This blog is not a ” how to” or a “step by step” guide, I am not going to tell you how big my bag was, what I took, how many litres of water to bring or where to stay. I am gonna share with you some of my experiences, thoughts but mostly photos that I am lucky enough to have taken. Alrighty then, wanna see what it is like to live on the roof of the world?

I don’t really remember when my dreams to visit this part of the world started, all I know is that I’ve waited a long time. There is no feeling like this, being surrounded by some of the worlds tallest mountains, fresh air and the rich smell of pine trees drifting on the wind. As soon as the tiny metal death trap of a plane landed safely (only just), I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face, that smile lasted all the way to Base Camp, until I realised I had to come all the way back down.

I have never been an excellent sleeper, so getting up before sunrise to start my trek was not a particularly difficult challenge and I was often rewarded generously for it.

I have always had a soft spot for strays and in my absolutely biased opinion, they are the true spirits of the mountains. They are always there to guide you when you are unsure of the path, when you take a break and especially if you have food. This fella here lead me along the path for hours, I don’t think it was for food or anything like that, I just genuinely think he thought I was stupid and needed help.

On this adventure, like most memorable adventures, the goal you set becomes pointless and almost trivial when you discover the real purpose of the journey. I stumbled clumsily down the slippery stone paved street in search of a warm meal and a hot coffee to thaw my freezing body, this young girl saw me and kindly ushered me inside their home. As I pulled back the warn blanket that covered the door way, I knew instantly what this adventure was about. I am forever grateful for these small moments and that piping hot coffee.

Colourful Buddhist Prayer wheels. Namche Bazar.

For thousands of years people native to the Himalayan regions have used Yaks and Mules as primary source of delivery in the mountains, their sturdy builds make them perfect for the tough and arduous journeys. These magnificent beasts are spectacular but unfortunately they are not held in the same high regard as cows, in this region. They are often mistreated and overworked.

I was nearly trampled multiple times as I knelt to photograph the fast moving Mule trains that stampeded down hill. Worth it!

On this morning, powerful Icy zephyrs roared through the valley as the sun slowly crested the mountain peaks, I watched in awe from a forgotten stone village, hiding in the shallow doorway of an old cabin. The stone walls hissed with each gust of violent wind, and I smiled to myself because I knew the image I captured would not tell the same story.

I think that is enough rambling text from me at the moment. Thank you getting this far, I really appreciate it.

I will forever be humbled by this experience and the people I have met along the way, I hope you have enjoyed this spiel and my photos too. It would mean the world to me if you would consider a donation (at the bottom of the page), so I can keep bringing you all with me to incredible places far and wide. My goal is to photograph remote locations throughout Nepal and India, I hope to bring the unseen faces, wild nature and urgent conservation and environmental issues to your screen.

You can support this project by purchasing a limited edition print from my store or by contributing with a donation. We can explore this world together!

Keep scrolling if you’d like to see a few more shots.

A young girl trying to tell me how old she is.

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