It is not the mountains we conquer, but ourselves.

Edmund Hillary

This is a lifetime adventure you will be forever grateful for. This is not a regular trek with a group, this is an experience that will leave traces in your daily life once you return home.

You will enjoy the support, safety and unique group dynamic that make all Escapes unforgettable. You will spend 9 days with like-minded women in a small group where the wellness of each participant counts as much as the precious connection and dynamic of the group. You will learn about yourself, unlock your inner potential and have it available forever to overcome life’s obstacles. You will discover that you are way stronger than you think (both physically and mentally). You will focus on your values, what really matters for you, and grow it in your life.

You will have fun, you will be moved, you will be changed.

Why choose us

We have an unequaled group dynamic in all our adventures.
We encourage, support, respect and lift each other.

We partner with a Nepali women-owned trekking company who hires, trains, pays fairly and empowers Nepali women. Our 2 Nepali guides and 8 assistants are amazing professional women who know every inch of the trail.

You will be accompanied by Manon Marchand-Aylsworth, a life and wellness coach who dedicated her life to women’s inner strength. Founder and head guide of Escape, she lived and hiked in Nepal for 2 years.

Responsible Tourism - hike and give back

Escape Hiking for Women is proud to work in partnership with the women owned Nepali company 3 Sisters Adventures Trekking. For 25 years, they have pioneered and specialized in training and employing female guides and assistants for treks in and around the Himalayas in Nepal, India, and Bhutan.

With their groundbreaking approach, they have empowered the women in Nepal to develop their talents and become self-reliant. It is one of the only hiking companies in Nepal that provides a fair salary and adequate equipment for their staff. 3 Sisters Adventure Trekking has received several local, national and international awards, including the WTM 2012, Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Award and Winner of 2008 National Geographic Geo-Tourism Challenge Competition.

Group dynamic and individual wellness

After you book your trip you will meet your trip leader and fellow participants on 2 30-minute zoom calls: one in May and one in September.

These calls are great opportunities to ask questions, learn about each other and start dreaming together about the upcoming trip.

You will be hiking with a small group of 8 women from the U.S. and our guides and assistants from Nepal (all women crew). Keeping the group small has proven to be the best way to create a deep connection with each other while respecting everyone's needs.

During the trip we will meet everyday for a caring and empowering group dynamic discussion led by Manon. We will lift each other in a judgment-free and negativity-free atmosphere.

Why Nepal?

Namaste! Welcome to Nepal, land of smiles and of the highest peak in the world, Mount Everest, which rises to 29,028 feet above sea level. With 8 out of the 10 highest peaks of the world, Nepal is a paradise for mountaineers and is referred to as the Himalayan Kingdom.

Nepal is a must visit for all adventurers, but it’s also a place to relax in nature’s lap and enjoy the incredible scenic beauty.

It is also a land of spirituality, chosen by travelers who want to reset their lives and go back to the essential. Nepal will stay in your mind and heart forever.

Himalayan Sunrise Trek, 5-day/4-night trek
(9 day trip total)

Max elevation: 9940 ft (3030 m)

Hours walk/day: 5 to 6 hours

Your trekking route, Ghorepani Ghandruk, is known for its easy climbing and unique, varied landscape. Enjoy fascinating traditional Gurung villages, walk through rhododendrons, magnolias, oak forest… Admire breathtaking views of Machapuchare/Mt. Fishtail (6993m), Annapurna South (7219m), Himchuli (6441m).

At Poon-Hill, be ready for the most beautiful sunrise you’ve ever experienced. When the sun flows up the panoramic views of the Annapurna range, it’s simply magical.

The trek offers well-managed local teahouse lodges, cafes, and restaurants all along the way. This journey is also perfect if you have limited time but dream of a glimpse of snow-capped mountain peaks and still want a real Himalayan cultural experience.

Itinerary

Day 1

Meeting with your group and your Life and Wellness coach/Nepal specialist at the hotel.

We will all meet at the hotel at 3pm. We will go out for a Nepali dinner together.

Day 2

Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Approximately 7 hours by Minibus, and we arrive in the charming city of Pokhara, at the foothills of the Himalayas. Trek orientation begins at 4 pm in 3 Sisters Trekking office, followed by a Nepali welcome dinner at 6 pm in 3 Sisters Guesthouse, where we will stay for the night.

