Life is meant to be to do beautiful things, the best things. If so, 12 Days Manaslu Trek is one of the best and most alluring experiences for those who love being on trails. Like everyone, you’ll love this great off-the-beaten trek.
Manaslu Region, popularly known as the home of Mt Manaslu, the eighth highest peak in the world, is a land of wonderful natural enchantress. Not just nature, it is home to a rich cultural heritage, moving lifestyle, and diverse ethnicity.
The 12 Days Manaslu Trek is a thread weaved around the joint beauty of the region. Unfolding with a scenic excursion to Machha Khola, Manaslu Trek is an amazing journey. It makes you ramble in the most beautiful part of Nepal that is still unexplored by many.
For 12 days, you will trek through many unknowingly scenic hamlets. Jagat, Deng, Samagaon, and Samdo are the villages to name some. The Tibetan influence blows in the region.
You will surely gain new insights into people, cultures, and lifestyles as you pass them. The passage will also happen via spiritual shrines, gompas, and mani walls. You’ll love this cultural part of the walk as well.
On the flip side, the natural enchantress of the Manaslu will awe-struck you. Leaving Mt Manaslu- the gigantic and tempting peak, you’ll seize Yangra Peak, Himalchuli, Shringi, Ngadi Chuli, Ganesh Himal, and others.
Like the peaks, the region’s wild valleys, lush vegetation, stunning glaciers, rivers, lakes, and terrains will add more beauty to the experience.
You will surely have a beautiful time doing this 12-day Manaslu Trek. You’ll love the starting drive to Arughat, which presents Nepal. The purity of breath in the region’s woods. The poetic breeze on the shores of Birendra Lake.
The simplicity of Samagoan. And the tiring Larkya La Pass (5,1123m) panorama magic and so on. This journey has dozens of moments that will forever be engraved in your mind and memory.
If you want to carve your memory with the experiences of 12 Days Manaslu Trek, let’s do it. The best times for this journey are Autumn and Spring. If you have no problem walking 6-7 hours on average in the mountains, you are good for the trek. No experience, but fitness is needed.
Let’s do a trek for a lifetime.
Major Highlights of 12 Days Manaslu Trek
- Enjoy a picturesque and exciting walk around Mt Manaslu(8,163m), the eighth-tallest peak in th world.
- Commence the voyage with an alluring drive on the mountain roads of Nepal.
- Parade on one of the best-kept secret trails of Nepal.
- Slide through some of Nepal’s most scenic rural villages, where the Nubri and Tsum ethnic groups inhabit.
- Discover the unique mystique of Manaslu Region’s culture heritages.
- Walk into the affluent and raw vegetation of the Manaslu Region, which is diversely sprinkled.
- Cross many freshly pouring Budi Gandaki River, tributaries, and waterfalls along the way; the prayer flags dotted suspension bridges.
- Summit the Larkya La Pass(5,106m), a dramatic vantage point to embrace majestic peaks of the region like Mt Manaslu, Mt Ganesh, Nadi Chuli, etc.
Manaslu Trek Map
Click to Map Enlarge. or Download PDF Map
Outline Itinerary - Manaslu Circuit Trek 12 Days
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (850m/2788ft)
Day 2: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat
(2,095m/4,395ft)
Day 3: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,340m/4396ft)
Day 4: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2660m/8,727 ft)
Day 5: Trek from Namrung to Lho (3180m/10,433ft)
Day 6: Trek from Lho to Samagaun (3520m/ 11549ft)
Day 7: Acclimatization Day at Samagaon
Day 8: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo (3,875m/12,713ft)
Day 9: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (4,450m /14,596 ft)
Day 10: Trek from Dharamsala to Bimthang (3,720m / 12,201 ft) via Larkya La Pass(5,123m)
Day 11: Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani (1860m / 6,102 ft)
Day 12: Dharapani to Kathmandu (1440m/4724 ft)
Detailed Itinerary - 12 Days Manaslu Circuit Trek
Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Machha Khola (850m/2788ft)
Drive Duration: 8-9 hours
We shall be ready for the adventure in the morning. After breakfast, we’ll hop on a bus for an exciting drive to Machha Khola, around 160 km from the capital. It will be a winding highway experience of 8-9 hours, enjoying all kinds of pictures of Nepal: winding rivers, lush valleys, scenic peaks, and dotted greenery villages.
