Internationale groepsreis Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

One word sums this trek up: AWESOME! This was my third visit to Nepal, yet it never fails to delight, excite, challenge, reward and de-stress me! Having been to about 50 countries - I would say that the scenery at Annurpurna Base Camp (ABC), surpassed my own expectations and was glorious... an amphitheatre of some of the world's most dramatic, highest and prestigious mountains, in beautiful sunshine, moonlight and storms.. A rewarding trek to get reach ABC through valleys and hillsides, forests, snowdrifts, stark mountainscape and in some awesome company.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The evening thunder and lightening storm at ABC was PINK! The mountains were lit by icredible pink lightening - I never knew existed! ...One of our trekkers was scared of the storm, so we sang songs from 'The Sound of Music' to comfort her.... 'raindrops on roses...'!! This was also a highlight as everyone a the Tea house joined in and we had a jolly good sing song!  I slept outside - took my mattress outside at ABC and viewed the mountains by moonlight from my sleeping bag... an awesome experience!

What did you think of your group leader?

Dawa Lama was a brilliant leader, very knowledgeable, good leadership skills, good fun, and had a caring attitude, jollying people along and ensuring everyone was included and had a good time.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Yeah, please take everything on the kit list - including waterproofs! I made the mistake thinking that it wasn't monsoon yet so waterproofs would not be needed - given my previous treks to Everest Base Camp where they were not. Nepal has different climatic regions - prepare for all eventualities. In addition, take ear plugs and a head torch so that you are not so disturbed by snorers and can share rooms without waking people when you need to use the loo in the night.. It gets cramped at Base Camp and rooms are shared, but with so little space to put your kit.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I have done both Annurpurna Sanctuary and Everest BC treks, if you are trying to decide between the two - Everest offers more history and scenery on-route, whereas Annurpurna is probably a slightly easier trek, yet the scenery on route is not as profound, yet the rewards at Annurpurna Base Camp are phenomemal. Serious advice would be to do them both!

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

Very well organised and paced trek. Great guides. Some thought perhaps into evening entertainment. Disappointed that Exodus had withdrawn their allowance to provide some Christmas day celeberation and came from the guides pockets , given an increased supplement is levied at this time of year.Would like Exodus to justify reducing guides / porters wages by 20% when any cost cutting can be acheived in its brochures, the small amount this would have saved is a large amount to this personnel which is totally unfair on then. TUI you should be ashamed ! Pre ordering meals worked very well .

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Sunset views at Poon Hill and reaching Base Camp at Annapurna , views incredible. Friendleness of the locals.

What did you think of your group leader?

Passang had a lovely sensitive personality , excellent sense of humour , always happy to help and very patient especially at meal times when clients forgot their orders.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Make sure you are well equipped for a variety of conditions in one day. Have plenty of snacks , go with the flow of the group ,

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Look at flying upto Pokhara rather than the 8 hour drive . This time could have been used exploring the town , rather than be cramped on a bus. Surely the additional cost could have be borne by the clients.

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

The scenery was awesome and the trek challenging but within the range of anyone of normal fitness who's done a bit of hill walking.  The tour leader and guides were friendly and supportive. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

First sight of Himalaya; Feeling euphoria at the end of the first day when we realised we'd be able to do it!; Arriving at Annapurna Base Camp.  Being at Annapurna Base Camp.  Annapurna.

What did you think of your group leader?

