“Every new year, I aim to trek a major mountain. Despite the busy life, my love for the mountains never faded. In the middle of work stress, I would look at the distant peaks and feel as though they were calling me. Every time I saw Talakha Goemba, I felt a deep yearning to go there. One day, I finally did. Standing there, with a 360-degree view of the mountains of Thimphu and Paro, I became emotional. I could see so many peaks I had already climbed. In that moment, I made a promise to myself to never stop loving the mountains. The hardest part was seeing snow on them, as it triggered an instant itch to be up there. In the mountains, I felt free from the internet, phone calls, and the daily bustle of life.
In 2024, my lifelong dream of trekking the Annapurna Circuit became a reality. I lied to my parents about my trip to Nepal, calling it a business visit, knowing they would not let me go alone. Along the way, I met fellow travelers and formed meaningful bonds. Unlike Bhutan, trekking there came with many amenities, including Wi-Fi, hostels, hot showers, and good food. I climbed steep trails to catch the sunrise, passed breathtaking lakes, and returned home to parents who listened to my stories in astonishment.
Every time I flew on Druk Air, I chose a window seat and imagined myself climbing Everest.
Last year, I made up my mind to at least trek to Everest Base Camp. I researched all year and saved diligently. Again, I could not tell my family. The ATR flight to Lukla was the scariest experience of my life, and I prayed the entire time. When the plane finally landed, everyone on board cheered in relief.
Through Facebook groups, I connected with a solo female trekker, and we decided to trek together. It took us six days to reach Everest Base Camp, passing through countless villages. At every stop, there were welcoming teahouses offering lodging, dal bhat, and even hot showers. People were kind and often surprised that I could speak Nepali. Along the way, I battled blisters, frostbite, and moments when I wanted to give up. We faced blizzards, minor avalanches, and cyclonic winds on treacherous paths. But when I finally reached Base Camp and saw the peak from Kalapatthar, every hardship felt worth it.
Between Sherpa guides, gear, and expenses, I spent nearly two lakhs despite being careful with money. When I returned home, my family and friends celebrated with cakes and congratulations. I felt embarrassed, because I had not climbed the peak. It cost a fortune to get to the peak.
I never want to stop loving the mountains.”
Written By Dechen Wangdi
