Embarking on a 12-Day Solo Adventure in Nepal

Connecting instantly with fellow travelers has always been a joy for me. Even though traveling with family is enjoyable, it sometimes hinders the spontaneity of making new friends, which is why I set out on a solo journey.

Trekking enthusiasts on a budget, high in energy and enthusiasm, they're the type I thrive with. In my twenties, I embarked on annual hikes with my best pals, traversing Patagonia and the Inca Trail, seeking thrill rather than luxury.

Now at 53, married with two teen boys, although I cherish travels with my family, I yearn for those carefree days where all I had to consider was myself.

The Call of Nepal

Those nostalgic hiking journeys beckoned me to reconsider such trips. With Nepal long in my sights, I desired a solo adventure that included meeting new faces — a prospect catered to by the 'Solo-ish Nepal' tour from G Adventures.

Choosing the off-season made the venture financially feasible, costing around $1,500 for 12 unforgettable days. Truly, it's emerged as one of my cherished experiences.

An Eclectic Group

The group was diverse, comprising a college student from Sydney, a retired officer, and others like a Norwegian nurse and a West Coast teacher. Despite age and personality differences, we clicked immediately.

Meeting in Kathmandu amid monsoon season didn’t dampen our spirits, and the reasonable trip cost drew individuals adept at adapting to the journey's unpredictable nature.

Bonding Over Momo

Momo cooking, akin to crafting dumplings, kicked off our camaraderie, despite my aversion to cooking. It became the backdrop to sharing our stories and intentions for the trip.

Even as the chef endeavored to guide us through the momo’s intricacies, our conversations took precedence, seamlessly setting the tone for our trip.

Exploring Together

Our travels spanned from the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the quietude atop Champa Devi amidst the Himalayan views. We marveled at sites like Bhaktapur and religious relics in Pharping.

The cycling at Royal Chitwan National Park stands out, savoring the sunset after a day of exploration despite the intense heat.

Though minor mishaps like traveler’s diarrhea occurred, they added to our collective journey, strengthening the bonds over shared challenges.

Reflecting on the Journey

Upon returning, even in discussing the trip’s quirks — monsoon rains, sweltering heat, modest conditions — it affirmed as one of my top adventures, fulfilling a lifelong dream alongside newfound friends.