Day 3

Hike Pokhara to Hille

An hour drive takes us to Nayapul—the starting point of our trek. We will follow the river and then slowly ascend through rice fields to Hille (1475 m) and stop for the night.
Hiking hours: 5

Day 4

Hike Hille to Ghorepani

We start our day with a steep ascent to Ulleri (1600 m) where we get our first view of the Himalayas. We then continue through rhododendron forests until we reach our destination: Ghorepani (2855 m).
Hiking hours: 6

Day 5

Ghorepani to Poon Hill to Tadapani

An early climb to the summit of Poon Hill (3030 m) to watch the sunrise across a magnificent Himalayan panorama. After breakfast we will follow a long ridge through rhododendron forests to Deurali. We then walk through impressive river gorges with the chance to see Langur monkeys in the trees. Our destination is Tadapani (2680 m).
Hiking hours: 5

Day 6

Tadapani to Ghandruk

We walk along a shaded forest trail, followed by terraced fields of maize and potatoes to Ghandruk (2170 m). From here we have fantastic views of Annapurna South and Machhapuchhare. It is a major settlement of the Gurung, an ethnic group of Nepal. It is a very famous Gurung village with terraces and offers excellent mountain views. After arriving, you can take a short walk to explore the village, visiting a cultural museum and monastery.
Hiking hours: 4

Day 7

Ghandruk to Nayapul to Pokhara

Today we leave the mountains behind us. A 5-hour hike and an hour’s drive takes us back to the relaxing Lakeside of Pokhara. At the 3 Sisters Guesthouse we will share an evening of food, fun and laughter.
Hiking hours: 5

Day 8

We will leave Pokhara with the Minibus and be back at the hotel in Kathmandu around 4 pm. Free time, rest, shopping...

Day 9

We will have our last group dynamic meeting in the morning. We will reflect on our adventure and talk about how to implement all the benefits of this wonderful adventure in our lives. After the group dynamic meeting we will say our goodbyes. Whether you decide to stay a little more in Nepal, travel around or come back home you will feel stronger than ever, empowered, peaceful and ready for life’s upcoming challenges… Namaste!

This trip includes:

2 30-minute video calls with your trip leader and your team (one in May and one in September)
All guiding services: 3 Sisters Adventures’ all women crew: 2 professional guides and 8 assistants to help us carrying our backpacks.
A professional life and wellness coach/Nepal specialist that will facilitate group discussions, and will make sure that you implement at home the powerful changes that will happen inside of you during the trek. Manon Marchand-Aylsworth is also the founder and head guide of Escape Hiking for Women and has lived and hiked for 2 years in Nepal.
All accommodations: Two nights in one of the most comfortable hotels in Kathmandu; Two nights in the 3 Sisters Guest House in Pokhara. Local tea house accommodations during the trek chosen for their comfort, cleanliness, and charm.
All meals during the trek: Breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as afternoon tea and snacks.
All meals while being with the group (outside of trek days as well): nov 4th diner, nov 5th & 11th breakfast/lunch/dinner, nov 12 breakfast.
All fees related to the trek: Trekking permits, Nepalese government royalty fees.
Transportation: Minibus from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Jeep to and from the trailheads. Taxis for the group (in between hotel and restaurants in Kathmandu and Pokhara…)

You’ll be responsible for:

Mineral water and other beverages (during the whole trip)
personal snacks except during the trek (afternoon tea and snacks included during the trek)
Meals, visits fees, and transportation during free times
The flight to and from Nepal (see FAQ)
The taxi to and from the airport
Nepali tourist visa (see FAQ)
Travel insurance (mandatory - see FAQ)
Tips for our wonderful Nepali hiking guides at the end of the trek (~$80)

Once you book your trip you will get a super detailed checklist.

Clothing

Hiking boots (break them in beforehand)*
Camp shoes (your reward after a long day)
Wool socks (bring a few pairs of varying thickness)
Lightweight, waterproof trekking pants
Trekking shorts
T-Shirts (lightweight wool is great)
Long underwear/Wool thermals
Fleece sweater
Waterproof warm jacket
Heavyweight warm pants for the evenings at the tea-houses
Winter hat and baseball cap
Winter gloves

*The trail will be rocky throughout. The safest bet for Nepal trekking footwear is full backpacking boots, which provide good support and protection from the elements.

It will be sunny during the day (~50-60F) and chilly at the tea houses on the evenings and morning (as low as 40F in Poon Hill). Plan clothing for both climates.

Gear

Backpack (40L) for your hiking trip and another small bag with the things you don’t need during the trek, that you will safely leave at the hotel in Kathmandu. Maximum weight of your backpack to be carried by a female assistant: 20lbs. Please keep it as LIGHT as possible. Just bring what’s absolutely necessary for the trek.
Sleeping bag (0 degree F)
Water purification (tablets, or SteriPen; bring from home)
Water bottle such as Nalgene
Hiking poles (lessen the impact on your joints)
Sunglasses
Head lamp with extra batteries
Reading materials (Kindle may be best)
Journal and pens
Camera with extra batteries

Personal Supplies

Sun screen
Hand sanitizer
Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, floss, etc.)
Biodegradable bar soap
Bar shampoo if needed
Throat lozenges, lip balm
First-Aid kit

Can I physically do this trek? How do I prepare my body?

Hiking in Nepal is a significant physical and mental undertaking, so being in good shape will definitely enhance your experience!

