Himalayan High Treks doesn't like fine print and neither should you! Our administrative procedures have been honed during our 20 year history to make things as simple for you as possible — keeping our prices low while offering exceptional service. Here are all the specifics on our trip policies — what we generally include and do not include, as well as all limitations you need to know (remember that each trip has unique accommodations, staff, meals or other peculiarities — consult each trip itinerary for specific trip information).

To register for a trip, visit our Trip Application page and submit a completed online registration form with your deposit. The deposit amount is plainly indicated on each trip description page and is generally $250USD for treks and $500USD for tours. There are several options available for deposit and balance payment. A completed HHT Application Form is also available for download — its submission is required to complete the registration process for each participant. The reverse side of the application form also shows the information presented below.

Reservations: To reserve space on a trip please complete and return an application form with your deposit towards the land cost. You may pay your deposit with a credit card. The balance of the land cost is due and payable 60 days before departure. Let us know if you would like us to arrange a credit card payment plan. We recommend that you reserve as early as possible in order to receive the best service. In most cases, trips close around two months before departure. If it possible to accept you on a trip closer to a departure date we will but there will be a $100 late booking fee.

After we receive your application we will send you a confirmation letter with health forms to fill out and information on trip cancelation and emergency evacuation insurance. Next, we will conduct a telephone interview after which you will receive a trip package containing: Trip Notes, Trip Itinerary, Packing List, Reading List, Language Guide & Medical Preparations. We will also call you to answer any questions you may have. We will help you with your airline reservations. You can go early or stay after the trip.

Costs and Inclusions:

The land cost for the trip includes the following:

The land cost of the trip does not include the following:

Changes: The descriptions, dates, and prices on this website have been compiled with reasonable care and are accurate at the time of publication. Due to currency fluctuations, political conditions, and the rising cost of services, Himalayan High Treks reserves the right to change any of the above. In addition, HHT reserves the right to change the itinerary of a trip at any time; for example, if it is advisable for the safety of the group or in order to comply with governmental restrictions.

Insurance: We require you to carry travel insurance to cover emergency evacuation and medical costs. We strongly suggest that you carry additional insurance to cover trip cancellation or interruption, baggage or other personal possession losses.

Photographs: Photographs for the purpose of publicity may be taken while you are traveling with HHT. These photographs may be used for marketing purposes. Note, you may be contacted after your trip by prospective clients for references.

Travel Documents: A valid passport and visas for the countries to be visited are required. Details on applying for a passport and visas can be supplied, however obtaining them is your responsibility.

Cancellations: If you decide to cancel and notify us in writing before departure, we will refund your money after subtracting the following fee:

Transfers: If you change from one trip to another up to 61 days before your original departure date, there is no transfer fee. If you transfer within 60 days of departure our normal cancellation fees apply. If we cancel your trip before departure because it is under booked or for any other reason, you are entitled to a complete refund of the land cost minus a small administrative fee ($50USD for treks and $100USD for tours). We are not responsible for additional expenses you may have incurred in preparation.

Potential Savings: Sign up and pay for your trip in full 6 months in advance and we will discount your trip $100. Doctors and other qualified medical personnel may qualify for a 20% discount on land costs. Please call or write for details.

Weather: Conditions in the mountains varies with altitude. Generally daytime temperatures range between 50 and 70 degrees and nighttime temperatures between 20 and 50 degrees. Treks are scheduled for times when the weather is expected to be mostly clear, however there's always a chance of unexpected rain or snow. When you sign up for a trip you will receive a detailed Trip Package which will include information on weather conditions.

Equipment: We will be sending you a detailed packing list, but in general you will need to bring a warm jacket, rain jacket, pack, sleeping bag and pad, hiking boots, clothing and toiletries. Some equipment can be rented.

Health Precautions: Make sure you are as healthy as possible before you leave home. Check that your teeth are in good shape and get all your immunizations at the right times. The most common health problem is diarrhea. It is very hard to avoid, but we minimize the risks by eating most of our meals in camp (except on the teahouse treks). All water used for cooking and drinking is purified. Most problems can be treated on the trek. Some trips are physically demanding and at high altitudes. Most people can adapt to high-altitude travel given enough time to acclimatize. The treks start off slowly and adhere to safety recommendations. Himalayan High Treks will attempt to secure, but does not guarantee, the services of emergency medical personnel. Medical facilities in most areas will be severely limited or nonexistent. However, a well supplied first aid kit will be carried and the trip leaders are trained in First Aid.

Food: On all treks except teahouse treks, food is prepared by our own camp cook. On the teahouse treks, food is prepared by the staff of the lodges where we stay. Food at teahouses varies but is often better then you'd expect. The food is simple but nutritious and delicious.

Here's a sample menu for a day while camping (local specialties are linked so you get an idea what they are. Close those new windows or tabs to return here):

Personal Hygiene: A limited amount of warm water will be made available for washing. On rest days trekkers may want to wash clothes, hair and bodies with water from streams or rivers with biodegradable soap. In camp, a latrine will be dug a short distance from the tents. Teahouses often have showers and will always have a simple outhouse.

Difficulty: The trips vary in difficulty, but on all treks you will not be carrying a full pack, just a day pack with your water bottle, camera, etc. We don't walk more then eight to twelve miles per day (usually three to six hours). There are also occasional rest days. Most people in good health who exercise regularly are able to enjoy the trips. The most important requirement is to have a good, positive mental attitude. Physical exertion should not be something you dislike. If you have any questions regarding your ability, feel free to call us at anytime.

Custom Trips: We can arrange a custom itinerary for your group of any size to any part of the Himalayan region. A small non-refundable development fee will be charged. This can be applied towards the land cost of the trip. Call or write for more information.

References: We encourage you to talk to our past customers. Call and ask for our list of references. You will probably find it most useful to talk to people who went on the trip you are considering.

An Important Final Note: We have a policy of inclusion. We invite everyone regardless of race, religion or sexual preference to participate in our trips. Let's celebrate our diversity.