Heart And Soul: Lifelong friends conquer Annapurna Base Camp and learn life lessons

Witnessing the sun rise and set over the peaks, the writer says just like in life, the sun will always set, bringing challenges and darkness, but a new sun rises every morning, promising new adventures and fresh starts.

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The promise of the Himalayas lured us away from the tropical warmth of Malaysia and towards a challenge that would test our limits and forge memories to last a lifetime.

We knew that Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trekking requires enough physical energy and strong determination to reach the bottom of the Annapurna range at an elevation of 4,130 m above the sea level.So, in December 2023, two old classmates and I embarked on a journey to the ABC, a high-altitude trek that promised breathtaking scenery and a much-needed escape from the daily grind.

For my friend Ho Eng Ban, an avid scuba diver, it was a temporary breakaway from his stressful role as a regional head of an MNC. For Teh Song Lai, CEO of an asset management company and a regular half marathon runner, it was a long overdue holiday. And for me, it was my childhood dream to roam around the snowy Himalayas one day.

Selfishly, I knew that I must convince both of them to join me so that they can be my left and right pillars of strength to help me to reach the Base Camp.

The writer (first from right) fulfilled his childhood dream to roam around the snowy Himalayas together with his lifelong friends Teh (first from left) and Ho (middle) in December 2023. He said the memorable experience was a testament to endurance and friendship. — Photos: OOI KOOI KEAT

Our adventure began with a five-hour flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kathmandu, Nepal's bustling capital. The next morning, we swapped the jet's roar for the rhythmic buzz of a small propeller plane that ferried us to Pokhara, a serene lakeside city that serves as the gateway to the Annapurna region.

The transition from air to land travel was immediate and jarring; a bumpy, dusty two hour bus ride from Pokhara to Nayapul marked the official start of our trek. Here, amidst the chaos of local life and rugged landscapes, we took our first steps on the trail.

The hiking journey up to ABC itself was a four-day, three-night odyssey through some of the most stunning terrain on earth. Our days began early, each day averaging about eight hours of hiking and a distance of around 12 kilometers.

The trail was a constant dance of ascents and descents, leading us across rushing rivers, through lush valleys, vegetables farms and alongside imposing, rocky mountains. The scenery was a balm for the soul, a continuous canvas of natural beauty that included unexpected patches of snow as we climbed higher.

Accommodation along the way was in tea houses, simple lodges that offered a roof over our heads and decent vegetarian meals. These weren't luxury stays; they were basic, lacking heaters, and often featuring "squat" toilets that were, shall we say, an acquired taste.

Yet, the simplicity was part of the charm, forcing us to focus on the essentials: the trail, the company, and the staggering beauty surrounding us.

The trek to Annapurna Base Camp was a four-day, three-night odyssey that the writer fondly recalls as a journey through some of the most stunning terrain on earth.

Meals were a communal affair, often featuring dal bhat (lentils and rice), and for me, the hot coffee available at these remote outposts became a much treasured morning ritual.

The physical demands were intense. The combination of long hiking hours and the relentless incline pushed our bodies. However, the main challenge we faced was altitude sickness. As we climbed higher, the air grew thinner, making every breath a conscious effort. It was here that the power of camaraderie shone brightest. We encouraged each other with every step, a shared determination propelling us forward when the going got tough.

Our incredible Nepalese guide, Mr Gopal and his team of porters were the backbone of our journey. They guided us patiently, setting a slow, steady pace that allowed us to acclimatise and soak in the environment.

One evening after a 12-hour hike, far from any city lights, we were treated to a celestial display that defied description – the Milky Way, a brilliant swathe of stars, stretched across the inky black sky. It was a humbling reminder of our small place in the universe and a moment of pure magic.

Finally, on Dec 23, 2023, after days of sweat, sore muscles, and shared laughter, we reached Annapurna Base Camp. The moment we arrived, the towering peaks of the Annapurna sanctuary surrounded us in a breathtaking amphitheatre of rock and ice. We witnessed a spectacular sunset, where the mountain turned a delicate pink before fading into twilight. The cold was biting, but our spirits were soaring.

The next morning, we rose before dawn to witness the iconic golden sunrise over the peaks. It was a sight of profound beauty and a powerful metaphor that resonated deeply with me: just like in life, the sun will always set, bringing challenges and darkness, but a new sun rises every morning, promising new adventures and fresh starts.

Tough as it was, the journey to Annapurna Base Camp was incredibly fulfilling. Sharing the experience with my two old friends, navigating the challenges together, and reaching our goal was a bonding experience I will never forget.

It was more than just a hike; it was a testament to endurance, friendship and the enduring power of the mountains.