The drive will be bumpy at times as the roads in Nepal are thrilling. This great highway venture will stop in Machha Khola after crossing stops like Dhading Besi, Arughat, Soti Khola, and more. We will get off in the town that resides by the river. Finding our teahouse, we will stay in Machha Khola.
Day 2: Trek from Machha Khola to Jagat (2,095m/4,395ft)
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Trek Distance: 22km
After a tasty breakfast, we will leave our teahouse for Jagat. We will begin with a gentle uphill walk to Khorla Bensi. From there, we will continue walking to Tatopani, where we will see a natural hot spring. We will surely stay to catch our breath if you say.
Afterward, we will continue again to reach Yuri Bagar. We will discover several suspension bridges and one unique bridge of Cantilever along the way. The walk is mostly via deep forest. We will have a serene walk through it. Also, we will get clear pictures of Shringi Himal, Ganesh Himal, and others when the view opens.
From there, we will do a final walk to Jagat, our overnight destination, and the Manaslu Conservation Area checkpoint. We will have a good stay in the village of Jagat.
Day 3: Trek from Jagat to Deng (1,340m/4396ft)
Trek Duration: 6-8 hours
Trek Distance: 20 Km
We will prepare to leave Jagat after breakfast. Like the last morning, we will begin with a soft uphill. After the climb, we will cross some suspension bridges and the Budhi Gandaki River. Then, shortly, we will arrive in a colossal hamlet named Philim, where prayer flags, monasteries, and stupas are all over.
The village will be left behind as we move north via maize fields and find Ekle Bhatti. At Ekle Bhatti, we will stop and have a fulfilling lunch. After rejuvenating our bodies, we will continue via grassy slopes. Enroute, we will cross bamboo forests, suspension bridges, and the river again. Finally, we will be in Deng village to spend the night.
Day 4: Trek from Deng to Namrung (2660m/8,727 ft)
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
Trek Distance: 19.5 km
Our trek will start at a normal pace after breakfast. Unlike the earlier days, we will start this one with an easy drop to the riverside of the Budhi Gandaki River. The walk to Rana Gaon(village) will begin after crossing the river. The trek will begin to feel special as you see imposing landscapes.
While continuing, we will pass via Bhimphedi and Ghap villages and come across two hydropower stations. At Ghap, we will catch our breath and enjoy lunch. The walk will continue via lush trees and some cascades after lunch.
Soon, we will find many stones inscribed with chants and prayers. It will beckon the arrival of Namrung, an enchanting village, where we will have a lovely stay.
Day 5: Trek from Namrung to Lho (3180m/10,433ft)
Trek Duration: 6-7 hours
Trek Distance: 20.5 km
We will wake up to a fascinating morning in Namrung. After devouring breakfast, we will trek off Namrung. Strolling gently via the forested trail, we will reach another picturesque village called Lihi Village. Following a brief pause at the village, we will take a trail via an impressive oak, fir, and rhododendrons forest. We will reach Sho village.
The walk beyond Sho village is stunning, offering majestic views of Naike Peak, Manaslu, Simnang Himal, and more. We will also trek on a trail dotted with stupa, prayer flags, mani walls, praying wheels, and more. And finally, we will arrive in Lho Village for the night stay.
Day 6:Trek from Lho to Samagaun (3520m/ 11549ft)
Trek Duration: 5 hours
Trek Distance: 17 km
Now, we leave Lho behind on the map and descend to a stream that cascades from one of the glaciers. From there, we will take a trail that goes along the stream. The stream-sided and forested trail will bring us to Shyala, a stunning Himalayan village.
We will embrace the good mountain views of various peaks from the villages.
We will go further along the stream and climb a ridge. The path will turn wider and flat ahead. Enjoying the impressive views, we will finally arrive in Samagoan, one of the most beautiful villages in Nepal. In the surroundings of glorious views, we will spend a beautiful evening.
Day 7: Acclimatization Day at Samagaon
Now it would be time to slow down on 12 Days Manaslu Trek. We must acknowledge altitude and spend an acclimatization day in Samagaon. By leaving our backpacks at the teahouse, we will go out for nearby hikes, which helps to acclimatize.
