The third time we have trekked with the Nepal Hiking Team. Brilliant experience again. The itinerary is well planned and advised to take in some of the most magnificent views in the Himalayas away from the crowds on the EBC trails. Our guide, Dipendra (Dip) Dhakal, was fantastic, as was our young porter Ishor.
Dip knew the route very well and looked after us brilliantly, making sure we got the best rooms and filling us in on the cultural and historic colors on the way. Dip always encouraged us and flexed the itinerary to suit us.
The trek itself was amazing. We opted for the luxury option, which put us in the amazing Yak and Yeti Hotel in Kathmandu - a quiet, tranquil oasis amid the charming chaos of Kathmandu. We also got four nights staying in luxury lodges - at our age, we allowed ourselves that luxury of hot en-suite showers and electric blankets!
Ganga also booked us into the famous Everest View Hotel, which allowed us to watch both the sunset and sunrise on Everest. Breakfast with the most amazing view the next day. The hotel only has 12 or so rooms so lovely and quiet once the Namche day trippers had gone. I have not spent any money on it since it was built in the 70’s, but huge character and style - a real experience.
Once higher up, it was the normal tea houses with Dip making sure we got great rooms and were well looked after. View from Renjo La pass and Gokyo Ri is astounding and jaw-dropping - I will never forget the experience of coming to the top of the pass and seeing Cho Oyu, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu towering over the valley below.
Ganga and Balaram were as patient and responsive as ever in planning the trip. They advised us on the best route and transport options. It was a real VIP and personal service. We were met at the airport and escorted to the hotel. And Dip even came and escorted us to the airport from the hotel when we were leaving. Overall brilliant experience, and I would recommend Nepal Hiking Team to anyone.
Finally - I also need to mention our exceptional tour of Kathmandu with Dinesh Samsara, organized by NHT - Dinesh was so knowledgeable and articulate - a very clever guy and brought it all to life. Fascinating and educational insights on Hinduism, Buddhism and Nepal in general!!
