I’m 70. I had a yearning to see Everest since I was quite young. As I grew older, I hoped to do the trip with my sons but the length of the trip was not conducive. I wasn’t particularly fit but trained for a few months beforehand, not knowing if I could manage the amount of walking , let alone the unknown element of altitude.
Arriving in Kathmandu, the hotel was excellent and we had time to visit the old city of Thamel.
The flight to Lukla was a great experience in a small plane, next the start of the trek.
The ‘Teahouses’ along the way offered a warm convivial welcome, with varying numbers of other trekkers present. Suspension-bridge crossings, some several hundred metres long were great! We were lucky to have clear visibility and sunshine nearly every day as we progressed ever higher amid awe-inspiring scenery, expertly led by our leader Valerie Parkinson, and Nepalese guide Saroje. Our yakman Nawang took care of all our luggage except for our light daysacks.
We gazed up at Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Macalu, Pumori, to name but a few peaks. From various vantage points including the aptly named Everest View Hotel, we had excellent views of Everest with the South Summit and South Col.
We experienced at first hand the logistical marvel of how everything is transported up here; by yak, mule, dzo or porter.
Bird-life included Vultures and Golden Eagles soaring overhead, plus Tibetan Snow birds that took a fancy to my lemon drizzle cake on Kala Patthar during our final acclimatisation trek.
After taking in the Kumbhu Glacier, we reached Gorak Shep before the final push to Everest Base Camp itself. Unlike most other treks, we had ample time at Base Camp rock before the short walk to one of the expedition camps where we stayed overnight, amongst an array of camps looking like something out of a Bond movie. We witnessed a massive avalanche, and spent time on the ice shelf, truly surreal amongst the surrounding peaks.
Overall, it was tough but an utterly amazing experience, in the competent hands of our leader Valerie, a lifetime goal achieved.
Adventure Tours in the Himalaya
The Himalaya, home to the tallest mountains on Earth, has long been a dream destination for those with a passion for adventure. Spanning five countries – India, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, and China (Tibet) – the range has incredible trails for walkers, from moderate to tough hikes, and a deep-rooted cultural experience. So, where to go?
For the quintessential Himalaya experience and soaring mountainscapes, visit Nepal and walk the classic trail to Everest Base Camp or experience rich indigenous culture by walking the full Annapurna Circuit. They are both challenging treks but being among the greatest mountains on the planet is just reward. For first timers to the region, our Into Nepal: Walks & Wildlife trip is the perfect introduction to trekking in the Himalaya with more moderate routes.
In India, the remote Ladakh region offers quieter trails and a Tibetan Buddhist culture for a deeply enriching experience. For a special adventure, search for snow leopards with Valerie Parkinson, our legendary tour leader and the first British woman to summit Manaslu without supplementary oxygen. Thanks to her expertise, our groups have always had sightings of the elusive big cat. Alternatively, enjoy an easier cultural trek on our trip into Darjeeling, Sikkim and the Singalila Ridge.
Your final option is Bhutan, at the far eastern end of the Himalaya. This remote kingdom between India and China only opened to outsiders in 1974, meaning old traditions and culture remain intact. Experience it for yourself by walking the Druk Path, an ancient trading route between Paro and Thimphu.
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Your Words, Not Ours
Julian Pomery Everest Base Camp Trek
Jim Patti Everest Base Camp Trek – Expedition DeparturesSuch a worthwhile trip, including because of our fantastic guide Valerie Parkinson. Valerie’s knowledge and passion for the region and its people is palpable and she is also an engaging person with interesting stories about her own exploits over the years. Yes the hiking is not easy, the creature comforts are lacking and the food is (though better than expected) simple and repetitive; however, it is all part of the amazing experience of trekking to EBC. If you think you have the stamina, fitness and willingness to poop in a hole, then do this trek! And do it with Valerie if you can as having a native English-speaking guide who understands your own cultural context is so much better than a local guide.
Stephanie Tugwell Everest Base Camp TrekAbsolutely amazing trip from start to finish. Met at the airport by a smiling Tenzi Sherpa, couldn’t have had a more welcoming greeting. Thorough briefing before an early start off into the mountains. Kept fully informed all the way along the trek. Always kept upbeat by Tenzis ready smile and laugh.
Stunning scenery and totally awe inspiring to walk among the highest mountains in the world.
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