Everest Base Camp Trek (How I Legally Trekked Solo)

[@ReadyToDanceAcademy]

Just to let you all know, you don’t need Trek Card anymore, just park permits. Just back to Lukla form difficult but magical trip. Thank you Mandi for your videos about EBC trek!

[@GoMandiMartin]

Kris! You are back! Yay for you! 🎉🎉🎉 I'm so, so thrilled and overjoyed for you and your return to Lukla! I can't wait to hear more about your difficult yet magical trip. That's such a perfect way to describe it! Aw, you are very welcome 🥰 Thank you so much for sending the update about the Trek Card. That's super helpful, and you are so sweet to do that 😃 Do you have your next adventure in mind? Mandi

[@ReadyToDanceAcademy]

@@GoMandiMartinThank you Mandi for replying to my comments! Well, I’m thinking about Morocco and Atlas Mountains for next year but it’s a long time to plan it. Everything might change.

[@GoMandiMartin]

A huge thank you to everyone that joined me for the Premiere of his video. You made my day so wonderful ❤

[@davidcoleman757]

That's really interesting. There were checkpoints along the way from Jiri to the National Park and a few within the park, but they just checked passports. This law didn't exist when I did the walk. I totally get walking alone and having full agency. I had great experiences walking alone, and you can always find company if you want to. Your reasons for going solo really struck a chord. It's not about being cheap, it's having the freedom to stop a few days somewhere you really like. I stayed three days in Jumbesi because the tea house was amazing and the family were lovely. I did side treks out of the village and found views and flora I wouldn't have seen otherwise. The advice on local laws is good wherever you are.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hey, David 🌞 What a lovely and thoughtful message. Thank you so much for your continual kindness. It's so funny because the Trek card is really proof of passport ID and a payment haha, so it's really not much different. Right! I love the story of your journey and taking your time when it feels right and good, and I'm the exact same. There were so many waterfalls and little nooks and all of the school children and puppies and chickens and yaks -- oh the yaks! those beauties! I absolutely had to stop for all of them, and some of the bridges I went over and back again several times in a row, but to be able to stand in silence and have the entire rushing river below all to myself. I never would have been able to do any of those things in a group and or with a guide. Thank you so much for sharing your experience with going solo.

[@pattonmorgan8631]

Hi Mandi. I'm so glad you took the effort to post your travels and the explainer follow-up videos. My wife and I are doing EBC in September/ October 2023 and you have answered our burning question of how to legally do it on our own. We've trekked Annapurna Circuit on our own and knew we could manage the EBC the same way so the Compulsory guide requirement came as a shock, as it was for you. Now having documents to back up what we had heard about the EBC allowing guideless trekking gives us heart as we too want to meet the challenges of solo travel and not glide through it having someone manage all the encounters. Well done and love your openess and sense of joy and humour!

[@GoMandiMartin]

Good afternoon, Patton! Thank you so much for sending such a lovely and genuinely warmhearted message. I love your profile picture; you have such a beautiful family. That's incredible to hear about your upcoming EBC trek, and I'm so honored that I could help. Actually having the government publications/laws in hand certainly help a ton, and I'm overjoyed to hear that you and your wife didn't just give up and that you continued to search for a solution; you guys are awesome! I hope that you'll let me know how your trip prep is coming along and how it goes when you return. That's so neat that you've already done the Annapurna Circuit; it sounds like you've had some amazing adventures. Thank you again for all of your kind and generous words, and I hope to see you back for more and additional videos 😃🎉

[@pattonmorgan8631]

Hi Mandi. Follow-up comment as we've now done the trek and the preparation for pemits worked fine. We did the trek solo and had no issues. Once past the guide and porter line-up at Lukla Airport we were left alone. I'd have to say the only minor problem with having no guide was getting service at lunch sopts as some were very busy and they left the guides to do the order taking and food delivery. All it took was fronting up to the counter if needed to get food service flowing. We also asked our Loboche tea house to book us into a tea house at Gorek Shep, otherwise finding a room was no problem. Overall having the 2 of us setting our own pace was delightful.

[@deepakbal7311]

Love from india. 🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳

[@GoMandiMartin]

Aw! Thank you so much, Deepak! Love from around the world haha 💕

[@davidcoleman757]

On the joys of travelling solo and chance meetings, I met a Nepali singer in a bar in Namche. Twanging away in a corner, he had a guitar and the looks of Ghengis Khan. We got chatting, I bought him a bottle of rum, and we ended up singing songs until the early hours. He called himself Mr T, Nepal's only blues singer. He wasn't the least bit famous then, but he went on to form a combo called Mukti and Revival. Here's a link to one of his albums, if you fancy some Nepali vibes. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGeZZ6ZomsiIiLc

[@GoMandiMartin]

Good morning, David! How are you today? What a fascinating story. Thanks for sharing and for sending the link; I really like the male's voice at 25:00 😊 It's always so cool to be able to say you knew someone before they were famous haha.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Less than 2 more days! I'll be on for another live-chat, and I'm really looking forward to seeing you all ✨

[@mariaeugeniacastellanos6468]

Thanks, so nice to hear such a luminous and positive soul. Very informative video, thanks.

