measures to ensure their safety. However, trekking alone in high mountain regions, particularly above 3500 meters, is not recommended. The country's hilly terrain, with steep ups and downs, poses risks such as rock falls, getting lost, and altitude sickness. It is highly recommended to have a guide or porter for assistance in case of an emergency, or for help with rescue or hospitalization.

14. Why Should You Go Trekking in Nepal?

You should visit Nepal at least once in your life to witness its diversity and vibrant festivals. As the birthplace of Buddha and home to Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world, Nepal offers a chance to explore its diverse ethnic groups, cultures, religions, and traditions. With eight of the world's tallest 8,000-meter peaks and popular treks like the Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp, Nepal is a must-visit destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts.

15. Will You Have to Carry Your Own Stuff?

When trekking alone, you'll need to carry your own gear. Hiring a porter will allow them to carry heavy luggage, while you carry the rest. It's recommended to pack light to avoid excessive weight and minimize the risk of acute mountain sickness, allowing for a more enjoyable trek.

16. Can You Store Extra Baggage or A Suitcase at The Hotel? Is There Any Cost?

Most of the hotels will not charge any extra cost for storing extra baggage or suitcase at the hotel. It is a good idea to do this if you will return back to the same route. Make sure that you don’t leave any jewelry, electronics or items of value in the baggage.

17. Is There Any Weight Limit for Domestic Flights?

For domestic flights in Nepal, the free baggage weight limit is usually 10-25 kgs with an additional luggage extra charge you per kg Nepalese rupees 100 to 125. The free cabin/handbag limit is around 5 kgs.

18. How Long Can I Stay in Nepal with a Tourist Visa?

A Nepal Tourist visa can be issued for 15, 30, or 90 days with the fees changing depending on the number of days you will remain in the country.

19. How Can I Extend a Nepal Visa?

You can extend your Nepal Visa at the headquarters of the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. The office in Kathmandu is the only office of the Immigration Department which extends both tourist and non-tourist visas.

The Immigration Office in Pokhara is only authorized to extend tourist visas. https://www.immigration.gov.np/page/tourist-visa

You have to apply for an extension of your Nepal visa before it expires. If you apply afterward, you will have overstayed your visa, and you can be fined or even detained or arrested. You can extend a tourist visa for 15 days for a fee of USD 45. You have to pay an additional USD 3 for every day after that.

20. What Are Some Popular and Highly Rated Travel Insurance Companies?

We have received positive feedback from our previous travelers regarding the following travel insurance companies: [Company 1], [Company 2], [Company 3]

For Travelers from USA and CANADA........................

Online Global Health Insurance

Travelex

Insure My Trip.com (Online Insurance Aggregator)

Mondial Assistance

Access America

HCC Medical Insurance Services

Good Neighbor Insurance (International Health)

International Health

Insuremytrip dot com

MultiNational Underwriters

TIC Travel Insurance Coordinators Ltd

Travel Assist

TraveLite

For Travelers from England...................................

Specialty Group (UK) Limited

FirstAssist Services Limited

Harrison BeaumontBuy cheap travel insurance

For Travellers from EUROPE and SLOVENIA...........................

Assistance CORIS

For Travellers from AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND

Cover More Travel Insurance

CGU Insurance Limited

For Travellers from SOUTH AFRICA........................................

Travel insurance Consultants Pty. Ltd.