General aerobic fitness will allow the body to withstand the stress of consecutive days of hiking. Additionally, having strong, conditioned legs will help make it easier to walk up and downhill all day. One of the best things you can do to train is walk, after all, that’s what you will be doing on the mountain! Ideally, try to train a few days a week walking and/or jogging on inclines to simulate the ascension (If you don’t have trails accessible, a treadmill or stair climber will do just fine.) Over the course of your training, it’s best to increase the time and distance while keeping a slow pace. In the end, if you can walk comfortably for 4 to 6 hours, with moderate elevation changes, while carrying some weight, then you’re probably in shape enough for the real deal. As with all training, for the last 2 weeks leading up to the big event, you should taper off and rest so your body has time to recover.

While you’re training, don’t forget to break in your boots to prevent blisters! Also, try to wear the day pack you intend to carry so your shoulders/back/hips get used to the points of contact and weight. For some, extensive training might not be necessary, but either way preparedness will make it that much easier to enjoy your time on the mountain. If you currently have an not-so-healthy lifestyle, use the climb as your motivation to change! Eat healthier. Drink less. Don’t smoke. Get more sleep.

Don’t worry. Be happy! And remember, physical training is just one part of getting in shape. Having a positive attitude and a bigger reason will work wonders for you when you get tired and need that extra boost!

Do I need a passport to travel to Nepal?

Yes, your passport must have six months or more validity remaining at the time of entry. One blank visa page must be available for the Nepali Visa.

What can I read to prepare my trip to Nepal?

To prepare your trip we highly recommend the Lonely Planet Nepal (latest version) and the U.S. department of State’s website.

What airport do I fly into?

Fly into Kathmandu (KTM) capital of Nepal. From New York City (JFK) the flight duration is around 19hs with a short layover in Qatar. From Los Angeles the flight is about 20hs with a short layover in China. We recommend booking your air travel 4-5 months before your adventure start date to get the best deals. Flights to Kathmandu, Nepal from the United States are often overnight flights and Nepal is 11 hours ahead of us.

Should I plan on arriving/living Nepal a few days before/after the trip with the group?

We design our itineraries to give you the right balance of authentic, must-do experiences, while also giving you the freedom to explore independently. We encourage you to take advantage of the location and take a few days before or after our adventure to visit Kathmandu and more of Nepal (why not!). We can help you extend your stay and give recommendations of things to do and see nearby, so just let us know by email or during your 30-minute video call with Manon.

Do I need travel insurance?

We require all our adventurers to have travel insurance that covers emergency assistance and evacuation services abroad. We recommend Global Rescue Plan or World Nomads to provide integrated medical, security, travel risk and crisis response services to our travelers worldwide. Without a proper travel insurance, an emergency evacuation could cost you more than $100,000. Please purchase a plan that covers your entire trip duration from departure through your return.

How do I get my Nepali tourist visa?

There are two ways to get a visa for entry into Nepal for American nationals: in advance at an embassy or on arrival at the airport, the cost for a 15-day visa is $25. Click here for more info.

How will the weather be?

November is one of the best months to visit Nepal. It will be sunny during the day with temperatures that can go up to the high 60s. At night it can go down to low 40s, especially as we are higher in the mountains.

How comfortable are the accomodations?

During the trek we will sleep and eat at local teahouses. They are simple stone and wooden buildings or huts that have a kitchen, a communal eating hall and bathroom area (shared and not attached to your bedroom), and a number of basic bedrooms that usually have two or four single beds and a table. Most teahouses are built specifically for trekkers, but some may double as the family's home.

What will I eat during the trek?

You'll find a similar set menu of dhal bhat (the Nepali typical dish, made out of rice, greens, pickle, yoghurt, and lentils), momos, pasta, pizza, and other rice and noodle dishes at almost all the teahouses. Most trekkers and guides opt for dhal bhat - it's generally consistent, healthy, and readily available wherever you go.

How safe are the food and water in Nepal?

The tap water and river water in Nepal is unsafe to drink and you will have a choice between bottled water, purification tablets, or boiling water. All the places we will eat at have tourist standards. On the other hand, street food should probably be avoided.

Can the elevation of this trek provoke elevation sickness?

A minority of people, about 20%, have some symptoms of altitude sickness (mild nausea, light headache…) if they ascend to about 2500 meters (8000 feet) above sea level and sleep there. However, most people will acclimatize to 3000 meters (10,000 feet) with relative ease. We carefully chose this trek because the elevation doesn’t exceed 9940ft.

What are the refund conditions?

Cancellation 90 days or more before departure: $500 cancellation fee.

Cancellation less than 90 days prior to departure: No Refund

Cancellation by the host due to COVID 19 directives, orders or any other force majeure: Full refund

Read more about our terms and conditions.

Available Dates

All Gear Included?

Yes No

Persons

*Early bird pricing ($2480 after June 15th 2023)

Nepal