The Porter: The Untold Story at Everest (2020)

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A young privileged American attempts to make history at Everest by becoming a Himalaya Porter. But experiences a harrowing reality instead. This is an inside look at the darker side of Everest. At the strength, pride and pain of those whose support it. And at just how hard it is for a naïve foreigner to attempt the same. This is The Porter.
A Pathfinder Creations Perspective; As told by Nathaniel James Menninger; With Cinematography by Babin Dulal; And In Association With: The Small World and Outfitter Nepal.
Spanish Translation By: Xavi Palet
French Translation By: Elie Favrichon
Portuguese Translation By: Leonardo Ceresoli Baptistella
Russian Translation By: Liana Buriak
German Translation By: Marc Heer
Dutch Translation By: Nieke Frantzen
EDIT 2/26
Yesterday, the UIAA released a Mountain Worker Initiative to alleve and improve conditions for mountain workers globally.
Full press release here:
www.theuiaa.or...
The official Mountain Worker Initiative, where funds are raised here:
www.theuiaa.or...
And the March 19th Mountain Network Series Event is here:
www.theuiaa.or...

[@jayramdahal3799]

I'M everest guide since lone time .. I'm started from porter , i know very much about porter life . I watched This story , still we have a so many inside story which are not cover in This story .. thank you so much for make This video , think you so much.. love you..

[@ziblot1235]

Hey brother. I always hate the fact that whenever they talk about Hillary, they rarely mention the porter. He has to do the same thing PLUS carry everything. I would feel like a pussy if another man carried all my stuff.

[@vestland3877]

where is your everest summit video?

[@Irelandgal]

🥲🙏🕯❤️🕯☘️👏

[@atheistmom3591]

I am blown away by the strength and bravery of the porters. They are pinnacle humans!

[@NothingButSilicone]

@@ziblot1235Yeah, I get that. Part of me wants to eventually build myself up to Everest, at least camp 4, but another part of me thinks, “am I really truly climbing when another man carries my stuff and sets my lines for me?” If I do the other 6 summits, it would be really difficult to not eventually do Everest.

[@prabinghising4152]

We all Nepalese really appreciate the way he made the documentary about the life of the potters in Himalayan. I hope this video will bring changes in travellers views to help potters to appreciated their hard work.

[@jayrodro1258]

*porters

[@MrLotrecht]

@Cat Magic Sherpas is a countryside and so are the people from there are called sherpas These people are porters and maybe they are a sherpa but could also came from other sides of the himalayen area! Thats a difference-thefirst porters came from sherpa so this wrong name was saddeled but as i said rigthly called they are porters!

[@WalterTonetto]

where are the pots?

[@lvtiguy226]

This video has only reinforced my view that all people deserve a good life, especially the Porters. If we ever make it to Nepal, I promise to do my part to be good to those who take care of us.

[@colinandrew8573]

@@MrLotrecht you are a little confused. Sherpa is the name given to the people from the Khumbu Valley in Nepal.

[@seanstokley5544]

If you travel to Nepal to trek, please be generous with the porters. The couple of times I've been I make it practice to buy them snacks or water/soda along the way or buy them lunch midday. If they refuse, learn a couple of phrases that mean thank you or that express gratitude for their hard work. Sometimes I just give them random rupees throughout the trek to off set their daily costs of food/lodging. Acknowledge their existence as a human soul as I'm sure they've been ignored, mistreated or simply invisible amidst their trekking work history. Make them feel appreciated and part of your team. Our Team leader always tips generously to the porters we use and to see their eyes light up and the smiles is simply priceless. If you can, consider giving a little extra to offset the people or groups who've tipped very little resulting in the porters working close to free in times past. And if you should so happen be in a stingy group who wants to tip poorly, stand in the gap for the porters and do your best. Collectively if we can spread this video to all Nepal travelers/trekkers maybe we can slowly start to help the porter industry.

[@govindaprasadacharya8371]

Acknowledge their existence as a human soul !!!!

[@tarand100]

You took the words of my heart. Lots of Love. Namaste from Nepal.

[@sebastianjohannes5706]

Why isn't the Food of the Porters included in the Price? I don't get the Logistics so far. Let's say u pay 30k for the Expedition are Porters included? If I had 30k laying around for Climbing I would Pay those amazing people who bring up all my Gear.

[@lyndiacutler6146]

Well said and very nice to hear after all they do deserve it.

[@RobJay0512]

Very well said!

[@patrickbro644]

Respect from a nepali to this guy.. He said he will die if he will carry 100kg because he is not nepali and he is not strong but you are strong brother because it takes huge guts to make this documentary on actual suffering the pain and the humiliation which the porters feel while carrying these loads.. May you live a prosperous life and success kisses.. loads n loads of love from all the Nepalese on behalf of me.. Salute to you brother.. Love you man🌹🌹🌹

[@tranquilmind8487]

Are we not gonna talk about the fact that he learned the native language to communicate with them? That is dedication!

