Nepal

October 28 to November 14
2025

Join us on a journey into the heart of the Himalayas, where sacred peaks stand as timeless sentinels of serenity and wisdom. Walk with us on the ancient paths that have carried seekers and sages for centuries, leading each person into a deeper connection with their own spirit.

When Earth Meets Spirit

"When the mind is pure and the senses are at ease, the light of the Self shines forth."
— Mundaka Upanishad

While preparing to write to you today, I came across this quote. It reminded me of something I learned long ago: "The guru who awaits you on top of the mountain is you." I find both ideas compelling because they highlight the notion that those seeking enlightenment or truth will not find it externally, but only by turning inward. Still, it certainly helps being in the mountains of Nepal, in a world free of chaos.

Imagine waking up. The air is crisp and sweet. You are free of the trappings of home. Outside the Tea House, life is peaceful, and someone is making you breakfast. The people here in Nepal are reflections of the great spirits we call mountains. Every bit of them has been shaped by thousands of generations, living in harmony with the very land you are now at peace with. Now, imagine how this place changes you.

For nineteen magnificent days, we will explore the spiritual mystique of Nepal. We’ll learn about singing bowls, visit temples, attend Buddhist pujas (ceremonial blessings), and hike timeless paths etched by countless generations among the Sacred Peaks of Nepal.

It may help you to know that I am sixty-six years old. I appreciate that life is best experienced with a gentle, methodical approach. Interestingly, the mountains will teach us the same. Your team of Guides, are ready for you. Our Sherpas and porters happily do the heavy lifting, allowing us to stroll and take in the wonders of the famed Himalayas.

"Drink your tea slowly and reverently, as if it is the axis on which the earth revolves—slowly, evenly, without rushing toward the future. Live the actual moment. Only this moment is life."
— Thích Nhất Hạnh

  • Facilitator and Guide

    I know, this photo isn’t as bright as the others on my website, but it speaks to something deeper. To me, it reflects the comfort and confidence I feel in going within—a space where adventure begins. Every adventure, after all, is an opportunity to discover or rediscover something spectacular within ourselves.

    Let’s be honest, shall we? A trip like this calls to those who are seeking to feel more alive. It is an opportunity to unite their physical self with their spiritual one, and to do so in a way that transcends dogma or judgement. This adventure is a chance to be, and become more in the timeless wisdom of the mountains and all that surrounds us. The most exciting part is you will be doing this with new friends.

    Every adventure asks this of us: to go within and find ourselves anew. The best part is it only takes a little effort because you’ve likely already done the hard parts. Join us for a hike in the Himalayas. I can’t wait to share this incredible journey with you.

  • Guide and Mountaineer

    Let me introduce you to my friend, Mel Southworth, also known by her buddhist name of Losang. Her story is as amazing as it is inspirational, which is why she is being asked to write her memoir called, “Breathe.”

    She is kind, warm and caring, and ever attentive to those in her life and on the trail. It is why a dear friend of mine refers to her as “Sunflower.”  She is always radiant, and looking towards the brightest things in life. When you meet her, you’ll know why the name.

    One could be excused in thinking because of her light and airy demeanour, she lacks determination. That would be a sad mistake. This woman has heart and internal strength, matched only by her determination. For example, she climbed two Himalayan peaks, in succession, a few weeks before she climbed Mount Everest. Twenty-four hours after being on Everest’s summit, she was in Kathmandu meeting a friend for lunch. Her friend was laughing at her, because while others where still at basecamp attending to their sore muscles, she was in Kathmandu looking like she had just come back from the spa.

    That, is Mel Southworth.

    Oh, and that is only a small part of her story.

  • Guide and Expedition Lead

    Kamal was recommended to me by people I sincerely trust in my life. As I've gotten to know him, everything I was told about Kamal was true. He is a sincerely warm and caring man, and as attentive as he is kind. As our land-based operator and guide, we won't need it if he hasn't thought of it already. He is also certified in meditation techniques and Yoga, which also fits in with our group dynamic, and most importantly, he's just a really nice guy. Wait until you meet him.

October and November 2025.

Trekking, Monasteries, Tea Houses, Lodges, and Hotels

Trekking Grade: Moderate to Adventurous
Highest Altitude: 5,545m (18,000’)

Tashi Delek!

Welcome to an incredible journey into the mountainous majesty of Nepal. This is a land shaped by thousands of years of tradition, where the Nepali people celebrate each day, connect deeply with the land, and embrace the spirit of community. Your connection to this sacred landscape will stay with you for decades.

Each year, Nepal welcomes hundreds of thousands of trekkers, but our trip is more than just trekking. Beyond breathtaking vistas, sacred pujas, and morning ceremonies, we will immerse ourselves in one of the world’s most beautiful landscapes through sound, meditation (even if you’ve never practiced before), and new ways of experiencing life fully.

You can do this.

We’ve chosen to begin our adventure in October to coincide with the Mani Rimdu festival in November. This sacred event is a vibrant, deeply spiritual celebration filled with bells, horns, symbols, and colors that make it truly spectacular. To prepare for this experience, we have so much in store for you.

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 02: Sightseeing in Kathmandu I
Day 03: Sightseeing in Kathmandu II
Day 04: Fly to Lukla and trek to Phakding
Day 05: Trek to Namche
Day 06: Trek to Thamo
Day 07: Trek to Kumjung
Day 08: Trek to Deboche
Day 09: Deboche – Full Moon Festival (Mani Rimdu)
Day 10: Trek to Pheriche
Day 11: Pheriche – Acclimatization trek
Day 12: Trek to Lobuche
Day 13: Trek to Gorak Shep (5,184m) and climb Kala Patthar (5,545m)
Day 14: Trek to Everest Base Camp (5,357m), then return to Gorak Shep
Day 15: Helicopter flight to Lukla/Kathmandu
Day 16: Weather buffer day / Kathmandu
Day 17: Free day in Kathmandu
Day 18: International departure

Upon arrival at the airport, our Nepali support team will greet you and escort you to your hotel. From that moment on, we’ll be walking this journey with you every step of the way.

The next morning, after breakfast, we begin with a visit to Singing Bowl artisans, where you’ll witness the creation of these sacred vessels. Here, you’ll receive your personal bowl, which will accompany you throughout the trek, be part of every morning ceremony and puja, and hold special significance during the full moon ceremony at Mani Rimdu. This will be yours to take home—a cherished reminder of your journey. As a longtime Singing Bowl player, I believe the relationship between the person and the bowl is as important as the sound itself. The story behind it matters.

Next, we visit a pashmina factory, where you’ll meet skilled artisans, see their craftsmanship firsthand, and receive a beautiful scarf. This will also play a role in our ceremonies and serve as a unique, meaningful souvenir from your time in Nepal.

Afterward, you’ll have the evening free to explore the Kathmandu Valley.

And this is just Day One—there is so much more ahead!
From the wonders of Kathmandu to flying into Lukla, trekking through remote villages accessible only on foot, visiting Buddhist monasteries, meeting lamas and nuns, and discovering the sacred art of mala beads. And, of course, we conclude the journey at Everest Base Camp, before flying back to Kathmandu by helicopter.

What’s Included?

✅ Sherpas to carry your belongings
✅ Most meals included
✅ 4-season sleeping bag provided (or bring your own)
✅ Porter duffel bag for the trek (yours to keep)
✅ All flights, buses, and helicopter transfers within Nepal

Duration: 18/19 days
Cost: $5,300 USD

📌 Only 10 spots available – 5 are already spoken for!

Click the link below to secure your place. I look forward to sharing this extraordinary adventure with you.

Mark