Everest Base Camp Trek Blog Solo: Arrival Day
Landing in Kathmandu: Excited or Terrified?
Stepping off the plane in Nepal felt surreal. After months of planning, researching, and second-guessing my packing choices, I had finally arrived. But was I ready? That was a different question altogether.
My flight into Kathmandu was anything but smooth. We spent what felt like an eternity circling above the airport, weaving flight paths like an abstract artist with a joystick. The delays? Annoying. But the excitement? Real. And as I disembarked, it hit me—I was in Nepal, about to start the trek of a lifetime.
The Kathmandu Airport Is Often Delayed
Tribhuvan International Airport
📌 Google Maps Link to Tribhuvan International Airport
First Impressions of Kathmandu: Culture Shock is Real
Kathmandu International Airport is not your typical major city hub. There were no sleek glass walls or futuristic terminals—just a bustling, slightly chaotic, but charming arrival experience. Instead of modern jet bridges, we were funneled onto a bus and dropped at the terminal like contestants on a reality show.
Stepping outside, I was immediately hit by the sensory overload. The honking of motorbikes, the smell of street food, and the tangled mess of power lines stretching across the city—it was chaotic, colorful, and completely different from anywhere I had been.
The Streets of Kathmandu, Nepal
📌 Google Maps Link to Thamel, Kathmandu
Meeting My Trekking Company: The Start of Something Big
Thankfully, my trekking company was there to pick me up—after a bit of a wait. While standing curbside with my backpack, I watched as dozens of trekkers were greeted by guides and drivers, each group buzzing with pre-adventure energy.
I met my driver, who casually mentioned that a famous YouTuber had recently used the same trekking company. That was enough reassurance for me—I figured if they survived, I might too.
The drive to Thamel, Kathmandu’s main tourist area, was like entering a new world. The streets were a mix of ancient and modern, where historic temples stood next to cafés serving oat milk lattes. The traffic? Absolute mayhem. If you think New York City is chaotic, Kathmandu’s roads would give you a reality check.
Checking into My Hotel: A Hidden Oasis
After weaving through the narrow streets, we finally arrived at my hotel. Nestled in a quiet alley, it felt like an oasis in the middle of the chaos. The courtyard was peaceful, with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze.
Driving The Streets of Kathmandu, Nepal
I was led to my room, which was basic but had everything I needed—a bed, a hot shower, and a small TV. Honestly, it was more than I expected. I took a moment to soak it all in. Tomorrow, I’d be flying to Lukla—the infamous “world’s most dangerous airport”—to officially start my trek.
First Night’s Hotel Room in Thamel Kathmandu, Nepal
📌 Google Maps Link to Hotel Thamel Park
Orientation & Last-Minute Prep
That evening, I met with the owner of my trekking company for the pre-trek briefing. We went over the itinerary, signed some paperwork, and made final arrangements. I also picked up the company jacket and duffel bag I’d be using for the next two weeks.
One small hiccup—I was originally assigned a different guide, but due to scheduling conflicts, I’d be meeting a new one in Lukla. Not a huge deal, but when you’re about to embark on one of the most challenging treks in the world, changes like that can make you nervous.
To celebrate my last night in civilization, I grabbed a meaty dinner—my final indulgence before two weeks of trekking on a mostly vegetarian diet.
Last Time Eating Meat Before the Trek Begins
Late-Night ATM Adventure
One thing I learned quickly—cash is king in Nepal. Most trekking expenses, including food, drinks, and tips, needed to be paid in cash. That meant a late-night trip to the market to find an ATM.
Walking through Thamel at night was an adventure in itself. The markets were still buzzing, scooters zipped through the narrow streets, and neon signs lit up hidden alleyways. I found an ATM, withdrew my trekking funds, and dodged a few motorbikes on my way back to the hotel.
Thamel Market at Night
📌 Google Maps Link to Thamel Market
Final Thoughts Before the Trek
Lying in bed that night, reality hit me. Tomorrow, I’d be boarding a tiny plane to Lukla, where my trek to Everest Base Camp would officially begin. Would I be ready for the altitude? Would I make it to Base Camp? Would my legs survive the endless uphill climbs?
The excitement was real. The nerves? Even more real. But one thing was certain—this was going to be an adventure of a lifetime.
Tomorrow, Everest Base Camp trek officially begins.
Let’s do this.
Final Notes & Trekking Tips
Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon (September–November) for clear skies and stable weather.
Where to Stay: Thamel is the best area in Kathmandu for trekkers—plenty of gear shops, hotels, and restaurants.
What to Expect at Kathmandu Airport: Be patient. It’s chaotic but manageable.
Pro Tip: Withdraw enough cash before leaving Kathmandu—ATMs get scarce and charge high fees in the mountains.
📌 Google Maps Link to the Trekking Company I Used
Watch the Full Video on YouTube!
Want to see everything in action? Check out my full Everest Base Camp Trek Vlog Solo: Arrival Day on YouTube, where I take you through every step of the journey from Kathmandu to the start of the trek!