Views from the top.
By Nina Phichitsingh
In time, we reach a moment when we decide it is a good idea to attempt something challenging, greater than ourselves, pushing ourselves in newfound ways. Three Thai-Sikhs felt exactly this and lived out their goals, trekking Everest Base Camp (EBC). They discuss their emotional and physical preparation, their learnings along their route, and even their favourite meals during the expedition. From landing in the world’s most dangerous airport to becoming vegetarians and coping with weather challenges, trekkers Daljit Singh Thakral, Karanvir Singh Thakral, and Chaetan Saheb share their raw, uncut experiences with Masala.
Karanvir Singh Thakral – Businessman
“This trip had been on Dad’s bucket list for as long as I can remember. Knowing how much it meant to him, it was important for me to make sure I could make his dream come true. It was a great chance to spend some quality father-son time together. We were also fortunate to have more family members join us, making it even more wholesome!“
Emotions
I was looking forward to the trip. There was a sense of anticipation, but also a little apprehension, wondering if I was physically and emotionally ready for the challenge ahead. I also felt a strong sense of responsibility because we were going as a family (with mixed ages); I was hoping everything would go safely and smoothly for all family members. However, once on the trek, there was no nervousness. I only felt a deep sense of gratitude for being a part of such a meaningful experience. I truly enjoyed being one with nature and had a great time being disconnected from all gadgets and communication.
The Preparation
We’ve been runners and exercise quite regularly. Prior to the trip, I researched how to train. I realised the training needed for doing an uphill trek for long hours was quite different. I tried my best to hit the gym and build core muscles. Although we did try to follow the recommended workouts, the most important thing was the mental training that would enable us to complete the trek with joy. The main factor was being mentally strong when facing harsh terrains.
The Packing
We were limited by the amount of weight we had to carry. The essentials were good-quality shoes, effective waterproof gear and comfortable layers of clothing, including a fleece jacket (a lifesaver). You can rent trekking sticks or take your own along; they were very helpful. The weather changed from rain to sunshine to strong winds all within a day. Over the 10 days we trekked, the weather went from 25 degrees to -15 degrees!
Lukla Airport
The highlight of the trip was arriving and departing from Tenzing-Hillary Airport (also known as Lukla Airport). We were very lucky to be able to land with clear skies after the airport was closed for over three days prior to our landing. Lukla is known to be the most dangerous airport in the world, with only a 4–5-hour take-off and landing window in the mornings. That truly added to the thrill!
Some Perks
Going to boarding school in India allowed us to get connected to a lot of locals in Nepal. Our tour operator was a good friend and very experienced. That made all the difference when the weather conditions worsened at the end of the trek. When we were trying to fly out, the skies were bleak, the weather was uncertain, and the planes were unable to take off. Many people were stuck due to the unpredictable weather. Our contact’s local network was crucial in ensuring we departed safely, promptly securing a helicopter amidst all the chaos.
I think having a fun group to share this experience with also makes the trip more manageable as you can have fun while pushing through challenges that might feel overwhelming alone. The experience created wonderful memories that will last a lifetime! It would have been a totally different experience if we had chosen to do this with a different team.
Daljit Singh Thakral – Insurance Broker
“I had planned this trip for many years and with God’s grace at 68 years of age, I am physically fit to embark on it. Inspired by other trekkers’ tales, I took it as a personal challenge to enjoy the experience. I aim to inspire my children and grandchildren to stay fit as I like to say, ‘health is wealth.’ I wish to motivate them to be able to complete this when they are my age!”
Accommodations
Based on my research, nothing would be more important than a good night’s rest after a long hard trek. We selected the most comfortable accommodation options at lodges and local tea houses. It was good to come back to a warm room to relax and stretch. At the end of each day, we would unwind at the teahouses by eating warm food, playing cards or snooker and engaging in good conversation with everyone. Unluckily, as we approached the end (the last 3-4 nights), it was more challenging at high altitudes with extreme weather conditions. The spaces were smaller and there was limited water and electricity. Let’s not get started on the toilet conditions at the very end! Although given the remote location, it was understandable.
Meals
The best thing we did along the whole journey was listen to what the Sherpa (guide) recommended us to eat. The priceless guidance really saved us from altitude sickness and from having to take pills for acclimatisation. We adjusted our diet to natural foods they recommended (protein, garlic, ginger, and lots of vitamin C). Once we reached 3,500 metres, we avoided meat and chose to get protein from a variety of pulses. The most important thing was water because, at high altitudes, dehydration can cause severe headaches. By the end of the trek, each of us consumed 4-5 litres of water daily.
The Emotions
Before the trip, I was excited about the challenge and was looking forward to accomplishing it alongside family members. I was determined that I wanted to complete this journey without hiccups. As we ascended, trekkers heading down informed us that basecamp was closed due to heavy snow. I was worried we would not reach it, but as we progressed forward from town to town, I felt more hopeful that the weather would get better. Meeting more trekkers along the way (including seniors) gave me motivation to power through! Ten days with extremely limited phone use and pure, fresh air was a true luxury.
