Bhutan Himalayan Trek to Gangkar Puensum Basecamp
Stand in awe at the foot of tallest unclimbed peak in the world!
Embark on an enriching journey through the cultural marvels and rugged trekking terrain of Bhutan to basecamp for the spectacular 7,570‑m/ 24,829-ft Gangkar Puensum. Revered as the world’s highest unclimbed summit, this sacred mountain adds an aura of mystique to the journey. Over the span of 9 exhilarating days on the trail, you will trek amidst lush conifer and rhododendron forests, and across lofty mountain passes adorned with fluttering Buddhist prayer flags. Along the way, the trekking team will encounter the resilient farmers and yak herders of the highlands, gaining insights into Bhutan’s harmonious coexistence with its pristine environment and rich Buddhist heritage.
Commencing from the picturesque town of Paro and traversing through the capital city of Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdi, Trongsa, and the serene Bumthang Valley, this expedition promises an immersive blend of cultural exploration and invigorating trekking experiences. Prepare to be captivated by the unparalleled splendor of Bhutan’s Himalayan panorama, woven seamlessly with the tapestry of its cultural legacy.
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Price
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Gangkar Puensum Trek
$6,900 – 18 Days / Includes travel time
Minimum 6 participants
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Price Includes
- Guide(s) and staff
- Bhutan Visa and SDF Fees
- Trekking permit fees
- All scheduled hotel nights (double occupancy)
- All scheduled restaurant meals (alcoholic beverages not included)
- All accommodations and food while on the trek
- All team trekking gear, tents and cooking gear
- All support staff including cooking staff, porters and pack animals
- Ground transportation and airport transfers
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Price Does Not Include
- International airfare to predetermined airport
- Group flight to/from Paro likely from Bangkok (~$1000). Mountain Madness will arrange this flight — please contact our office for details.
- Domestic flight on Day 16 if applicable (~$250)
- Excess baggage charges
- Personal equipment and clothing
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- Travel insurance with trip cancellation, medical and evacuation policy
- All expenses associated with non-scheduled departure
- Guide/Staff gratuities
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Payment Schedule
- $700 deposit at time of registration, which includes a $300 non-refundable registration fee
- Balance due 120 days prior to departure
- The balance may be paid by check, wire transfer, ACH or credit card with a 3% convenience fee
Dates
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2024-2025 Gangkar Puensum Trek Dates
- Sep 30, 2024 — Oct 17, 2024
- May 10, 2025 — May 27, 2025
Policies
Cancellation / Refund Policy
- MMI strongly recommends trip cancellation/interruption and evacuation insurance for all trips. Our insurance partner, Ripcord, offers comprehensive travel insurance including trip cancellation, as well as rescue/evacuation policies and can assist in answering any questions. In addition, Participant is expected to have sufficient medical insurance as prescribed by their country of origin. Participant understands that MMI does not include any type of insurance with the cost of the trip.
- If you decide to cancel your trip or change your itinerary, MMI must be notified in writing. Your trip will be cancelled from the date written notice is received. If proper written cancellation notice is not received, amounts paid and reservations made will be forfeited.
- Non-refundable fees may apply for certain trips in order to secure permits and other services. MMI must strictly adhere to cancellation policies outside MMI’s control.
- Due to the personalized service we offer on our trips, MMI reserves the right to waive any fees. We will attempt to accommodate changes and cancellations, waiving certain fees when feasible.
- Circumstances outside the control of MMI and its partners, may require amended cancellation/refund policies. Such circumstances may include, but are not limited to COVID-19, natural disasters, wildfires, terrorism and so forth.
International Trips/Courses:
- Full refund, less the non-refundable registration fee, will be provided 121 days or more before the departure date
- No refunds will be provided 120 days or less before the departure date
Trip Insurance
We strongly recommend the purchase of travel cancellation insurance to protect you from the unexpected. You aren’t likely to think of it now, but people do get ill, break a bone, have a family emergency or get assigned to a last-minute business trip. If you are in remote areas, please note that emergency rescue & evacuation can be very expensive.