Group leader was excellent.  Very kind, very aware of how we all were managing, and gave us just the right amount of information at the right time.  I felt very confident in him.  He always managed to appear just when we might need extra help - in fact I always knew a dodgy bridge was coming up as Prem appeared out of nowhere!  Being supported by guides meant that everyone was able to do the pace they felt happy with.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't worry about the plumbing!  You'll get used to it quickly.  Personally, I'd say just don't eat meat at all - it's just not worth the risk of spoiling your trip with an upset tummy, and it's no hardship to go without - there is plenty of choice.  Once we got past the mineral water area we got boiled water from the lodges.  Taking no chances I always added a chlorine tablet, and a top tip from a friend before I left was to add a Berocca - flavour and additional vitamin C!  I experienced no illness whatsoever.  Another top idea - if you have a metal water bottle, get it filled with boiling water in the evening, clothe it in your walking socks and bingo: a lovely hot water bottle.  Then you drink the water the next day.  How's that for multipurpose?  If you have a tendency to weak knees, it might be worth packing some support bandages; there are a lot of steps!  They're very well graded though, and the group leader sets a very sensible pace and gives you plenty of time.  Trekking poles also help in this respect.  It's a lovely trip and I'd definitely do it again.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

The trip was both challenging and exilerating. It exceeded my expectations.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Entering Annapurna Sanctuary after a 7 day walk.

What did you think of your group leader?

Kind, considerate.....incomparable.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Get fit!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

No

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

Great trip. Excellent local leaders and good group made it all the more enjoyable. What can I say about Nepal; it's beautiful. Stunning scenery and great trekking. Oh, and the rice is good too! Kathmandhu is busy, noisy and chaotic, but still a place to savour. Pokhara, where we stayed a night after completing the trek, is set in a beautiful location. Lovely lake, surrounded by mountains, felt Alpine in character.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Too many inspirational moments to list them all but I guess Reaching Annapurna Base Camp at 4100m and not feeling out of breath would be up there at the top of the list. Seeing the snow covered mountains at sunrise at ABC with no cloud to obscure the view, simply magnificent.

What did you think of your group leader?

Dawa our group leader was excellent. He was patient, calm, approachable, cheery, positive, organised things efficiently and his English was well nigh perfect.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

You'll be able to get mineral water ie bottled water on the first few days and the last day of the trek. In between you'll need to drink local water that has been filtered and/or boiled. It tastes ok but I'd recommend you use water filtration tablets with it to be safe. As you progress up the trail towards ABC be aware that food, showers and drink (soft drink and beer) prices increase. Budget for the trek should be about 2500 to 3000 Nepalese Rupees per day. If you're looking for somewhere to chill after the trek then the Busy Bee Bar in Pokhara is recommended and in Kathmandhu check out The Tom and Jerry Bar in Thamel. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Great trip, highly recommend. If you're reasonably fit you'll manage it no problem. Might be helpful to those who book this trip if you could add a PDF to the trip notes showing the typical menu choices and prices along the trail. Most tea houses offered very similar menus, although as mentioned above prices increased as you progress up the trail.   

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

A very professionally organised & lead trip with a great group of participants.A great introduction to a country of wonderful people.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Waking at ABC to find the cloud clearing to reveal what must be one of the most stunning mountain panoramas in the world.

What did you think of your group leader?

Dawa was an excellent leader - keeping the team together and progressing at a pace that meant we achieved our goals while still having bags of fun.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you can walk up & down Snowdon and not be exhausted, then you're probably fit enough to do this trip. If you need mobile phone reception, then Nepal Telecom (check your mobile company's roaming agreement) has decent coverage in the mountain villages. Mains power is available in most tea houses for camera/phone battery charging, though mains power is mostly limited to light fittings in the bedrooms. The variety of tea-house food was much greater than we expected. Not just Dahl Baht! 9pm bed time is considered late in the hills. If you've time, get away from the main tourist trail in Kathmandu to see how the real city lives. Roads are being driven slowly towards the villages in the Annapurna area. In 10 year's time, when the mule trains have been displaced, the character of the place will be very different. Go soon!    

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We really appreciated the background work done by Exodus to ensure that the tea houses standards of kitchen food hygiene were up to scratch. 11 people over 15 days & not one case of Delhi belly! We met several independant travellers and people from other groups who'd succumbed after visting other tea houses. When time is limited, it is important to stay fit & healthy. We were all impressed how the team leaders got stuck in in the kitchens to help prepare some superb meals.