[@GoMandiMartin]

What a sweet message; thank you so much! And, thank you for watching! I hope to see you again soon 😀

[@LinjaRai]

super proud of you...

[@GoMandiMartin]

Good morning! 🌞 What an incredibly thoughtful message; thank you so much! I hope you have the best day today 😀

[@shivaft50191]

I am wating next video❤

[@GoMandiMartin]

Me, too haha 🤩 I am working hard on it, and I hope that it will be out very soon 🎶

[@Asaya911]

Thank you so much Hugs from Nepal

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi! You are very welcome! Lots and lots of hugs back to you from the USA ❤

[@GoMandiMartin]

It's almost time! Our next live-chat Premiere begins in just under 24 hours 💕

[@sneakyd6420]

Thank you Amanda for the informative video(s) on your solo Trek to base camp.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, there. You're so welcome! I really appreciate you writing, and thank you so much for watching! I hope you have a great day! 😃

[@jsanch4892]

I love your sense of adventure and to go it alone is an awesome experience.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Good afternoon, J! What a really sweet message; thank you so much. I hope that you are doing well today and that you had a great weekend. I ❤ solo travel, and it still always is the best feeling when I make it back home (in one piece haha!). I'll see you again soon!

[@GoMandiMartin]

This video goes live in just a few minutes! I'm on and so excited to watch it in real time with all of you, and I'm here to live-chat 😃

[@mirckelbelmonte9343]

congratulations Mandi ....beautiful journey, courage and thanks for the details of EBC trek

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Mirckel! What a sweet message; thank you so much for writing 🤩 It's a pleasure to meet you, and I hope to see you again very soon 🌞Mandi

[@simsnoir2773]

Sorry I missed the premier, but I love the video. You are so much more organized than me.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi and happy Sunday! I hope that you are having an amazing day 😃 Aw, I'm bummed that you missed the premiere, too, but thankfully we'll have lots more coming up. Thank you for your kind words and for watching. I hope to see you with the next video 🎉

[@kind1551]

Missed the Live Premiere, but did not missed the video. Good for you Amanda! So glad you found a way to hike you own hike. How satisfying that had to be and I think you captured it well in your second video, “I am so proud of myself”. That feeling of real felt accomplishment is so satisfying and fuels the hunger and thirst to try new things even though they may seem to be stretch for us. As a solo adventurer, I so get it. The ability to be opportunistic, the solitude and ability to take it all in without feeling you are in the way or holding someone up seems to do so much for the soul. Many years ago I lived for a couple of years in Pakistan, India and Nepal - mostly in the villages of western Nepal. There is something about Nepal that caught my heart and I think often about going back to visit. I would love to capture the lives of the people in the mountain villages, the highs and lows, the challenges, and how they live life to the fullest. I believe there are so many missed stories that need to be captured and made available for others to see. So look forward to finding out about your next adventure!

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Mark! Your message made me smile, and it totally made my day! Thank you so much for not only watching, but also for taking the time to send such a warm, kind, and generous message. I appreciate you so much! That's such a bummer that you missed the Premiere; I'm hoping to offer more time options very soon for the Premieres😀I'm so glad that you were able to catch the video afterwards. Oh my gosh, yes! It's so great that you get and appreciate just how amazing it feels to be off adventuring alone 💕 Wow, that's incredible that you lived in Nepal, Pakistan, and India! I'll bet you have some priceless memories; that's amazing! I got to travel through India immediately after my trek, and that video will be out ... after many more hours of editing (so much footage haha!). Thank you again for being here, Mark! It's been such a pleasure to e-meet you, and I look forward to saying hi at the next and/or other videos 🍿🍿

[@rattu175]

I m waiting for ur live ❤it’s wonderful to watch ur experience along the ebc and gives so much motivation to do the trek looking forward to ur video and hope you are having any amazing day and exiting plans ahead too ❤

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Rattu! Your message is so lovely and sweet; thank you so much! Oh my gosh, I'm so happy to hear that you might be looking to do a trek yourself; that's such amazing news! If you decide to go, I hope you'll tell me all about it. The next live-chat Premiere will be announced any day now, and I can't wait to see you then! 🤩💕

[@hiragc6402]

thanks a lot for your achievements

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Hira! You are so sweet; thank you so much for watching and for writing! I hope that you have an amazing day , and I look forward to seeing you again very soon😃

[@hiragc6402]

@@GoMandiMartin you are welcome.. come again to explore and enjoy the hill station life in Nepal ❤️

[@SubSailor688]

