– Since this post, I’ve been to EBC and other treks in Nepal several times. In fact, I’ve written many guidebooks about all Nepal between then and now! This post is in its original format from my first trek to Everest – I hope you enjoy it.
If, however, you are looking for up to date information on the trek then do head over to my practical travel guide on the Everest Base Camp Trek where everything from costs to getting a guide is covered. Also, do visit my about trekking in Nepal page and use the menu there to read more about this and many more treks. Meanwhile, enjoy these posts about what it’s really like to trek to Everest Base Camp –
This photograph of a man with muzzled goats may be purchased here
Trekking to see skiers at Tengboche Monastery?
Snow turning to slush turning to ice joined us after finding the Nepalese Tahr’s. We were now running late. That said the day was full of locals struggling along the ice trailed mountain paths too. Including this man and his flock of rather aggressive looking goats.
Nepalese carrying the weight of the world on their backs
At lower end of a trail as dusk approached we came across a small Nepalese man. He was the last amongst a group of five and struggling badly. He was simply carrying too much.
Porters here are paid by how much they carry or rather the contents, not per trip. More often than not the more you carry, the more you get paid.
In an effort to feed themselves and a family many take on loads that are simply too much for them. In this case the man was carrying supplies to a lodge further up the trail.
How locals ski in Nepal
At the other end of the scale a young boy in homemade skis shows what some innovation can do in the high mountains of Nepal during winter. Skiing is a popular pastime here!
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Monks downhill skiing in Nepal
As we made it up to the top of Tengboche we were greeted by the sight of young monks holding an evening of downhill skiing. More high winds had joined us but the sight of these children playing on makeshift skis was a great welcome. When in Nepal, do as the skiing monks do!
Time to find the fountain of youth
Aside from the sense of accomplishment, one of the least spoken of addictions in high altitude trekking and climbing is that on the way down you are privileged to experience a taste from the fountain of youth!
It’s a natural drug that makes you feel young again. No, I’m not kidding. I’ve been taking it for the past two days. And I’m going to reveal what it is next …
Coming Soon
Everest Base Camp Trek Day 10 (The race is on: a high altitude fountain of youth revealed )
The Everest Base Camp Guide:
Planning a trip to Nepal and trekking to Everest Base Camp? For all the details on what to do, when to go, permits need, costs, maps and much more check out my dedicated Guide to Everest Base Camp.
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Hi Dave, what’s the basket-like thing covering the goats’ mouth and what’s that for?
A very interesting photo essay. :)
I think that’s some form of muzzle. Usually it’s used on dogs to prevent bites. I’ve never known a goat to bite though! Maybe it’s to stop them eating when walking? The man wasn’t too friendly, so I didn’t stick around. Although I do think it’s an interesting photo :)
i know about the fountain of youth from a Karate Kid :D Have u watched the movie? is it the same?
Ha ha. Erm yes, but it’s been a while … I think it’s a different fountain of youth. Find out Monday :) Hint, it’s all around you, but can’t do a thing with unless you go to a certain type of place. (mental note: I’m not good with hints)
The skis are made from water pipes? How is this done?
The water pipes are cut in half. A foot goes in the middle. A makeshift ski is made!
Was going to ask about the goat muzzles but seems someone beat me to it.
When I was in Nepal I really felt for the lives and condition of the Nepalese, mroe than I did anywhere else. I guess in part, I see them as kinda tiny people who really do back-breaking work (even the young children) and you just caught a photo of that. I think if I had seen that, I might’ve teared or felt helpless, knowing I’d want to help but couldn’t.
I’m glad you ended on a ‘monks having fun’ note! =-)
I find the Nepalese people are sandwiched between India, China and a broken political system. It’s true anywhere in the world that the more rural you go the nicer the people get. But also how many people take advantage of them.
Sure if you’ve read my Nepal 2011 post https://www.thelongestwayhome.com/blog/nepal/nepal-in-2011-hope-for-the-country-and-people/
My sentiments remain
Following you on this journey and love your spirit. Always wanted to do this myself. You have inspired me!
Hi Susan, I’m very glad to hear that. I hope you get to go some day!