Back in 2007, I embarked on an adventure that would forever hold a special place in my heart—my first trekking trip to Annapurna Base Camp. This journey was not just about reaching a destination; it was a tapestry of experiences, challenges, and unforgettable moments that shaped me both personally and professionally.
Note: The picture on this article is not from the same group but from the same trek.
Joining the Team
It all began when I joined an English trekking group led by Ian, serving as an assistant guide to my former boss, Ram. I was excited yet nervous, eager to prove myself and soak in every bit of the journey. My brother-in-law, who recommended me, joined us, and together we felt the thrill of embarking on this expedition.
The Night Bus to Pokhara
My adventure started with my very first experience riding the night bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The bus roared through the winding roads under a canopy of stars, and while the ride was bumpy and sleepless, the anticipation of what lay ahead kept me wide awake. The snippets of conversations, the occasional laughter, and the shared excitement among passengers made the long journey feel like a prologue to our grand adventure.
Meeting the Group and Setting Off
Upon reaching Pokhara, we met the rest of the group at the airport. There was an immediate connection—a mixture of excitement and curiosity filled the air. We drove to our trekking starting point, Phedi, and began our ascent towards Landruk. The lush green landscapes, terraced fields, and distant mountain peaks painted a picturesque backdrop as we trekked. Our group bonded quickly, sharing stories and laughter as we navigated the trails.
Ascending Through the Himalayas (Annapurna Base Camp)
The second day saw us trekking to Chhomrong, a beautiful village perched on the mountainside with stunning views of Annapurna South and Machapuchare. The trails were steep, but the camaraderie made every step worthwhile. On the third day, we pushed forward to Himalaya, and the terrain began to change—the air grew crisper, and the vegetation sparse.
Reaching Machapuchare Base Camp
By the fourth day, we reached Machapuchare Base Camp (MBC). The sheer grandeur of the surrounding peaks was humbling. The iconic “Fishtail” mountain stood majestically, its reflection shimmering in the water. That evening, the sky was a canvas of stars, and we huddled together, sharing our dreams and aspirations.
An Unforeseen Challenge
The fifth day was both the pinnacle of our journey and a test of our resilience. We trekked to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) early in the morning. Standing at 4,130 meters, surrounded by towering peaks bathed in the golden glow of sunrise, was an indescribable feeling—both exhilarating and serene.
However, our joy was soon tempered when Yemi, Ian’s young daughter who was just seven or eight at the time, began exhibiting signs of altitude sickness. It was a sobering reminder of the mountains’ power. Prakash and Ashok, two of our dedicated team members, quickly sprang into action. They gently carried Yemi down to a lower altitude at MBC. After several anxious hours, relief washed over us as she started to feel better. The incident brought our group even closer, highlighting the importance of teamwork and care.
The Descent Begins
With Yemi recovering, we continued our journey, trekking back to Bamboo on the same day. The descent offered new perspectives of the landscapes we’d previously ascended. The following day, we made our way to Tadapani, traversing through dense rhododendron forests that felt like something out of a fairytale.
On the seventh day, we trekked to Ghorepani. The village is renowned for the Poon Hill viewpoint, and we were treated to panoramic views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The sunsets and sunrises here were nothing short of magical, painting the sky with hues of pink, orange, and purple.
Concluding the Journey
Our final trekking day led us to Nayapul, where we concluded our trek and drove back to Pokhara. That evening, we gathered for a heartfelt farewell at a charming resort by the lake. The name escapes me now, but the memories of laughter, shared meals, and stories will stay with me forever. It was a bittersweet moment—happy to have completed the trek safely but sad to part ways with newfound friends.
While Ram and the rest of the group stayed behind in Pokhara for the joyous marriage ceremony of Keith and Alexandra, we, the Nepalese staff, prepared to head back to Kathmandu. Boarding the night bus once again, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible journey we’d just undertaken.
Reflections on an Unforgettable Experience
That first trekking trip to Annapurna Base Camp was more than just a physical journey—it was a profound personal experience. It taught me about the strength of the human spirit, the beauty of camaraderie, and the unpredictable challenges that nature can present. Guiding and supporting others through the majestic but demanding trails of the Himalayas solidified my passion for trekking and helping others explore these wonders.
The memories of Yemi’s bravery, the collective gasp at our first sight of Annapurna’s peak, and the countless moments of shared joy and hardship are etched into my heart. Every trek since then has been influenced by the lessons and experiences of that first journey.
Embarking on this adventure not only deepened my appreciation for the natural world but also reinforced the value of resilience, teamwork, and compassion. It’s a story I carry with me—a reminder of where my journey began and the endless possibilities that lie ahead.
I hope you enjoyed this recounting of my first trekking trip to Annapurna Base Camp. It was a transformative experience that ignited a lifelong passion for adventure and connection with others. If you’re ever considering a trek yourself or want to share your own experiences, I’d love to hear about it!
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