All Hands on Everest Challenge
Participant Information Packet
Updated February 17, 2016
Table of Contents
All Hands Volunteers’ Mission .................................................................................................................... 3
Preparing for your Trip: Packing List ........................................................................................................... 3
Language ..................................................................................................................................................... 5
Cultural Cues ............................................................................................................................................... 5
Visas ............................................................................................................................................................ 5
Trek Itinerary............................................................................................................................................... 6
Pricing and Payments.................................................................................................................................. 9
Important Tidbits ........................................................................................................................................ 9
Travel to Kathmandu, Nepal ..................................................................................................................... 11
Safety and Security ................................................................................................................................... 11
Health ........................................................................................................................................................ 11
High Altitude ............................................................................................................................................. 13
Physical Training Guide ............................................................................................................................. 13
Frequently Asked Questions ..................................................................................................................... 14
The All Hands Story ................................................................................................................................... 15
Past All Hands Deployments ..................................................................................................................... 15
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All Hands Volunteers is thrilled to announce our first ever All Hands On Everest Challenge where we
will take a team of 20 adventurers just like you to Everest Base Camp from May 22nd - June 4th, 2016
in partnership with Explore Himalaya! As all proceeds will be used to help the people of Nepal recover
from last year's devastating earthquake, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to accomplish an
incredible feat of endurance while at the same time, making an enduring impact on a family that has
lost everything. And as you rub shoulders with the beautiful people of Nepal on your journey to
Everest, this adventure is sure to be one of both body and soul.
All Hands Volunteers’ Mission
All Hands Volunteers addresses the immediate and long-term needs of communities impacted
by natural disasters by engaging and leveraging volunteers, partner organizations and local
communities. We aim to demonstrate the power and value of volunteerism through the tangible
work done, the hope it brings to suffering communities, and the transformative experiences it
provides for volunteers.
Preparing for your Trip: Packing List
Porters will be carrying our stuff from place to place. This means pack as light as possible! Shopping
for supplies in Kathmandu is accessible, but shops in Kathmandu may not provide exactly what you
need. Come prepared! If you need specific suggestions, our coordinator would be more than happy to
help! She lived in Nepal for several months :)
The most important things you can bring with you are “broken-in” hiking boots and a good attitude :)
Brand new shoes create the worst blisters. After two weeks of walking several hours a day, your feet
will not be happy with you.
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Must bring:
Recommended but optional:
Duffle bag (easy for porters to carry)
Sleeping bag (It will be very chilly during the night)
Lightweight backpack (for the things you will need during the trek)
Small bag (for important documents including passport/travel insurance info)
Headlamp or flashlight
Trekking poles
Buff
Lightweight pants (two pairs preferable)
Lightweight long underwear top and bottom
Thermal top (light colors are cooler)
Lightweight long underwear bottom
Mid-weight underwear top and bottom (dark colors are preferable because
they do not show dirt)
Trekking pants (two pairs)
Down trousers
Down fleece pants (for evenings)
Briefs (4 pairs synthetic or cotton)
Sports bras
Short-sleeved shirts (Two synthetic; most nylon running shirts or athletic shirts
work well)
Jacket synthetic or fleece
Synthetic insulated pants
Down insulated jacket
Talcum powder
Waterproof breathable jacket & pants (It will be right before monsoon season;
rain may be expected)
Gaiters (keeping mud or snow out of shoes)
Sturdy hiking footwear. Puncture-proof soles are highly recommended.
Light scarf
Second pair of non-hiking footwear
Sleepwear and day-off clothing (modest)
Battery charging packs and/or lots of extra batteries
Gloves
Personal first aid kit (including Diamox, pain reliever, decongestants, hand
sanitizer, lip balm, and lubricant for dry skin)
Personal cash (both US Dollars/Nepalese Rupees) and ATM/credit cards
A printed copy of your travel insurance
Synthetic Wool Socks (approx. three pairs)
Hat (for shielding the sun)
Sunglasses (UV protected), sunscreen (SPF 30+), insect repellent
Personal items, toiletries, small microfiber towel
Reusable water bottle and/or money for buying bottled water
Small pad locks
▪ Books or tablet for reading
▪ Backpack cover (to cover your
bag from potential rain)
▪ Trash bags (to protect your
duffle bag from getting wet)
▪ Rechargeable phone
case/battery pack
▪ Sharpie (for marking your
belongings)
▪ Baby wipes
▪ Pocket knife
▪ Europlug (plug for Nepali outlets)
▪ Rehydration supplements (not
easily accessible in Nepal)
▪ Comfort food
▪ Camera and power adapters
▪ Earplugs and sleep mask
▪ Ziplock bags (these are not
available in Nepal)
If you choose to visit the project site
you will need one pair of work pants
and a pair of steel-toed shoes or
rain boots. All Hands Volunteers
shirts will be provided.
