Published on May, 2025
I completed the 12 day EBC trek solo in mid may without the use of a porter, here are my honest observations which may help others choose a trekking company:
I found many companies operating on this trek were very similar, that is they share many of the same tea houses/itineraries. You’ll find yourself bumping into the same groups again and again. Outwardly you can be forgiven for questions the difference between all the big name players.
However this is very wrong, and for the following reasons you should consider Alpine Ramble your safe choice:
- Their listed inclusions is completely truthful; you can count on the fact you will be picked up from the airport with charge, and stay in a comfortable KTM hotel without need to worry about bookings. Further, every night you can count on receiving a fresh fruit platter (with chocolate) and having an oximeter check. Not every company did this. I actually found more luxuries than they listed were included. Upon completion I received a cake, a better than expected certificate/trophy, and a take home duffel bag along with shirt, hate, beanie and map. The takeaway, there is no doubt in what Alpine Ramble lists; you get even more.
- It was my first solo international trip. I was 19 coming from Australia. It was comforting knowing I could always count on dil. He was always quick to respond to my messages, and effective in eliminating any worries or doubt. His organisation was faultless, and is obviously a very hard worker with a genuine care for his clients. This was displayed when the only other member in my trek became sick with AMS. Dil organised his insurance rescue helicopter and closely monitored his health at the KTM hospital. Dil insisted on meeting me before departure, allowing me to put a face and a place to the name. He is incredibly friendly and obviously a great organiser. Reach out to him and just watch.
- Finally my good friend Khrisna. Being completely solo for most of the trip, it was a great comfort and joy to share this experience with such an amazing guide as Khrisna. He was very personable, set the pace of the trek perfectly, and cared for me in every conceivable way: organising every meal, accomodation, route, times and medical checks. Not only did Khrisna operate very professionally, he also was a great friend. He could answer every question I had, and hold good meaningful conversations about each others cultures. It was refreshing to share laughs with Khrisna playing cards and on the trail. Without such a guide I would have gone crazy being solo. Pro tip if you are fortunate enough to have Khrisna; bring a pack of cards, he really comes a live in the best way during any game. However, I was also lucky enough to meet a few other Alpine Ramble guides. I have complete confidence and trust in all of their abilities, and found them all as professional, down to earth, and friendly as Khrisna.
Should I ever find myself in Nepal again, a big hope of mine, it is without a doubt I’ll be using Alpine Ramble again. Why pay more when you get less from others? Alpine Ramble is the most competitively priced, and I truly believe you receive the most tangible value from them. Nepal is an amazing country and I am grateful for my trip here.