We also strongly urge you to consider rescue and evacuation insurance if your own policy does not provide the coverage needed. Services available may include, but are not limited to, helicopter evacuation, medical care, etc.
If you choose not to purchase insurance, you assume full responsibility for any expenses incurred in the event of a medical emergency and/or evacuation, as well as for trip cancellation, interruption, lost luggage, etc. We are not the experts and therefore ask that you please consult our travel insurance partner directly with any specific questions.
To protect against losses due to illness, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances, Mountain Madness strongly recommends the purchase of travel insurance as soon as possible after making a deposit. Mountain Madness has partnered with Redpoint Resolutions as our preferred travel insurance provider. Redpoint’s Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ is designed for adventurers.
For a quote, or to purchase travel insurance, please click this link Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ or call +1 – 415-481‑0600. Pricing varies based on age, trip cost, trip length, and level of coverage.
Critical benefits of Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance include:
- A completely integrated program with a single point of contact for emergency services, travel assistance, and insurance claims
- Evacuation and rescue services from your point of injury or illness to your hospital of choice
- Comprehensive travel insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, primary medical expense coverage, baggage loss or delay, emergency accident and emergency sickness medical expense, emergency dental, accidental death and dismemberment, and more
- Optional security evacuation coverage in case of an unplanned natural disaster or other security events
- Waiver for pre-existing conditions (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
- Optional “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
Itinerary
The total number of days for your trip includes all travel to and from your destination, with some exceptions. Dates listed on the website start with your departure date from the U.S. and include the day you arrive home. For this trip we will take a group flight between Paro & Bangkok on Day 3 & 17 of the itinerary. This flight will be arranged by Mountain Madness. Please confirm your flights with our office before booking.
Bhutan Gangkar Puensum Trek Day By Day
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Days 1-2
Travel
Depart from home and begin the journey to Paro, Bhutan.
Please note that team will be on a group flight to Paro which will be arranged by Mountain Madness. This flight will likely originate in Bangkok, but we ask you to please contact the Mountain Madness office before booking your flights to Bangkok.
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Day 3
Paro
Elevation: 7,200 ft / 2,194 m
After arriving at Paro International Airport, we begin our introduction to Bhutan with an orientation and a sweeping view of Paro town, followed by a visit to Paro’s impressive monastery-fortress (dzong). Dropping by the hotel so that you can get settled in, we’ll then make a late afternoon visit to an ancient temple dating back to the earliest stories of Buddhism in Bhutan.
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Day 4
Tiger’s Nest & Thimphu
Elevation: 10,236 ft / 3,120 m
Distance: 4 miles / 6.5 km
In the morning, we hike to one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Bhutan, the fabled Tiger’s Nest monastery (5−6 hrs r/t) perched high on a cliff. Nearby, we also find a more secluded temple with a fierce feminine goddess. On the way down, we stop at a teahouse for lunch. After our day of hiking, we drive 1.5 hours to the capital of Thimphu.
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Day 5
Punakha
Elevation: 3,936 ft / 1,200 m
The day starts out with a drive through a forest of pine and hemlock adorned with hanging lichens all the way up to Dochula Pass (3,115m / 10,220ft) where we’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayas. From the top of the pass we’ll descend down to the fertile valley of Punakha where we’ll stretch our legs with a short hike up to the 14th Century Temple Chhimilakhang at the top of the hill. We’ll finish the day with a drive to Punakha Dzong where we’ll overnight in a hotel.
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Day 6
Bumthang
Elevation: 9185 ft / 2800 m
Today we finish the drive to Bumthang. Once in town we’ll visit the local Dzong before final preparations for the start of trek.
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Day 7
Lungsum
Elevation: 10,400 ft / 3170 m
Distance: 7.5 miles / 12 km
After a short drive to the trailhead we’ll meet our ponies who will be carrying the loads for the trek. Once the gear is all loaded, we begin hiking through the village and up along the Dur River through dwarf bamboo forests (look for red pandas!). After a fairly steep climb of about 600ft we reach a meadow surrounded by blue pine and spruce trees. We’ll continue uphill watching the bamboo fade into rhododendrons and a mix of other conifer trees. After a few river crossings we reach Lungsum Camp.
