THE ADVENTURE BEGINS...
We recommend arriving at the airport with plenty of time before departure to allow for check-in and security. Please note that if you miss a flight, we’re unable to arrange an alternative.
UK DEPARTURE
London Gatwick > Istanbul
Saturday, 9 th May 2026
Turkish Airlines | TK 1982
10:50 – 16:50 | 4h 00m
Istanbul > Kathmandu
Saturday, 9 th May 2026
Turkish Airlines | TK 726
20:55 – 06:45 | 7h 05m
UK RETURN
Kathmandu > Istanbul
Sunday, 17th May 2026
Turkish Airlines | TK 727
08:10 – 13:35 | 8h 10m
Istanbul > London Gatwick
Sunday, 17th May 2026
Turkish Airlines | TK 1929
20:25 – 22:25 | 4h 00m
Hold Luggage: 1 piece 20kg
Hand Luggage: 1 piece 23cm x 40cm x 55cm 8kg
Additional: 1 personal item 40cm x 30cm x 15cm 4kg
INTERNAL FLIGHTS
Kathmandu > Tumlingtar
Monday, 11th May 2026
08:55 – 09:30 | 35m
Tumlingtar > Kathmandu
Friday, 15th May 2026
09:55 – 10:30 | 35m
1 Backpack: Must not exceed 20kg, and will need to fit in a 4x4 for our road travel
1 personal item: Small handbag
SATURDAY 9 TH MAY
All timings are subject to change during your time in Nepal.
07:30: Meet the Tropic Team at the Turkish Airlines check-in desk, Gatwick South Terminal.
Please keep an eye on the departure boards for your boarding gate number and time.
10:50: Flight departs for Istanbul. Meals and drinks will be served on board.
16:50: Arrive at Istanbul Airport. Layover will be 4 hours and 5 minutes.
Feel free to explore the airport during this time, but please keep an eye on the departure boards.
20:55: Flight departs for Kathmandu. Meals and drinks will be served on board.
SUNDAY 10 TH MAY
06:45: Arrive in Kathmandu. After collecting your luggage and clearing customs, meet our local team in the arrivals hall for your transfer to Hyatt Centric Soalteemode, Kathmandu
09:30: Arrive at the hotel, settle in, and enjoy breakfast and a relaxed afternoon.
19:00: Join us in the hotel restaurant for a traditional Nepali welcome dinner with UWS
At dinner, you’ll have lots of opportunities to learn more about the community we’ll be visiting and the impact of UWS’ work.
Before we begin our journey to the school in the morning, please leave your main luggage at the hotel and pack a backpack with everything you’ll need for three nights in the community and one night in Tumlingtar.
Dress Code
Daytime: Comfortable clothing for travelling.
Evening: Smart casual attire.
SCHOOL VISIT
PACKING
LIST
Comfortable clothing for three nights in the community and one in a hotel
Warmer clothing for your time in the community
A personal medical kit suited for remote tropical travel
Mosquito Repellent
Bite Cream
Biodegradable Wipes & Hand Sanitiser
Keep It Clean recommended!
Biodegradable All-Purpose Soap
Toilet Roll or Tissue Packs
Reef-Safe Sun Protection our own recommended!
Sunglasses
Flip-Flops
Waterproof Jacket
Swimming Costume & Sarong/Cover-Up
Trainers
Bottled Water or Filtered Water System
Power Pack/Battery
Ear Plugs/Eye Mask
Travel Pillow provided by Tropic
Sleepwear
Torch provided by Tropic
Small Sleeping Liner optional
Small Quick-Dry Towel
MONDAY 11 TH MAY
From 06:30: Breakfast in the hotel restaurant.
07:00: Transfer to Kathmandu Airport for your short flight to Tumlingtar.
08:55: Flight departs for Tumlingtar – make sure you look out for the stunning views!
09:30: Arrive in Tumlingtar and continue the journey by 4x4 to the Salpa community, approximately four hours. Along the way, you’ll travel through rural landscapes and terraced farmland, offering a glimpse into everyday life in the region.
On arrival, you’ll receive a warm community welcome before settling into your homestays.
In the evening, you’ll enjoy a home-cooked dinner with your hosts and get a taste of authentic Nepali hospitality.