Missed the Premiere, unfortunately. But, you certainly knocked it outta the park, again. Your videos are super informative. I’m not seeing this detailed info anywhere else. Great job, Amanda ♥️🤗

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Chris! I hope you had an exceptional weekend. Your messages are so wonderful; thank you so much! I am so happy that you are back again this week, and I appreciate your kindness so much! I love all of the positive energy ⚡I can't wait to see you here again for the next video 😊

[@God-is-love-]

Thanks for explaining in detail. It clears my doubts that solo trekking is still allowed on ebc . You just have to buy trek card.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, and thank you so much for your very nice message. Thank goodness for the Trek Card 😃 I haven't heard of any changes to that policy, so hopefully there's still the option of a solo adventure. I hope to have see you here again soon, Mandi

[@bobmarley6161]

Really looking forward to your at in hoping to do some treks on Nepal this year..... Some with a guide but some solo for total peace and time to myself in the beautiful scenery and meeting the kind people of Nepal along the hikes...

[@GoMandiMartin]

Ah, that sounds incredible! I like your idea of sometimes going with a guide and sometimes alone. The scenery is certainly beautiful and the time to yourself would be such a treat. I hope that you'll tell me all about it!

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, the Premiere for "Everest Base Camp Trek (How I Legally Trekked Solo)" is starting! I hope to see can join us 💗

[@redshanks4845]

Mandi your voice is so lovely.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, and it's so great to hear from you again. That is very sweet; thank you! Thank you so much for sharing in this video with me. Mandi

[@anilpant6174]

Hi ! Mandi I'm waiting for your next travel vlog in Nepal with great patience.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Anil! You are the nicest, and your patience is so appreciated haha. The actual travel videos take me forever to edit, but I'm crossing my fingers that the next one will be out very soon 🎉

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, the Premiere for "Everest Base Camp Trek (How I Legally Trekked Solo)" is starting! I hope to see can join us 💗

[@pbr2424]

I really appreciate your videos and your positivity. I also appreciate you wanting to trek solo. I guess everyone has a question and I have one also. What if you told them when you where getting your card you was going to make a loop and do the Three Passes Trek and Everest Base would that not be allowed because you are doing the Three Passes also or would they not know or care if you veered off and made a loop. I don't know if you have information on that. I wanted to do the Three Passes solo. Like you I think it more of an adventure doing your own planning. Thank you

[@GoMandiMartin]

Good evening, and a huge welcome to the channel! I'm so happy you are here 🎉 Thank you for watching and for taking the time to write. That's such a great question, and I'm so bummed that I don't have the answer for you. I'm not sure if the Three Passes geographically falls within the jurisdiction/border of that allows for solo trekking. I'm looking at a basic map, and much of the usual Lukla to EBC trek is to the west of Lukla, so for sure that areas is covered by the exception. Of the Three Passes: Kongma La Pass isn't too far off of the normal Lukla - Base Camp trek path, but Renjo La Pass is almost as far east as the trekking path goes and Chol La Pass is a bit east of the normal path. I think that maybe the trekking duration might also be a consideration: the usual Lukla to EBC there and back is about 12 days, but if you add in the Three Passes, it's likely to be closer to 20 days, and it's a full loop and not an in-and-back, so just about every segment will be new; the in-and-backs are safer with respect to being less likely that someone would get lost. With all of these considerations, I'm not sure if that would be something you could legally do solo; trekking solo does require that you check in at the Trek Card booths, and I'm not sure if it would be a problem is you checked in out of order from doing a loop instead of the line north and then south. If you happen to find the answer, would you be kind enough to let me know, and then we can pass that great knowledge on to others that might need it, too 🌲. Thank you again for your very kind words, and I really look forward to talking with you again soon 😀

[@pbr2424]

Thanks so much for your reply and effort with you answer. I will continue to search for a answer and post here to let you know. Keep traveling and posting. Thanks again.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Thank you so much! That sounds wonderful 💗

[@JoeKyser]

this actually sounds like a really good video to get some good info from if someone were to make the same plans. Your videos are coming up regularly now of course. Great job. I know the interaction helps. Its not easy to get seen on here. I am sure you will have a massive peak here at some point. Thats how it works. It will come out of no where. I have been through 2 of them myself.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Joe! Good morning! You always bring such positive energy, and that makes me so happy! Oh my gosh, right! When a girl is nice and safe and just camping in the woods...nothing haha. Then, a girl almost suffocates on the top of a mountain, and now it's total love hahhahahaaa. That's funny! Thanks for sharing how it happened for you. Wow, 2 massive peaks! That's incredible! I'm experiencing my first one right now, and I must say that it's both exhilarating and exhausting all at the same time. But, it's certainly encouraged me. Thanks for your kind words as well 😊 I will check out your channel, too 🤩

[@JoeKyser]

