You’ll never believe what this dog did

Trekking in the Nepalese Himalayas from Dhunche village (2,000m or 6,500ft) up to Gosaikunda lake (4,300m or 14,000ft) is truly breathtaking in every sense of the word. At these altitudes the thin air makes you light headed. The weather can also change suddenly and dramatically. Originally we chose to do this trek independently- but we had some unexpected company… animal, dog, loyal, mountains

In addition to stunning views, one of the most amazing things about the trek was that a dog followed us for 2 days and 1 night. He followed us up a 2,300m ascent to the dizzying snow capped peaks and along a narrow path aside a steep terrifying pass- a path that reminded me of the Lord of the Rings. 

Our fluffy companion then followed us back down to the first tea house (hostel) on the descent and then mysteriously disappeared.  

Who was this 4-pawed companion? Why did he choose to follow us for so long and so far? And why did he disappear when we made it back to the tea house? animal, dog, loyal, mountains

This beautiful black dog photo bombed us in the village at the start of the trek.

Our new friend just followed us and followed us. At our first rest point a lovely trekker suggested that we call him Baloo, and the name stuck. When we made it to our accomodation, Baloo faithfully kept the other village dogs away from us- at one point almost getting into a dog fight. On the second day it surprised me how close he stayed. At one point we had stopped to take in the view and snap some photos. Baloo decided to take a nap. Before I even went to wake him to let him know we were about to go, he was up and ready- it was as if he could understand what we were saying.

What were we feeding him to earn all this loyalty? The answer is NOTHING. We had some dry noodles for our food and offered some to him. He gave them a curious sniff and then ignored them. The most I saw him eat was a few mouthfuls of snow and some dry leaves… I am not a dog owner but I am pretty sure this isn’t a normal doggy diet. animal, dog, loyal, mountains

They say that dogs are man’s best friend and I think I understand this better now. Baloo’s loyalty illustrates the power of companionship. It shows the deep need that cooperative animals have for company. I also think it shows something even more profound. I reckon Baloo recognised that we were foreigners without a guide. I think he wanted to make sure we were safe which is why he stuck with us to the first tea house of the descent. Baloo literally took on the role of guide for us. He didn’t seem to care that we didn’t have any food for him. Perhaps Baloo’s company is a genuine example of animal altruism? Whatever you think, you have to admit it’s pretty adorable.

We chose not to trek with a guide because we love independent trekking and were well equipped with GPS, compass, first aid kit and other survival kit. We also let people know where we were going and when we would be back. However, we would strongly recommend organising a local guide if you go trekking in the himalayas… afterall Baloo may be busy on a different trek.

Looking For a Place to Stay ?

There are some lovely stylish and homely places to stay all over Nepal. It’s worth at least doing your research and even booking before you get.

Top Tip: Use the map to check the locations match your plans as they do have some randomly scattered guest houses!

Agoda have great deals on hostels, guest houses and hotels if you book in advance.

Book your stay in Katmandu HERE (The capital: Perfect hub, stunning temples, great markets)

Book your stay in Thamel HERE (Crazy cool eclectic hippyville nestled into the bustling old town of Kathmandu)

Book your stay in Nagarkot HERE (Beautiful hill trekking area just outside of Kathmandu)

Book your stay in Bhaktarpur HERE (Close to Kathmandu and bursting with culture)

Book your stay in Everest Region HERE (Get into the epic area for the world’s most legendary trekking)

Book your stay in Pokhara HERE (Beautiful trekking, starting point for trekking to Annapurna)

Book your stay in Chitwan HERE (Stunning National Park famous for its wildlife)

Book your stay in Lumbini HERE (Buddhist pilgrimage site famous for its white temples)

Book your stay in Nepalgunj HERE (Border crossing into India and great street food)