We arrived in Kathmandu and were approached by the owner. We took his taxi to the hotel and he came to see us the next morning and discuss with us our desire to trek the Annapurna base camp. We went to his office and wanted something very slow, suitable for our small group of 4. We were quickly to find a suitable trek and arrange everything for the next day’s departure to Pokhara. We were also helped in advising us on equipment we needed, which is fairly cheap to buy in Kathmandu. You can get everything you need including lifestraw filter bottles. We went by car to Pokhara 6-7 hrs. and choose to fly on the way back. Our Guide and 2 Porters came with us from Pokhara.
We originally booked 10 days, but then added an extra day. We understood that if we return earlier, that services cannot be refunded. Quite normal anywhere in the world. They needed to plan as well.
On the trek, Nim our guide took really good care of us. He also made sure we got the best lodges, best views, started the trek early when needed. We could always have a say as well and he made it possible. He always passed on well our special food requests. We were very well taken care off. We had two young porters with us. We made sure our bags were below 15kg that they had to carry. We saw some pretty bad guys up there letting their porter carry double of what we had. Please hikers, keep it light. These people are not mules and deserve good treatment. We made sure to give them once in a while a Mars or Snickers. We had a lot of fun with the team, Komar, Myla and the guide Nim.
Nim would also show us where to refill the water bottles and often did it for us. Please do not trek with Mineral bottles. There are programs and even plastic bottle bans in some villages, because they need to burn the trash. Always carry the trash to the next bin. There are many many bins. Every lodge and tea house has more or less the same standard and the same menu as well. Prices get higher the higher up you get. Some pretty awesome Dhal bhat we had. It was our favorite choice. Don’t expect good coffee, but teas are really nice. We slept pretty well. We used our sleeping bags in the higher parts. We made use of the hot water shower a few times (P300) and there was wifi (P300) and charging (for a fee) almost everywhere. Bring walking sticks with you or cut yourself a bamboo one on the way up. My only regret is, that I didn’t bring my DSLR camera, because there are so many birds on this trek and even in the cities.
Thanks so much for organizing this trek Great Vision Trek and we are planning to return for the Everest base camp.