@GoMandiMartin I dont think you need much criticism. It seems as though you understand exactly how it works and what to do. Your channel is alluring. You are doing such a great job. You set your own bar right? I am so glad you are gaining traction and getting the well-deserved peak. I will try to help with comments and take advantage of our interaction at the same time. I feel so lucky to be here right now. You will have so many comments one day that it will be impossible to see them all. I will fade away into the youtube comment abyss with the rest of the knuckleheads. I am glad you popped up. I watch videos that are similar to the content you have. I dig it

[@GoMandiMartin]

@@JoeKyser Hahhahahhahahahaa! Ohhhh, Joe! You cracked me up with the "knuckleheads" comment haha. That's super funny! Yeah, so this is such impeccable time because I've been sitting here for a few hours trying to work out a system so that I can try to respond to everyone and so that everyone feels appreciated; it's just not easy when I stay so busy between all of my adventures and work haha. I actually just (TODAY 🎉) qualified for and got approved for KZbin Memberships (and shopping), so I'm excited for that to assist me with prioritizing the replies 😊I'm glad that I don't need much criticism because no one likes that 😮 And, isn't it fitting that the thing one person hates is the thing that another loves, so really all I can do is do what I love. Aw, that's very sweet. I feel the same; I have some really unbelievable people here that I treasure. That's really so thoughtful and sweet of you to call my channel "alluring" haha. KZbin comment abyss. Haha! Oh gosh that's good! It's my first week of the summer semester, and I have double the teaching load as usual so it's been a bit nutty, but I promise that I'll respond to the rest of your messages asap. I hope you have a great day!

[@JoeKyser]

@GoMandiMartin oh I know it must be really hard to do youtube too. Kudos for the effort. It is very impressive knowing what else you have to deal with. Im sorry I can chat away. I will keep it short so you can get on with it today. I really appreciate the fact you actually do answer back. I dont want senselessy take up your time anymore. Thanks Dr Martin, looking forward to more videos!

[@GoMandiMartin]

@@JoeKyser Aw, you are too kind and thoughtful, and you aren't even slightly or senselessly taking up my time haha. Receiving such wonderful messages is a joy, and it's truly very special 😊It's almost the end of the summer semester; it was just here, and now it's just about gone 😕I have lots of mid-terms to write, and thank you for kindhearted words ⭐⭐⭐

[@Mr.lyonYT]

Waiting for your next travel vlog 👍

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Mr. Lyon! You are the greatest! My next travel video will be out any day now; I'm just adding the final touches. I can't wait to see you then! 🍿💕

[@bishalkhawash4024]

I am longing for watching it.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Bishal! You are so sweet! I'm really looking forward to this one, too 😀

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Bishal! Hi, the Premiere for "Everest Base Camp Trek (How I Legally Trekked Solo)" is starting! I hope to see can join us 💗

[@CoastalCoves]

nice info.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Aw, thank you! It's so nice to see you again this week 🎈

[@kirkstaley1170]

Darn it! I want to join these, but it’s in the middle of the workday. 😢

[@GoMandiMartin]

Ah, well hmmmm... I can help you create a diversion haha 😊 The fall semester will start in a few weeks, and once I know my schedule, I'll try to do a poll for some suggestions on days and times that work better for those that want to attend the premiere. Until then, there's always the fire alarm hahhaa. Just kidding... that's a big no no 🔥I hope you had a really great weekend.

[@bartonsky]

Amazing work! I love the focused detail work, impressive! I was a little confused, sounds like you got the trekking permit but then had to pay a fee to get through the national park area in liu of paying a guide. Where did you pay that fee and what do you get to show that so they don't give you problems at the check point? Again I reall admire you resolve and stick to it ness.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Good evening 😃 What a lovely message; thank you so much! You are close, and I hope this response provides more clarity. You can also read the attached document, i.e., the 2nd Letter, that's attached in the description section, and that provides information as to the cost and how to obtain the Trek Card. The Trek Card is your permission to trek solo, and you pay that to the regional government instead of paying it to a guide. You also have to pay for your entry into the national park which you would pay whether you are solo or with a guide. It's one fee that's paid all at once, and it costs 5,000 rupees. In this video ("How I Legally Trekked Solo), I show the booth that you purchase the card from, where it is, and then the checkpoints where you show the card. The checkpoints are right along the trail; you can't miss them, and they are guarded by the military, and if you are on the trail, you will run right into the checkpoints 😃 I really hope that all of this helps, and congratulations on your upcoming trip!