[@OvelNick]

No. We are not. I'm REALLY not trying to come off as rude but... If I do, whatever. Imagine learning an entire language to better understand and to fit in culturally with the focus of your documentary. You spend the time, the money, you experience the hardship and the excitement to fully present this subject that you feel so passionate about. And then you get the standard, "are we not going to talk about the..." comment that is on every video across the platform that is nothing more than a way to get likes. No, we aren't and shouldn't because he didn't make a documentary on what it's like to learn a second language. He didn't learn it specifically to be a porter. It was to do with meditation.

[@doodreally]

I think it’s just an added thing he did to help with the journey and honestly it’s absolutely amazing and you can see they just love to talk to him and are amazed he knows the language so I’m sure it makes him feel a little good inside at the end of the day 🤙🏽

[@pphedup]

@@OvelNick With meditation? How do you know about his meditation?

[@matei-alexandrumocanu8150]

that's what you do if you want to immerse with the culture you're studying

[@sherylF5610]

@@OvelNick jeez Nick. What's it to ya? Are you with the topic police?

[@MrJessekerckaert]

The amount of preparation and effort that went into this documentary is astounding. It also is not full of drone shots and inspirational music, it feels very real and genuine. We need more documentaries like this!

[@kasialeparska2480]

Oh yeah, I’m glad there was no background music, but an occasional drone shot is not bad....! 😀

[@ixtaflores3724]

How funny it sounds to hear people who made it to the summit when they say, “I climbed and made it to the summit of Everest.” What they don’t say is that their way was smoothed out, paved, cleaned, and carried their bags and many times carried them down, by this supper strong porters. Porters should charge them per pound directly or to the guy who organized the excursion.

[@svarogeuropeidentity4355]

Do you know how much it costs to get to Everest? 50,000-60,000 $ If the climbers weren't there, they wouldn't have a job, they would live on the UN food program, of course I respect their job, but Nepal has no resources, only the climbers' tourism. So everyone earn something! They get their salary to fead their family, to send kids to scool for whole year, all of that just from one tour!

[@dipeshgrg7685]

@@svarogeuropeidentity4355 U.N food program ?? talk about knowing nothing tourism contribute only 7.9 % in gdp of nepal

[@scottinnh88]

Most of the lower level sherpas probably hate their jobs but the summit teams love it. Just as Alaskan crab fisherman do. If they wanted less risk they could take it.

[@scottinnh88]

It’s a buisness. It’s an expedition. One climber cannot carry all his supplies up and down over and over then summit. People have always used local porters in nearly expeditions ever done. Even the climbers that claim to not use sherpas still use their routs and knowledge. Try going anywhere without support and logistics. I bet half of you would die if the supermarkets closed.

[@ajayjackson7727]

yeah exactly, the porters should be paid double/treble what they earn!! those guys risk their lives just so that those morons can post a pic of themselves at the summit...i think they should ban it!!!

[@subodhshetty1]

One of the rare and genuine attempt at showcasing the reality of these hard working heroes of the mountains. No fancy music - no melodrama but pure reality bites. Thanks a lot Nate and the team for putting together this gem. Hope eveyeone who heads to Nepal watches this beforehand and makes it a point to pack less and tip more. ❤️🇳🇵

[@RachTube77]

Netflix! Please add this groundbreaking documentary to your service, more people need to see it. So warm and heartfelt, I love the intimate view of the porters lives and their community, such an incredible experience. Trekkers if you must go, pack light and tip more.

[@govindaprasadacharya8371]

Trekkers if you must go, pack light and tip more.

[@ironbutterfly6835]

Absolutely more video like this on Netflix and less of billionaires “humanitarian “ like Meghan Markel !

[@Carolemusical]

This young guy is very courageous. I am impressed that he learned the Nepalese language. Yes he is an inspiration and a big thank you to him to have produced this documentary. I did the Sanctuary of the Annapurna in January 2005...a 15 day trek...we were a group of 14. I found it difficult even though I did not have to carry my bag. Our porters were wonderful and encouraged us to surpass ourselves. They deserve our great respect. The porters shouldn’t have to pay their own food and they should be better paid.

[@isakhayles2448]

How much did you tip your porter?

[@octaviolima3021]

This is probably the best documentary that i've watched in a while

[@ishansrivastava1465]

I completely agree.

[@tsg1173]

I know that Apa Sherpa ( Lhankpa Tenzing) is the most popular climber 21 climbs..!! but… KAMI RITA Sherpa has climbed Everest 24 times … incredible.

[@albertawheat6832]

@@tsg1173 Kami Rita, Thame, Solukhumbu District, Nepal is a Nepali Sherpa guide who, since May 2018, has held the record for most ascents to the summit of Mount Everest. Most recently, he scaled the mountain for a 28th time on 23 May 2023, breaking his own record set on 17 May 2023

[@tyechiaharris3438]

I just finished the Everest Base Camp trek with Jiban! He is is the sweetest, the most kindest, the most hardest working being I have ever met. Absolutely loved his smile and spirit. These guys are just amazing, we don’t deserve them. Watching them humbled me so much. Bless them and tip them well!