We will have several good walk options on the acclimatization days. First, Birendra Lake, located at 3,450m, is a freshwater lake near Punhyen Glacier. The walk to the lake is only 3 km from Samogaon.
Second, we can hike to Manaslu Base Camp, the world’s eighth-tallest mountain base camp. It is located at 4,800m and around 6 km from the village. Third is Pungen Monastery, located 6-7 km from the village. The walk provides serene and scenic views of mani walls, prayer flags, a monastery, and peaks.
We will attempt to tick all three locations on this day. If not all, we will visit at least two of them. Ultimately, the hike will retrace back to Samagoan in the evening.
Day 8: Trek from Samagaon to Samdo (3,875m/12,713ft)
Trek Duration: 5 hours
Trek Distance: 16 km
A beautiful dawn will open our eyes, and we will prepare to leave Samagaon. After having a delicious breakfast, we will take on an uphill. For several hours, we will wind on the hill. We will arrive at a scenic sheep grazing area. If it is a season, we will catch views of sheep & lambs.
Passing via birch and juniper trees, we will leave the pasture area and find Samdo. A short but picturesque day of trekking will end in Samdo. Before nightfall, we will try to explore the village of Tibetan migrated people. To make the arrival more beautiful, we will hike down the pinpoint of the village for a breathtaking panorama. After the view, we will retrace to Samdo and rest.
Day 9: Trek from Samdo to Dharamsala (4,450m /14,596 ft)
Trek Duration: 4 hours
Trek Distance: 12 km
The beautiful stay in Samdo village will end after breakfast when we leave for Dharamsala. Our walk will begin with a trek that drops to the Budi Gandaki River. Then, we shall cross the river to climb towards Larkya Bazaar. As we keep walking, we will reach the trek via scenic Sakla Valley, a valley with mesmerizing peaks in the backdrop.
Like the last day, the trek is short and will end soon. We will arrive at Larkya Phedi, which is more popularly known as Dharamsala. It is a temporary village that remains open in peak trekking seasons. We can view Larkya Glacier and the mountains from the village. Enjoying the glorious pictures, we will call it a day.
Day 10: Trek from Dharamsala to Bimthang (3,720m / 12,201 ft) via Larkya La Pass(5,123m)
Trek Duration: 8-9 hours
Trek Distance: 25km
It is the most intimidating day of the 12 Days Manaslu Trek when you cross Larkya La Pass. It is also the longest of all. Hence, we will benign early by heading north of the Larkya Glacier. The walk is demanding as it goes upwards. But we will view enchanting views of Larkya Peak, Cho Danda, and other nearby peaks.
The whole walk is to the top of Larkya La Pass(5,123m), the trek's highest point. We will touch the top as prepared. As a reward, we will watch a spell-binding panorama of the Himalayas. From Annapurna to Himlung Himal, we will view a lot many peaks.
After a memorable time at the top, we will drop gently towards Dangboche Kharka. The trail downwards is slippery before Dangboche Kharka. The path is comfortable from there, so we will trek to Bimthang easily. Bimthang is a picturesque village with a large meadow, many mani walls, and prayer flags. We will have a good rest in the village.
Day 11: Trek from Bimthang to Dharapani (1860m / 6,102 ft)
Trek Duration: 7-8 hours
Trek Distance: 34 km
We will come to the last walking day of the 12 Days Manaslu Trek. On the final day, we will trek Bimthan to Dharapani, which will be one of the longest walks of the trek. To start the day, we will trek south of Bimthang behind a moraine cliff. We will cross Bimthang Glacier quite closely and pass a moraine wall behind.
After that, we will stroll through a tranquil forest to reach the shores of the Dudh Khola. Then, we will cross the river and trek to a Gurung village named Tilije. We will pass on the wide and picturesque Marsyandi Valley all this while. Several scenic traditional villages will also come along. Crossing all kinds of terrains and enjoying all sorts of views, we will reach Dharapani for the night. We will have a relaxing night here.