[@bartonsky]

Thank you so much. That is very helpful. So you are saying you pay for the trek card and the entrance fee into the national park at the same location and time. Is that correct. I was actually planning to do ABC or Anna circut but now maybe leaning toward EBC if can do it without being hitched a guide. I like the points you made about being in a group and effecting the experience. Curious did any check pt people or elsewhere give you a hassle about not having a guide once you started hiking?@@GoMandiMartin

[@GoMandiMartin]

@@bartonsky Hi, there 😀 I'm so glad to hear that! I hope that you are doing well today. You are correct; you pay a total of 5,000 rupees at the same place and time (2,000 for the Trek Card and 3,000 for the national park) right before entering the national park for the first time. As I'm rewatching the "About the Trek Card" part that starts at 09:05, I do see that I might have accidentally described a bit too quickly where to find the counter and how to buy the card at 9:05. I'll try to go slower next time. Ah, yes, I have countless special memories that I simply would not have if I were with a guide and/or group. Haha, you made me laugh with your not wanting to be "hitched to a guide" haha 😊 I felt that exact same way.

[@dharmikdave7517]

Thank you for providing the most important information for ebc trek. I will be trekking in the month of oct so this information is super important to me. Just one more question do we need TIMs cards ? And from where did you got the tims card ? And how did you booked lukla flights ??

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Dave! Thank you for your very kind message, and thank you so much for watching! How exciting that you are trekking next month! Gosh! Are you feeling ready? Haha. That feels like a silly question 😃 Here are the answers to your questions: 1. The TIMS card is not needed - or at least it wasn't a few months ago when I completed the trek. TIMS is what the guides now fill out to keep track of the trekkers in their care. Individuals without guides fill out and purchase the Trek Card which acts about the same. 2. The Trek Card can be purchased not long after you start the trek; there's a counter in Lukla - on the trail. 3. For the flight to Lukla, I actually have a live chat Premiere coming up in two day, i.e., on Saturday, and it talks all about how to get your flight to Lukla, when to book your flight to Lukla, how much it costs, plus I share lots of things that I learned through my experience on that flight: If you are interested, here's the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mHqTfmyIjdKEg6csi=CEk1QIulq6kcLygd I hope to see you on Saturday!

[@mk-pv1yb]

hey great video , it was very informative ! I would like to ask if you know if it is also possible to trek the Annapurna circuit solo as-well. Thanks

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, MK! It's so great to hear from you! Thank you so much for the kind words, and thank you for watching. Unfortunately, I'm not sure about any treks other than the Everest Base Camp as that's all I've researched, but I hope that you're able to do that one solo if you desire 😃

[@bartonsky]

I have the same question. I have heard people saying online taht Everest is different vs the other areas but I have no specific evidence of that. Amanda's research here and detail oriented work is very commendable. I hope to do the same eitehr at EBC or ABC.

[@GoMandiMartin]

@@bartonsky Hello, again! Thank you for the sweetest messages; they really make my day. Just in case you missed it, the description of this video ("Everest Base Camp (How I Legally Trekked Solo") has the official, legal notice from the regional government saying that EBC is open to solo trekkers, so you are welcome to download and save that document to your phone. The guides there are the only ones that will try to convince you that you must have a guide as they are going to try to convince you that you'll be breaking the law if you don't hire them. It's such a shame, but it is perfectly legal to trek alone 🎉 I hope this helps you with obtaining the evidence that you need 😃

[@TravelWithKarthickR]

Did you booked your tree houses online? How did u planned and booked for each and every day.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Karthick! Those are great and understandable questions. I booked my teahouses through an agent in Kathmandu, but having done that, I wouldn't recommend it because it costs a lot more than if you just pick a place when you arrive, and the flexibility allows you to easily change your plans. To be able to plan each day, I spent about 4 months researching the routes and maps and what each segment is like. I plan to have a video tutorial on how to do that very soon 😀I really hope this helps, and thank you for writing.

[@TravelWithKarthickR]

@@GoMandiMartin one more question. I am planning to climb EBC with island peak and once I started searching for an expedition company they are costing around 2650 USD. Can I go directly to Kathmandu and hire some climbing guide for island peak. Will it be cheaper ?

[@GoMandiMartin]

@@TravelWithKarthickR Hello again 😀 Hm, unfortunately, I'm not familiar with Island Peak. For me, just the 8 days up on the planned route without any detours or additions was a lot for me, so I didn't even research or explore other options. I apologize that I'm not familiar with this. You should be able to hire a guide in Kathmandu ; the guides are everywhere, and everyone seems to be a guide; however, from the research that I've done, I wasn't able to find a guide that would do just a small portion of the trek; I would either have had to hire them for the entire 12 days or not at all, so that might be your biggest obstacle. I wish you lots of luck in your research, and I do agree that the price is exceptionally high. If you end up going, I hope that you'll send updates so that I can cheer for you! Mandi

[@factsabouttravelling]

Thanks for the useful info! I had the same issue, every trekking company pushing out the info to try and force you to join their tour. I'm heading to Nepal for the trek in 3 weeks with a friend. I'm wondering if I just fly into Lukla and we each get a Trek Card, we should be ok? Technically we could be solo trekkers. Also how did you pre-book your teahouses? I'm happy to use a guide too, keen to support them but just want to take it all in and go at my own pace. Thank you!