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

" Go while your hips are still working "   Advice given to aged self by a friend !!  I went, I saw and I conquered.  It was a wonderful two weeks,  with some unforgettable moments and memories.   

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

When we went "off the beaten path"  e.g. improvisation needed to avoid landslides and avalanches.   This  necessitated detours along untracked mountain sides  and over  fragile and rickety  bridges, or across slippery river bed rocks.    Arising in the dark, donning head torches, and climbing up before dawn in time to see the sunrise at Poon Hill and Base Camp.   Unexpected richness of flora and fauna.  (  monkeys, wild goats, birds etc. )   

What did you think of your group leader?

Pasang was first class.   He was very experienced and knowledgeable.  He    managed, cleverly and sympathetically , to cater for the differing needs  and varying levels of fitness of our group.  He was full of mountain lore, knew lots about the flora and fauna, the regional history, etc.  and was always helpful and cheerful.  

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

To make the most of this special time,  ensure you are fit before you go.   Poles were very helpful - and essential  if you have dodgy knees.   Pack as little as possible,  as the porters have to carry it for you !     

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We were all "d'un certain age"  -  we all loved this tour and would go somewhere else next time .    Take your camera and GO NOW BEFORE THEY COMPLETE THE ROAD BUILDING PROGRAMME  when it will become too accessible and over run !!  

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

I absolutely loved my walking holiday. I am an avid hiker but have never done such an extended trek before. There really is something glorious about spending days with no more pressing thought than what hiking tight/tshirt combo to throw on and whether it will be daal bhaat with gurung bread or pizza for dinner? ... and to just enjoy being in the most dramatic mountain scenery amougnst cool people:Good times!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The most inspirational moment of my trip was waking up at first light in ABC (Annapurna Base Camp), looking out my window and being greeted by the most totally awesome mountain views I could have hoped for. I felt that THIS is what life is ALL about.

What did you think of your group leader?

DAWA: D:  Dashing and Charming A: Absolute man of the people: Story Teller, Joker, Group Bonder, Game Player, LEGEND! W: WHAT A GUY!!!!!!!! A: awesome character Thank-you SO much for really making the trip for me.. what super sweet!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Do this: it is wicked!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

An amazing diversity of scenery and experiences. 8000 metre peaks, village life in the mountains, lovely people and a chance to chill in Pokhara and experience crazy Kathmandu as well.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Seeing how the local people live and feeling humbled by their resilience. Being in the Sanctuary - truly the Land of the Gods - and looking up at 8000 metre peaks (and thinking 'thank goodness we're not going up there'!). Seeing how the local community had taken it upon themselves to manage the area, keeping it clean and free of litter - an excellent example of community led tourism.

What did you think of your group leader?

Ugs was a character and kept us very entertained; also caring, knowledgable and passionate about the area. The other guides and porters were also excellent.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be positive! Listen to your body. Don't eat yak curry. If you haven't been on a trip like this on your own before (I hadn't), don't worry - there will be others on their own and it is amazing how quickly you all become a 'team'.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

It was a fantastic trip, helped by having a really good group. I would whole heartedly recommend it.

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

Excellent trip. Delivered beyond my expectations. The scenery was amazing and the staff all very helpful and made trip really enjoyable. Definitely recommend this trip.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Amazing views of Annapurna from Poon Hill in the evening as well as sunrise. Plus sunrise at Annapurna base camp definitely leave you in awe.

What did you think of your group leader?

Dawa was a great group leader. He ensured everyone was having a good time. When travel plans needed to change due to bad weather he organised alternative transport straight away so all went smoothly and we didn't miss a thing.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Only take what you need. Ideally the porters should carry no more than 12kg for each traveller. I did not know this before I went.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Brilliant trip. Also check out the apple crumble at Ghorepani brilliant.