Day 12: Dharapani to Kathmandu (1440m/4724 ft)
Drive Duration: 8-9 hours
Drive Distance: 118 km
And with this, we will come to the final day of 12 days Manaslu Trek, on which we will return to Kathmandu. Firstly, we will take a 2-3 hours long jeep drive to Besisahar. Then, from Besishar, we will hop on a 7-8-hour highway journey to Kathmandu. On both drives, we will surely enjoy great scenaries of villages, rivers, hills, and places. Ultimately, we will return to Kathmandu after a memorable 12 Days Manaslu Trek.
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Trip Cost US$ 1090 Per person
Cost Includes:
- Private airport transfers for pick-up and drop-off.
- Comfortable Travel by bus from Kathmandu to Sotikhola and from Besishahar back to Kathmandu.
- Twin-sharing lodges available during your trek Savor three meals daily (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Guidance of an experienced, government-authorized English-speaking trekking guide.
- Each pair of trekkers is accompanied by a dedicated porter, including their salary and insurance.
- Stay energized with snacks and seasonal fruits provided during the trek.
- Complimentary use of a down jacket and sleeping bag during the trek (to be returned after your journey).
- Receive a trekking map and a certificate of achievement upon completing the trip.
- All necessary paperwork, including permits for
- Manaslu restricted area, MCAP, ACAP, and TIMS
- Cover all local government fees and office service charges.
- Provision of medical supplies in a first aid kit.
- In case of emergencies, we can arrange for a helicopter (insurance company to cover expenses).
Cost Excludes:
- Accommodation and dining in Kathmandu are not included.
- You'll need to cover the Nepal entry visa fee of $50 USD for a 30-day visa upon arrival.
- International airfare is not part of the package.
- Personal expenses are your responsibility.
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, both hot and cold, are not provided.
- Additional charges apply for battery charging and hot showers at tea houses during the trek.
- Budget for tips to show appreciation to your guide, porter, and driver as tipping is customary.
Departure Dates
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FAQs
How long does it take to hike Manaslu?
The duration of the Manaslu hike depends on the itinerary. Normally, you will find a 13 to 17 days long itinerary, which may include Kathmandu Sightseeing and a couple of acclimatization days. In this case, the Manaslu Trek is just 12 Days long, which consists of one acclimatization day.
How much does the 12 Days Manaslu trek cost?
Our 12 days Manaslu Trek cost starts from USD 1050. The price can vary with duration, route, and service.
How hard is Manaslu Trek?
Manaslu Trek is a moderate trek. The main challenges of the trek are high altitude, rough trails, steep sections, and cold weather conditions. It can be a demanding trek for a newbie. Otherwise, the trek is a manageable trek with the right preparation.
Is there any age restriction for Manaslu Circuit Trek?
12 Days Manaslu Trek has no restrictions. However, a trekker should be able to trek above 5000m.
Can a beginner do Manaslu Trek?
As prior experience is optional for the Manaslu Trek, a beginner can also do this trek. Nevertheless, a trekker must be fit, physically prepared, and mentally ready for the adventure.
What is the highest point of Manaslu Trek?
Larkya La Pass(5,123m) is the apex point of the trek.
Can you trek Manaslu without a guide?
No, solo trekking was not allowed in the Manaslu Region. It is a restricted region. To trek in the region, you must have a government-approved guide.
Is Manaslu Circuit Trek Safe?
Manaslu Circuit Trek is secure to do. You will have a comfortable visit if you are here with a licensed and experienced guide. Plus, you must have some physical preparation.
Why is Manaslu so popular?
Mt Manaslu is the eighth-tallest mountain in the world. And it is picturesque too. It is quite popular for climbing as it delivers an enjoyable climbing experience. Plus, it is home to the famous 12 Days Manaslu Trek.
How do I prepare for the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
Cardio Training, Climbing Conditioning, and Strength Training are the three ways to prepare for the trek physically. Overall, your body should be in a good position to be comfortable on the trail of Manaslu Trek.
How much is the permit fee for Manaslu?
You will need three permits: Manaslu Restricted Area Permit, Manaslu Conservation Area Permit(MCAP), and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit(ACAP). The fee for ACAP and MCAP is USD 30 per person each. Similarly, the cost of a Manaslu Restricted Area Permit is USD 100 during Autumn and USD 75 during Spring, Winter, and Monsoon)
How many kilometers is the Manaslu Circuit Trek?
