Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Having facts in hand before planning a holiday is a wise move. It allows you to assess associated details, risks, & rewards. That's why we're here. In this section, we answer all your burning questions. So explore Q & A sections, clear your doubts, & see if we’re the right fit with a risk-free consultation. This way, you can make an informed decision.
Booking & Cancellation
Because booking an adventure with trailQuest:
Offers time for preparation
Eliminates hassles
Personalize the experience
Saves you some money
Moreover: Booking flights, hotels, transport, guide & porters, and obtaining TIMS & permits are time-consuming. On top of that, the traveller rates for hotels, ground transport, and domestic flights are often higher than those available to agencies directly.
Condition: But since you're in "No-obligation" zone, the decision is yours. If you think we're a good fit to organize your trip, we're at your service. We'll ensure you get what you've been promised so that you can live your quest the way you want in the Himalayas, Nepal.
Or even if you've something else in mind, and want to do it some other way, we appreciate it.
Yes, you'll get the free consultation. This consultation is for understanding your travel goals, and discussing how we can accomplish it together. If you find we’re a good fit, we’ll proceed with your plans. If not, we’ll recommend other companies that may better suit your needs, if any exists.
You can approach them, speak your requirements, and collaborate with them, if they fit your expectations. We're more than happy to guide you in your pursuit.
To book the adventure with us you should:
Email us your passport copy
Attach passport size photo and
Make 25% advance payment of the total amount
No, you can't book without advance payment. Because once the guests book the adventure without advance payment, and don't respond on time for cancellation, we’ll land in financial burden.
We'll have already spent the money in booking hotel rooms, flights, getting trekking crew ready, and other government paperworks. This way, we won't be able to recover the money already spent.
That's why booking and cancellation is a joint-effort procedure. Both the company & the customer should act in agreement and integrity for streamlined travel experience.
The 25% advance payment covers:
Booking hotel rooms and securing flight tickets to ensure everything is ready upon your arrival.
Planning and paying for government taxes like TIMS and permits on time.
Managing necessary manpower to facilitate your adventure.
Organising ground transport for seamless travel.
No, there are no hidden fees or charges. But the price may change if you opt for any add-ons. We’re committed to transparency, and will address any question that crosses your mind during consultation. Once everything is finalised, we'll honour it without additional charges. Our goal is to ensure a fair and honest experience, prioritising both your comfort and our integrity.
You'll get a comprehensive service. You don't have to bother about all the nitty gritty associated with a journey. You can leave it to us. We'll secure TIMS & permits, book hotels & flight tickets, and manage ground transport in advance. All you've to do is focus on living the experience you've come for. So pack your bag, fly to Nepal, and dive deep into the wilderness. Adventure awaits!
We double-check everything before your arrival. Because we believe your promises should be met. However, if issues arise due to miscommunication or misunderstandings, we’ll go extra miles to settle it. We'll assess the situation, determine the inconvenience caused, and let you know what we can do next.
Yes, we'll refund 100%. But there are conditions attached to it. You need to inform us at least 21 days before the main event. This prevents us from spending on costs like hotel bookings, flight tickets, trekking crew, and permits. If expenses have already been incurred, we can only refund the remaining amount.
HEADS UP: Booking and cancellation are joint effort procedure. Both the parties- the agency & the guests-have to act in integrity and agreement for a hassle-free transaction.
Here’s how you can claim for a refund after cancelling your trip:
Email Us: Notify us about the cancellation 21 days before the main date. Please include your reasons for cancelling.
Assessment: We’ll review your request, verify the details, and contact you with the next steps.
Refund: We’ll process your refund. Remember, it may take anywhere from 7 to 15 days to reflect in your bank account.
Rescheduling & Re-customization
Of course, you can reschedule your trek or adventure. Just let us know at least 3 weeks (21 days) before the scheduled trip. We'll find new dates that work for you and let you know.
Here's what you have to do:
Contact us via email or phone.