Remember to pack light, space is
limited!
*This is a suggested list of gear that you should bring. There are several websites and guides to follow to find the best
gear for Everest Base Camp. I put together a comprehensive list of the most recommended items. You may rent trekking
gear in Kathmandu or purchase your own and take it with you. It is up to you what gear you want to bring, but this
packing list is here to guide you in the right direction.
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Language
Nepali is the official language in Nepal. All of our porters and guides on the trek speak a decent amount
of English so safety will not be an issue. Learning a few words in Nepali is highly recommended. There
may be a language barrier, but with time and patience, most messages can be conveyed effectively.
Cultural Cues
The Nepali people are very friendly and they are more than willing to help. Politeness should always be
practiced (it is best to avoid swearing). Displays of physical affection should also be kept to a minimum.
Dress Code: Nepali men and women wear very modest clothing. Please be culturally aware with what
you pack and choose sensible outfits. For girls and guys alike, it is recommended to wear long pants
and shirts that cover the shoulders. This is very important as we are visiting small villages where this
custom is highly valued.
Photography: Many of the people you will encounter may be sensitive about having their photos
taken. The trek stops along the way are their homes and it is poor practice to take photographs of
strangers especially children without the necessary consent. Some people may be used to having
tourists take their photo and may ask for compensation in return for posing for a photo.
Visas
A 30 day multiple-entry visa in Nepal is USD $40. You can get the visa upon arrival if you are from the
United States. If your passport expires within the next year, you will need to get it renewed. Getting a
new passport or renewing a passport can take months, so please allow ample time. Please note: you
may need a departure ticket upon entering Nepal.
To pay for the visa, they will require you to pay in US dollars or another major currency. Credit cards
are not always accepted.
If you are from another country outside the United States, your visa qualifications may be different.
Check with your embassy to see what is required for a Nepali visa.
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Trek Itinerary
May 22, 2016: ARRIVE KATHMANDU AND TRANSFER TO HOTEL
It is a panoramic thrill flying into Kathmandu on a clear day. The views of snow-capped mountain peaks
sprawling down below you are almost ecstatic, beginning a whole chain of memorable experiences that stay
with you for a long, long time. As your plane lands at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our waiting
support team will meet and greet you at the arrivals and escort you to your hotel. Overnight at a hotel,
Kathmandu.
May 23, 2016: FLIGHT TO LUKLA and TREK TO PHAKDING
Altitude: 2656 Meters; Trek Length: Approx. 3 Hours
A scenic flight of thirty minutes from Kathmandu brings us to Lukla, cliff hanging airport in Khumbu from where
the treks in Everest Region begin. After meeting the crew, we head up the Dudh Koshi Valley on a well-marked
trail and then stay overnight in Phakding. Overnight at local lodge, Phakding.
May 24, 2016: TREK TO NAMCHE
Altitude: 3450 Meters; Trek Length: Approx. 5-6 Hours
From Phakding, we will cross the river on high suspension bridges. Beyond Monjo is the entrance to the
Sagarmatha National Park which was set-up in order to protect and preserve the fragile mountain environment.
Then, we will take a steep hike to Namche. If the weather is clear, we get the first glimpse of Mt Everest.
Namche is the main trading village in the Khumbu and has a busy Saturday market - a meeting place for the
Hindu traders from the lowlands and the Tibetan yak caravans that have crossed the glaciated Nangpa La.
Overnight at local lodge, Namche.