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi there and happy Sunday! What wonderful news that you are getting ready to do the Everest Base Camp trek yourself - and in just a few weeks! Yes, you are correct about the Trek Card: once you fly into Lukla, you start the trek from the airport, and shortly into the trek, you'll see a sign that says "Trek Card". You and your friend will stop there, pay the 5,000 rupees, and you'll each get your Card and the permit into the national park. Trekkers are considered "solo" if they go without a guide, so you'll still be considered a "solo" trekker no matter how many friends you go with 😃 I personally, having done it, wouldn't suggest booking the teahouses ahead of time because your plans could change and change several as mine did times along the trail, but I'll have a video out very soon that talks all about the teahouses in more detail. If you use a guide, the guide will book all of your teahouses for you, and they will walk next to you the entire duration of your trek up and down which is generally 12 days, and guides are mostly shared between a group of 5 or more people, so it's really quite hard to go at your own pace. Most of the things I stopped to film are things I wouldn't have gotten to experience if I was in a group with a guide. Guides definitely have their advantages, of course, so whatever is best for you, I'm sure, will work out wonderfully. Thank you so much for watching, and I hope to see you here for more videos before your exciting departure 🎉🎉

[@factsabouttravelling]

@@GoMandiMartin 🌞Hey there, happy Sunday/Monday in Australia.I'm stoked for my Everest Base Camp trek in a few weeks! Thanks for the details on the Trek Card and permit situation. Gonna be prepared like a pro! Totally feel you on not booking teahouses in advance - flexibility is key. Plus, who knows what cool stuff we'll stumble upon along the way! Your video on teahouses sounds great; can't wait to check it out! Where are going to next?

[@GoMandiMartin]

@@factsabouttravelling Oh, hey! You're in Australia! That's so neat! I've got a few of you now haha 🎉 I just watched your "Traveling Queenland" video - and wow! I'm blown away by that one! You're so welcome 😃 Nothing compares to that feeling (for me) of being completely prepared, though, mostly because it's not an everyday occurrence haha! I was so proud a few weeks ago when I had 4 videos loaded, scheduled, and just awaiting their release, and oh my gosh - the last few weeks just flew by, and now my "upcoming" list is all empty and sad, so I've got to get right on more 📺Next is a visit to a monastery and then a safari! Woohoo! I hope your packing and prepping is going well. Kiss a kangaroo for me! Hahhhaaaa. Aw!

[@zacklcampbell]

I’m planning a solo trek later this year and your videos have been very helpful! How did you prebook your tea houses? I can’t seem to find direct sites or general sites to get them booked in advance.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Zack! It's so great to hear from you, and I'm thrilled to hear that my videos have been helpful. Also, that's such amazing news that you are planning a trek of your own this year! With the teahouses, it's unfortunately a thing in which the teahouses don't advertise, and you really have to be local to the trail to even know which ones exist, where they are, and how to reach them. For the most part, the teahouses only work with registered trekking companies, and they mostly only book large groups traveling together with the trekking companies. I had found a local that was kind enough to help me, but it cost 2-3 times more, and now that I've done it - and if I were to do it again, I wouldn't have pre-booked my rooms to give myself more flexibility to stop as needed. I can try to find the name of the gentleman that helped me, and I will send that you to asap if I'm able to find it 😀 Wishing you a great day! Mandi

[@zacklcampbell]

@@GoMandiMartin Thanks! Do you think there’s ever a shortage of tea house rooms? I would hate to get there and not be able to get a last minute room.

[@GoMandiMartin]

@@zacklcampbell Hi, Zack! In my experience, there were more than enough tea houses especially for solo travelers because they, of course, occupy only one room. Since the majority is trekkers coming through with large groups that all want/need to stay together, the solo traveler can squeeze in just about anywhere. On my trek, there was only one instance where the entire hotel was full, but it was for the day I was checking out, and that was immediately prior to Base Camp, i.e. I really hope this helps, and good luck on your trip planning 😀

[@minhhuy11022000]

Hello Mandi Martin, I was so excited to hear this information from you because I planned to solo trek from the beginning, but the Governments laws and people keep saying about we can't go alone. I have a question that you booked the flight from Kathmandu to Lukla when you arrived to Kathmandu or you bought it in Jan? And you bought round ticket?

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Huy! It's so nice to hear from you, and I'm overjoyed that my video was helpful to you! Thank you so much for taking the time to write and, of course, thank you so much for watching. Those are great questions. I booked my flight from Kathmandu to Lukla in January (4 months early), but I probably didn't have to; I just feel better when I make arrangements way in advance. I chose Yeti Airlines to get to Lukla with, and I bought roundtrip tickets to and from Lukla. I hope this helps, and I hope that I get to hear all about your trip! 🥳

[@minhhuy11022000]

@@GoMandiMartin Thank you for your information, I have another question about the 2nd letter of Nepal's laws, it said that we have to provide the itinerary? I don't understand that, like they will give us a form and we put the routes that we plan to go during the EBC trek?