[@yoohoo909]

Absolutely incredible documentary. It puts into perspective the other Everest docs that only showcase the expedition leads and climbers while the pathfinder sherpas and porters take 3rd, 4th and 5th billings. Kudos, respect and much Karma to you Mr. Menninger for undertaking such a task and showcasing the always unsung work and hidden culture of these porters.

[@allareypictures7208]

Hats off to the team behind this project...so genuine and pure. The documentary is how it should meant to be. RAW AND ORIGINAL.

[@MrSychnant]

Everyone who plans on going trekking in Nepal should be given a link to this Video by their travel company as required watching before they leave. Then they might leave bigger tips. Great documentary as well.

[@daurenkulsarin1360]

don't you think smaller bags could be a better solution)))

[@miarena111]

@@daurenkulsarin1360 and the way they walk becomes shorter then too ???

[@miarena111]

i am stunned that documentary is needed for that to sink in. instead it actualy should be common sence already.

[@daurenkulsarin1360]

@@miarena111 actually my suggestion isn't gonna work, since they pay for weight, porters gonna take more bags if yours isn't big enough. I really don't know the right solution here))

[@miarena111]

@@daurenkulsarin1360 well, they asek that ppl give decent tips and i agree with them. other than that, technology will solve alot of that i guess but that costs again alot of money.

[@lisaterauchi9864]

I really had to cry at the end...man...this is so heartbreaking. I am just in awe of him speaking Nepali. Phenomenal work.

[@MELANIE2571]

Nate. This was outstanding. Thank you for showing the awful disparates between the locals and the tourists and exposing the exploration .Love how you speak Nepalise and not just rely on a translator too. Really excellent piece of work ,please make more

[@walterzikalala]

Nathaniel, traditionalists lead from the front. However good leaders do so from the back. They reduce themselves to the level of the people, to acknowledge and appreciate what ordinary hardworking people go through each day. But also, being at the back with the masses, you learn a lot about yourself, and what you can do in the face of adversity. Have so much respect for you!!!!!

[@susanberberian3718]

Mr.Menninger, Thank you for walking the walk. You have shown us the meaning of humanity.

[@govindaprasadacharya8371]

Thank you for walking the walk. You have shown us the meaning of humanity.

[@pathfindercreations]

Hello World! Please activate captions before watching. Select the gear icon at the bottom of the screen, and the subtitles tab. We suggest no background and white lettering! There are four languages right now, but we hope to add more. If you'd like to help with translations, please let us know! Otherwise, thank you all for watching and let's keep it rolling. Sincerely, Nate Menninger

[@madhatter909]

thank you for this I'm in bed with Covid I enjoyed your adventure

[@pathfindercreations]

@@madhatter909 I'm glad it could take your mind elsewhere for a bit. :) Is everything ok? Are you feeling alright? I sincerely hope so

[@madhatter909]

@@pathfindercreations thank you I'm getting better

[@valentinodidonato2415]

I'm impressed man. Great work and effort, very few people would do that the way you've done it. The 100kg load was hard to watch! Thank you, this is very useful. How did you learn the language btw? I would gladly help translating to Italian, just let me know!

[@pathfindercreations]

@@valentinodidonato2415 Hey brotha, honestly, just taught myself the basics online in a few weeks for a different project. Then got a bit better over the two times I'd been there prior (5-6 months total). If you're still down to help with Italian, I might have to take you up on that offer.

[@biplovebarakoti1414]

A young 24 years man....I can fell the emotions when he finally accomplished his journey and put down his baggage...Really an idol and an inspiration young man

[@randyholloway920]

Using the head strap starts in childhood to strengthen the neck and upper back muscles. Hard for someone to take this on as and adult, foreigner. Kudos!

[@kalindi1997]

incredible, inspiring, 100 kg on your head for mere 15$ . reality bite. respect, pain, laugh after hard ,and sleep without blanket on hard floor, very touching,,, Thanks for taking us with you in dark room,, respect man only respect!!!

[@girijashankarshukla9327]

I heartedely appreciate this view not only on humanitarian ground but the uncomparable bravity endurance and service of the porter community.

[@TheWolfgangfritz]

Nate Menninger, the young fellow who took on this task of learning the Nepalese language and become a Porter has to be praised for taking on this extra ordinary challenge. I'm assuming at the end of the film that he made a $100. tip! Imagine that! $15. a day in which you have to buy your own food and the only thing you can take home is a bit more than $100. This is outrages and all the Porters should form a Union and go on strike! They should all walk away with a thousand dollars in each man's pocket. The Outfitters make thousands of dollars and the Porter walks away with tips! This MUST STOP! Thank you for making this movie.

[@BengHafner]

Exploitation at its best!

[@AbhishekYadav-rc6ty]

point to be noted mylord

[@kiara3051]

Especially considering that the cost of climbing Everest is 50k dollars at least

[@alexcarter8807]

Seriously need to Unionize!