Share your new preferred dates.
We’ll confirm availability and adjust your booking.
We appreciate it if you let us know at least 3 weeks (21 days) before your scheduled trip. This gives us enough time to make adjustments. However, the sooner, the better.
To change your trip dates, you should:
Reach out to us as early as possible with your new dates.
We’ll handle the rest and send a confirmation.
In most cases, there’s no fee for rescheduling. You can reschedule it for free. For free rescheduling, you've to notify us 3 weeks before the main date. However, last hour rescheduling may affect price based on number of days (added or subtracted). Also, any add-on services, destination, availability, & season also impact the price. We’ll always be upfront about it.
We’ll try our best to accommodate last-minute changes. But we can't gurantee it. Though flexibility is important to us, options may depend on availability & season. If something urgent comes up, just let us know. We’ll tell you what we can do next.
HEADS UP: Rescheduling at the last minute results in 75% deduction from the advance payment. Why? Because by that time we'll have already spent on flight tickets, hotel bookings, and trekking crews.
Yes, you can upgrade or change activities. If you’d like to upgrade or switch activities, simply reach out 7 days before the main date. We’ll make adjustments that match your travel goals, depending on availability.
To upgrade or switch activites, you've to:
Contact us with the changes you’d like.
We’ll confirm availability and revise your package accordingly.
Of course, you can make changes to the itinerary. We want your adventure to align with your goal, time, and budget. You can re-customize your trip by adding or adjusting activities to better suit your preferences.
All you've to do is:
Let us know which activities or experiences you’d like to change.
We’ll modify your itinerary and send you the updated plan.
We're flexible for re-customisation of your trip. We understand how things change during the journey. Out of nowhere you'll have an urge to visit places that's not part of your itinerary yet you believe it's worth visiting. And that's reasonable.
We’ll cooperate as much as possible. But we first need to assess the situation for safety, security, and feasibility.
HEADS UP: Extending the number of days will incur additional costs.
Weather can be unpredictable. But don’t worry—we’ve got backup plans. If bad weather hits, we’ll help you reschedule or adjust your itinerary. Because we want your adventure to be safe and enjoyable.
Here's what we do:
If weather conditions affect your trip, we’ll reach out with alternatives.
You can choose to reschedule or adjust activities to fit the conditions.
Payment & Pricing
We accept payments through debit cards, credit cards, or bank transfers. For swift & secure payment, here’s our bank details:
Bank Name: Himalayan Bank, Kathmandu.
Account Name: Trail Quest Co Pvt. Ltd.
Account Number: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (On the day of lunch)
Swift Code: xxxxxx
No, you don’t need to make a full payment upfront. You can pay 25% of the total amount to confirm your booking. And the rest after your arrival during the pre-trek briefing session.
Even if you decide to make a full payment before you head to Nepal, that’s acceptable. Don’t worry! In case of cancellation on time, we’ll refund you 100%, minus bank transaction fee.
For international payments, we’ll apply the exchange rates on the day you make your payment.
Yes, you'll get a discount for group bookings or repeat trips. Based on group size we offer you the best possible option. The larger the group, the better the deal.
But that doesn't mean we'll take everyone. We organize trips only for those who want a purposeful holiday. Where they can have all-fun, friendhsip, and fulfillment.
Here's the deal: Become trailQuest club's member, and unlock exclusive rewards. We promise, you'll get access to deals that save you money. Not only that, you'll also recieve insights that help customise trips that cater to your deeper needs.
The good news? If you recommend trailQuest to someone closest to you, both of you'll get discounts on your next adventure. Sounds intresting? And it is. In fact, that’s like killing two birds with a stone.
Once the booking is confirmed, we'll honour it without any price changes. But if you opt for postponing your trip for more than 3 months, things get different. You may incur additional charges. This happens due to price increment in other areas of service, within the market.
