KATHMANDU: French-Canadian adventurer Stephane Champoussin has completed the full length of Nepal’s Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) in 143 days, crossing some of the country’s most challenging high-altitude terrain and remote settlements.

Champoussin began the journey from Yamphudin in Taplejung on March 17 and reached Hilsa in Humla, the trail’s western terminus, on August 1. He was accompanied by a Sherpa team and supported by porters and guides throughout the expedition.

Pema Sherpa, managing director of Pema Treks & Expeditions, described the expedition as a major achievement, noting the logistical and physical demands involved in completing the high route.

The journey included glacier crossings, high passes, deep snow, rockfalls, river crossings and sections reaching altitudes of around 6,200 metres. A snowstorm near Selele forced the team to seek shelter and later severe weather in the Sherpani Col and Makalu region prompted them to abandon the planned crossing to Chhukung.

The expedition also encountered potentially life-threatening situations. In Rolwaling, a sudden rockfall forced the team to retreat after Temba, one of the team members, raised an immediate warning. On the Tilman Pass section, the team negotiated continuing rockfalls and a swollen river using a whistle warning system and ropes.

Heavy snowfall in the Molun Pokhari area also caused a porters’ tent to collapse, leaving them with little rest before continuing the following day.

Despite the physical challenges, Champoussin said his most memorable experiences came from encounters with people in remote Himalayan communities. He recalled meeting a young girl being raised by her grandmother in Tembathang and said the farewell with her was among the emotional highlights of the journey.

He also observed the hardships faced by people living in remote mountain settlements, including limited access to healthcare and basic medicines. At the same time, he noted gradual improvements brought by roads and solar power.

The final stages included the Manaslu Circuit, a crossing of Thorong La and a visit to Praken Gompa, where he received blessings from an Ani, or Buddhist nun.

Champoussin and his team reached Hilsa on August 1, where they learned of the fatal Broad Peak accident that claimed the lives of six Nepali mountain guides. Reflecting on the tragedy, he said the mountains had once again demonstrated both their possibilities and dangers.

Champoussin credited his porters Temba, Pemkipa, Dawa and Rasan, guides Sonam and Sange, and the Kathmandu-based team of Pema Treks for helping complete the expedition.

He advised future GHT trekkers not to underestimate the route, particularly its glacier crossings, extreme altitude and exposed sections.

“For fit trekkers, don’t underestimate the Himalayas,” he said, adding that embracing the challenges ultimately turns them into lasting memories.