This is not the story of an expedition but rather of a mountain journey in early 2004. The distinction is important.

Most of us believe subconsciously that Expeditions are the preserve of godlike people like Chris Bonnington and Rheinhold Messner and that inferior people like us will never make it into an Expedition.

Don't be codded. Your chances of going on an Expedition may be quite small but you can have a high altitude mountain journey any time.

Mountain journies are the same as Expeditions but carried out by ordinary mortals who can just enjoy the experience without having to write books, make films or satisfy sponsors.

Try it, you will never regret it.