2026 marks the 40th anniversary of my leading treks, expeditions and cycling tours in the Himalaya, a remarkable milestone in my life of adventure and exploration. Over four decades, I have been privileged to inspire countless adventurers through my deep passion, resilience, and profound respect for the majestic Himalayan ranges.

My journey began in the early 1980s, a time when female explorers in such demanding and remote regions were rare. My initial expeditions were fuelled by a love for nature and an insatiable curiosity about the cultures and landscapes nestled within the towering peaks of the Himalaya. What started as guiding treks evolved into leading expeditions and cycling trips, often venturing into less explored territories.

Throughout the years, my expertise grew as I navigated some of the world’s most challenging terrains, from the popular trekking routes to the hidden valleys and high-altitude passes few dared to explore. My commitment to safety, the environment, and cultural sensitivity helped me stand out in an industry that was at times rough and unregulated.

What makes this journey even more meaningful to me is my role as a pioneer for women in adventure travel. I have opened doors for many, providing mentorship and training to aspiring guides and trekkers. I hope my story has encouraged others to pursue their dreams, regardless of gender, in fields traditionally dominated by men.

I have also always emphasised the importance of sustainable tourism. Over the decades, I have worked closely with local communities in Ladakh and Nepal, advocating for eco-friendly practices and ensuring that the benefits of trekking tourism reached the people who live among the Himalayas. My efforts have been driven by a desire to help preserve these fragile ecosystems and respect indigenous cultures.

My expeditions have never been just about conquering mountains, but also about storytelling. I have sought to capture the essence of the Himalaya through my writing and speaking engagements. Through vivid accounts and stunning images, I have tried to bring the magic of the Himalayan experience to wider audiences.

My spiritual home is the mighty Himalaya, and over the years I have explored much of this vast range. From Concordia in Pakistan, through Ladakh, Garhwal and Kumaon in the Indian Himalaya, to Bhutan, Nepal and Tibet, I have spent over half of every year guiding groups of trekkers. In between leading, I found time to pursue my own ambitions, and in 2008 I became the first British woman to summit Manaslu (8163m) without the use of supplementary oxygen.

Six months later I attempted Everest and reached 8761m, just an hour from the summit, before a dangerous situation made me turn back for safety reasons. As a testament to this legacy, I have been honoured to receive recognition for my contribution to exploration and community development. I received the Exodus Leader of the Year award, became the first leader to be installed in their Hall of Fame, and won the prestigious Wanderlust Guide of the Year award in 2021. Yet despite these accolades, I remain humble, viewing each journey as a learning experience and a tribute to the timeless beauty of the mountains I love.

On 21 st July 1986, I led my very first trek in Ladakh, and in 2026 I will be celebrating 40 years of leading Himalayan treks and expeditions. For me, this is a celebration of courage, resilience and unwavering passion, as well as a reflection on a lifetime spent helping travellers connect with one of Earth’s most awe-inspiring regions.

I hope my story continues to inspire a new generation of explorers, reminding us that the spirit of adventure is about more than reaching summits—it is about the journey, the people we meet along the way, and the respect we carry for the land and its cultures.

My 40-year journey in the Himalayas stands as a reflection of dedication, compassion and adventurous spirit, shaped by the vast, rugged beauty of the world’s highest mountains.