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Day 8
Tashisa
Elevation: 13,600 ft / 4145 m
Distance: 8.7 miles / 14 km
Our morning starts with a descent down a rocky trail to the river then continues up and down with some gradual elevation gain through forests of cypress, pine, rhododendron and birch. We’ll reach a meadow surrounded by Juniper that’s used by local yak herders. After crossing the wooden bridge we come to a junction. We’ll stay to the right and continue uphill along the stream until we reach the treeline and are surrounded by rocky cliffs. We’ll make camp here, Tashisa Camp.
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Day 9
Dollythang
Elevation: 13,350 ft / 4070 m
Distance: 8 miles / 13 km
Views of the mountains become more and more abundant today. If weather permits we’ll have stellar views of distant glaciers and snow capped peaks. We ascend up to Dolly La Pass (15,700ft) then descend down to a lakeside camp at Dollythang.
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Day 10
Tsawa
Elevation: 12,400 ft / 3780 m
Distance: 9 miles / 15 km
From our lakeside camp well ascend through some dwarf rhododendron forstes before crossing the Chamkhar River and heading north alongside the riverside trail. Keep your eyes peeled for views of Mt. Menlakarchung before descending to the camp in a meadow alongside the river.
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Day 11
Bamarpo
Elevation: 14,530 ft / 4430 m
Distance: 12.5 miles / 20 km
Today we’ll ascend through more rhododendron and bamboo forests as we gradually gain more elevation. Eventually the trail widens to an open meadow. From here the forest thins out and we’re surrounded by snowcapped peaks. We’ll pass through several yak herder camps today where we might find ourselves invited into a hut for a cup of butter tea.
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Day 12
Rest Day / Short Hike
Elevation: 14,530 ft / 4430 m
Distance: TBD
Rest day! Sleep in, enjoy a second cup of tea, or get up and watch the sunrise. Our camp has spectacular views of Gangkar Puensum (24,735ft.) so kick back and enjoy the views. Take some time to get cleaned up (yes showers!) and do some self & gear maintenance. In the afternoon we may take a short hike along one of the ridgelines to get a better view of the mountains.
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Day 13
Tshampa
Elevation: 12,054 ft / 3674 m
Distance: 14 miles / 22 km
Today may feel a little easy as we head downstream to camp in either a meadow, or if we go a little further we’ll reach the confluence of two rivers. Another opportunity to visit some yak herders may be an option today.
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Day 14
Gophu
Elevation: 10,722 ft / 3268 m
Distance: 9.3 miles / 15 km
The downhill continues today through more rhododendron and bamboo forests. Put your gaiters on today as there may be some mud! Keep your eyes peeled for the Himalayan Blood Pheasants and several other bird species who inhabit these forests.
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Day 15
Khaktang / Jakar
Elevation: 10,722 ft / 3268 m
Distance: 10 miles / 16 km
Our last day on the trail is filled with several stream crossings, some slippery logs and maybe a little more mud. The hard work is rewarded with some beers, cokes and cookies at the trailhead where our van awaits! After some celebration photos with the team we’ll head to the hotel to get cleaned up and enjoy our celebration dinner!
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Day 16
Paro/Thimphu
We have a couple options here so we’ll stay flexible today. Our first option is to load up for a long drive back to Thimphu or Paro (~8 hours). Alternatively, if there is a flight available, we’ll jump on a quick flight (cost not included ~$250) back to Paro then continue on to Thimphu for a city tour.
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Day 17
Paro
Say goodbye to Bhutan and depart for home.
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Day 18
Travel
Connecting flights home.
