2017 Everest Fundraising Trek
The FONA 2017 Everest Trek provides our partners and supporters the opportunities to experience Nepal and be a direct part of our on ground projects.
We have tailored a 20 day program which combines the physical challenges of one of the most famous trekking routes and understanding the true essence and value of Nepali culture by visiting traditional villages and experiencing their unique culture and hospitality.
The trek is aimed at lovers of the outdoors, intrepid travellers looking for a new and insightful travel experience, or culturally curious people who wants to know life and traditions in rural Nepal. Unlike many other treks, FONA’s aim is to provide participants the opportunity to learn and engage in an authentic, village setting with our Nepali born founder Amit Thapa.
Visiting Nepal as part of a trek and immersion program also contributes back, providing economic benefit for the workers and business owners operating in the tourism industry.
Participants will also have the opportunity to stretch themselves and contribute to our work, by fundraising for FONA’s Education Centre of Excellence in Purano Jhangajoli.
Key Facts
- Dates: 9 - 27 September 2017
- Program duration: 20 days (total 11 days on Everest trail)
- Package cost: AU$4,000 approximately
- Fundraising target: AU$5,380 (minimum)
- Accommodation: 4 / 5 star hotel in Kathmandu, tea houses and mountain lodges during trek, camping during optional visit to the village of Purano Jhangajoli
- Group size: spaces are limited to 12 – 15 people, to ensure everyone gets the most out of the experience
- Group leader: FONA Founder Amit Thapa
For me it was the privilege of visiting such a unique and beautiful part of the world with an amazing group of trekkers and support crew. I also fell for the beautiful Nepalese people and culture - their tenacity, courage, humour and resilience.
- Maryanne Duggan, 2016 trek participant
Trek Itinerary
FONA’s 20-day program in Nepal will give people the opportunity to take a break, embrace the physical challenge of one of the most famous trekking routes on Mount Everest, and gain a truly local experience in Nepal. Immerse in the traditional villages, learn from the ancient wisdom and generosity of the traditional village and experience the warm hospitality for which Nepal is so well-known.
Part 1 Kathmandu City immersion
We will be kicking off the trip from Kathmandu, where we will spend some time visiting the sites of the Kathmandu Valley. The Kathmandu Valley is located in the foothills of the Himalayas and home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites which further adds to the cultural charm. When visiting with locals from FONA, we will show you the local, hidden gems for shopping to purchase traditional artwork, sculpture and exquisite textiles.
Part 2 Everest Base Camp trail walk
Sitting at 8848 m Mt Everest, the highest peak in the world, is one of the greatest trekking destinations. Locally known as Sagarmatha, the mountain has long been revered as the home of the gods. Everest National Park is a paradise for trekkers, walkers and nature-lovers. You will want to be in good shape, but in our experience 50% is about physical fitness and 50% is mental. There is obviously an element of challenge and some days at high altitudes, but the whole experience will be extremely well supported by our expert crew, team comradery and will be simply awe-inspiring.
Part 3 Sindhuli cultural village visit
Nepal is not a country loved just by climbers, it has a rich culture and history which we want to share. We will take you Eastern Nepal, to the village of Purano Jhangajoli, tucked away in the hills of Sindhuli. Here you will gain a deeply personal insight into the village where our founder was born, and the location of FONA’s flagship Education Centre to be built in 2017. This part of the visit usually provides some cause for reflection, you will see firsthand the impact of the 2015 earthquakes which destroyed many homes and schools. This is your opportunity to be part of village life, to unlock your creativity, leadership and human spirit in conjunction with the community and FONA’s project.
This trip is an opportunity to stretch yourself, connect with like-minded people and make a difference in the world.
- Amit J Thapa, Chairman of FONA
What will a typical day involve?
On the Everest Base Camp trail, we will start walking at around 8.30am every day. We will walk for between 4 – 8 hours per day, and aim to finish walking by 4:00pm. This walk is a great opportunity to enjoy the enchanting Himalayan mountains and Sherpa culture, and we want to make sure you have some time to do exactly that. Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea are provided.
In the village, the focus will be on experiencing life as a local with a more relaxed program of cultural activities. We will also have a pre-trek briefing from our guides and a farewell dinner on the last night, and we will let you know about that a little closer to the event.
How much does the trip cost?
The whole program costs US$3,000 or AU$4,000 per person. This includes the full program in Kathmandu, the fully supported Everest Base Camp trek and Sindhuli community visit. It does not include international airfares or extra nights’ accommodation. You will receive a welcome pack, including a comprehensive trip guide and resources, and any support you need with fundraising.
We only have space for 12-15 people for this event. A deposit of AU$500 is required to secure your place, and the balance is due 90 days before the departure date.
To book please follow the link below, payment can be made by credit card (a 1.4% credit card surcharge applies). Once the program is full, we will be closing the bookings, so don’t delay.
What is the fundraising for?
By participating in this exciting trek to Everest Base Camp you will be raising $10,000 which goes directly to FONA’s Education Centre Project. Fundraising is a great opportunity to stretch your comfort zone and become involved in creating real and long lasting change for Nepal. Your fundraising efforts will be fully supported by FONA, we will provide suggestions, tips, and advice on how to rally support from people around you during the lead up to the trek. FONA can participate at your fundraising events, support you with marketing material, and promote your fundraising efforts in our media channels. Our experience has shown that supporters will go above and beyond to help you.
Learn more about the Education Centre of Excellence here.