Mini Annapurna trekking vacation, Nepal

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION
1. We have minimized internal flights by incorporating alternative transportation options, such as shared local transport to Jagat on the 2nd day, we have structured the itinerary to minimize unnecessary travel between destinations and we will be 90% of the trip walking. We have only 2 domestic flight at the end as the road is under construction to Kathmandu and it takes 10-12 hours in a bus for 150km only.

2. Nepal is proud to be using renewable energy from Hydro stations, many of our partner lodges and guesthouses have implemented energy-efficient practices and using solar panels.

3. Shared local transport, such as buses and local jeeps, is an integral part of our trip whenever available and practical. Also we use e-vehicles in Kathmandu for airport transfers and during sightseeing.

4. Participants will have the opportunity to explore scenic routes and experience the destination at a leisurely pace while minimizing carbon emissions. We will be actively hiking and our team of porters will help to carry needed stuff and equipment for the trek.

5. We provide comprehensive guidance to our customers on reducing the carbon footprint of their vacation. We suggest packing light, rent rarely used gear and clothes for the trek in local shops rather than buying and throwing away, choosing direct flights, and supporting local businesses that prioritize sustainability. All our hotels, lodges and retreats are locally run.

6. Vegetarian and vegan food options are available throughout the duration of the trip as it is a big part of Nepalese traditions and beliefs itself. You don't even need to let us know in advance if you are vegan or vegetarian.

7. Nepal is a country where import of western foods and goods is extremely difficult by its location. Local and seasonal ingredients for meals are always prioritised, supporting regional farmers and reducing food miles.

8. We remain committed to implementing sustainable practices and reducing the environmental impact of our tours so we always advise bringing BPA water bottles, you can't buy bottled water in remote areas.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE
1. Our partner accommodations, which are locally run, implement various measures to reduce environmental impacts, including water conservation, plastic reduction, and energy efficiency.

2. Most accommodations included in the trip actively engage in nature restoration efforts as they are located on trails. This may include growing vegetables and fruits, using natural materials such as clay, wood, stones for building houses and shelters.

3. Our trip includes entry fees to Parks or Protected Areas such as Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS. These fees contribute directly to the management and maintenance of these natural areas, ensuring their preservation for future generations.

4. We provide comprehensive information to our customers on reducing their impacts on nature through briefing on the first day of arrival and also during the trekking our guides provide more knowledges about the region. This empowers travelers to make informed choices and minimize their environmental footprint during the trip.

5. Our trips are led by expert local guides who are deeply knowledgeable about the local ecosystem and wildlife. These guides are often from the local community, providing employment opportunities and ensuring a culturally immersive experience for travelers.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY
- All of accommodations included in this trip are locally owned, supporting small businesses and contributing directly to the local economy. Additionally, our itinerary feature home stays and guesthouses, lodges in remote areas, providing travelers with immersive cultural experiences while directly benefiting local families.

- We are a locally run travel company from Kathmandu. We employ knowledgeable alocal guides who offer insights into the region's culture, history, and biodiversity while providing employment opportunities for residents. We also employ graduates and offer them an opportunity to learn along with our experienced guides, gain more experience. Our trips often include visits to craft markets, cooperative initiatives, and village visits, where travelers have the opportunity to support local artisans, purchase handmade crafts, and engage with villagers. Additionally, village visits provide valuable cultural exchanges and opportunities for travelers to learn about traditional practices and ways of life while supporting local economies.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY

- Our team is 95% are locals and one Ukrainian who joined the team since 2019.

- We actively seek to empower marginalized groups, including the extremely poor families in remote areas, where tourists usually don't visit, we also employ women as porters on our homestay treks, also we employ divorced women as our city tour guides in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Pokhara.

- We believe in fair compensation for work performed and strive to promote equitable employment practices. That's why we pay more than minimum wages for our team to encourage them staying with our company in long therm rather than always changing our guides. We are happy to have our same guides with us more than 5 years already.

- We have a workplace diversity strategy in place to nurture equal employment opportunities without regard to race, gender, sexual orientation, or nationality. Women and men work together in our head office, same as fresh graduates along with experienced members.

- This trip is LGBTQ+ friendly. We welcome travelers of all sexual orientations and identities and strive to create a safe and inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and valued.

- We strive to accommodate travelers with diverse needs to the best of our ability, but particularly this trip has challenges for individuals with limited mobility, vision or hearing impairments, or cognitive issues.

- We operate a Trip for a Trip scheme aimed at providing day trips for disadvantaged local children in Dulegaunda region. Through this initiative, we partner with local school to offer educational and recreational excursions for children who may not otherwise have the opportunity to experience such events. Our scheme aims to enrich the lives of local youth and contribute positively to their overall well-being and development. You can read more about last trip here:
https://www.responsibletravel.com/copy/trip-for-a-trip-nepal-tour