However, rescheduling on time, or postponing just a fortnight or month, won't incur any extra fees. In case of re-customisation, extension of number of days, or any add-on services affect the pricing. Other than that there's no problem.
But before re-customising, we’ll ensure the safety, viability, and feasibility of the destination & proposed activities.
Arrival & Visa
You have two options for obtaining a visa for Nepal:
Online Application: For a hassle-free experience, fill out online visa application form before the trip. Here's a link for a quick online visa: nepaliport.immigration.gov.np. You’ll receive a QR code for verification at the immigration office at TIA, Kathmandu. Screenshot the QR code to streamline your entry process.
On Arrival at TIA (Tribhuvan International Airport): You can get your visa upon arrival, at Tribhuvan airport. But be prepared for potentially long queues and a rushed process.
HEADS UP: Using the online method helps you save time and avoid the hassle of long queues.
You can choose between:
Single Entry Visa: Ideal if you plan to visit Nepal once during the visa period. Exiting means you need a new visa to re-enter.
Multiple Entry Visa: Best if you plan to visit Nepal multiple times, even after travelling to nearby countries. You can re-enter without needing a new visa.
Choose a visa based on your travel plans and the time you’ll spend exploring Nepal.
Here’s a breakdown of the options and costs.
15-Day Visa ($30): Ideal for a short visit or quick trek.
30-Day Visa ($50): Perfect for extended travel. You can engage in treks, explore a few cities, and their surrounding areas.
90-Day Visa ($125): Best for a comprehensive adventure. You can embark on extended trekking, cultural exploration, and deeper immersion.
Choose based on your itinerary and how much time you wish to spend in Nepal.
Yes, we'll come to pick you up in the airport. When you exit the airport, all you've to do is see for a banner with your name on it. That's trailQuest's representative. S/he'll recieve you, and transfer you to the hotel in a cozy private vehicle..
Of course, we offer you after-trip guidance. Even if you don't want a guided tour, but want to collect trustworthy information, you're welcome. We're waiting for you with a hot aromatic coffee. You can count on us for information related to things-to-do, activities-to-try, and places-to-visit in Nepal. We're more than willing to help make your stay worth every penny you spend.
Document & Insurance
For a hassle-free stay in Nepal, make sure to carry the following documents:
Passport Copy: You’ll need your passport for visa processing at the airport.
Travel Insurance Paper: Submit your travel insurance paper to the agency organising your adventure. Ensure your insurance covers altitudes up to 6,000 m.
Passport-Sized Photos: These are required for obtaining TIMS & permits and a SIM card for internet and phone. Having them on hand will save you time and trouble.
Yes, you shoule purchase a Travel Insurance. Why? Because the mountains are full of surprises, and travel insurance is your secret weapon for peace of mind. Whether it’s an unexpected need for immediate evacuation, lost belongings, or a cancelled flight, travel insurance has you covered. Without it, you would be the one footing the bill for these unforeseen events.
Want to avoid those headaches? Travel insurance is the way to go. Get it, and enjoy a worry-free journey.
HEADS UP: When purchasing travel insurance, make sure it covers altitudes up to 6,000 m.
For the best return on investment, your travel insurance should cover:
Immediate evacuation upto 6000 m altitude.
Flight disruptions- delays or cancellations
HEADS UP: You’re likely to encounter a wide range of unexpected situations in the Himalayas. That's why having insurance is the best deal. Imagine trekking in the Himalayas with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re fully protected. It's incredible, right? And it is.
Choosing the right insurance company is crucial. They come to your rescue when things go north. Here are some reputable options:
World Nomads: Well-regarded for providing coverage for a wide range of adventure activities, including trekking in Nepal.
Allianz Travel Insurance: Offers coverage options for trekking, but it's essential to check specific policy details for high-altitude trekking.
AXA Assistance USA: Provides coverage for adventure activities, including trekking, with specific details to be confirmed based on the policy.
HEADS UP: Always verify the policy details and ensure that it covers high-altitude trekking and other specific activities you plan to undertake in Nepal.