Equipment for Bhutan Himalayan Trek to Gangkar Puensum Basecamp
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Carrying Gear
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Day pack (30-45L)
With padded shoulder straps and waist belt; used for carrying personal gear such as water bottle, extra clothing, snacks, camera, etc. Individual loads will be between 10 and 20 pounds. A pack with a volume between 1800-2500 cu. in. (30-45 liters) serves most people’s needs well
Examples:
Osprey Stratos
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Pack cover
Waterproof cover
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Large duffel bag (100L capacity)
Your mountain gear will be kept in it and the entire duffel will go into the group mountain bag that will be carried by the porters. Limit loads to items on the equipment list. Your large duffel cannot exceed 25 kgs (55lbs) Approximate size: 28”x16”x16” No wheels or hard sides, please
Examples:
Patagonia Black Hole
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Small duffel bag
Large enough to hold everything you’re not taking on the mountain. Will be stored at hotel, to be used after trip
Examples:
Patagonia Black Hole
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Small padlock for duffel bags
Extra security
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Baggage tags
Makes identifying your bags easy at airports or hotels
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Sleeping Gear
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Sleeping pad (inflatable or closed cell foam)
A foam pad will be provided but a supplemental pad is recommended. This can be an inflatable or closed cell foam pad. Make sure to purchase a pad rated for cold conditions.
Examples:
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir & Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol
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Expedition quality sleeping bag (-10-0F)
One down or synthetic bag rated from -10 - 0°F /-18 to -23°C
Examples:
Feathered Friends Snowbunting, Marmot Never Summer
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Climbing Gear
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Adjustable trekking poles
Three piece poles recommended
Examples:
Black Diamond Trail Back Pole
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Head and Face
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Balaclava or Buff
A thin balaclava will add significant warmth on that cold summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research, Marmot
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Bandanas or neck gaiter
Various uses, i.e. cleaning glasses, sun protection when tied around the neck, etc. We have our own Mountain Madness neck gaiter available for purchase!
Examples:
Mountain Madness neck gaiter
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Fleece or wool hat
It must cover the ears
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Shade hat or baseball cap
A visor hat with a good brim is essential for protection from the sun
Examples:
Mountain Madness trucker hat
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Sunglasses or Glacier glasses (w/hard case)
Essential eye protection whether in the tropics, at high altitudes or by the water. Sun glare off the snow can be intense so polarized 100% UVA/UVB glasses work best. Consider bringing a spare pair
Examples:
Julbo
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Hands
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Climbing gloves
A shell system of a fleece liner and waterproof shell that handles cold
Examples:
Outdoor Research Arete
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Fleece gloves
Lightweight gloves to use while trekking and hanging around camp
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Softshell gloves
One pair medium-weight for daily wear when it’s not too cold
Examples:
Black Diamond Arc, Arcteryx Zenta LT Glove
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Feet
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Gaiters
One pair of gaiters made of breathable material; keeps dirt and snow out of boots. Make sure they fit over your boots
Examples:
Outdoor Research Verglas or Crocodiles
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Hiking boots
One pair medium-weight hiking/backpacking boots, waterproof, large enough to be comfortable with one thin and one thick sock
Examples:
Salomon Quest 4D
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Tennis shoes or sandals
Lightweight to wear in camp after a long day of hiking
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Thick socks (2 pair)
Two pairs of synthetic or wool socks, medium to heavyweight. Check boot fit with thin and thick socks on
Examples:
Smartwool or Thorlo
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Thick socks (3 pair)
Three pairs of synthetic or wool socks, medium to heavyweight. Check boot fit with thin and thick socks on
Examples:
Smartwool or Thorlo
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Upper Body
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Down or synthetic jacket w/hood
This is your most important piece of warm gear and will mean the difference between an enjoyable climb or a miserable one. A warm, full zip jacket with hood is ideal.
Examples:
Helly Hansen Vanir, Feathered Friends Volant, Marmot Guide’s Down Hoody, Outdoor Research Virtuoso Hoody
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Hardshell jacket w/ hood
A good jacket made of Gore-Tex (recommended) or waterproof nylon, roomy enough to fit over multiple layers
Examples:
Outdoor Research Foray, Patagonia Triolet
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Long-sleeved Base Layer
Two lightweight to mediumweight, pull-over is best
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Softshell Jacket w/ hood
This is what you will be wearing while hiking at higher altitudes or while kicking around camps at lower altitude. This jacket should be full-zip
Examples:
Outdoor Research Ferrosi
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Sun hoody
This piece with a high SPF rating and lightweight fabric offers protection from high altitude sun
Examples:
Outdoor Research
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Synthetic t-shirts
Two synthetic or merino wool t-shirts. No cotton!