May 25, 2016: REST DAY IN NAMCHE
Namche is tucked away between two ridges amidst the giant peaks of the Khumbu and has an abundance of
lodges, tea shops and souvenir shops. It is an ideal place to spend a day, acclimatizing to the new altitude before
heading off towards Tengboche. To acclimatize, you can visit Khunde Hospital set-up by Sir Edmund Hillary, or
take a one hour walk up to the Everest View Hotel above Namche for the sunset view of Ama Dablam, Nuptse,
Lhotse and Everest. There are also good views from the National Park Centre and Museum just above the town.
Overnight at local lodge, Namche.
May 26, 2016: TREK TO THYANGBOCHE
Altitude: 3867 Meters; Trek Length: Approx. 5-6 Hours
From Namche, the trail contours on to the side of the valley, high above the Dudh Kosi. We get our first really
good views of the great peaks of the Khumbu including Mt Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse and Ama Dablam. Passing by
several villages and numerous tea shops, we descend steeply to a bridge over the river at Phunki Tenga. The
village is an ideal stopover for lunch. Here we can rest before making the steep climb to Tengboche. Although
the hike up the zigzag path is tiring, it presents us with many beautiful sights of rhododendron bushes with
beautiful birds and superb mountain scenery. Tengboche is famous for its legendary monastery, the largest in
the Khumbu. A spectacular panorama of Everest, Lhotse and Ama Dablam rising in the horizon can be seen from
the lodge. Overnight at local lodge, Tengboche.
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May 27, 2016: TREK TO DINGBOCHE
Altitude: 4350 Meters; Trek Length: Approx. 4-5 Hours
We descend downhill through a forest, cross the Imja Khola and climb steadily to the village of Pangboche. This
village is directly opposite Ama Dablam [6,856 Meters], and has exceptional views of the mountain, with the
gompa, mani walls and scattered pine trees in the foreground. A further two hours walk brings us to Dingboche.
Overnight at local lodge, Dingboche.
May 28, 2016: TREK TO LOBUCHE
Altitude: 4930 Meters; Trek Length: Approx. 4-5 Hours
We continue up the wide valley beneath the impressive peaks of Cholatse and Tawache on the left. We then
turn right and take a steep climb towards the foot of the Khumbu Glacier. The tea house at Duglha is a good spot
to have lunch. The trail zigzags up through the boulders of the glacier's terminal moraine. At the top of this climb
there are many stone cairns, built as memorials to the many Sherpas who have died while climbing Mt Everest.
The path then climbs gently along the glacier, to eventually reach the cluster of houses at Lobuche. Overnight at
local lodge, Lobuche
May 29, 2016: TREK TO GORAK SHEP, TREK TO EVEREST BASE CAMP, AND BACK TO GORAK SHEP
Altitude: 5184 Meters; Trek Length: Approx. 8-9 Hours
The trail offers superb views of the surrounding mountains, especially where the path is forced to rise to cross a
tributary glacier. We will stop for lunch at our resting place: Gorak Shep. Later in the afternoon, we make our
way to the top of Everest Base Camp. As the light begins to fade, we will stroll back to our lodge at Gorak Shep
and have an early night in preparation for our trek to Kalapatthar the following day. Overnight at local lodge,
Gorak Shep.
May 30, 2016: TREK TO KALAPATTHAR AND BACK TO PHERICHE
Altitude: 5554 Meters; Trek Length: Approx. 7-8 Hours
Kalapatthar is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Kalapatthar, meaning “black rock”, provides the most accessible
point to view Mt. Everest from the base camp all the way to its summit. It is one of the highest points you can
access without any mountaineering experience or special equipment. The ascent of Kalapatthar begins at Gorak
Shep, the original base camp of Mt. Everest. After a brief dip to an ancient lake bed (which now contains a small
lake and a helipad), the ascent makes its way up a series of steep switchbacks before levelling off somewhat as it
traverses to the eastern side of the mountain. The trail then becomes steep once again until it reaches the windswept summit ridge. From there, a five to ten minute walk over boulders takes one to the top, which is marked
with prayer flags. A very early start is required to reach the Kalapatthar. It takes several hours as the trail weaves
its way through ice pinnacles and past the crevasses of the Khumbu Glacier. On the return leg, we can take a
higher route to get a spectacular view of the Khumbu icefall and the route to the South Col. We return to
Pheriche. Overnight at local lodge, Pheriche.