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

For a mountain lover this trip is a must do. From day one there are views round every corner until you reach Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) and the mountains are there in front of you,behind you in fact all round you. Magical. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

We were unfortunate in that it was cloudy when we reached ABC but the following morning the sunrise was stunning and made it difficult leave the views and start the long trek home. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Prasant Subedi was a superb leader in that he quietly got on with his job of keeping everybody informed as to what we were seeing and what lay ahead which together with his knowledge and enthusiasm for the area made the trip. His support staff were again well organised and very attentive whilst we were on the trail looking after our safety and welfare. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

There are a few long days especially especially when the weather turns damp and windy as it did on our trip at the end of October. The good thing was that by then we were well aclimatised and arrived at our nightly destination tired and damp but contented. Follow the pre-trip instructions and you won't go far wrong. Whilst you can charge your batteries (Camera and mobile) at the lodges it is recommended that you carry spares as the cold can drain them quite quickly. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

Wonderful walking in forested and farmed mountainsides.  Superb views from Poon Hill at sunrise, and expertly led by the guides.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

  Being on Poon Hill at sunrise (since we didn’t get to MBC or ABC).  Taking the time to stop and soak up the atmosphere of the mountains – all you have to do is find a gap in the walking group, or take a moment in the afternoon away from the lodge to sit, watch and feel the presence of the mountains.  

What did you think of your group leader?

Prem was outstanding!  Probably the best group leader I’ve had.  Always thinking ahead so that everything ran smoothly for the group, from organising rooms, porters, and food to our change of plans following the decision not to attempt to reach ABC.  Very knowledgeable and easy to talk to, he always has a smile and a desire to help.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take your time, enjoy, stop to look and listen.  There is no rush at all; it’s a sensible itinerary with ample time to look for wildlife en-route or get to know your fellow travellers.  Be prepared for all weathers in one day, and take sensible boots to help give good grip on snow and ice on steep trails.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

    We didn’t get to ABC or even MBC.  This was disappointing, but the whole group understood that our safety was more important than trying to reach the objective.  Bad weather had caused a lot of new snow and resulted in many avalanches – we saw several in a few minutes and had to cross one debris fan.  It was obviously too risky to continue.  It’s a shame but as Prem said ‘that’s nature’.  He arranged a slower exit from the mountains that took us to some pretty and interesting villages.    Having been to the Everest area a couple of times, there are some distinct differences between the Annapurna area and the Khumbu region.  There are more terraced hillsides, more wildlife, and fewer monasteries and prayer flags in Annapurna, and the area is more geared for tourism – the lodges are all great, but for me a little too comfortable with standardised menus and some with plastic chairs and even umbrellas.  I think it is a more popular trekking area and as a result has more home comforts on offer.  Maybe that’s a good thing for some, but personally I prefer the charm and relative remoteness of the Khumbu where life is slightly more authentic and you have to fit in to the environment, rather than the environment being tamed for your convenience.  

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

Challenging enough for me. Amazing mountain backdrop walking through terraces and tiny villages, with the most excellent guides going - I cant praise their input too much - just a superb experience and this trip has helped my understanding of Nepal and its people.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The total kindness, generosity and respect that the guides and people we met showed to us and to each other.

What did you think of your group leader?

Fantastic, best ever, capable in an emergency and totally trustworthy.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Prepare properly for the trip and keep luggage to a minimum, its unfair for the porters to be weighed down with unnecessary stuff.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I`d do it all again tomorrow if I could afford to!

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

The panaroamic view from Poon Hill at sunrise was amazing.  During two weeks trekking we experienced life in the mountain villages and saw some great views.  Unfortunately due to snowfall and the resultant avalanche risk our group did not make it to MBC or ABC (so we didn't actually see the Annapurna Sanctuary), however we went on a revised route at lower elevations instead.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Seeing the sunrise at Poon Hill was the highlight (as we didn't make it to MBC or ABC).

What did you think of your group leader?

