Paperwork
We welcome your questions! Please send any questions from logistics to reading to our Director of Programs and India expert Gordon Janow ([email protected])
Please return the requested paperwork. This information assists us in making hotel reservations.
⎕ Application
⎕ Flight itinerary
⎕ Passport Copy
⎕ Two Passport Photos (scans are fine)
Trip Insurance & Evacuation Coverage
We highly recommend trip insurance as there are many unforeseen circumstances that can occur leading up to a trip. Evacuation and medical coverage may be required for this trip, please see paperwork section above. Please click here for more information:
https://www.alpineascents.com/trip-cancellation-insurance-trip/
Getting to Delhi, India
For those arriving early or departing after the scheduled itinerary, we are happy to make hotel and airport transfer arrangements. Please contact our office in advance of your departure if you would like us to make additional reservations for you.
Arrival: Most flights arrive very early morning, please insure you arrive before the first tour and consider arriving a day early. We will pick up all travelers as the airport. . Please look for an Alpine Ascents sign upon leaving the terminal. It is very rare that we miss a pick up. Upon arrival at the airport in Delhi, be aware of people trying to “help” you with your luggage cart and then demanding large tips. Better to decline their services, roll your own luggage cart outside to the pick-up area and then follow the directions of the Alpine Ascents representative, who you need not tip. Our arrival city is New Delhi.
Departure: See day to day itinerary noting that most flights leave very late at night Extra nights and pickups before or after scheduled dates easily arranged for an extra fee. We can also arrange 2 day tours to Taj Mahal or Varanasi. Travelers will depart from Mumbai
Note: You cannot bring a satellite phone or two-way texting device into India as per the India government. Failure to comply can result in immediate arrest, large fines, the confiscation of the device, deportation, and significant travel delays.
Visas Needed for India Travel
We will advise of all visa and entry requirements approximately 4 months prior to departure. Currently and on line visa can be completed 4 months before arrival. This will involve and on line visa form and an health affidavit. Alpine Ascents will provide any necessary letters and information to obtain your visa.
Hotels
Alpine Ascents will make all lodging arrangements based on the listed itinerary. We are happy to make pre and post trip reservations for you and can provide a list of hotels (all subject to change). All our hotels will be in the 4* to 5* category. A full list of hotels will be sent to you prior to departure.
Our Delhi Hotel:
Expenses
Please note the inclusions on the website. We estimate $300 for meals not covered. It is easiest to use ATM’s (in the cities and at the airport) . Hotels will take credit cards as do most restaurants and shops in the cities. We would suggest $500 in US dollars for emergencies and to rely on credit cards and ATM’s for other expenses. We will make suggestions on obtaining rupees/changing money before we head to AP. We recommend bringing a travel credit card that does not have transaction fees.
Early Departure/Evacuation
If you need to leave the expedition early, you are responsible for all incurred expenses (evacuation fees, transport, extra hotel nights, etc). A comprehensive trip insurance plan is recommended, which can cover these costs in the event that they occur.
Tipping
We recommend:
- ~$300 for local trekking staff.
- $100 – $200 for various personal – such as drivers and assistants.
- $400 – $700+ for the Alpine Ascents Guide.
- $200 – $300 for local Lead Guide
Health Suggestions
You may want to consult your physician for advice on treatments for gastrointestinal upsets that you may encounter on your trip. In the past, climbers have relied on antibiotics such as Ciprofloxacin. Your doctor may recommend medications such as Lomotil or Imodium to stop diarrhea, and Compazine to prevent nausea.
Weather will likely be moderate most days between 60 and 80 degrees
I feel the monasteries of Sikkim are unlike any other.We learned a lot, had a memorable and exotic experience and loved meeting all the people we did! They all worked so hard to make our experience the great time it was, especially Yatish. Thank you for all your advice during the time we were arranging […]
