Introduction
Back in 2000, I embarked on my first multi-day trek in the Himalayas—my first real taste of Asia and a journey that would shape me profoundly. At the end of last year, over two decades later, I had the privilege of retracing those steps, but this time with my two daughters by my side. It was a chance to relive that formative experience and share it with them, creating memories that I hope will shape their lives as it did mine.
That first trip was a grand expedition, complete with tents, porters, and even Superman (Henry Cavill). Much of my teens and twenties were spent in the mountains—mountaineering, rock climbing, trekking. My life was rooted in the outdoors, and the mountains became my second home, teaching me resilience, adaptability, and the value of simplicity.
Coming back to these trails, I noticed the changes—busier paths and more developed infrastructure. Yet, the mountains themselves remained timeless, offering the same serenity and challenge they always had. Walking these trails again, I felt a deep sense of appreciation for the lessons the mountains have imparted and the opportunity to share these experiences with my children.
Details
Article First Published on: 13th Jan 24
Nepal Annapurna Sanctuary Trek
6 Days
Circa 10-15 km / Day
A New Perspective
This trek wasn’t just about revisiting old memories; it was about creating new ones. Watching my daughters, Florence (7) and Elizabeth (10), tackle the same challenges I once faced filled me with pride. On Christmas Eve, they completed a 14-kilometer trek, including a walk in the dark with head torches to Poon Hill Viewpoint at 3,210 meters. Seeing their determination and growth, both physically and mentally, reminded me of the transformative power of the mountains.
On Christmas morning, wrapped in warm blankets in a mountain hut at 2,600 meters, I reflected on how much they had achieved. Their resilience and adaptability were shining through, just as mine had years ago. They were experiencing the same simplicity of mountain life—eating simple food, enjoying breathtaking views, and finding joy in the journey rather than the destination.
The Mountain as a Teacher
The mountains have always been a teacher to me, and this trip was no different. In comparison to the ease of logistics in Singapore, getting to the trailhead was not easy. Regular construction work interruptions on the Kathmandu to Pokhara road, combined with the rugged terrain and slow progress, put patience to the test. But, just as in the mountains, these challenges offered valuable lessons in perseverance. They reminded us of the importance of slowing down, being present, and embracing the journey, no matter how tough the path.For my daughters, this trek was more than just a physical challenge. It was a lesson in perseverance, humility, and the beauty of nature. It’s my hope that these experiences will help shape their character, just as they shaped mine. The simplicity of the mountains strips away the noise of modern life, leaving only the essentials—an invaluable lesson in today’s fast-paced world.
A Journey of Reflection
This trip also reminded me of the challenges that life throws at us—whether in the mountains or in the workplace. My life in the outdoors has put me through some very tough situations and uncomfortable environments—blizzards, storms, floods—and my ability to navigate through these environments safely has been a source of strength. I’ve tried to apply this grit and determination to my professional life, always persevering but also knowing when it’s time to take a different route to achieve my goals.The poverty I saw in Nepal reminded me of my time volunteering in the Indian Himalayas in 2011. These communities are still very poor, and it’s made me reflect on how lucky I am and how I should consider ways to give back.
The Journey Continues
As I reflect on this trip, I’m reminded that the mountains have a unique way of revealing who we truly are. They strip away the distractions and the excess, leaving us with nothing but the essentials: resilience, connection, and a deeper understanding of ourselves. Whether it’s a father guiding his children on their first big adventure or a 17-year-old discovering Asia for the first time, the mountains remain a constant source of growth and reflection.
Here are a few key takeaways from this experience:
Past and Present
Past (Annapurna Sanctuary in 2000) and Present (Annapurna Panorama with my daughters in 2024)