Trek Journal

Late night flights, terminal transfers, bureaucratic nightmares, and the delightful chaos of Kathmandu domestic aviation—where tickets are more suggestion than schedule

The journey begins - from SFO to Kathmandu, meeting friendly Nepalis and preparing for adventure

Exploring beautiful Pokhara on scooters, meeting the trek team, and final preparations

First day of trekking - bus to Kimche, traditional Nepali blessing, and hiking to Ghandruk village

Sunrise over Annapurna, the pushup punishment, and endless stone steps through rhododendron forest

Nature lessons in the forest, ponies on the trail, and a freezing cold night at Mount Lucky

Mt. Dhaulagiri appears, George's AI class, and singing Nepali folk songs with the sherpas

The 'stairway to hell' - endless steps to reach Khopra Ridge basecamp

The most challenging day - pushing limits at 14,200 ft, micro steps, and the power of encouragement

The deepest gorge in the world, letters to our future selves, and the long descent

Lipstick kisses, Bolero rides, hot springs, bus dancing, and celebrating the journey's end

Flight mishaps, meeting Deepa after 20 years, shopping in Thamel