Dress Code
Daytime: Lightweight, modest clothing.
Evening: Warmer layers for the cooler night.
TUESDAY 12 TH MAY
We’ll start our day by visiting Salpa School to meet students, teachers, and families, before taking part in the school’s inauguration ceremony – a joyful celebration featuring cultural performances from students and local mothers’ groups. Then, we’ll spend time in classrooms and with the wider community, gaining first-hand insight into the role Tropic Ambassadors have played in helping make this school possible.
Dress Code
Daytime: Lightweight, modest clothing.
Evening: Something warmer for the cool night.
WEDNESDAY 13 TH MAY
Following breakfast, we’ll meet members of UWS’ girls’ and mothers’ groups and hear about their experiences, aspirations, and the impact education has on their lives.
Later, we’ll enjoy a guided nature walk through the surrounding hills before returning for our final evening in the community.
THURSDAY 14 TH MAY
After breakfast, we’ll bid the Salpa community farewell and head back to Tumlingtar.
We’ll arrive at Arati Hotel approximately four hours later, have lunch on arrival, then settle in for a relaxing evening
Dress Code
Daytime: Lightweight, modest clothing.
Evening: Something warmer for the cool night.
FRIDAY 15 TH MAY
07:00: Check out and enjoy breakfast in the hotel restaurant.
08:00: Transfer to Tumlingtar Airport.
09:55: Flight departs for Kathmandu.
10:30: Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to Hyatt Centric Soalteemode Kathmandu .
Check in, have lunch, then enjoy a well-earned afternoon at leisure. You’ll have time to relax by the pool, indulge in the spa, or simply take time to reflect and unwind.
19:30: Meet at the hotel restaurant for dinner.
Dress Code
Daytime: Comfortable clothing for travelling.
Evening: Smart casual attire.
SATURDAY 16 TH MAY
From 06:30: Breakfast in the hotel restaurant.
10:00: Transfer for your city tour, including a visit to the Monkey Temple and other UNESCO World Heritage sites, followed by lunch.
16:00: Head back to the hotel to prepare for your final evening.
18:00: Meet in the foyer for transfer to your farewell dinner.
Dress Code
Daytime: Casual and comfortable.
Evening: Smart casual attire.
SUNDAY 17 TH MAY
04:00: Check out and transfer to Kathmandu Airport
05:30: Check in at the airport.
Please keep an eye on departure boards for your gate and boarding time.
08:10: Flight departs for Istanbul. Meals and drinks will be served on board.
13:35: Arrive at Istanbul Airport. Layover will be 6 hours and 50 minutes.
Feel free to explore the airport but proceed to your gate once it is announced.
20:25: Flight departs for London Gatwick. Meals and drinks will be served on board.
22:25: London Gatwick. South Terminal.
Dress Code
Daytime: Comfortable clothing for travelling.
CULTURE & HISTORY
Nepal is a country rich in culture and diversity. Home to around 26 million people, it has approximately 124 languages spoken across many unique communities and traditions. Its landscape is equally varied, ranging from lowland plains to the Himalayan mountains, including the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest.
However, Nepal’s challenging terrain can make infrastructure development difficult, particularly in remote areas. The country has also faced obstacles such as political instability, natural disasters, and past conflict. In many rural communities, limited transportation and access to services mean families often prioritise basic needs such as food and shelter over education.
Despite these challenges, Nepal remains a nation defined by resilience, where strong cultural traditions and vibrant festivals continue to bring communities together.
LANGUAGE
The official language of Nepal is Nepali, spoken by nearly 80% of the population and widely used in government, education, media, and everyday life.
In urban areas and within the tourism industry, many people speak some English. Rural communities are less likely to do so, but visitors are always welcomed with warmth and hospitality. In the communities we’ll visit, people may speak their own local dialects, offering a unique glimpse into Nepal’s cultural diversity.
VISA’S & ENTRY
• Ensure your passport has at least six months validity remaining and bring two-passport-sized photographs.
• Apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) in advance via the Nepali Immigration website (nepaliport. immigration.gov.np)
• The address to use on your visa application is: Hyatt Centric Soalteemode, PO Box 8801, Tahachal, Kathmandu
• Once complete, you’ll receive a confirmation email to present at immigration on arrival, alongside your photographs.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Comprehensive travel insurance is essential for the duration of your trip. Please ensure your policy includes full medical cover and emergency evacuation, including helicopter rescue where necessary.
Please Note: Tropic does not provide or arrange travel insurance.
VACCINES
Consult your GP for personalised advice. Common recommendations include Hepatitis A and Tetanus.
CURRENCY
• The currency in Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR).
• Cash is widely used and often the only accepted payment method. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is best to carry cash. Small denominations are useful for taxis and markets.
• All trip expenses including group transportation, group meals, and group activities are covered by Tropic. However, if you wish to make purchases outside the itinerary, we recommend bringing some cash.
WATER
While in Nepal, you’ll need to drink bottled water and avoid ice.
CONNECTIVITY
There’ll be reliable Wi-Fi and mobile coverage in Kathmandu, however, rural areas including UWS communities, have limited or no access. A satellite phone will be available for emergencies.
ACCOMMODATION
You’ll be staying in hotels at the beginning and end of our trip and get a chance to experience authentic village living by staying in local homestays while in the community, sleeping in sleeping bags on roll mats.
FOOD & DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
One of Nepal’s most common dishes is Daal Bhat , a combination of rice and lentils served with seasonal vegetables and a spicy pickle, known as achar. You’ll also find dishes influenced by Indian and Chinese cuisine, each with a unique Nepali twist.
Village meals will be simple but nourishing. Dietary requirements will be accommodated, and we recommend bringing snacks for convenience.
WEATHER
• We’ll be travelling to Nepal during the early summer, but temperatures will vary by location.
• In the foothills temperatures can be cool, while Kathmandu may reach around 27°C .
• Mountain regions remain colder, particularly at night, so you’ll need warm clothing in the community, as temperatures can drop to around 9-10°C .
CLOTHING
• Light and comfortable clothing will be suitable when we’re in Kathmandu and Tumlingtar, think light trousers or long skirts, breathable fabrics, and thin shirts for warm days, plus a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
• When visiting cultural sites or local communities, it’s important to wear modest attire to show respect for local customs. Opt for loose clothing that covers your shoulders, chest, and legs.
• During your time in the community, warmer layers are recommended as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
• When swimming or showering in village areas, please cover your shoulders and avoid bikinis.
• Closed-toe shoes are recommended for walking and village visits.
HEALTHCARE FACILITIES
Kathmandu has well-equipped hospitals and medical facilities. During your time in the community, you’ll have access to local healthcare services, and a first-aid-trained member of the UWS team will accompany the group at all times.
PACKING LIST
DOCUMENTS
Passport valid for 6+ months
Visa USD $30 on arrival – check nationality requirements
Two Passport-Sized Photos
Small Denomination Cash US Dollars & Nepali Rupees
Insurance Details including repatriation coverage
ESSENTIALS
Personalised Travel Medical Kit
Toiletries
Feminine Hygiene Products
Reef-Safe Sun Protection
Biodegradable Wipes & Hand Sanitiser
Insect Repellent DEET 50%+ or equivalent
Bite Cream
Quick-Dry Towel
Biodegradable All-Purpose Soap
Toilet Roll or Tissue Packs
Sweet Treats & Non-Perishable Snacks
ELECTRONICS
Phone & Charger
Power Bank
Universal Plug Adaptor
Camera or Extra SD cards optional
Headphones or Earplugs
Torch provided by Tropic
CLOTHES & SHOES
Modest Clothing shoulder-covering tops, long trousers or skirts
Long-Sleeved Tops or Shirts
Lightweight Jacket
Waterproof Jacket
Sun Hat & Sunglasses
Comfortable Walking Boots or Trainers
Sandals
Flip-Flops for indoor use
Walking Socks
Sleepwear
Swimwear avoid bikinis in villages
SLEEPING
Ear Plugs/Eye Mask
Travel Pillow provided by Tropic
Small Sleeping Liner optional, UWS provides mats and sleeping bags
EXTRA ITEMS
Small Backpack for community visit
Water Bottle
Handheld Fan
Ziplock Bags to protect electronics and documents
