Personal Journeys
Everest Base Camp Trek
I always liked to walk, but hiking was never really my thing aside from the occasional trail here and there. Mountains held an awe, but I never imagined that I will push myself up to take on a journey such as this. The inspiration came when old friends started reconnecting through WhatsApp groups and hearing each other's stories. One of them had already been to EBC (a name I was hearing for the first time) and soon others were taking of same or similar treks. For me, since this would also be my first high elevation experience, I wanted it to be a memorable one and EBC stood up above all others, and when more friends started showing interest my mind was made up despite having no clue about the physical demands or what to expect on the trail or whether I was mentally and physically ready for the challenge.
Very soon, a date was in the horizon with firm plans and preparations had to begin in earnest, with only few months left. This in fact became the common question when we returned - What does it take to finish such a trail?
California is blessed with diverse trails, and I was lucky to have a few close ones nearby. One in particular, Mission Peak, was my favorite for the elevation challenge it posed.
A 7-mile loop with 2300 feet gain at 13% gradient isn't the hardest trail but it felt like the perfect training ground for the kind of days we’d face on the trek. So I made hiking Mission Peak regularly, sometimes on back-to-back days, as my main prep routine.
I have always been a slow climber, while my pace didn't increase, my consistency did. I learned that descending strains the body more than climbing, I learned the trek pole used right can take some load off you, I learned the importance of a good day pack, I learned that a good foot wear is your most equipment that you should carry, I learned that you need not splurge on top brands for your hiking wear, poles etc but do not compromise on the shoes however, I learned the importance of pacing to conserve energy, I learned the importance of proper hydration and how that helps in proper recovery and getting you ready for the trail next day. Ultimately, this became my main goal: complete the day’s trek, recover well, and do it again tomorrow. If you can do that, you’re physically ready for the trek. Speed doesn’t matter—this is a marathon, not a sprint.
And then came the trek itself. The moment we stepped onto the trail, nature’s raw beauty hit all of us and even more so, the towering peaks that surrounded us. No peak looked less than 20,000 feet, each one a majestic sight in itself. It was humbling, awe-inspiring, and exhilarating all at once.
Equally humbling and inspiring are the people we met on the road - especially the warmth of the locals, guides and Sherpas - I have never met sweeter more genuine people and if I were to do this trek again, it will equally be for the mountains and the people. On the trail we met the current world holder of max number of Mt Everest summits, we met other mountaineers, we met 80 year old trekkers, we met children who are attempting the same summits, we met people from all walks of life, some extreme athletes most others just ordinary folks like us - all with their own calling and struggles of their own, each one of them pushing themselves and silently inspiring others to equally push forward. These sights and the people whom you see around you, and my own companions are the ones that kept me and will keep you pushing forward when higher elevation starts to hit, when thin air challenges you and slows you down. They remind you why you’re there and why you must keep going.
The trek like EBC teaches us minimalism - you can only carry so much, and every item adds weight and forces prioritization, comfort becomes redefined - basic things like warmth, food, water become luxuries and make you realize how little we truly need. It also teaches you about yourself and your own body, and your resilience. There were moments I questioned myself, when faced with the challenges, why I even came on this trip. The toughest one was with just a mile away from the destination, and I had almost gave up. I wouldn't have made if not for the timely word of encouragement I received and I am very deeply thankful for that. And those moments will always stay with you.
So, what does it take? Can anyone do it? I believe most people can if you stay reasonably healthy and, more importantly, if you have the calling and believe in yourself. For me, it felt like 30–40% physical and the rest mental strength, especially when facing the raw elements of the mountains.
What I take back from this trek is the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas - the towering peaks that make you feel both small and inspired, the warmth of the people, the friendships and companionship along the way, the laughter, the shared struggles, and the encouragement that kept me moving when I was ready to give up. This journey taught me that true strength is not just physical but resilience and belief.
Until the next adventure.......