Wednesday 28 / May / 2025
MUSCAT – While most children spend their summer break relaxing or glued to screens, two young siblings from Indian School Bousher chose a far more adventurous path — scaling Himalayan peaks and reaching Everest Base Camp.
Vivaan Bhatia and his sister Jaanvi, aged 9 and 10, recently completed an extraordinary trek through the Himalayas that saw them scale Syangboche and Nangkartshang peaks and reach the iconic Everest Base Camp, situated at a dizzying altitude of 5,364 metres.
“It was the best adventure ever,” said Vivaan. “We climbed mountains, saw glaciers, and even walked on paths made of ice!”
Their journey began on May 4, 2025, with a flight to Lukla airport (also known as Tenzing-Hillary Airport) — considered one of the world’s most dangerous airports. What followed was a grueling two-week trek — a test of endurance, willpower, and resilience well beyond their years.
Hiking for eight to ten hours a day, the children covered nearly 10 kilometres daily, braving steep trails, chilly temperatures, and the challenges of high altitude.
“The bridges we crossed were so wobbly, they made our tummies tickle,” recalled Jaanvi, describing the suspension bridges stretched across deep Himalayan gorges. “But we just kept going — one step at a time.”
Their mother, a passionate hiker, was the driving force behind the expedition. What started as her solo dream soon became a shared family mission.
“She always told us we’re stronger than we think,” said Vivaan.
“And she made sure we were ready — we trained in Oman, hiking wadis and mountain trails together.”
Their father was initially hesitant, concerned the trek might be too demanding for such young children. But after seeing their determination — and already having cheered them on as competitive swimmers at India’s National School Swimming Championship — he agreed to join the adventure.
The family spent months preparing for the Himalayan ascent. YouTube videos helped the children learn what to expect, and hikes across Oman laid the groundwork. Still, nothing could fully prepare them for the effects of altitude.
“Mom kept talking about altitude sickness,” Jaanvi said. “We didn’t really understand it, but we knew we had to be strong in our bodies and in our minds.”
Despite the tough conditions — basic lodges, minimal food, and rough terrain — the siblings remained upbeat.
“We didn’t care if the food was simple,” said Vivaan. “We were in the beautiful Himalayas. That was enough.”
The trek became even more memorable when Jaanvi celebrated her 10th birthday at Everest Base Camp.
“It was the coolest birthday ever!” she said. “We had a tiny celebration, but being there was the best gift.”
At the summit, their mother told them this journey wasn’t just about climbing mountains — it was about discovering their own strength.
Now back in Muscat, the siblings remain inspired. The trek may be over, but the spirit lingers.
“We want other kids to know that they can do big things too,” said Jaanvi. “You just have to believe in yourself — and maybe pack warm socks.”
