By Andre Lopes
Nepal, “The Roof of the World!”. As a mountain and Nature lover, and as someone who always loved learning and getting to know different people and cultures, visiting Nepal was a childhood dream of mine. And I must say Nepal does not disappoint. As soon as I walked out of the airplane it became clear I was in a very different place from what we’re used to in Europe. Kathmandu is a busy place, with what seems to be chaotic traffic but which flows freely with no accidents. Also, the people are very kind and very eager to help, easily going out of their way for that.
Of course, Nepal has a lot to see, but the highlight is the Himalayas. And so, I took the flight to Lukla, which was very smooth and relaxed, contrary to what I expected. Right at the airport you already feel you’re entering the Mountains Realm. And as you start your journey, you cross villages full of colour with smiling inhabitants, wonderfully painted monasteries, hanging bridges, porters and animal caravans. And, of course, eventually you get to see your first yaks up close. I must say it’s a very beautiful and elegant animal, although very shy!
After one third of the trail to EBC was completed, I had a rest day in the famous and unique village of Namche Bazaar, which meant a short hike to an around 4000 m altitude to get my first glimpse of Everest. I could just see a piece of black rock covered with snow very far away still, but it was enough to get the spirits up and make the whole trip worthwhile already.
On the following days we continued our way up, crossing picturesque villages, beautiful forests and around more and more magnificent mountains, like the famous and impressive Ama Dablam and Pumori, among others. Finally, after all the effort and all the walking, I finally had the Khumbu Glacier at my right side and, soon after, I reached Gorakshep, the last human settlement before the desired EBC. From there I took a short 2 hour hike and I was finally there, on the world famous Everest Base Camp, surrounded by enormous steep walls and blocks of ice, a field of dreams and the birthplace of so many legends and events that became mountaineering history. I assure you it’s a special experience that you will forever remember and cherish.