Prem our group leader was brilliant, supported by a team of three guides.  The whole team was very knowledgeable and friendly, and the trip was very well organised.  Safety of the group was also viewed as a priority, with the difficult decision of changing the route and not making MBC or ABC being taken due to the high avalanche risk. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

I've never used trekking poles before, but found these very helpful on the many stone steps (both up and down) this route follows.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

Its an honnor and privilage to trek through one of the most beautifull parts of the world .allmost untouched, by what has become the rat race which we call home today ,the slow pace the fresh air the fresh food the friendly people ,god Iam ready to book another trip . WELL DONE EXODUS. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Undoubtedly 4.30am annapurna sanctuary ,a moonlight night, the surounding peaks a pearly white backed by thousand of stars with a silence you could almost here ,I felt like the only  person on the planet .in a phrase (MAJESTICAL SERENITY.) 

What did you think of your group leader?

Indra Sunuwar Top Man always on hand to help or inform .a real guides guide.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Yes, dont um and ar book.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

This is a fantastic trip to a really special part of the world. Stunning scenery, lovely people, a good physical workout, and an insight into mountain life. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

We were lucky enough to have clear skies and a full moon at Annapurna Base Camp - a truly magical sight. From day 1 the scenery was spectacular. I hadn't appreciated how fertile the region was before going so was amazed by the forest, rivers, waterfalls, and of course the expected magnificent peaks. Sunrises and sunsets along the way with clouds and mist made for some dramatic views. Sunrise at Poon Hill was stunning. I'm glad we were right at the beginning of the season for this as it felt busy enough but I understand gets about 10 times busier at peak times.

What did you think of your group leader?

We had 2 guides - Hari and Indra. They were both excellent, couldn't do enough to make sure we were all looked after and OK, and had a great sense of humour too. They paced the trek perfectly meaning none of the group had any problems physically or with altitude. And I loved being woken up with a cup of tea every morning!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Book it now! Take twice as much memory for your camera as you think you'll need. I guess I'm at the extreme end but I took 1600 photos... Sigg water bottles make for great hot water bottles at night when it gets a bit chilly. The trek itself has quite a few steep ups and downs (most of which are stone steps) as you make your way across valleys. There's not really any such thing as flat on this walk so if that's not your thing then perhaps not the best trip. But the guides pace it really steadily so plenty of time to catch your breathe and enjoy the scenery. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I like to travel to new and different places, but if someone told me I could only go back to one place every year from now on and that place had to be Nepal I'd be really happy. I'm already thinking about seeing the Annapurna region in spring when all the flowers are out... 

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

An outstanding trip that highlighted the magnificent range of beauty of the Himalayas.  Challenging but throroughly enjoyable.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The Annapurna Sanctuary surrounded by snow capped mountains provides for me the highlight of the trip.  The sunrise provides the icing on the cake.  In addition the farmland and the tropical rainforests provide a real insight into some of the wide variety of ecosystems in this wonderful country.

What did you think of your group leader?

The group was brilliantly led by Prasant who provided excellent leadership.  He is very knowledgable about the area and showed a very caring attitude to all members of the party.  In addition his sense of fun and humour ensured we had a great time.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Get fit!  With one stretch of 3,700 stone steps and many thousand more you need to be certain that you can cope with these demands and also the altitude so slowly slowly is the answer.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This is a great trip whether you have been to the Himalayas before or not.  We had been to Everest Base Camp already and although Annapurna is not so high it is very varied and very beautiful.

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

A hugely rewarding trip. Be prepared for very basic accommodation. Physically challenging but worth every bit of effort and hardship to get to the top.  We all run out of superlatives to describe the landspace and scenery but suffice to say you cannot fail to be hugely impressed.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the Annapurna base camp was a massive achievement for us all.  As a group we all got on very well and the spirit of the group helped us all up.  The base camp at Annapurna is absolutely stunning and the day spent wandering around the base of the mountains will live long in my memories.  Another great moment was the first hot shower after reaching the top ! I really needed that !