[@AbhishekYadav-rc6ty]

Egon Speneder very well said and yes porter should raise their voices for getting paid more.....

[@maheshmahajan2154]

Great documentary! "Even if you go to Everest, you will not see where your porters sleep. The movie is the first time you'd see this." So true, I hiked to Everest Base Camp in 2016 but never really knew where/how they stayed. I guess many of us were just too focused on our own goals. But at the same time watching this film made me nostalgic. Thank you for sharing!

[@dashdotdot]

Focused on your own goals and didn't care about the people doing the back-breaking work for you? Sounds about right.

[@AmandaabnamA]

@@dashdotdotfr just straight selfish. How could you not notice them carrying so much that it wouldn't even fit in the trunk of a car. Climbing really just seems like more neocolonial tourism

[@annwe6]

Thank you so much for this incredible film. I'm hoping to trek to Everest base camp next year. I had already planned to pack super light and tip the porters, but now I'll also figure as large a tip as possible into my travel budget. I'm not wealthy in US terms, but I am compared to these men, the hardworking heroes of their families.

[@govindaprasadacharya8371]

I'm not wealthy in US terms, but I am compared to these men, the hardworking heroes of their families. Well well Bravo!

[@DustinOrrick]

We hired a single Porter-Guide in 2012 as the local protocol required you to be escorted and this documentary was an amazing reflection of the class systems in place even between the Porters, Guides, and Expedition companies. Such a moving documentary and Hindsight I want to find Kishor and give home $100’s more now because as many have said in the comments those who have should give and any foreigners who HAVE the means to travel and trek in Nepal (not just Summit bagging) have the means to dig deeper into their pockets to support the Nepali peoples way of life and livelihood. The answer is not to hire porters it’s to pay fair wages across raising the total bottom line. Again great documentary and kudos to the film makers and Nate. I am very curios to know how carrying 40 kilos on your back compares to via the head strap? When you hike in the states how will you carry your loads going forward?

[@sanjaya718]

This is a really great documentary. I have watched countless fascinating documentaries about various mountaineering expeditions, but none of them gave me the slightest insight about the life of a porter. I think this is a groundbreaking work. Hopefully it will help catalyze overdue changes that are needed to more fairly compensate these people for this very dangerous work.

[@WillsWhereabouts]

Wow what an incredible documentary to watch and see how difficult porter life can be. I feel so privileged to have spent many months in Nepal and learn some of the incredible Nepalese culture that is so well illustrated in this film.

[@kundanlamsal]

good to see your comment here. BTW i follow you since your pokhara days in lockdown.

[@letswatch2478]

Hey you are love you

[@manishlama8243]

Tapai ko naam k ho? Mero naam Will's ho.

[@smilenepal3493]

😇

[@inmfiltrate786]

Fantastic. Raw and real.

[@balderdashery1]

This is a great tribute to the incredibly underrated porters! Excellent work to all that contributed!

[@winter4345]

It sadden's me to the depth of my sole that many o f these brave men, hero's. died trying to help rich, foolish, people to 'acheive ' the summit for their own glorification

[@anthonyjames8112]

Having just watched Sherpa on Netflix, I came across this documentary by chance. There were plenty of moments that were just so wholesome and had me smiling, but that didn't take away from the message that you were trying convey. The whole thing just worked! Beautifully produced and I'll be recommending this.

[@anneoconnor8741]

Made me cry, such admiration for the Nepali people and Nathaniel, a truly remarkable insight into a different hard way of life. Thank you.

[@transientdreams]

You are a pillar of integrity my friend. And a genius as well for what you have, and will accomplish. It's a true honor to share your experiences and sacrifices. I am very sad for the porters of Nepal, and because of it I have lost any and all interest in watching rich people struggle to summit any mountain anywhere. The utter greed, exploitation and contempt for such a good people eats at my own consciousness and I am helpless to assist them. Your Spirit is a stellar one, and one that shines a new light of pioneering and exemplary behavior for those still clutching their wallets instead of embracing the faces and hearts of those that work so hard to simply exist and survive. Be safe, brother...

[@taylorgardner2706]

Wow - what a beautiful people with a fierce work ethic and inexplicable joy. Personally, I’m very thankful for the insight this film provides. I hope it proves a valuable resource for travelers in illustrating the respect the porters/sherpas and their work deserve.

[@vascoamaralgrilo]

Definitely worth watching for anyone relying on porters. Thank you to Nathaniel and all the porters that make expeditions possible!

[@1210CM]

Congratulations to this most extraordinary documentary giving insight into the harsh life of Nepali porters in the high mountains. No matter how hard their job may be they never show their pain and just keep on smiling. Let's hope their hard work is appreciated by the tourists.

[@MrYOGAS]

The efforts of the Porters brings tears to my eyes. My heart goes out to these brave men of Nepal, absolutely devine,

[@anthonyrivera7815]

Extremely well done and respectful of the Nepalese people. I got quite emotional when Mr Menninger was approaching the “finish line”. I was rooting for him all the way. Thanks!