May 31, 2016: TREK TO TENGBOCHE
Altitude: 3867 Meters; Trek Length: Approx. 3-4 Hours
Descend the Imja Khola past Pangboche, the highest permanent settlement in the region. Its gompa, the oldest
in Khumbu, is built over the hermitage of Khumbu’s saint, Lama Sanga Dorje. The juniper trees on either side are
said to have sprung from hair cut from his head, and a rock-like projection is said to be a piece of mountainside
he pulled out for protection one day. Overnight at local lodge, Tengboche.
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June 1, 2016: TREK TO MONJO
Altitude: 2835 Meters; Trek Length: Approx. 6-7 Hours
We continue the hillside blanketed by rhododendron and juniper trees. If it's spring, the surrounding adored by
pink and red rhododendron flowers is dazzling. After crossing the prayer flag festooned bridge over the Dudh
Koshi River, trail then follows the Dudh Koshi gorge descending rapidly through the pine forests. Keep a lookout
for wildlife such as mountain goats, snow leopards, colorful pheasants, etc., while we pass through the forest by
the trail. After passing a Chorten, we reach the army camp at of Namche Bazaar. After Namche, we walk down
to the hill, cross some suspension bridges and reach Monjo for an overnight stay.
June 2, 2016: TREK TO LUKLA
Altitude: 2800 Meters; Trek Length: Approx. 5-6 Hours
Our final day's trekking follows the Dudh Kosi down to Lukla. This last evening calls for a celebration. We have a
party with our sherpa guides and porters. We sample some chang (local beer) and try out some Sherpa dance
steps. Altogether an end to a memorable trip on a merry note. Overnight at local lodge, Lukla.
June 3, 2016: FLIGHT TO KATHMANDU AND FREE DAY.
We pack up early and head for the airstrip to hop a flight back to Kathmandu. After reaching Kathmandu, the
rest of your day is free to do your own things. Overnight at Kathmandu.
June 4, 2016: TRANSFER TO AIRPORT FOR INTERNATIONAL DEPARTURE
Our Nepalese support team will take you to the airport for your flight home.
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Pricing and Payments
Non-Refundable Deposit: $300
There is a $300 non-refundable deposit due at time of registration. This will be applied to the cost of the trek.
Trek to Everest Base Camp: $1,135 ($835 with the $300 deposit included)
The remaining $835 balance for the trek is due on April 22, 2016. This will be applied to cover the cost of the
outfitter, Explore Himalaya.
Fundraising Minimum: $3000
The $3,000 fundraising requirement is due by June 18, 2016. 100% of these funds will go directly to help the
people of Nepal recover from the earthquake. This payment can be partially or wholly offset by personal
fundraising efforts by creating and sharing my personal fundraising page.
Important Tidbits
Calling Home: We are in an area where mobile phone service is not readily available. If you download
apps like Whatsapp or Viber, it is possible to call the United States from Nepal for free. This does
require a wireless internet connection. During the trek, wireless internet may not be available. The
best arrangement is calling your phone provider while at home and figuring out the best international
roaming plan. Please note: It will be very expensive to receive and make phone calls using
international sim cards without a designated plan.
You can purchase a local sim card in Kathmandu; there are several options. Make sure your cell phone
is unlocked! N Cell is the largest cell phone provider in Nepal. They may have an international calling
plan that may suit your needs.
Weather: Temperatures are quite hot in May. You will be in Nepal right before the start of the
monsoon season (June to August), so it is best to be prepared for possible rain. It can range anywhere
from 27 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during our trek. Nights will be chilly; if you prefer to bring an extra
blanket or sleeping bag, it is up to you!
Electrical Outlets: The electrical grid supplies 220 - 240 volts of power. Most
electronics will be compatible, but always confirm the specifications of your
device before plugging it in. The plug type used most commonly is the Europlug.
If necessary, you will be able to purchase an adapter from a local store in
Kathmandu. Please consider your electrical needs carefully and pack accordingly.
Please remember that electrical outlets will not always be accessible during the
trek. Bring extra batteries and fully charge your phone in Kathmandu before the
trek! The cold weather has the tendency to drain batteries so sleep with them under your pillow!
