After a thorough discussion despite my ignorance they recommended Gokyo Ri might be more appropriate for my goals. I AM SO HAPPY THEY SAID SO! On the trip a bunch of groups were going to EBC and very few to Gokyo, and also everything I read was that Gokyo is incredibly scenic and EBC is just not in the same league.

Next, I am Jewish and observant and I cannot travel on the Sabbath and cannot eat anything not kosher. They noted the teahouses along the way (obviously) are not kosher but that they could provide a cook along the way (!) and that they routinely trek with Israeli clients and they are very familiar with Shabbos and kashrus. The morning we began they ran the food by me so I could inspect relevant hechshers.

So yeah!

The trip was amazing. Gyanu was the guide who is calm and fantastic. Uttam was the cook and portered as well and Ranjit the porter. They were mountain goats. I carried a day pack and they carried everything else. Every lunch and dinner they asked what I would like to eat, they prepared and cooked it and it was delicious!

The teahouses are pretty basic and cold and make sure to bring a very warm (VERY warm) sleeping bag if you go in winter. Also the teahouses do not provide toilet paper and often do not have “Western” toilets so be prepared.

The trip was fantastic. Probably best ever trip I’ve taken. Shabbat and kashrus were not issues at all. I realized late that Gokyo is and out and back trip and I did not want to go out and back. We talked about extending it a day to return through Renjo-La. I said I’m happy to pay an extra day, and I hear Renjo-La is fantastic! Despite requesting this at the last moment they accommodated my wish with cheer and we returned through Renjo La pass (Highly recommended).

Best trip I think I’ve ever taken. Highly recommended. For Jewish observant clients have no concerns. They took care of all my needs.

Plus there’s a Chabad in Kathmandu that makes great shakshuka and schnitzel!

I have had a wonderful experience hiking through the Himalayas. My guide’s name was Gyanu and he was the most welcoming experienced and funny guide you can imagine. For me this was the first time I did a trek in Nepal so safety was the biggest concern. I can honestly say that I felt save every step of the way.

Gyanu always checks in with you to see how you are doing and has a great feel for empathy. He makes sure you are always eating well sleeping well and feeling well. Next to this he is a very social person, everyone knows Gyanu wherever you go on the hike. Together with the porter Uttam they make an impeccable team that will guide you through the trek of your life. I would gladly give them my referral at any time.