9 Comments
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Brad Yonaka's avatar

I was never at ease with these extreme mountain tours in Nepal, and I always went on hikes that I could do by myself. The monetary incentive is too big for corruption to stay away. I am taken aback, though, at the acts of poisoning. That is a lot of malice for a bit of cash.

Scott Monaco's avatar

Yes it’s always a difficult thing to be sure about. A big scam by a small group can have a negative impact on all those out there doing good, honest, and safe work.

Jeanine Kitchel's avatar

Incredible story! So slick, and that it's carried on for so long. Very sad for all those in the industry who now will face lack of tourists during their 'high' season, all the way down to the small family restaurants and BnBs that usually host trekkers. Thanks for reporting this.

Scott Monaco's avatar

I do hope it doesn’t impact too broadly, they’ve been through a lot before over the years and the lure of the mountains is just so great. That said if the new govt doesn’t address this enough the legit operators and those restaurants, bnbs etc stand the most to lose.

Jeanine Kitchel's avatar

Yes, it always hits the small time people. And they have been through a lot.

Chris Monaco's avatar

Sad. Wonder how many people will reconsider their trips because of this negative publicity.

Scott Monaco's avatar

I hope not. I think there are some really great opportunities out there still and I am interested although I understand the hesitation if you can’t get insured as easily anymore.

Michael Jensen's avatar

That is terrible and incredibly sad...

Scott Monaco's avatar

Yes, it is. I am hopeful that the new government takes this seriously. Nepal's trekking industry is one of the most important adventure tourism economies in the world, and the vast majority of the people working in it had nothing to do with this.