Recalling My Trip to Nepal

Namche Bazaar, the first stop to Everest was quieter than usual. The only noise I could hear was the rattling of roofs at a work site located nearby. Pemba, our jovial tour guide, assured us that Nepali people were extremely happy to see us.

We started our descent towards Lukla the next day. The mountains never seemed to amaze me at various points in the trail. The mountains, tall and majestic, are taller than anything that exists in Australia or most countries in the world.

On the way, we met other climbers heading towards Namche Bazaar and probably towards the Everest Base Camp. Yaks lumbered past laden with grains or goods, spurred on by wiry Nepali boys.

Our lead guide Ram warned us to walk along the side with a wall of rock or bush. We witnessed a small sign of earthquake near the village of Phakding. Workers are working actively to rebuild the path’s wall. The nearby village was also affected by earthquake and people were still living in tents.

One of our guides Sanjay shared his experience of the earthquake with us. He was on his way to EBC during the quake, and said he believed that health and safety are major concerns when you are in mountain. Sanjay is supporting his family by taking people up to the mountain. He lives in Lukla and is currently working for a tour company, working actively to bring back tourists in Nepal.

According to Mr. Geoff Manchester, top-level official of an international tour company selling Nepal, Nepal needs the support brought by tourism and urges people to visit. According to Manchester, one of the major key to get back tourists was to ensure safety on the trails.

On the way, Phakding, popular for its tale of post-climb beverages, houses the Reggae Bar that would be crowded at some times of the year. Our chief guide Ram advised us to drink but not get drunk. The night ended on a good note over a few drinks and tasty curries and Asian style dumplings called momo which is filled with chicken and vegetables. To his surprise the restaurants also served Indian, Chinese and local dishes.

The next day, still feeling the effects of the momos (or was it the Everest beer?) we set off in the dark with head torches affixed and wearing fresh socks purchased at the area’s ubiquitous cheap stores.

We were given yet another warm welcome at Lukla airport with generous breakfast and much-needed coffee.

Back in Kathmandu, between scarf shopping and a trip to a jazz bar, I was recalling my trip and felt extremely fortunate to be in Nepal. I don’t need invitations anymore, as one small trek has made me crave for bigger and wilder adventures ahead. More mountains, and many more momos, are waiting be conquered.

Go To Nepal

HOW TO GET THERE

Airlines flying to Kathmandu include Thai, Malaysian, and China Southern airlines. Flying time is about 15 hours. Round tickets can cost about $900-$1100.

WHEN TO GO

The most popular trekking seasons are March-June and September-November. During these times skies are often relatively clear and temperatures moderate.

WHAT TO DO

Everest Base Camp Trek is a 15-day journey through the Himalayas, and includes return flights from Kathmandu to Lukla as well as guesthouse accommodation, some meals, and local guides. Prices start from $1296 (excluding international flights). Another popular trip is to the Annapurna region.

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