[@jaapvw66]

Thank you Nathaniel for the glimp you gave us off the Porter's live. Brought on the most respective way a documentary maker could do this. Because of you're connection with the people you were able to show us the differences in our lives, but also, and that is probably more important, the things we have in common. The need to be respected, the need for a happy live, friendship, hope , ambition. In the end we are all human.

[@mgrallert]

beautiful movie, thank you for sharing this story! i have done two treks in nepal, the "annapurna circuit" alone without a guide/porter, and then 2 years ago the "three passes trek" (which meets the basecamp trek in the end, i have some videos about that on my channel) with 1 guide and 1 porter, both super young in the 20s. the porter carried my girlfriend's and my bag for 3 weeks. he would usually start walking after us, because he realized we were slow (taking many photos) and was easily able to overtake us halfway. we made sure every day it was not more than 20kg from us to carry for him (so 10kg each of us), the rest we carried ourselves. and of course at the end of the 3 weeks we made sure both the guide and porter received a big tip. actually we were not aware of that the porters don't make any money if people don't give tip, because the salary is so bad. wow, thanks for sharing that information. this is of course a "surprise" for the tourists because you think when you book with a tour company everything is paid and you really just "tip". our porter was king of in "transition" from porter to "assistant guide". he told us that we his last full porter job and his next job was already as an assistant guide. he also told us that he also needed to pay university(?) classes to get a degree in order to be allowed to become a guide and lead his own group. not sure exactly what is included in that "degree"... however, very SAD situation for those guys over there at the moment, as they have already lost most of their spring income, that their full autumn income and now are in danger to maybe have no new tours next springs... we are in contact with them and at the moment they try to get along with farming and basic jobs.... PS: respect to Nathaniel for that last day 100kg "challenge", that was epic... i tried to carry just that 20kg bag of our porter for a few steps, but that already felt so bad on the head/neck...

[@MaseTMT]

The people that go out there pay tens of thousands I hope some of them see this documentary and realise how hard these guys work to live. Be generous to these porters

[@robiniapseudoacacia]

What a fantastic story. I admire what you have done. Incredible really. Hats off for learning the language and experiences the real Nepal. Also for waking from Jiri rather than flying in. Not many do that now.

[@anitaandazola2029]

Incredible film and more incredible decision to live as another does. Knowing Nepalese allowed Menninger to give back to the Porters far more than the show of endurance. I am blessed by this film and virtual presence of those men and women who make their living supporting others.

[@yandenuts]

Nate is an inspiring individual, and not to take away from the incredible rite of passage he endured, more praise, respect and money needs to be passed to the countless individuals who do this work year in, year out, in the hope that some Westerner, (us) is going to give them a tip at the end of the season, so as they make a profit. They are the true heroes and I thank Nate for bringing this impropriety to our attention.

[@tormon506]

Oh my God, this is fantastic. Every November, for the past 17 years, I buy books about the Himalaya and watch documentaries. It’s one of my winter pleasures, though I’m only in Scotland. Sherpa hold a dear place in my heart. Thanks for this.

[@SuccessinTech]

Incredible. Much respect for doing this, learning the language and shooting such a beautiful piece of film.

[@gauravdubey4654]

I was looking for such documentry from last two years ,but you did it ...it's great and respect for all porters in across Himalayas and other mountains.ramro

[@remthangapachuau9704]

This is truly an Oscar Award winning film. I love it.

[@olgac8211]

The humor and love in this documentary is unspeakable! Nathaniel's Nepali was showing his full dedication and respect for these communities.

[@vikrantbayale8363]

Tourist, traveller or the one who lives the culture. Often we travel for our own personal goals but here Mr. Menninger showing what is true traveller. From learning the language, native songs and experiencing every single aspect of the culture. No wonder all the porter treated him as one of them.

[@jeannieodza1]

Brilliant Documentary. Thank you for sharing your experience. Walking these distances and altitudes without loads is hard enough in itself. When you book a Trek through a tour operator you should; ensure the Guide and Porters are being paid properly, food is included in the cost of the Trek so they don't pay from their pockets, and they have insurance. If you find a trek that is too cheap to be real, then none of the above criteria are being met.

[@shaneosgood1507]

Sounds like these guys could benefit from getting together and unionizing. Getting ripped off by the tour companies but hey are the critical piece. The porters have the power if they get together.

[@adventureplustv]

Then prices for treks go up and people don’t buy. The tour companies I ve worked with did not rip off their porters. Porters also work for local people, at a lower rate. And: porters are amazing people!

[@Ema-nt3gp]

@@adventureplustv capitalism ‘let us pay people poorly otherwise we’ll starve them to death’ The trip fees are already high, companies have to lower their margin.

