Conscious tourists/trekkers are people who care about the impact they have on individuals, economies and ecosystems. It means considering the impact and consequences of your travel choices and adjusting those choices accordingly.

The Khumbu Valley is in Sagarmatha National Park; a World Heritage Site that is home to the Sherpa and Nepalese communities, and of course the awe inspiring Himalayas, including Mount Everest. Many famous trekking routes enable tourists to experience this incredible region, including the very popular Everest Base Camp trek, and the lesser known 3 Passes Trail. Or for those more adventurous and seeking adrenalin, there are the 6000m+ climbs of Island Peak, Mera Peak and Lobuche. No matter which route you chose, they all pass through the Khumbu Valley and the picturesque village of Namche Bazaar; the capitol of this region.

As tourists/trekkers, we are often so focussed on our base camp or summit goal, which can leave us blinkered to the people, the cultures and the livelihoods that we are passing by. And yet, it is the local people that can enrich our experiences. Being conscious of the locals and their environment, and how your trek is impacting them is so important. Finding ways to positively give back and learn and share cultures, will help ensure that the Sherpa and Nepalese communities benefit from tourist activity. You never know, this interaction may become the most memorable experience of your trek!

Do you want to become a more conscious trekker when trekking in Nepal? If so, read on as we have some great ideas for you:

Economic ideas

- Experience the healing touch of Lehara – an NGO with UK trained therapists offering 60minute Sports Massages for just $35. With clinics in Namche and Dingboche you can feel rejuvenated after a long days hike, while making a difference as your fee also provides financial investment to local healthcare, education and conservation initiatives.

www.lehara.org

- Buy souvenirs from local stalls in the Khumbu valley, rather than Kathmandu. There will be lots of choice in Namche, but also some great options in Khumjung, Khunde and Dingboche.

Environmental

- Go and visit Sagarmatha Next during your acclimatisation hike in Namche. Learn how they are helping the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC) supporting the environment and volunteer in their ‘Carry me Back’ initiative to take 1KG of rubbish out of the valley.

https://www.sagarmathanext.com/

- Avoid using single use water bottles by bringing a water bottle and water purification tablets/filters or drinking boiled water (which acts as a great hot water bottle at night).

- Get to know the names of your porters and greet them each day. Help them to practice English where possible as this will help them in their careers.

- Stay in family run lodges that have been passed down through generations. Take your time to get to know the owners and hear their stories, especially how the region has changed over the years.