Three Weeks in Nepal Walking Wonder and Classrooms in the Clouds
By Annie
Three weeks in Nepal began exactly as you might imagine and then became so much more.
Before the trekking boots were tightened and the mountains loomed large we immersed ourselves in the sensory overload of Kathmandu. The streets buzzed with life colour noise incense traffic and laughter. We explored ancient alleyways soaked up the chaos and climbed to the famous Monkey Temple where prayer flags fluttered and curious monkeys watched us with knowing eyes. It was the perfect introduction to a country that never stops surprising you.
Our Kathmandu days were full on chaotic and completely unforgettable. Sixteen of us an eclectic fun loving mix from the UK Australia and New Zealand came together to support Classrooms in the Clouds. We laughed bonded and prepared ourselves for the trek ahead knowing that soon we would be heading far beyond the city and into the Himalayas.
Off to the Clouds
With a full support crew of guides Sherpas and cooks our group grew to 35 people. The plan was simple fly to the start of the trek camp for the first three nights and begin our journey on foot. Every detail - tents, kitchen food, tables, chairs, would be carried in. Unbelievable really.
Of course Nepal had other plans.
Our flight schedule shifted repeatedly as it often does and instead of being on the trail we found ourselves enjoying coffee in an airport lounge while weather windows and aircraft logistics were sorted. Eventually after delays diversions and plenty of bemusement we boarded a Twin Otter and flew low through dramatic valleys skimming hillsides and landing on impossibly short runways. The views were spectacular with clear skies thanks to recent rain and even Everest made an early appearance as we flew into Phaplu.
Life on the Trail
Once on the trail reality truly set in. Each of us received a duffel bag containing a sleeping bag and a huge down jacket all within a strict 15 kilo limit. Our Sherpas carried two of these bags each plus their own gear. Watching these incredibly strong small framed people stride past us uphill with 30 kilos or more was humbling beyond words.
The first nights were spent camping and from the moment we arrived we were overwhelmed by generosity. Entire villages turned out to welcome us. Schoolchildren lined up smiling laughing and placing marigold garlands around our necks four or more at a time. The joy was infectious the hospitality genuine and the gratitude deeply moving.
Each day brought long walks six hours at a time school visits and stunning scenery as we followed valleys deeper into the Solukhumbu region. Our cook crew somehow produced different delicious meals every day an act of pure magic considering everything was carried in by hand.
Schools Stories and Strength
At every school we were welcomed like heroes. Ceremonies songs speeches and more marigolds greeted us at each visit. Through 'Classrooms in the Clouds' these schools have received life changing support including new classrooms, earthquake strengthening, electrical rewiring, clean water systems, proper sanitation, separate toilets for girls, menstrual health support and micro businesses making reusable cotton pads. All of this helps girls stay in school longer and complete their education.
Five schools in and every visit felt just as powerful as the last.
The walking became tougher as we climbed higher with hot days big ascents and endless stone steps but the rewards grew too. We joined the old Everest track crossed the iconic Hillary Suspension Bridge and watched porters carry loads well over 100 kilos! Everything here is carried and those carrying it are paid by the kilo. It is astonishing what human bodies can do.
Everest From the Sky
Reaching Namche Bazaar at 3400 metres felt like a major milestone. The mountains towered closer sharper and more imposing. And then came one of life’s truly surreal moments.
Nev and I took a helicopter flight to see Everest up close. The day was flawless. We flew as high as Camp Two could see Camp Three and hovered in silence over the roof of the world. No words really do it justice. It was humbling overwhelming and utterly unforgettable one of those moments that stays with you forever.
The Power of Collective Giving
Alongside the walking the views and the unforgettable experiences something truly special was happening back home.
Collectively our group raised an incredible 22,000 euros. That amount will fund the annual salaries of at least seven Classrooms in the Clouds teachers each providing education to more than 200 children here in Nepal. A ripple effect that will last for years.
Nev and I had set ourselves a personal fundraising goal of 5000 dollars. On our last night in Nepal over a quiet beer I jokingly said "Wouldn’t it be nice if someone donated 1000 dollars" We checked our Givealittle page and there it was an anonymous donation of exactly 1000 dollars. Just like that our goal was reached.
One of life’s magical moments.
Gratitude
This journey was about so much more than trekking. It was about connection generosity resilience and hope. About children who greet strangers with joy, communities who give everything they have and the power of education to change lives.
To everyone who donated supported encouraged and believed in 'Classrooms in the Clouds' thank you. Together we have made a real tangible difference in the lives of many children in Nepal.
And for that my heart is full.