What!?! Those things on your backpack weren't just for decoration?! Hahahaha! I'm glad you finally resorted to using your trekking poles. I can't help but wonder if your guide had to coax you into using them? Sorry, I just can't seem to help myself. Most youngsters I encounter on the trails of Colorado don't use poles. It's just mostly us olders. They sure help me, though. I have been wondering if I should bring my ice cleats in case of snow/ice. I wouldn't think there would be much in mid-October, but like you experienced, a snowstorm could pop up any time. I'm so excited to do this trek!
Hahahaha! Shots fired! When we saw snow on the ground and knew we were doing some decent downhill stretches - we caved. Ambar didn't have to work too hard to convince us. Our tour group only suggested we bring spikes for the Gokyo stretch (mostly the glacier trek up to Chola Pass) - they didn't have it on the pack list for EBC only. But, I can't imagine it hurting. And, it doesn't add that much weight to your pack.
@@kineticpassports weight is a big concern of mine. My power bank and solar panels add 2 pounds by themselves. Then I'm trying to decide what cameras to take. I've got a GoPro, an Omni, my phone and a Canon telephoto. And then there is all the other necessary stuff I have to take. One last thing, the more you use your trekking poles the more you'll like them. I firmly believe that.
Yeah, I forgot you’re bringing the solar charger - that does add some weight. Will you have a porter, or are you carrying everything yourself? Re poles - believe it or not, we do love them! 🤣 We actually use them a lot (esp on downhill) when we’re hiking. Here’s some proof: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE--EpWLmIETto.htmlsi=hoEuC_L9O_f4r1FO
Depends on how far you want to go and where you are - but, $500 is pretty high (probably an exaggeration). Our friend who took a horse roundtrip from Gorakshep to EBC paid closer to $250