[@05chmps]

@@Ema-nt3gp ok Bewnie

[@nashgawri4869]

Namaste Nate Bhai, eternal respect. Thank you for making this film. I have travelled in Nepal and Northern India and feel for the Porters It is such a conundrum, they really need the tourism $ but the exploitation is hard witness. The people of these mountains are truly are special, so happy with so little. we could all learn from them and from the work you and your team has done here.

[@prabakarannarayanan8121]

Quite an interesting film. It was an eye opener on the porters perspective. Since lack of communication between client and porters one can not know their plight. Empathize with them they are like the unsung heroes.

[@rajudarjee6687]

YOU HAVE DONE A GREAT JOB BY BRINGING THE PAIN OF THE PORTER. HOPE NEPAL GOVERENMENT WILL DO SOMETHING FOR THIS HARD WORKING PEOPLE.

[@iriscss2921]

I am planning to go on an Everest Base Camp trek and so glad I saw this amazing video. I will make sure I give the porters daily tips to cover costs for food and drinks. And make my luggage as light as possible. It's indeed a must see for everyone who plans to go trekking in the Himalaya. Without porters it wouldn't even be possible. So ofcourse I plan to be generous and thankful for the wonderful work they do.

[@MichalOlender]

This is insane, it 's really good to be able to see things from different perspective. Really well put together.

[@mmartin5457]

Thank you for making this video. I will do my first ever trek in Nepal Oct./Nov. 2024. I promise to pack light and tip every porter in my group equal to what they are earning for my time there. I will be forever grateful and indebted for the assistance given to me. Honored to be there with them🙏 ………What the hell do all of those people pack to make a porter’s job extremely hard??? It breaks my heart to see this…

[@diddyzzz]

wow thank you for bringing the life and struggles of Nepali porters into light. Much respect to all the porters out there struggling to make ends meet. Salute to you as well. Dhanyabad 🙏

[@seanofeic2596]

Excellent documentary. Ridiculously underpaid and underappreciated by soft, 'bucket list' seeking westerners who have no idea of the work, pain and sweat and blood it takes to carry those loads. If there is heaven those porters have the best 5-star suites. God bless them all. They are the toughest individuals I've seen. I am going hopefully in 2021 and would not consider hiring a porter without at least tipping $200 and to be honest $500 for 11 days would still be cheap. Get or Start a UNION. Together Ye stand & Divided ye fall. Organise and set better pay standards and conditions. The whole "Trekking to Everest Base Camp" show Stops if you do and you have brilliant bargaining power if you Unite and demand fair pay and conditions for a fair days work. All these porters should have proper pensions for them and their families if they get injured or die in the job

[@pphedup]

So tip $500, not $200.

[@slap884]

This is truly a phenomenal documentary. I am left speechless. I actually did work in Nepal as an engineer for a number of weeks. I trecked a little and I always gave freely whenever there was a reason to do so. I also watch a lot of mountaineering documentary, since I love hiking and climbing in the Alps. However, I had no idea just how grim the life of those porters actually is. For every "star" sherpa who is being made a member of a climbing team there seems to be hundreds of porters just doing the daily grind for low pay and little food. Thank you very much for making this insightful and sometimes heartbreaking film.

[@nimasherpa4848]

Everyone starts as a porter... Sherpa population is very low compared to other ethnic groups... nowadays ppl of other ethnic groups are working more as porters

[@Daneiladams555]

My kind of documentary Thankyou for making this gem May this find many more eyes

[@jonathanmendoza4254]

Mt.Everest always fascinated me but I didn't really know exactly how hard it is to climb up there... I'm from the Philippines and I love Nepal!

[@vibrantlivespodcast39]

Thank you for all your extraordinary effort to make this documentary. The trek I did in Nepal was one of the most rewarding things I've ever done and it is absolutely true that we could not have done it without the porters (and guides). Luckily for us, we had an excellent group of people and we were generous with our tips and sharing food but I still wish I'd seen this before and done more. I agree that all trekkers going to Nepal should watch this movie before they go!

[@pasangtamang4836]

Huge respect and appreciated your film about the bitter reality of porters so called tourist region in Khumbu and salute to you as you finished this tour as Porter and percepted yourself as well as experienced, that's which actually you tried to screenise about the untold story of porters in Everest region, you made perfect documentary! Super

[@TheNikral1]

What an amazing film. So humble but so powerful. I still want to go trek in Nepal but this will definitely change the way I see it, and if I do hire a local guide and porter I’ll be sure to pay way more than the “going rate”. Thanks for making this

[@simonjohnson2897]

Thank you for this insightful documentary. Very sensibly, there’s no moral lecture at the end; Instead, you let the Nepali speak for themselves. I hope this engenders empathy in tourists and they pay more for this remarkable service. My wife is Nepalese and she always makes me carry the shopping!

[@kevinbyrne9344]

Should be compulsive viewing for all doing the trek to Everest Base Camp (and other comparable treks). Tremendous work Nate. Congratulations for shining a light where it is clearly needed.

