Three High Passes Trek
I did the Three Passes Trek in the Everest Region with GB in November 2019.
The company came highly recommended by well-traveled hiker friends of mine from New Zealand. I was already traveling when I booked the trip but managed to organize it all easily from a tablet on the go as all queries were answered swiftly by GB. Communication was fast and clear.
He took care of all details for the full itinerary package – drivers, plane transfers, etc. and helped me to acquire the remaining gear I needed in Kathmandu. The hotel he chose was also very comfortable, with excellent customer service.
I was initially a little worried about how I would take to the high altitude, as this was my first hike at this height, along with other variables like potential bad weather late in the season but GB put my mind at ease and laid out how we could adapt the trip together with suggested changes and alternative routes depending on how I was feeling on any given day. In the end, we did need to take an alternative route for one of the passes due to a headache that wasn’t improving overnight, but I always felt in control and safe knowing GB’s safety-conscious and well-prepared approach would solve any problems quickly.
Everest Base Camp and over the High Passes
Along with Bhim, my porter, a very positive ‘vibe’ was created between the 3 of us on the walk every day which helped to push me along and gave me extra encouragement, even at times when I wasn’t feeling well, or going over slightly difficult terrain. I was always made aware of what was ahead each day on track condition, distances/altitude, and weather, as well as having fun learning some Nepali and trying to remember the names of all the mountains along the way! Making it to Everest Base Camp and over the High Passes was certainly a great personal achievement for me which I think I was unlikely to achieve without GB.
GB Katuwal is also very accommodating to any special requests you may have. He went the extra mile to find me a private room at each teahouse, which wasn’t always easy or guaranteed, so I could have my privacy and sleep as a solo traveler. GB adapted the timing of meals and pitstops to suit what worked for me.
With a calm, patient, and engaging manner, he is very intuitive to your needs and interested in his clients. I learned a lot from him about nature, culture, and life in Nepal and he has tones of recommendations and tips for further exploring Kathmandu and Nepal which was invaluable.
Whilst you could walk on your own or with a much bigger group, the attentiveness, flexibility, and value-for-money you will get from GB are second-to-none and will make the experience more enjoyable. I think his ability to listen to his clients allows him to exceed expectations and guarantees a truly memorable adventure. I wouldn’t trek with anyone else when I go back to Nepal.
Thank you GB, great memories, hope to have another adventure with you!