Solo Female Trekker from the USA
I just returned from the trip of a lifetime in Nepal.
Before I started reading about the many magnificent places to be explored I thought Nepal was all high altitudes and snowy mountains.
After deciding the level of trekking I thought I could manage (I’m 67 years old) and the various villages and town I wished to explore, I contacted Nepal Sanctuary Treks, a small, environmentally sensitive group, and discussed various options with them. Tulsi, the owner of the company, made all arrangements for hotels, lodges, tours, treks and transportation.
Since I was traveling on my own, it was very important to me that I have a reliable guide and safe accommodations. After contacting other people who had done both individual and group treks with Tulsi, I felt very secure with the arrangements and the itinerary he had devised.
Three very different but relatively easy treks were developed specifically for me: The first, a four night trek around the Kathmandu valley- Kathmandu Rim Trek, provided beautiful views of the valley and central Himalayas. The lodges were very comfortable, with private baths and excellent meals. This trek never exceeded 5,000 feet. The second, a five night trek around the Annapurna Mountains afforded even more spectacular scenery and although the trekking lodges were more basic, all were clean and cozy, serving tasty and varied foods. Although this trek reached altitudes of over 9,000 feet, the ascent was gradual and very manageable.
The last trek took me to the Everest area where I spent 10 memorable days enjoying the varied scenery, picturesque villages and snowcapped peaks. In this trek we reached elevations of 12,800 feet but again the ascent was gradual and two different days were spent acclimatizing.
My guide for all treks was Lakpa Sherpa, a very pleasant young man who spoke excellent English and took care of me as he would his mother. Whether it was pointing out special sights, assisting me along the more difficult sections of trail, arranging for my food and lodging or explaining the customs and culture of the various tribes, he was always there for me, anticipating my every need.
Besides the treks, I also visited Chitwan National Park, Palaces, Lumbini, birthplace of Lord Buddha and many temples and shrines.
The total, including all transportation in Nepal, lodging and most meals was under $3000 for the 6 weeks, a real bargain. Treks by themselves are priced even better.
Tulsi takes a special interest in all his clients, taking them to his home for a typical Nepali meal, keeping in close contact with the guides during all treks and travels and making sure everything goes as anticipated. When he asked me to critique my trip, all I could say was that it exceeded all expectations and I can’t wait to return for a repeat visit.
Nepal is a very safe and friendly country. I never had the slightest concern about going out at night in the towns or for my safety during the treks.
Anyone interested in planning a trip of any length can contact Tulsi at sanctuary@mail.com.np or gtulsi@wlink.com.np or check out the web sites at www.nepalsanctuarytreks.com
