Annapurna Base Camp was everything I hoped This was my 3rd trek with this local travel expert and the fact that we are booking a 4th in 2024, pretty much sums up what I think about the company, service and people.
Review of Himalayan Leisure Base camp trek This is the experience of a life time. The trek is more difficult than I expected. There is much more uphill hiking, uneven trails and large rock stairs than I originally thought. Having said this, being 63 years old, I am in pretty good shape and was able to keep pace with younger trekkers. We went the last week of March into April. Even though cold at night, it was the correct time since it was obvious on our way down, that the next middle of April was the time the crowds started to build. We were lucky with sunny days on the way up allowing us to trek mostly in light jackets and thermal shirts, but if the sun went behind the clouds, temps dropped dramatically. Nights were cold with temps in the lodge going down to around 20'F. Heat in the lodges above the tree line is from a central stove in the common room fired by dried yak dung. This was good for dinner and shortly after, but once leaving the common room it is cold, so be prepared. It was surprising how connected we were all along the way. I had considered getting a sim card for my phone in Kathmandu, but with the phone I have, I was able to connect via wifi all along the way. The lodge always had wifi and, for $20 I purchased Everestlink in Namche which allowed me to stay connected on the network all the way to base camp. This was subject to the weather since the signal seemed to be affected by weather, so it was somewhat unpredictable. As far as personal hygiene, bring wipes since showers can be purchased, but are less than convenient. Food is good and plentiful. Our package included food but not drinks. I didn't know what to expect, so I brought some freeze dried food just in case, but really didn't need it.
Everest Base Camp Dec/Jan Yes, I highly recommend this company. A huge thank you Chhatra, Ram, Raju, Raj, and the phenomenal driver who’s name I missed—for an excellent trip from December 19, 2021 to January 3, 2022. I completed the Everest Base Camp trek from 12/20-12/31 and added on two additional day tours in Kathmandu. The trek was incredible and led by Ram, an energetic senior guide, and Raj, a friendly porter. Stunning scenery and an accomplishment I’ll never forget!! On my day tours in Kathmandu, Raju filled my brain with history and cultural insights, while adapting our stops to my interests and selecting great rooftop restaurants. Chhatra was super responsive to all my questions and concerns regarding the trip and COVID-19 logistics. He arranged a PCR test at my hotel for my return to the United States and Raju walked me through picking up the results at the airport and double checking the report details. Top notch transfer service as well. The staff were attentive and provided a safe first experience in Nepal for me, a female and solo traveler. Looking forward to booking my next trek to the Annapurna region!!