Short answer – it is largely driven by profit motive, long answer below. In October, I was leading a camping trip in the Kanchenjunga region of eastern Nepal. During an acclimatisation trek near Ghunsa our client experienced a sudden onset of arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat). Following consultations with two doctors, including HAL’s remote trip doctor, Dr. Pranav, we decided to urgently evacuate our client to a hospital in Kathmandu. I called […]
HAL’s new logo and story behind it
In the crisp autumn of 2016, Seth and Sudeep began their minimalist adventure, the “Langtang Lollipop” fastpack, right from the doorstep of Kathmandu. They journeyed through the lush forests of Shivapuri National Park, eventually ascending to the grandeur of the Langtang National Park. Nights were spent huddled around smoky fires in yak herder huts, and days were filled with breathtaking Himalayan vistas. It was during one of these contemplative evenings, […]
Annapurna Circuit reimagined
The classic Annapurna Circuit trek, once a 21-day journey, can now be completed in 3-5 days due to a new road network built on top of some trails. Nepal’s Annapurna region received 191,558 visitors in 2023, with most spending less than a week on the trek. While visitor numbers have increased, the average time spent on the trail has significantly decreased. Economic Impact: This trend has negatively impacted tea houses […]
Raindrops & Ridges: Himalayan Monsoon Journal
Unraveling Adventure in the Himalayas: A Journey of a Lifetime! Embark on an unforgettable odyssey with us through the Manaslu Fastpack, where the rugged Chum and Nubri Valley trails painted indelible memories in our hearts. Brace yourself for the exhilarating tale of Annapurna Fastpack, where unforeseen twists led us to embrace the raw beauty of the Himalayas. Immerse yourself in the enthralling Langtang Trail Running Camp, as Jamie defied his […]
Redefining the Outdoor Experience in Nepal Amidst Solo Trekker Ban
As a solo traveller, trail runner, registered trekking guide, and owner of a trekking company Himalayan Adventure Labs, I’m about as thrilled with the recent rule banning solo trekkers from exploring Nepal as a vegan at a barbecue joint. It’s a real bummer! It’s like telling someone they can only have cake if they share it with a crowd. What’s the point of being adventurous if you can’t do it […]
Following Our North Star: Putting Communities and Sustainability First for Sustainable Adventure Tourism in Nepal
As an ultra runner and explorer of wild places, I am deeply passionate about adventure and the beauty of nature. However, my vision for Himalayan Adventure Labs (HAL), the adventure tourism company that I co-founded in 2016, goes beyond just providing exciting trips for adventure seekers. Our aim is to create a sustainable tourism ecosystem that not only helps local communities but also promotes responsible travel and preserves the environment. […]
Conquering Altitude Sickness: Understanding, Preventing and Treating the Effects of High Altitude
Trekking in the Himalayas can be an unforgettable experience, but it can also be dangerous if you’re not properly prepared for the altitude. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a condition that can occur at high altitudes, typically above 8,000 feet (2,500 meters). It is caused by the lower air pressure and lack of oxygen at high altitudes. Symptoms include headache, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, and insomnia. In severe cases, […]
Happy Holidays: Looking back on some great adventures in 2022, and towards more in 2023
We’re back! After some ‘bumpy times’ over the past few years due to you-know-what, we are so happy to report being able to return to helping people fulfill their dreams in the Himalayas in 2022. Before bragging about the adventure dreams we helped people with in 2022, we want to encourage you to consider joining us in Nepal this coming year. We have organized trips ranging from the classic Annapurna […]
Confession about one snow-less winter
I love to travel alone because of its swift lightness. Of both logistics and responsibilities. My first experimentation was a camping walk into the hidden Tsum valley and Manaslu circuit. The crux of the well-researched wandering full of surprises was Larkey pass (5,106 meters). In bad condition, it forces everyone to wait or return. But before that icy wonderland with its James bond moments, I sweated my way into places […]
Story of Tsampa, inspiration and climbing Everest
We want to break stigma surrounding single women and inspire other single women to set and achieve their goals. You should not be confined in homely duties and worry about what other people think. We wanted to do more than fulfill our family responsibilities, break the status quo of women’s ‘place’ in the society and show the world that single women too can have dreams and climb mountains, of their own, whatever that be.