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was passionate about the spirit of the mountains and beauty of the environment and it was a joy to have him as our leader.  He knew exactly what to do when people needed his help or advice on the trek and its no coincidence that we all made it.  We also had some really great guides who were happy and smiling people who were helpful and always lifted the spirits of the trekkers.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

You really have to be prepared to rough it during the trek.  So long as you dont mind the odd squat toilet, sharing a room for a few nights and being cold then you'll get on fine. It's worth it !

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If you like walking and beautiful landscapes you have to think about doing this trek. It's 100% worth it.

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

A fantastic trek for anyone passionate about mountain walking. October was an ideal time to travel with a crystal clear sky, warm days and naturally chilly to very cold evenings.  

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching ABC ( Annapurna base camp ) The mountionous surround was spectacular.  Sunrise and sunset not to be missed.  

What did you think of your group leader?

The group leader was excellent. A professional leader. His foremost concern was always on the safety and wellbeing of the group so that we could enjoy the trek to the max. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

A reasonable level of fitness is important.  Ensure a wardrobe that suits very warm days and eventual very cold evenings  

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The assistant guides were excellent and should be recognised for their endurance, safety mindset and care of the group.  Porters were outstanding! these wonderful athletes should be constantly recognised for their endurance and modestly - wonderful! I would strongly recommed this holiday. Any solo traveller should have no concern about any aspect of this active holiday. Go for it!! 

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY

This was an awe inspiring trek through incredible, varied scenery and culminating in visiting the home of the gods at ABC, all in the most amazing clear, sunny conditions. Our guide believed that the perfect conditions were evidence that that mountains had "called" us and it is easy to believe that those stunning mountains were in charge.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The entire trek inspired me, from the lovely people in the group,and the leader and his assistants, to the friendly and generous Nepali people who have little, but are happy to share all. The final trek up to the sanctuary left me silent and reflective, ( not something my fellow travellers had seen before...!), I was completely overcome by the beauty and majesty of the mountains. I will never forget sunrise at Annapurna Sanctuary. I will also never forget how quickly the clouds closed in the day before and how small and insignificant we were as the mountains disappeared from sight. I also loved the hot springs we visited ( another 35 mins down to the river, 55 mins back up after a very long days trekking) with our guides, the cleanest I'd been for some long time! As a non tea drinker before the trek, I am now addicted to ginger, lemon honey tea.....but not at 05.00..

What did you think of your group leader?

Prasant was knowledgeable, organised and looked after us all with much care. He gave us excellent advice about our health and well being and went out of his way to make sure everything ran smoothly. if Prasant said "no beer", we knew no beer was the best! (Only at altitude tho'!) We were also indebted to our assistant guides, "uncle", Lak Phar, And BJ who were always there when needed but never in the way and organised our food and drinks with efficiency and cheerfulness despite none of us ever remembering what we we ordered and eating each others ( you know who you are...!) Lak Phar and BJ were particularly cheerful at 06.00 each morning with "Excuse me Claire, lemon tea". If you are reading this, I was trying to be cheerful back, but mornings aren't my best time!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Do it, just go, you won't regret it, it was the best thing I ever did. Do as much training as you can, I found it challenging especially the long downhills towards the river, beautiful but always aware that his would be followed by an equally strenuous uphill the other side of the valley. Be prepared for the altitude to affect you how ever fit you are. Slowly, slowly, find your own pace, listen to your body and try not to bring up your tea on Poon Hill as I did...trying to keep up with others rather than listening to my heavy breathing and slowing down. Practice your squatting, personal thanks go to my Pilates teacher for my ability to hit the target... Drink loads, eat Dhall Bat and apple porridge, and veg noodle soup. I was lucky enough to share rooms with a lovely lady, an experienced trekker who taught me so much, including how to seal 4 day socks in a freezer bag and how not to pee on your clean trousers, and how to laugh and laugh like school girls at the daftest things, thank you lovely Ella.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Just press the button, book the trek and have the time of your life