[@psywalker7973]

It should be viewed on the plane ride over there. Then I think the tips will go up significantly. Considering how much money the people who run companies guiding tourists up Everest make, porters are pretty much paid the change in a pocket. Should be a minimum of $1000 tip at the end and the people whose bags are getting carried should at least pay for their porters food. This is exploitation at its worst, but who gives a shit, as long as the tourist gets there photo at the top nobody cares....

[@HandmadeDarcy]

It should be banned. Period. There is no need for these egotists to do it, they are exploiting the community and destroying the ecology. Did you see those bottles of water being taken up the hill? Anyone who claims to be a “real mountaineer” who truly loves the people and the country should be happy to give up their pathetic ego boosts to preserve and protect both.

[@warshipsatin8764]

@@HandmadeDarcy youre so woke you want them to lose their source of income. nice

[@scooper8197]

@@warshipsatin8764 should anyone have to risk their life for money? watch Sherpa 2015 documentary, you can tell most of them don't want to do it but they have to. It is slavery pure and simple. The government are exploiting them just as much as the tour companies and more should be done to raise awareness and help these people and stop this pure exploitation before more sherpas needlessly die at the hands of pathetic ego driven capitalists.

[@warshipsatin8764]

@@scooper8197 how is taking away their source of income supposed to be helpful

[@lowata]

You tube is very strange place. You get a meager views when you put lot of research, time and money when you make the video. But when you put some shitty content you get millions. Its the creators like you are the sole reason I come to youtube Sir ( Nathaniel James Menninger). Thank you for good contents.

[@chriscox7631]

This reflects humanity more than KZbin, but you are 100% correct

[@sineadmortell8816]

I would have enjoyed hearing what the Nepalese people where saying... some subtitles would have been great

[@dvnamis_actual]

@@sineadmortell8816 You can turn on CC (closed caption) for subtitles.

[@TheGypsyWorld]

Very well said. Absolutely agree with you. People hardly recognize the creativity and good work. This exists everywhere. Some cheap, creepy contents get sold so fast and people with talents keep struggling to make some space.

[@jeffatwood2888]

@Dunamis thanks for the cc info. I make 85% of my yearly income from tips here in the States. Bugger me but $100 does not BEGIN to cover mountaineering of this sort. That $100 should be given after base camp setup.Then when the climb and trek are over you really show your appreciation. I was humbled by people responding who obviously care for this lot. This community of porters are tough as nails mate. Inspiring film. Well done

[@sandrasupportsyou]

Amazing authenticity in the play, openness and back breaking carrying for others .... and they are happy guys! Thank you for giving us a slice of real heights in connections. What an idea it would be if the $1200-$1500 US paid - created a % for a education or whatever fund for their kids, or sick days or whatever ... Loved all those smiles!!!

[@alexfraser4714]

You’re incredible. Crazy crazy film mate, good for you and the sherpas that helped you along the way. Amazing what they do! Contagious smile and laughter the sherpas give

[@JoChadwick]

This was a fascinating story of a porters' life. I have such a respect for the porters who work so hard for so little... beautiful people, beautiful scenery. Thank you for documenting this amazing journey.. :)

[@tiagov4112]

Total respect to porters work!! Stay strong!! Love The documentary, 5***** As for the tourists remember the hard work, whithout the porters your jouneys would not be possible, be humble, respect the hard work, the people and their culture! And do not forget to tip them well !!!

[@SaugotChowdhury]

I watched till the credits..this is an eye-opener. Hats off to all the porters and their families

[@chefsubashkhadkaofficial2088]

Wise and brave man. True human who want to feel what other human do to live. Hats off brother. Lots of love

[@bundukeranggala1980]

i just really salute all the mountain porters, wherever part of the world they are... carrying heavy things more than half the weight of their own body most even use their head to carry is just unimaginable... their strength and pure hearts are always my inspiration everytime I feel helpless or discourage during hard climbs just carrying 15kg on my back.. this documentary is just really inspiring..our group always make sure the guides and porters we climb with are treated equally and with full of respect. Because they are our heroes in the mountains.❤❤❤

[@jakubs.6767]

This would break my back. And knees. And ankles. Huge respect to the porters and to this guy for not giving up. EDIT: Thanks for not putting 1 million midroll ads in the video.

[@heathermaynes7496]

Yes well done & respectful of these extraordinary men who don't consider themselves extraordinary at all.

[@kishorpandey5613]

Life is more than just watching netflix and chilling,some people struggle their entire life to feed their family and still manage to smile RESPECT TO ALL THOSE LOYAL AND BRAVE PEOPLE WHO STRUGGLE TO LIVE BENEATH THIS MOUTAIN

[@lauren4434]

yes yes yes 🙏 🔥

[@lfc1964]

Huge respect to people behind this project. Amazing viewing...

[@AL-tj7ye]

Porters is one of the hardest job out there, I've conquered Everest Base Camp and Mt Kili, I wouldn't have made it without them. Thank You!!!