Important Food Information: The trek cost covers all meals during each day of the trek. We
recommend NOT eating meat during the trek. All meat is carried up the mountain; animals are not
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killed on site. Sherpas trek the meat for several days and it is not guaranteed to be fresh. Vegetarian
food is highly accessible. Vegans will have to supplement what the trek provides with items they bring
or purchase themselves. Any food purchased outside of what the trek provides will be an additional
cost.
Accommodation: We will be staying in teahouses (a type of guest house) along the way. Teahouses are
equipped with very basic accommodations. Most rooms just include beds with clean sheets. If you are
uncomfortable with these arrangements, you are more than welcome to book a room in a lodge. Our
coordinator will take care of this for you, but there will be an additional housing cost.
A traditional teahouse room
Laundry Services: Some laundry facilities will be available along the way but there are few and far
between. Laundry services do not cost very much (a few dollars per kilogram of laundry). For the days
where laundry is not accessible, talcum powder is good to keep socks smelling nice and moisture
wicking clothing is best for trekking long days. It helps control the sweating.
Reduce Waste: Please remove all unnecessary packaging for anything you bring on the trip. It is
important to take only what you truly need for your trip. While on your trek, please do not leave any
trash behind. Trash left behind can harm wildlife and the delicate balance of the ecosystem. If you
must use tobacco products on your trip, please carry all cigarette waste out with you. Cigarettes are
not biodegradable and can have an immense impact on the environment and trails.
Environmental Awareness: Conserve water whenever possible. Please use only biodegradable soap
when washing outside. Do your best to stay on designated paths and avoid damaging plant life. During
the trek, try to keep noise to a minimum. It disturbs wildlife and others who may be in the area.
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Travel to Kathmandu, Nepal
How to Get There: Book your flights into Kathmandu, Nepal. The airport three letter code is KTM.
Google Flights is a great source for booking flights. It provides plenty of options and you can easily filter
the information you need (arrival time, airline preference, etc.)
Please remember that flights are NOT included into the overall cost of the trek. This is an additional
cost that you must cover on your own.
If Something Goes Wrong: Relax. Take a deep breath. This is international travel and something is
always going to go wrong. That's part of the fun, right? Patience and a smile go a long way in a
stressful situation. There are always people willing to help you out.
If you need assistance, please email our coordinator at [email protected]. Closer to the
time of the trek, she will have a local Nepalese contact number that will be accessible to all
participants.
Safety and Security
Safety in Nepal: We feel it is critical that all potential participants make well-informed decisions while
considering joining us, or any other organization, in Nepal to trek Everest Base Camp. All Hands
Volunteers would not support the trek if we didn't feel it was safe, particularly in a disaster-affected
area. We encourage you to do your own research before deciding if you’re comfortable with the living
conditions and operating in what may be a different environment for you.
Natural Disaster Information: After a year of recovery, Nepal is still at risk to earthquakes, aftershocks,
and landslides. The decision to travel to a disaster zone is a personal one and you should do your own
research to make sure this opportunity is right for you at this time.
Outfitter Information: Explore Himalaya is hosting our trek! Our point of contact is Prachanda
Shivakotee. If you need any additional information about their organization, I can forward your
questions to him. Their website is located at www.explorehimalaya.com.
Health
Traveling to new climates and exposing yourself to extreme exertion and high altitude can takes its toll,
so it is vital to look after your health from the moment you sign up. The likelihood of serious problems
is minimized when you are well prepared. Volunteers should be in good physical health, as this trek will
require long distance walking at high altitudes during the summer.
Here are a few tips to staying healthy and preventing Traveler’s Diarrhea:
● Wash hands thoroughly after going to the toilet, before handling food or eating.
● Carry anti-bacterial hand gel.
● Stick with bottled water and avoid ice unless you are sure it is made from treated water. This
includes water used while brushing your teeth.
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Eat freshly cooked food, and ensure it is piping hot.
Tea and coffee are safe to drink as long as the water has been boiled correctly.
Wine, beer, carbonated water, soft drinks, and bottled fruit juices are also fine to drink. Check
to make sure the seal is not broken before drinking.
