In September 2024, Earth’s Edge content creator Ari made her first trip to Nepal to trek to the iconic Everest Base Camp! These diaries follow her journey from Dublin to the famous trails of the Khumbu – a truly unforgettable adventure!
In Part 1, the group arrives in Kathmandu and starts preparing for the journey of a lifetime!
Day 1: Arrival in Nepal + Everest Base Camp Trek Preparation
After meeting my group at Dublin Airport, we started on our long journey to Nepal, flying first to Doha before connecting to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, our expedition leader Arjun gave us a very warm welcome, before helping us load our bags onto a minibus. We then boarded and headed to our hotel.
The hotel grounds were so colourful, filled with traditional Nepalese sculptures, lush greenery, and beautiful flowers. There was even a pool for those who fancied a relaxing dip! The rooms were bright, spacious, and very comfortable – perfect for unwinding after a long day of travel.
That evening, Arjun held an expedition briefing, covering everything we needed to know, including the expected weather conditions, details of the trail, and essential gear requirements. It was a great opportunity to ask any of our pressing questions before setting off, and helped to reassure us all as our epic adventure began. Later, we ventured into Kathmandu to exchange some Euros for Nepalese rupees and to pick up any last-minute gear we needed. The city was a bit chaotic, but a fascinating place – teeming with life, culture, and energy. It was unlike anywhere I’d ever been before!
With an early start the next morning (2am, to be exact!), we packed up and weighed our bags to ensure they met flight requirements for Lukla. Then we headed to bed to catch a few hours of sleep before the journey to Everest Base Camp truly began.
Day 2: The Flight To Lukla
In the early hours of the morning, we boarded a bus and were given a small packed breakfast as we set off toward Ramechhap. Along the way, we stopped at a small roadside shop for a cup of tea and a snack before continuing. On arrival, our bags were weighed by security staff, and soon, we were boarding the small aircraft bound for Lukla.
The plane was tiny, with just enough room for our group, our daypacks, and a single air hostess. Excitement and nerves filled the air as we took our seats. As the plane soared over vast forests and deep valleys, I could hardly believe I was about to go on this iconic journey to Everest Base Camp – it felt surreal!
After the short, but exhilarating, 20-minute flight, we landed in Lukla and made our way to a local teahouse for some refreshing drinks and snacks. We took a moment to reorganise our daypacks, ensuring we had enough water, extra layers, and treats for the afternoon trek which lay ahead.
Meeting The Earth’s Edge Team + Exploring Lukla
We then met our incredible team of porters who’d be carrying our duffle bags, and the head guides – Sumann, Dev, Nissan, and Phura – who would be supporting our expedition leader throughout the trip. They were smiling and positive, and instantly made us feel welcome and at ease. With our team assembled, we set off towards Phakding.
Walking through Lukla, we passed bustling street vendors and fellow trekkers embarking on the same journey. Lush greenery surrounded us as we trekked past prayer wheels, towering mani walls, and intricately carved mani stones. Crossing our first suspension bridge was an unforgettable moment – a true highlight of the day, and I don’t think I stopped smiling the entire way across!
We then stopped off at a small tea house, sipping on coffee and indulging in sweet treats as the sun warmed us. We were surrounded by bright marigolds, making the entire scene feel like something from a dream. Some of our group treated themselves to rich chocolate cake and creamy hot chocolate before we continued along the Dudh Kosi River.
Lunch was also served in a cosy tea house, where we enjoyed dal bhat, a traditional Nepalese meal consisting of rice, vegetables, potatoes, and flavorful lentil soup. Feeling re-energised, we pressed on, passing through the village of Ghat before finally arriving at Phakding.
Night 1: Tea House In Phakding
After settling into our rooms, some of us opted for a well-earned hot shower (which was available for a small fee – so worth it!), while others relaxed with a book. The tea houses along the trail to Everest Base Camp were simple but welcoming, with a central stove in the dining room creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Essential supplies like toilet paper, snacks, Wi-Fi, and charging facilities were available for a small charge if we needed them.
Dinner that evening featured a variety of soups – garlic, potato, vegetable, and tomato – alongside a selection of hearty main courses. I opted for the Sherpa Special, a comforting dish of spaghetti in a rich tomato sauce, served with roasted potatoes, vegetables, and a fried egg – exactly what I needed after a long day of trekking.
That night was extra special, as it was when I celebrated my four year anniversary of working with Earth’s Edge! The guides surprised me with a freshly made chocolate cake, which was so unexpected and it made the evening even more memorable.
As I settled into bed, the soothing sound of the river flowing just outside lulled me to sleep – the perfect end to an unforgettable first day on the trail.
Stay tuned for Part 2, coming next week!