Accommodation & Meal
We'll accommodate you in:
Boutique Hotels in Kathmandu
These are small but well-maintained hotels. They offer a blend of luxury and comfort. From the moment you arrive until you depart, you’ll feel taken care for and loved. Don't forget, your breakfast is included in the room price.
Teahouses in Mountains
These are family-run lodges with a rustic charm. While they may not be as elegant as the hotels in Kathmandu or Pokhara, they’re clean. They meet all your basic needs. You’ll be served with three-course meals each day in the teahouses for the number of days specified in your itinerary.
You’ll need to cover the cost of any extra nights yourself. The package includes accommodation and meals for the specific number of days listed in the itinerary. That’s why we suggest planning for an extra 2 to 4 days. Because the Himalayas are full of surprises. You never know what's around the next bend.
The weather changes on dime. It can be unpredictable, and sometimes delays are unavoidable. By planning for those buffer days, you’ll feel more at ease. After all, nothing beats the comfort of knowing you’re prepared for anything that comes your way.
Some people might feel unwell. While others adjust in no time. Whether you'll get sick or not depends on factors like your immunity, adaptability, and resilience. It’s normal to have some difficulty. Because your body hasn't adusted to new settings, weather, and cuisines. That's why precaution is urgent. It’s important to carry necessary gear and medications.
If you start feeling unwell, let your guide know immediately. They're there to assist you at hard times. They'll take needed actions to make you feel safe & better. They’ll assess the situation and make decisions based on your condition, and the severity of your symptoms. This proactive approach helps us manage any health challenges effectively.
Guide & Support Crew
The role of your guide & support staff is to assist you. They make sure things are in place so that you can live your quest. Not only that, they also inform you about people, places, and priorities. Share trekking secrets to make your journy fulfilling & safe. But they also keep a healthy distance with you. They give you enough time & space for self-reflection (but will be there if required). Because they know you're on a quest, and frequent interruption may disturb your flow.
In short, the crew is your trusted ally. Someone you can rely on, on your pursuit. They make sure you're taken care of both in the mountains and cities. They'll take care of you even after hours of tiring hiking in the tea houses. They'll take your orders, pass it to the kitchen staff, and deliever it to you. And all you'll do is warm yourself sitting beside the roaring fire, contempletating the intricacies of your existence. How beautiful our life is, right? And it is.
Here’s how your guide and crew organise your journey:
Each day they’ll brief you about what’s ahead on the trip so that you can be mentally and physically prepared for the experience.
They’ll run various devices on you to make sure you are doing well with your health on the journey.
They’ll ensure all the group members are together so none of you leave behind.
They’ll make sure your orders are met on time in the teahouses so that you can relax and enjoy.
Of course, your guide & staff will serve you in the teahouse. After hours of tiring hiking, they’ll take care of all the nitty gritty. They’ll take your orders, pass it to the kitchen, and deliver it to you when it’s prepared. While all you'll do is ponder over the divine creation of the Himalayas.
Yes, trekking crew will assist you with unforeseen emergencies. Since they're trained in risk assessment and certified in first-aid treatment, they’ll track both weather as well as your health conditions. On encountering any emergencies, they’ll take necessarry decisions (based on the severity of conditions).
If anything serious is noticed, the crew will bring it to your attention. That's when you must comply with their advices. Because they know what's the best course of action at that point of time for your safety & well-being.
Safety, Security, & Evacuation
Our Guides are government-approved. They're trained in risk assessment and certified in first-aid treatment. They always carry a first-aid kit. This emergency kit contains necessary medications and devices to make sure your health is intact.
Put simply, you're in safe hands. But at times, things might not go our way despite watchfulness. Don't stay quiet in such situations hoping your guide will figure out about your illness or complications.
Tell your guide if you feel something is off ASAP. Based on your health conditions and severity of symptoms, they'll take actions. If need be, you've to comply with what Guide advises you.