Speak to your healthcare provider about prescription medications that you can take with you
for the treatment of severe traveler’s diarrhea.
Animal and Insect Information: Avoid contact with any animals, even if they appear tame. Animal bites
can cause infections or rabies which can become serious or fatal. Try to avoid insect bites as they too
can carry diseases. Carry bug or mosquito spray and use it at dusk or in wet weather.
Vaccinations: A tetanus vaccination is highly recommended, but you should consult your GP or travel
health clinic at least two months prior to departure for further advice. Some vaccinations cannot be
given at the same time and some take time to be effective. See your doctor even if you are going at
short notice, as some protection may be better than none at all. We recommend visiting the CDC
website for current vaccination updates.
Dehydration and Sun Protection: It is vital to drink plenty of water during your trip as dehydration is
common among visitors to high altitude locations. Drink at least eight cups of water a day excluding
soft drinks, coffee, and alcohol. It is important to add more salt to your diet; you will be losing salt as
you sweat during the trek. You are more likely to get sunburned at higher altitudes even if when the
sun is not visible. Wear SPF 30+ sunscreen every day to prevent sunburn. We highly recommend
wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, sunglasses and a hat during the day to prevent symptoms of
heat exhaustion.
First Aid Kit: While these items are accessible in Kathmandu, it would be best to bring a fully-stocked
first aid kit before leaving home. It is always best to be prepared in case anything were to happen.
Diamox (acetazolamide) is useful in the prevention of high altitude sickness. Diamox reduces
headaches and helps the body acclimatize to the lack of oxygen. Pain reliever, decongestants, lip balm,
sunscreen and lubricant for dry skin are all must haves.
Medical Emergencies: In the case of a serious sickness or casualty, which we believe will not happen,
you will be rescued by a helicopter. Since you are liable for all expenses incurred during an evacuation,
please make sure that it is covered by your insurance before agreeing to it or be prepared to pay the
full cost after getting back to Kathmandu. Our guides will arrange for a runner to inform Explore
Himalaya’s office. Please keep in mind that medical facilities are not readily available along the trek
and you will have to go back to Kathmandu for proper medical care.
Travel Insurance: It is your responsibility to ensure that you are appropriately covered for the trek. We
ask that our participants bring a hard copy of their insurance policy including all of the necessary
international contact information in case anything were to happen. We recommend both World
Nomads and Seven Corners for travel insurance options.
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High Altitude
The All Hands on Everest Challenge takes place at high altitude. High altitude is generally considered
to be any elevation above 5,000 feet, but altitude sickness generally only occurs above 8,000 feet.
Healthy participants may walk to altitudes up and above the height of Kalapatthar (18,222 ft.) as long
as they are properly acclimatized. If you are not acclimatized, you could suffer from a lack of oxygen.
As you ascend, you will notice an increase in pulse rate and breathing rate as your body works harder
to get available oxygen to the muscles. Sufficient acclimatization is imperative so as to avoid illness
when at altitude.
Not all changes you will experience as you climb to higher altitudes are abnormal or dangerous. Some
normal things you may experience on your trek are: shortness of breath during exertion, faster or
deeper breathing, increased urination, waking up frequently at night, and changed breathing pattern at
night. We want you to have the best possible experience during the trek! All of us at All Hands
Volunteers care about your health and want you to have an amazing journey. Please do your research!
Physical Training Guide
The All Hands on Everest Challenge is designed to be physically challenging for anyone in reasonably
good shape. It is a good idea to have a medical check-up and begin a physical fitness regime before
your trip. The recommended amount of time to prepare is 10 to 16 weeks. Although preparations will
be made to accommodate different levels of hiking expertise, you should prepare yourself as much as
possible; the more prepared you are, the more you will enjoy your trip.
Climbing and trekking require full body conditioning. You don’t have to be able to run marathons but
you do need to be confident in your body’s abilities to respond to what you are going to ask it to do.
Getting ready gradually will make the process a rewarding one. If you do not already have a fitness
routine, start preparing for your challenge as soon as possible! A slow but steady pace is important
during the trek.
