In the towering shadow of the Himalaya where each step is a journey into discovery, Saroj Nepal, a trekking guide in Nepal gets up long before the first rays of the sun kiss mountain peaks. A seasoned guide, his work is so much more than showing the trails. It's a curation of experiences, guaranteeing the safety of others and sharing the magic of Nepal with trekkers from the world over.
Early Morning Hustle: The Guide's Warm Welcome
Saroj's day starts much before anybody else does. After a quick check of the lodge’s washrooms for cleanliness and readiness, he greets his guests with a warm smile and a cheery “Good morning!”
He knows how important the first meal of the day is in the mountains, so he carefully notes everyone’s breakfast preferences and coordinates with the kitchen staff.
With eagle-eyed attention, Saroj inspects plates, cutlery and napkins to ensure everything is spotless. He serves breakfast with a friendly, “Is there anything else you’d like?”
His goal? To make sure his trekkers are well-fed and ready to face the day’s adventures.
The Careful Guidance of a Trek Beginning
Saroj gets the things ready for everybody while he makes a final sweep of the rooms to ensure that nothing is forgotten. Pending bills at the lodge are settled and then he gets everybody together to start their trek.
He walks with them, checking on their pace and reminding them to drink water frequently, a very important tip in high altitudes.
He arranges a tea break every two hours, not just for refreshment but to get a feel of how the group is doing. "How's the trail treating you?" he asks, mentally making a note of the condition of each guest.
Equally contemplative are the lunch stops. He picks a spot that has some scenic highlights and takes the time to explain why it is special. Whether it be a panoramic view or some hidden treasure of local culture, Saroj sees to it that every moment is memorable.
Midday Feast: A Reflective Lunch Stop
It is not just a meal for Saroj, but a nicely scheduled break during the journey. He chooses places for lunch that either offer great views or are of cultural importance. As everyone gets settled, he passes around menus and takes orders promptly. While waiting for lunch, which often takes around 45 minutes to get ready, he tells stories about the region in general or points out the nicest things in the surroundings.
When the food arrives, Saroj ensures hygiene standards are met before serving. “Does anyone need a refill or some tea?” he asks, making sure everyone is satisfied. After the meal, there’s a 15-minute pause for restrooms and a little relaxation before the trek resumes.
Afternoon Strolls and Stories
After lunch, the group treks on, with Saroj reminding everyone to put on sunscreen, grab trekking poles and drink enough water.
When an especially spectacular view is nearing, he readies the group to get cameras ready. "That's Annapurna peeking through the clouds!" he says; the excitement in his tone is contagious.
The last stretch to the day's destination often requires some extra motivation. Saroj doesn't shy away from sharing local legends, stories or even a song to lighten everyone's mood.
Evening Comforts: Rest, Reflections, and Dinner Delights
At the lodge, Saroj briefs them about the amenities: Wi-Fi password, sizes of the doors (often the most amusing thing in a mountain lodge!) and the locations of washrooms. He helps the group decide on dinner orders and makes sure their preferences are noted.
Dinner is the time to wind up and enjoy the exhaustion of the day. He coordinates with the kitchen regarding the preparation of meals exactly as the guests would have them. As the dishes are served, he inquires after everyone, offering each a glass of tea or coffee with their meal.
After dinner, Saroj leads a fun briefing session, recapping the day’s highlights and preparing everyone for tomorrow. He provides tips on weather, terrain and what to pack in their daypacks. Then, it’s time for entertainment: songs, dances, and laughter echo through the lodge, creating unforgettable memories.
More Than a Guide: A Friend in the Mountains
For Saroj Nepal, guiding is more than a job; it's a passion. His days are filled with endless steps, countless smiles and a commitment to making sure that every trekker leaves with memories they will always treasure. As he says, "The mountains may be rugged, but the journey is what makes them magical.”
Wouldn't you like to take part in an unforgettable adventure with Saroj?