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Lower Body
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Hardshell pants
waterproof and breathable with side zips (minimum of ¾ zips recommended) Gore-Tex or equivalent
Examples:
Outdoor Research Furio, Arcteryx Beta AR
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Hiking shorts
One pair of quick-drying shorts. Good for hiking at lower elevations on the mountain
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Long base layer
Two pairs light or mediumweight
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Softshell pants
Softshell pants are water resistant, yet highly breathable and durable. Great for colder conditions over a pair of long underwear or tights higher on the mountain or summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research Voodoo, Mountain Hardwear Touren, Patagonia Guide
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Undergarments
Adequate supply for the entire trip
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Miscellaneous
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Ear plugs
To block out snoring and other noise to ensure a good night's sleep
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Electronics charging
If you want to charge your electronics along the way, a small, lightweight solar panel to charge batteries or portable charging device may be a good addition
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Hand sanitizer
enough to last trip length
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Handi-Wipes
A small pack or two anti-bacterial are great for general hygiene
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Headlamp
Bring extra batteries!
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Insect repellent
A must!
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Lip balm
Must have SPF rating of 20 or more. Bring two just in case!
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Nausea medications
Pepto Bismol tablets; Maalox, Gelusil M or Mylanta antacid tablets. Donnatal for stomach cramps. Probiotic capsules taken daily may help keep your gastro-intestinal system working smoothly
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Personal electronics
Phone with camera, and/or separate camera. Bring extra batteries and memory!
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Personal first aid and drug kit
small personal first aid kit with ample bandaids and moleskin
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Pocket knife or multitool
Simple Swiss Army type with scissors. Make sure you transport in checked bag, not carry-on!
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Poncho
A poncho is great for lower down on the mountain when it is raining. Rather than having to wear your hard-shell jacket and overheat, just throw the poncho over yourself and your pack and you will stay dry as a bone
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Snacks (trek)
Trail snacks are important. Bring some power/energy/candy bars or if there is something else you particularly like to eat while hiking. You will be fed well throughout the trek, so this is just something extra
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Spare bottle for a pee bottle, and a pee funnel (Lady J or Freshette) for women
It can be a cold walk to the toilet at night
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Spare contacts and glasses
Contacts can be a problem in dusty conditions, so make sure you have your back-up glasses with you. Glasses wearers should have a spare set
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Stuff sacks/ditty bags/plastic bags
To organize gear in your duffle and pack. All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large heavyweight plastic bags (trash compactor bags work great)
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Sunscreen
Bring plenty of sun block with SPF of 40 or more. It's easy to underestimate the amount necessary for your trip!
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Toilet paper
1 – 2 rolls stored in a plastic bag
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Toiletries
Toothbrush and paste, comb, tampons, biodegradable soap (small amount), etc. Bring enough for the entire trip
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Towel
For wash up in camp
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Travel clothing
Comfortable clothing for travel before and after the expedition
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Travel power adapter
Most come in kits with all the plugs you need. Double-check to make sure you’re taking the correct adapter/plugs
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Umbrella (optional)
Protection from rain and sun; compact and light weight
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Water Bottles/Water System (Trekking)
Two one-liter, wide-mouthed plastic bottles. If you use a collapsible water bottle or hydration system you are welcome to bring it along for drinking water. However, bring at least one hard plastic bottle.
Examples:
Nalgene
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Water flavoring
Powdered additives like Gatorade or NUUN are a nice change of pace to water and help replenish much needed electrolytes.
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Gangkar Puensum Trek
$6,900
18 Days / Includes travel time
Minimum 6 participants
Distance
89.3 Miles / 144 Kilometers
Elevation
Dolly La Pass 15,700 ft / 4785 m
Difficulty
Advanced
Several difficult days in a row at elevation make this a challenging trek. Combined with some rocky stretches of trail and over a high pass make this trek one ideal for an experienced trekker. Given multiple difficult days on this level of trek endurance is key and preparation should be more rigorous.
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