[@GoMandiMartin]

@@minhhuy11022000 Good afternoon 😀 I'm so impressed that you read the letter so carefully. If I remember correctly, the "itinerary" is where you just select if you are going anywhere other than directly to EBC or if you are taking detours such as veering off to summit some of the other mountains, etc. The form itself is super simple, and it takes just a moment. I don't remember having to enter each stop, but there's a chance that I might not be remembering correctly. I do think I put the number of days that I anticipated being on the trail. Ideally, you really want to have planned your route and where you are going to stop each night even if no one asks you for it, so I did have my itinerary ready to submit to them. I just tried to search for a copy of the form that I filled out, but I'm not finding it. I'll keep looking, and if I find it, I'll be sure to send it to you 😀

[@minhhuy11022000]

@@GoMandiMartin Good evening, thank you for your replies again, I have the planned of what I will go and stay during the trek in Feb. Can I have your email address or facebook to have your advices if you don't mind? Again, thank you for your help

[@GoMandiMartin]

@@minhhuy11022000 Hi, Huy! That's amazing news! February will be here so quickly, and I'm so excited for you! I'm unfortunately not on any other social media, and I only get a chance to check my emails about once a week, but you are more than welcome to post any questions here within the comment section of any EBC video, and I'd be happy to help the best I can. I try to respond to messages within 48 hours, though if I'm traveling it might take a bit longer. Thank you for your very sweet messages, and I look forward to hearing more about your upcoming journey to EBC!

[@davidcooksley2154]

I always walk in and out no guide,.Did you meet persons who did this ?We go around Lukla so sounds like obtain trek permit at Monjo which would be fine.Nepal rules change constantly,Regardless going.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, David! Thank you so much for your message. Oh, that's interesting that you go around Lukla. I didn't personally see any other locations where you can purchase the Trek Card besides in Lukla, but you sound very experienced, so I'm sure that you will do it correctly 😃 I did pass by others that seemed to not have a guide with them, but since my goal was to be by myself and to enjoy the silent nature, I didn't actually talk with anyone, so I'm the only person that I know that has trekked solo by purchasing the Trek Card 🌞 I hope you have a great day!

[@frenchfree]

Ive trekked everywhere in Nepal (6 times to Dolpo). Police checkpoints are run by bored normally hindu police from a distant area of Nepal. Get a good head torch if you get my meaning.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi! It's nice to hear from you. Wow, I can't believe you've done so much trekking. How exciting! Thank you for writing and for sharing your experience. Mandi

[@sl5166]

Very helpful…planing to do the same. Did you get your visa in Nepal or prior to arrival?

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, SL! It's so nice to hear from you! The visa process depends on which country you are a citizen of. For U.S. citizens, at the time, my only option was a visa on arrival. If I remember correctly, it was $50 USD, and they only accepted cash. It looks like there is the option now to purchase a visa online before arrival, but it was a pretty fast process once I got there :) I really hope this helps, and I hope to see you here again soon.

[@greenxmleigh]

Hi Mandi, would you mind sharing where and how did you book the flight tickets between Kathmandu and Lukla? Did you book with Yeti / Tara Airline online in their official web portal? Thanks.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Green! I'm happy to share that. I went through Yeti Airlines, and I paid for my ticket about 4 months prior to my trip via their website. I hope this helps, and I'm happy to answer any other questions. There's actually a video coming up about the flights soon 😀 I hope you have an amazing day, and if you are available, I have a live chat Premiere that's about to start 🥳

[@greenxmleigh]

Thank you so much Mandi. I have been planning for a trip in this Sep and your channel has been extremely helpful.

[@GoMandiMartin]

@@greenxmleigh You are very welcome, Green, and it's my pleasure. Aw, I'm so happy to hear that. Only one month to go! I'm cheering for you! 🏆

[@DURGA1025]

❣❣❣❣❣

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, and thank you so much for all of the hearts 😃 Lots of love and hugs back!

[@sameer5781]

Hello❤

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi! 😃 How are you today? Thank you so much for watching this just-released video 🎉 I can't wait to see you again here very soon 😃😃

[@harrygunpoint8872]

Did you acclimatize at Namche & Dingboche? If no, do you suggest one must do so if not a regular hiker ?

