Helambu-Gosainkund-Langtang (Langtang National Park, Nepal)

December 13th, 2009 - Another ten days in the shadow of the Himalaya. Richie likey. This time around I took no guide, unless you count the Lonely Planet: Trekking in the Nepal Himalaya. I considered the implications of going solo for a while and decided in the end that going rogue would provide maximum enjoyment. Guides and agencies are prone to schedules and like to stick to specific tea houses and hotels. I wanted no such hindrance.

For example, the trip I just completed would have required 16 days or so with one of these tour agencies. I did it in 11 and that included spending a couple extra night in places where I felt compelled to do so. I also saved a rather substantial sum. Frugal and intrepid. I am going to have t-shirts made.

I began my journey in the ‘wrong direction’. My area of operation included the Helambu/Gosainkund/Langtang Valley region. I began in lower Helambu and made my way north. The drawback with this route stems from a mandatory ascent greater than 1000m (3300 ft) in a short period of time. According to the guidelines this can be potentially dangerous and result in acute mountain sickness (AMS). Nobody wants that. After considering my options I chose this route because I am the very epitome of awesomeness. Not exactly. Firstly, I had been at altitude before and believed I would be ok. Second, going the other way required a nine hour ride on a local bus at the onset. I wanted to get moving so I opted for the route less traveled. I knew that Diamox and a quick descent could quickly reverse the effects of altitude sickness but still….Best laid plans of mice and assholes...