To manage your altitude illness and medical emergencies on the trek, we'll:
Check your oxygen level and note your health status everyday.
Observe your behavioural pattern to track change in physiology and your ways of conduct.
Take you down to a lower altitude ASAP, If symptoms don't improve.
Immediately contact the Travel Insurance company on your behalf, for further steps in case of emergencies.
That's why buying Travel Insurance before adventure ensures safety and peace of mind.
We provide you a sleeping bag, down jacket, and a duffle bag. Provided, you've to to return them upon arrival. Other than those, you'll have to manage yourself. Make sure you carry all the essentials. This way you can navigate all the possible problems that might arise on the way. In other words, equipments and gear are your friends. They help make your trip trouble-free, comfortable, and exciting.
We'll handle the security of your personal belongings as if it's our own.
Here's how:
We've an agreement with various hotels where you'll stay for the safety of your belongings.
On the day of your departure for trekking, the hotel will provide you with space for storage.
You'll hand over your belongings to the concerned authority of the hotel for safe-keeping.
In case of a valuable item, a strict process should be followed to avoid any loss or inconvenience.
No, the trekking agency won't send for evacuation itself. But we'll contact the travel insurance company from which you've purchased your policy on your behalf.
Here's how:
The moment we'll get information about your critical situation (may god forbid), we'll contact the insurance agency ASAP. We do this based on the details we've collected from your insurance paper.
We'll provide the Rescue Team with the contact number of the Main Guide & Clear Coordinates of your whereabouts for quick evacuation.
Nepal Travel Realities
The transportation system in Nepal is functional but unpredictable. It's due to factors like road conditions, weather, and infrastructure challenges.
Road transport: It's common but quite unreliable. The roads that connect the major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, & Mustang are in good conditions. Travelling to these destinations is swift, though you may experience ocassional bumps. But the roads that take you to the mountains can be gravelled, bumpy, and narrow. Because of this the departure & arrival time can be irregular. That's when you may experience inconvenience. But let's tell you, that's what makes your journey memorable.
Mountain flights: They're more reliable for long distances travel than road transport. But flight delays due to poor weather conditions can be an issue, particularly if you're flying to high-altitude destination like Lukla. On top of that, there are limited number of flights scheduled. That's when you may feel annoyed. Other than that there's nothing to worry about.
HEADS UP: Though transportation system is quite disorganized, the views on the way and the experience are worth every effort you put into. The mountains are calling.
If you're travelling between the cities in Nepal, expect the winding, narrow and bumpy roads. Because of this the road conditions, traffic, and occasional roadblocks can be an issue. As a result, travel time can be longer than expected. FYI, a 200 km journey can take anywhere from 6 to 9 hours. But remember, this's not always the case. This is the worst case scenario.
Sometimes flight delays & cancellations can be an issue in the mountains. It's because the wheather is upredictable. One moment it's sunny. The other, it's foggy. And the next, it's windy. And all these affect flight operation in the Himalayas. That's why having 2 to 3 buffer days prepares you for the worst case scenerio if you're planning to trek in the high-altitude zone. But the good news is, flights between the cities in the lower altitude are mostly on time (unless bad weather conditions or natural calamities).
The infrastructure in Nepal isn't as developed as in the advanced countries. While saying this I don't mean it's completely underdeveloped. It's not. What I mean is, you may not find well-expanded infrastrucutres-road or communication network-at the high altitude. As the elevations increases, these infrastructures get lesser and lesser.
You'll have access to electricity, internet, and ATMs in cities or towns. But as you gain the elevation, these services get sparse and sparse. Don't be surprised if you don't find electricity, internet, and ATMs at high-altitude. That said, there are still places (Everest-upto 4000 m) that have a descent internect connectivity.
The best way to handle unexpected Travel Delays or Traffic Congestion is being flexible. You can plan for additional 2 to 3 days. If you're planning to trek in the Himalayas, it's a must. This way, you'll be prepared for the worst condition. Even if flight gets delayed, it won't bother you the way it could have, had you not planned for those extra days.
