Frequently Asked Questions

We specialize in private luxury travel across Nepal and Bhutan. From Everest Base Camp treks to Bhutanese monastery tours, we craft bespoke itineraries across the Himalayas.

Two countries, worked deeply rather than broadly. Our founder Kiran Pokhrel has designed Himalaya journeys since 1998, and our journeys are arranged privately — your party only, on your dates, never a shared departure. The AI Expedition Architect shapes the journey with you; a specialist then prices it against rates confirmed for your dates and party size.

Simply open our AI chat assistant on the homepage and describe your dream journey. Our Expedition Architect will recommend destinations, activities, and accommodations tailored to your preferences. You can also email us at hello@curatedascents.com or call +1 (317) 798-8500.

We recommend booking 3-6 months in advance for peak seasons (October-November and March-May in Nepal/Bhutan). For popular festivals like Bhutan's Paro Tsechu, 6-12 months is advisable. Off-peak travel can be arranged with shorter notice.

After your consultation with our Expedition Architect, we prepare a detailed quote. Once you accept, we require a 35% deposit to secure your booking. The remaining balance is due 90 days before departure, payable by card or bank transfer (SWIFT). We handle all logistics including permits, internal flights, and accommodation.

We accept major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) via our secure Stripe payment system, and international bank transfers (SWIFT). Both the deposit and the balance are paid this way, so nothing needs to be carried or handed over in destination. All transactions are processed in USD.

Cancellations must be in writing and take effect on receipt. We retain the deposit (35%) from confirmation to 91 days before departure; 50% of the journey price at 90–61 days; 75% at 60–46 days; and 100% at 45 days or fewer. This is the schedule in §4 of our Booking Terms & Conditions at www.curatedascents.com/terms, which govern. We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your investment.

Yes, we understand plans can change. Minor modifications are usually accommodated at no extra charge. Significant changes may incur adjustment fees depending on supplier commitments already made. Contact us as early as possible for any changes.

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all CuratedAscents trips. Your policy must cover high-altitude trekking (up to your trek's maximum elevation), emergency helicopter evacuation, trip cancellation, and medical expenses of at least $100,000.

We do not recommend particular insurers — the right policy depends on your nationality, age and medical history, and is best chosen with your own broker. What the policy must cover is specific: high-altitude trekking to the maximum altitude stated in your itinerary, helicopter evacuation and repatriation, and emergency medical expenses of at least US$100,000 per person. Check the altitude ceiling in particular, as many standard policies stop well below the heights our journeys reach.

Emergency evacuation insurance covers helicopter rescue from remote areas, medical evacuation to appropriate facilities, and repatriation if needed. In the Himalayas, helicopter evacuation can cost $5,000-$20,000 without insurance.

Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport. A 30-day tourist visa costs $50 USD. You'll need a passport valid for at least 6 months, two passport photos, and the visa fee in cash (USD). We provide detailed visa guidance specific to your nationality.

Bhutan visas are arranged through your tour operator (that's us). We handle the entire application process. A Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of $100/night for international visitors applies. Indian nationals do not require a visa but need a valid passport.

It varies by trek. Everest Base Camp requires moderate-to-good fitness and the ability to walk 5-7 hours per day at altitude. Our Expedition Architect will recommend itineraries suited to your fitness level and provide a pre-trip training guide.

Our itineraries are designed with proper acclimatization days built in. Our guides are trained in altitude sickness recognition and carry emergency supplies. We include acclimatization hikes, monitor your condition daily, and have evacuation protocols in place.

All meals and accommodation are included as specified in your itinerary. In cities, we book 4-5 star hotels. On treks, we use the best available lodges (or luxury camping for premium itineraries). Dietary requirements are accommodated with advance notice.

We provide a detailed packing list tailored to your specific trip. Generally, you'll need quality trekking boots, layered clothing, a warm sleeping bag (available for rent), rain gear, and personal items. We can arrange gear rental in Kathmandu for most equipment.