The complete distance of the Manaslu Circuit Trek is 177 km. However, the distance can vary with route and itinerary.
Is drinking water available on Manaslu Trek?
Yes, the drinking water is obtainable. You can buy bottled drinking bottles from a shop or teahouse. Or you can drink by refilling from tap water and using water purification tablets.
Is charging and Wi-Fi service accessible on the trek?
The charging and wifi facilities are available. You can use them in teahouses or lodges in the low areas. But, the services might not be that good in the higher places. Thus, we recommend you to have charging equipment for emergencies.
Are ATM lounges available on Manaslu Trek?
No lounges are on the trail, as the Manaslu Region is remote. Thus, you must have enough cash for the trek expenses.
Best Time for 12 Days Manaslu Trek
You can come any time to do an incredible trek like 12 Days Manaslu Trek. But there are two unmatched times for it. One is Spring(March, April, and May), and another is Autumn(September, October, and November). These two seasons are just perfect for the adventure.
Spring, which is the flowering season, would be our first recommendation. The three months of Spring are ideal for any treks in Nepal, not just this. Indeed, it is the righteous time to climb peaks as well.
Some highlights are the mild temperature of 6 to 12 degrees, clear mountain vistas, sunny days, and lush greenery. The famous Birendra and Ponkar Lakes begin to defrost. Thus, you can have a wonderful trek.
Likewise, Autumn is an equally favorable time for this voyage. The season of great local carnivals like Dashain, Tihar, Indra Jatra, etc., is also cozy to trekkers. It is warmer than Spring, with an average temperature of 12 to 18 degrees in low areas.
Undisturbed mountain views, blue skies, brighter days, and more daylight are the other perks of Manaslu in Autumn. There are many good reasons to do the Manaslu Trek in Autumn.
Alternatively, you can embark on Manaslu Trek in the Winter and Monsoon seasons. These two seasons are perfect for not-so-many-trekker experiences as these are low times. However, you have to face the adversities and uncertainty of the weather.
Winter is an off-season for its extreme cold, the higher regions mainly. You must be in warm clothes and with proper winter gear. Or else, if it is too snowy, the Larkya La Pass can be a tough trek. Having that said, the view during Winter is sublime due to snow.
Just like that, Monsoon is a doable but low time for Manaslu Trek. While Winter is about snow, Monsoon is about rain showers and clouds. You have to trek on slippery and muddy trails. The clouds will block the views often. But still, you will have one unique Manaslu experience if you can handle the weather.
Among all, Autumn and Spring are the best for the trek. As they are high time to be in Nepal, you will make many new memories & friends on the journey.
Difficulty Level of 12 Days Manaslu Trek
12 Manaslu Trek is a beautiful journey, but it is difficult too. Rated as a moderate trek, the Manaslu Trek has several factors that make it so.
First is altitude sickness. On this journey to Manaslu, you will trek the Larkya La Pass, which nestles at 5,106m. Altitude sickness is always a threat if not taken seriously on a high-area voyage like this.
Likewise, the ruggedness of the trail can be another. Manaslu Region is known for its rough trekking route. Unlike on Everest Base Camp Trek, you’ll not always find nice pave-stone trails. Sometimes, the road is rougher, and you must watch the ground.
The daily walking time of the trek can be a top hurdle, too. On such rugged trails, you must trek for 5-6 hours daily. You must go a bit longer on several days. That could be challenging.
The remoteness can also be another challenge. Manaslu Trek’s trail is an off-the-beaten side. Thus, the conditions are too minimal. It could be some hustle to get used to such circumstances.
The weather can be another point if you have never been to the Himalayas. Here, the climate is unpredictable. The higher parts of Nepal, where Manaslu lies, are colder yearly.
Manaslu Trek 12 Days is an exciting excursion. Like on every journey of life, there will be some adversities. We know the ending of such journeys is always breathtaking; the Manaslu Trek is also the same.
Physical Fitness
You do not have to be super fit for this trek. But ensure you have the fitness to take on the sheer uphills and rapid downhills. Make certain you can push your body daily on the trail for 6-7 hours. Assure your body is fit enough to function in the high altitudes.