Stretching is vital to any workout routine. Ensure that you stretch all muscle groups before and after
every workout. Specific muscles that must be stretched are neck, shoulders, waist, back, arms,
hamstrings, quadriceps, groin, calves, and ankles. Prepare with cardiovascular training several times a
week: cycling, swimming, hill climbing and lots of walking. Aim for a five-hour walk once a week. Seek
out hills or find a tall building and repeatedly walk up and down the stairs. Weight training is key to
developing the muscles you will need to make daily life on your trip enjoyable. You can find classes at
your local gym if you are unsure about what to do in a weight room. Rest is an important element to
your training. If you do not give your body adequate time to recover, you won’t give your body time for
the muscles to grow and develop. You will want to be completely rested for your trip. Your fitness
should be at its prime by two weeks before your climb. At that point, you should reduce your effort
levels and rest up.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I confirm my spot for the trek?
To confirm your spot, there are two steps you must complete.
1. You must submit the $300 non-refundable deposit for the trek by contacting Ashley Corral at
(323) 510-6266 or [email protected].
2. Download and complete the Personal Information Form and the Credit Card Authorization.
Email [email protected].
We highly suggest creating a personal fundraising page to meet your $3000 minimum! Information on setting up
the fundraising page will be at your disposal after contacting Ashley to reserve your spot.
Can I buy a mattress or boots locally?
Yes, all of these things are available for purchase in Kathmandu.
How do I exchange money in Nepal?
You can withdraw Nepalese Rupees (NPR) from local ATMs in Kathmandu. Exchange rates are competitive and
ATMs are easily accessible in the Thamel area. Fees from the ATM and your home bank may apply. US dollars,
Euros, and other major currencies can be exchanged at local banks and at money exchange kiosks in Kathmandu.
Please note: There are no ATMs in Lukla or Namche Bazaar. You must take out all the money you will need
BEFORE the trek. Kathmandu is the best place to do this.
What kind of food will we have during the trek?
The trekking company will provide a standard breakfast, lunch and dinner. Tea or coffee will also be included
with each meal. Your guide will help with menu selection and ensure that you get the best value meals possible.
Although the food is usually plentiful and delicious, you should be aware that the menu is not extensive. Most
teahouses offer a variety of rice and noodle dishes, as well as soup and vegetables. A variety of cereals, bread
and egg dishes are generally available for breakfast. There will also be plenty of snacks available and in some
areas you will find fresh fruit in season. You can buy bottled mineral water from a lodge or shop en route or you
can also ask your guide to fill your water bottle with boiled water and treat with water purification pills.
How to avoid jet lag and deal with culture shock?
If you are traveling to Nepal from a different country, set your watch to the correct local time and try to do
things on Nepal time to avoid jet-lag. Adjusting your routine immediately will shorten jet-lag and allow you to
get the most from your trip. Culture shock is another element of your trip worth mentally preparing for, so stay
in the mindset that your daily routine will change on this trip - that’s the point! Don’t try to change your
surroundings to meet expectations of life in your home country; rather try to experience and enjoy the
differences.
Any additional questions?
Call (323) 510-6266 to speak to our All Hands on Everest Challenge Coordinator, Ms. Ashley Corral. You may also
email her at [email protected].
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The All Hands Story
Our story begins after the devastating Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami in December 2004.
Business professional David Campbell spontaneously headed to Thailand to see how he could help. His
intended one-week volunteer visit turned into a month, during which he co-founded HandsOnThailand
and worked with more than 200 other spontaneous volunteers to rebuild five fishing villages in Phuket.
After Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast of the U.S. in late 2005, David and several other HandsOn
volunteers established HandsOnUSA, coordinating 1,500 volunteers to help the survivors of the storm.
In 2010, HandsOnUSA became All Hands Volunteers.
Dedicated to connecting those who need help with those who want to help for the past 10 years, All
Hands has mobilized over 33,000 volunteers from over 93 different countries on 64 disaster response
and rebuild projects in 9 countries around the world. While the true power comes from volunteers, All
Hands can continue to respond to disasters around the world because of the tireless support of our
dedicated staff and board. For more information, visit hands.org/about-us.
Past All Hands Deployments
Since its inception, All Hands Volunteers has provided support to survivors of natural disasters
with over fifty projects in the United States and around the world.
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