Likewise, traffic congestion is also a real challenge. In and around Kathmandu & Pokhara during peak hours, you might stuck on the way. And a 2 wheel drive is the best option for such condition. Because they reduce the travel time significantly. FYI, you can use app like Pathao & InDrive for bike service. On the flip side, a 4 wheel drive during peak time can delay your time. So avoid taking taxis, unless you've plenty of time to spare.
Public transport in Nepal are affordable, and they're widely available. But safety and efficiency can vary.
Local buses: They are cheap. But they're often overcrowed and lack fixed schedules. You can count on them but road-delays can be an issues. The good option for you is tourist buses. They are safer, convenient, and more or less on time for intercity travel.
Taxis: They are safe. But during peak hours they might not be able to drop you on time. If you aren't in a rush, this can be a good option. Provided, make sure the meter is on in the taxi. Or use app like Pathao or InDrive to book one for you.
Rikshaws: You can find them in Kathmandu. They're great for short distance. But they're in limited numbers, and operate only around Thamel-the most happening place in Kathmandu.
HEADS UP: Nepal is generally a safe place. The cases of miscounducts, crimes, & frauds are low. So feel safe to travel to Nepal. But remember, being cautious goes a long way. Don't trust strangers blindly.
Altitude-Sickness & Weather
Yes, there is a chance of altitude sickness, depending on several factors:
Rate of Ascent: How quickly you ascend impacts your risk. Rapid elevation gain without breaks can increase your chances of experiencing altitude sickness.
Acclimatisation: Proper acclimatisation is crucial. Make sure to take breaks and allow your body time to adjust to higher altitudes.
Diet: What you eat on the way can also affect how well you handle altitude changes.
HEADS UP: You’ll often be hiking between 2,000 m and 5,555 m in the Himalayas. The oxygen level is pretty low at higher places. To minimise the risk of altitude sickness, use proven trekking techniques. You can ascend at slower pace, and take regular breaks. This way, you can reduce the risk. Also, you'll enjoy each moment on your journey .
Pay close attention to how your body feels.
Symptoms of altitude sickness to watch for include:
You'll feel off
Loss of appetite
Severe headache
Shortness of breath
Fatigue and nausea
Strong urge to vomit
Dizziness
A sense of confusion
By recognizing these signs early and taking appropriate action, you can manage altitude sickness effectively and continue to enjoy your trek.
If you notice symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness, don’t ignore them!
Stop and Rest: Find a safe spot to rest immediately and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Descend if Needed: If you’re still feeling unwell after 24 hours of rest and fluids, descend safely by 500-700 meters. This can significantly improve symptoms.
Communicate with Your Guide: Keep your trail guide informed about your symptoms. They’re there to help and will take the necessary steps to assist you.
By following these steps and staying in touch with your guide, you can minimise your risk of altitude sickness and enhance your Himalayas experience.
To prevent altitude sickness follow these tested techniques:
Ascend Slowly: Gradually increase your altitude and pay close attention to how your body feels.
Take Breaks: Accept acclimatisation by taking regular breaks. This help your body adjust.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water while on the trails to stay hydrated.
Stick to Easily Digestible Foods: Opt for foods that are easy on your stomach.
Avoid Alcohol, Stored Meat, and Cigarettes: These can exacerbate altitude sickness.
This way, you’re ready for a successful trek. Plus, you'll keep altitude sickness at bay.
The Himalaya is notorious for unpredictability! The weather can change on a dime. That's why be prepared for anything.
One moment, you might be basking in the sun.
Next, you're battling the strong cold winds.
The other, you might face fog clouding the whole surrounding, making it chilly.
And then, you might feel the stinging of the scorching Sun.
That's how unpredictable the weather can be in the mountains. But that's what makes it thrilling, right?