[@annielambac]

Such a pitiful plight for these hardworking porters of Nepal. Kudos & respect to you together with the sherpas. You deserve higher wages. May God bless you and guide you in your heavy endeavour. Nate, you are commendable in portraying & experiencing the true predicament of porters in this beautiful country. Thank you.♥️🤗👍

[@trashmad]

Loved it these guys are so much to be admired, nobody is getting close to that mountain without these people, unsung heroes. Can't think what this pandemic has done to their income. One day I will come and I will tip

[@justinesutherland6694]

Tourist need to cop on to the hard physical work involved in the porters life and show more appreciation for the work they do. I've seen many a tourist pay them peanuts and brag about it...It's a disgrace they show little regard or respect. Great film and hopefully it leads to more awareness and bigger tips. Plus you should pay for their food and make sure they have appropriate clothing and footwear

[@miken8778]

This guy is inspiring. I bet he has a new and drastically different perspective of what the word mountaineer means. All those that pay to climb Everest with others hauling their shit for $15 a day. I wonder how many would accomplish it if they were pulling their own weight. Just saying

[@strigopaido]

nobogy..... they are not climers they are tourist

[@izang5800]

Half the people that summit Everest wouldn't without the Sherpas. They set up all their camps. They trek all their gear and oxygen from base camp to all the upper camps. AND they help them summit. Nepalese Sherpas have a genetic mutation that is better suited for altitude. Some of them never/rarely ever get altitude sickness. And some never/rarely need supplemental oxygen.

[@Dee-nonamnamrson8718]

What is the exchange rate, though? $15 will buy a month worth of groceries in some places.

[@Northmountainranges]

@@Dee-nonamnamrson8718 15 dollars is not even enough to buy a family's food for a day

[@Dee-nonamnamrson8718]

@@Northmountainranges I can easily feed a family in America for $15 a day. (I know, because I've done it)

[@alexandepopes9582]

I came here not knowing what to expect. Yet I also got exactly what I came for. This is a really moving and heartfelt piece that closely shows who are the real backpackers through every journey. I loved how close it seemed that the person engaged with all the families and backpackers.

[@rambaudsullivan5229]

This is one of the most fascinating documentary that I have seen in a long time! Beautiful subject, congratulions guys!!!

[@henryscott-jones7408]

Nathaniel, I doth my cap to you, especially after carrying that 100kg load at the end, very very impressive. It makes me laugh that all these people want to scale Everest/Base Camp but are not willing to carry all their own kit. Nowadays people just want the selfie or the end result without actually putting in the hard work. Thanks for telling the story through the eyes of the Porter in such a genuine way.

[@peevee09]

The porters are so happy with so much less. Embarrassed and humbled at our own selves.

[@andrewlam8580]

Nate Menninger, the young fellow who took on this task of learning the Nepalese language and become a Porter has to be praised for taking on this extra ordinary challenge. I'm assuming at the end of the film that he made a $100. tip! Imagine that! $15. a day in which you have to buy your own food and the only thing you can take home is a bit more than $100. This is outrages and all the Porters should form a Union and go on strike! They should all walk away with a thousand dollars in each man's pocket. The Outfitters make thousands of dollars and the Porter walks away with tips! This MUST STOP! Thank you for making this movie.

[@RadicalEarth]

Super interesting idea for a documentary. Stirred my emotions in peculiar ways. Unfortunate that such a critical task of portering continues to be taken advantage like this. A group of workers celebrated yet simultaneously disrespected. Strange world.

[@rossmarino2776]

Porters should get paid much more for their work. Without porters, climbing Everest would be far more difficult than it is. If you have the money to pay for the climbing permit, for the equipment, gear, and overall journey expenses, you surely have enough money to pay and tip these people well.

[@shrawankhatri3023]

Dear Nate, Thank you very much for your wonderful work. For me... you submitted the peak of Everest doing that hard work. You’re an inspiration to many. You often made me laugh during the film and also made me cry at the end when you lock yourself and cry 😢. Amazing work. Thank you 🙏

[@SNOWDONTRYFAN]

spent a great deal of time in and around that neck of the woods and was always amazed at the loads these guys and women carry , so glad that conditions have improved over the years , but one wonders how much of their work has been taken away by the introduction of better roads more so in the Annapurna region with the exception of the sanctuary

[@mcoffeecation2153]

That was a really great look at the difficult life of the porters. Props for making this documentary to shed light on the reality and for actually being a porter for 11 days!

[@alexpark9610]

Brilliant. Just brilliant. I could have watched this for hours upon end. Having trekked and climbed in Nepal the people are just wonderful.

[@er.wanderlust]

Hats off to you for undertaking this amazing endeavor. Salute for your hard work and showing us insight on porters live. Love from Nepal

[@PrasenjitChaudhuri-Tc99m]

I salute you Sir Menninger for this great labour of love! You are the reason this world is still livable!

[@charlesfernandez6972]

Absolutely amazing to watch and see this side of a story that may never ever be told the same as it was in this documentary. Hats off to you and your team.