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Harry. It's so nice to hear from you. I actually didn't have a "stay put" acclimatization days. My original plan was to stay 2 nights in Namche and 2 nights in Dingboche as most trekkers do, but because I had mountain sickness symptoms right away, I went slower. Instead of doing the full hike to Namche - which is intense, I hiked about halfway and stayed the night, and then hiked the rest of the way to Namche the second day. I did the same thing for Dingboche. If you haven't seen it yet, and if you are interested, I have a video where I show on the map my starting and ending points each day: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sGTZimOQr8qGnsUsi=m5aRdG9d_gfvVbwA Oh, yes. The acclimatization is extremely important even if you are hiking champion because it's about prepping your body to survive the altitude and not giving your body a rest from the hike. Between my job and traveling a lot for my videos, I only have time to hike every once in a while, but the hike itself, in my opinion, can be accomplished physically by anyone who can walk for an 8-10 hour day 🙂But, the altitude is tough. I really hope this helps. I have lots of other "how to EVB" videos, so hopefully one or some of those might help, too ⭐ Thank you so much for watching, and I hope to see you again here soon. Mandi

[@harrygunpoint8872]

@@GoMandiMartin Thank you so much Mandi, means a lot !

[@GoMandiMartin]

@@harrygunpoint8872 Good morning, Harry! You are very welcome. I hope that you have the best day today 🎉 Happy Saturday!

[@ExploresomeMore-p3r]

Hey did you get your visa at the airport?

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Archie! It's so nice to hear from you. Yes, I got my visa as a "visa on arrival" at the Kathmandu International Airport 😀They only accept cash, but your cash could be in a number of currencies. Thank you so much for watching, Mandi

[@aspinaki]

Brave Girl

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi! Thank you so much; you are too kind. I hope to see you again with the next video 🥳

[@aspinaki]

I have seen so many girls go there with Porter and via travel organizations. What is the point of trekking to do such things? I always used to do trekking by my own or with one friend max. I went Annapurna Circuit years back in 2010. At that time you would get the true eseence of hiking. Now a days everything is commercial. One suggestion, tou can try Goechala route which is near Kanchengzonga.no tea house, no hotel, no shop, no electricity. Only you , nature, and your your feelings.

[@GoMandiMartin]

@@aspinaki Ah, yeah, I completely understand where the other ladies are coming from. It is really hard, and there's a lot more logistics when you travel on your own, but I agree with you that it's so worth it! I couldn't imagine going any other way! That's so great to hear that you like to solo trek, too, but that you have Max when you chose to let a friend join you. Wow the Goechala route sounds really special. I will try to remember that one; thank you so much for sharing! Congratulations on your circuit from 2010, and I can believe it that things are much different now. I hope that you have a really great day!

[@patrickd.6249]

What insurance company did you use for the trek itself?

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Patrick! It's so nice to hear from you. Hm, so I bought a policy from Seven Corners; however, it was my first time buying travel insurance, and while I read every work of the pre-purchase document, what I didn't realize is that there was a tiny hidden clause in an 80 or so page coverage booklet that voids the policy if you go up higher than a certain altitude. With that, when I went to use the policy, I was devastated to learn that none of my medical costs would be covered. I'm sorry that I don't have an insurance company that I can recommend to you right now, but I'll definitely share more information regarding travel insurance in the future 😀 I hope that you have a really great day! Mandi

[@vincentgoette]

Is this a thing for all the national parks now? Can you get a treck card for every national park?

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Vince! It's so nice to hear from you. A huge welcome! I'm not sure if the Trek Card is/was a thing at all if the national parks in and around the Everest Region, but it was a requirement to trek solo when I did my trek last year. One of my subscribers that just returned from their EBC trek just wrote to let me know that the Trek Cards themselves are no longer needed to solo to EBC, but you do still need to pay for the permits. I didn't research any part of Nepal besides the traditional route from Lukla to EBC, but if I happen to hear anything, I'll definitely pass it on 🤩 Thank you so much for watching and writing; I hope to see you again here very soon. Mandi

[@vincentgoette]

@@GoMandiMartin Hi Mandi, thank you so much for you detailed video and response, I have heard a similar thing from someone hiking in Nepal earlier this year. He said that nobody checked or asked for the cards and didn't mind solo treckers. Obviously paying for the permits is still needed. Thats totally fine and good for the local economy.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Hi, Vince! What a pleasure to hear from you again 😃 That's so interesting, and I'm overjoyed that there seems to be an easier way for solo travelers 🥰 I totally agree, and I was more than happy to pay to enter the national parks, too; they're just so beautiful! 💟 Are you planning your own EBC trek?

[@vincentgoette]

@@GoMandiMartin Yes I am planning multiple trecks in nepal for the next two months, at the moment I am thinking about Annapurna Base Camp, Three Passes, EBC, Mardi Himal

[@GoMandiMartin]

@@vincentgoette Oh my gosh, wow, Vince! That sounds incredible! Do you do ok in high altitude? Or, maybe you live in high altitude? You have such great ideas for your Nepal treks/travels. I hope you'll share updates and all about your trip when you return 🌞

[@herathmudieyansalagamillaw8406]

good. information.

[@GoMandiMartin]

Aw, I'm so glad that you think you! Thank you so much for watching; I can't wait to see you here again soon 🍿