In the fall of 2000, I satisfied a long-standing desire to travel to Nepal. During that 6-week stay, it was not my trek to Kala Patar (18,500 ft.) overlooking Mt. Everest that fulfilled my quest, but rather the relationships I established along the way that touched my soul most deeply.

It is my commitment to these relationships that keeps me returning each year and caused me to establish Egofree Journeys. Egofree Journeys, was also my response to years of political unrest in Nepal, feeling compelled to shine a light on this small country through grass roots travel experiences, fundraising, and supportive commerce.

This October 2008, marks my 7th journey to a small valley in the Solu Khumbu (Everest) region of Nepal. Trekkers in Nepal have passed through this valley since the days of Sir Edmond Hillary, on their journey to Everest Base Camp.

But, it is this region that inspires me as a destination. The presence of His Holiness Trulshig Rinpoche, the richness of the Tibetan Buddhist culture preserved there, and the warmth of the Sherpa community, permeate this valley.

The large monastic community of Thupten Choling Monastery, the Mani Rimdu celebration in the small family monastery of Chiwong, and all that I’ve been exposed to in Nepal, have provided unique and life-changing experiences.

Eager to share the magical beauty of Nepal with others, this will be the fourth group that I will be guiding. If you want to experience the wonder of this slice of Nepal, I would be honored to guide your journey, to introduce you to my discoveries, and to support you in exploring your own.