Manaslu Circuit Trek is a moderate walk that even newbies can do. But, if you are a beginner, you must be in shape to walk around 150 km in the mountains. People of various ages and shapes have done it. You can also.
The trek is an easy deal for an experienced trekker. If you have some old memories of trekking, that is awesome. If not, do come with some preparation and fitness to complete the trek.
Training for 12 Days Manaslu Trek
Physical and mental preparation is necessary for the 12 Days Manaslu Trek. The trek is wild, rough, long, and ticky. It might be a comfortable trek for experienced trekkers. They may not need strict physical training.
However, it is mandatory for beginner and less-experienced trekkers. There are three things to consider when preparing for this adventure: Strength, Cardio, and Climbing.
Strength training involves exercise with gym machines, bodyweight gear, backpacks, etc. It helps you to construct muscles in areas like the lower back, upper back, shoulders, legs, hips, etc. While trekking, these body parts will come to work. Hence, you have to keep them ready.
Likewise, Cardio training is about training your body to labor with less oxygen. On the trek, you need to climb in the high elevations where the oxygen level is low. This exercise will condition you for such situations. You can do running, walking, jogging, trail running, walking uphill, cycling, swimming, etc.
Lastly, you require climbing training to ascend the steep trails of the trek. There will be plenty of uphills while approaching Larkya La Pass. You must climb them. To prepare, you must do uphill climbing with a weighted backpack. A day hike every week is a good way to prepare.
Starting the training 2-3 months before the trek is recommended. The longer your preparation, the better ready you will be for the walk. We hope you’ll prepare well!
Food and Accommodation on 12 Days Manaslu Trek
While in Kathmandu, you can choose from varieties of meals and accommodation. But, as you leave Kathmandu for the Manaslu Region, the options will lessen. Manaslu Region is a remote area with basic teahouses and lodges for trekkers. Thus, food and accommodation are pretty basic on the trail, mainly in the high areas.
During the trek, you will have lunch, breakfast, and dinner in the teahouses of the trail. The teahouses operated by locals serve meals like Dal Bhat, Noodles, Soup, Spaghetti, Fried Rice, Eggs, Bread, etc. Coffee, lemon tea, soft drinks, and energy drinks are also available.
Likewise, you’ll stay in the teahouses during the night. The standard teahouses provide clean, warm, and comfortable rooms with beds and clothes. You may or may not get attached bathrooms every time. You have to use the communal bathroom at some.
Altitude Sickness
Manaslu Trek is a high-elevation walk of about 5,000m; its highest point is 5,123m/16,800ft at Larkya La Pass. Altitude sickness, or Acute Mountain Sickness, which happens above 3,5000m+ in the high areas, is real on this trek, too. We must be vigilant about it.
Remember, altitude sickness can happen if we do not take it seriously. The major triggers of the sickness are scant acclimatization, restless trekking, dehydration, and improper eating.
The common signs of altitude sickness are dizziness, headache, cough, fatigue, trouble sleeping, loss of appetite, vomiting and racing heart. These symptoms can take a while to appear.
When you experience such symptoms, it is better to stop trekking and rest. Medications like acetazolamide can delay complications. If symptoms are more extreme, it is better to descend. You have to do as your guide suggests.
To avoid it, we have to trek at our natural pace. Do not try to rush like you are on a marathon. Take a break to catch your breath. Similarly, eat fresh and nutritious foods. Try to minimize or avoid alcohol and smoking, mainly in the high areas. Instead, take medicines like diamox, which makes it easy.
Also, fuel your stomach with enough water. Most importantly, listen to your experienced guide and be in touch with them. Keep your guide aware of your body’s reaction to high elevation. If you do all these things, the sickness will not come into your sight.
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance is necessary for trekking in Nepal or everywhere else. With appropriate insurance, you can be secure against any risk while traveling.
While traveling around Nepal, you will ride and walk on various roads. The weather is also tricky at times. No one knows what can happen while on the tour.
Travel insurance can at least keep you insured against various odds. It can cover medical care, lost possessions, emergency evacuation, costs due to natural disasters, trek cancellations, etc.
We recommend having no less than emergency evacuation, tour cancellation, medical coverage, and lost items covering insurance.