The Preparation
I regularly visit the park to jog, even prior to planning this trip. Once plans were confirmed, I started walking up and down the stairs whenever I could. I also watched several EBC videos for motivation and to know what to anticipate along the route. I took note of the obstacles and guidelines recommended by people all over the world.
The Packing
We packed light and effectively, including all necessary medications. We took very dependable shoes and windproof gear to make the journey comfortable. We experienced how people live in higher altitudes (amidst hardships at times) with limited belongings, no electricity and scarce warm water – yet they were always filled with joy!
Lukla Airport
We had a smooth journey despite hearing about how dangerous Lukla Airport is. I always prayed that we were safe throughout. We could see beautiful mountains throughout the ride and had very comfortable transportation as we took a helicopter down. With high-altitude trekking, the weather is always uncertain, so we were truly blessed to be able to make it there and back safely.
Meals
We had very good food along the way. My favorite was daal bhat and Sherpa stew. Local ingredients and a great breakfast helped us start the day well, as we weren’t sure how the meals would be during the day. To keep our energy up, we always kept hydrated and snacked along the way with Snickers bars.
Some Perks
Packing light and hiring porters made the journey very comfortable. We were fortunate enough to take the trek slowly with two days to acclimatise, which made the trip much more fun.
ChaetanSaheb (Aek) Singh – Entrepreneur & Educator
“For me, the mountains were a gradual calling. What started off as a wild “bucket-list” fantasy snowballed into an unforgettable adventure of a lifetime. Don’t let your bucket list stay a list – turn it into a reality and a memory to cherish. Reaching an altitude of approximately 5,500 meters on foot was a true “Top of the World” experience! Trekking for 13 straight days is no small feat, and I feel incredibly lucky and humbled by it all.”
The Emotions
From the spark of this “wild” idea to planning, training, and trekking, the journey was an exercise in presence – breathing, eating, walking, resting, and conversing. Even silence became profound. It wasn’t just adrenaline but a deep sense of gratitude that made the EBC trek unforgettable. Each step brought clarity, and in that clarity, I found the courage to challenge myself. Every step demanded focus, especially on technical terrains. The mental and physical intensity pulled me fully into the moment, leaving no space for “what ifs,” only for gratitude and awe. Every day was unique, every trail revealing new dimensions – not just of the mountains, but of myself.
The Preparation
I focused on four physical key areas: Mobility, Balance, Strength, and Stamina – no shortcuts here. To nail them, I crafted my own drills and stuck to them for weeks before the trek. Mentally, I toughened up my grit, tolerance and patience, knowing I’d need all three to survive the journey. This trip was going to be legendary, one for the books and I was determined to make it count.
The Packing
The essentials include quick-dry, reusable, comfortable clothes, trusty trekking shoes, a comfy backpack, quality sunglasses, a buff, a windcheater, multiple power banks, and a stash of wet wipes (a hygiene lifesaver). Snacks were non-negotiable: dry fruits, nuts, granola bars, and of course, Snickers because nothing beats a chocolate fix at high altitude!
Lukla Airport
The adventure started with landing at Lukla, the world’s most dangerous airport – a thrilling, albeit risky, experience. The plan was to helicopter back from Gokyo to Lukla, but nature had other ideas. Bad weather stranded us in Gokyo, forcing a gruelling two-day descent on foot and horseback – eight hours a day!
Accommodations
We booked average accommodations that were “passable” at best. In the rougher spots, we reminded ourselves to be grateful for having a roof at all. Tea houses aren’t exactly luxury stays, and the irony is that the higher you go, and the more rest you need, the worse the conditions get. By the time we reached Gorakshep near EBC, there weren’t even half-broken sinks anymore for basic hygiene.
Meals
I loved the food! Tea-house menus included everything from local favourites like daal bhaat to pizzas, pastas, fried noodles and even burritos. But the momos were the real MVP – a daily must-have that never got old. Each meal came with tea or coffee. The ginger and mint teas were unbeatable, especially knowing they were grown right there in the Himalayan backyard. For those freezing -10 degrees Celsius nights, a hot cup of chocolate and Panjiri-Giriya became my go-to survival kit. I also went full vegetarian for the trip – a disciplined choice that, in hindsight, was absolutely worth it!
Some Perks
With a private guide and porter, we had the luxury of setting our own pace and stopping for as many photos and videos as we wanted, perfect for soaking in the surroundings. Naturally, I asked a tonne of questions and picked up a lot along the way. For me, “fully living” each day of the journey became more meaningful than simply reaching base camp, which felt more like a checkbox than a true goal. “The magic of the Himalayas is beyond words. I wish everyone could experience it. Anyone can trek it, no matter your age or gender. I saw kids as young as 10 and folks in their 70s on the trail—each one was an inspiring reminder that the trail doesn’t discriminate!”
To watch Aek’s experience, visit: youtube.com/@asethi
