The Irish pub in Namche Bazaar, Nepal, known simply as “The Irish Pub”, is 3,450 meters above sea level and is considered the most remote in the world. The small town of 1,600 is on the way to Mount Everest and is considered the last stop before starting the climb to the top of the mountain.
The only way to get there is to take a flight to Lukla, which has the most dangerous airport in the world, and take a two-day hike through the Himalayas. After all this mess, imagine the joy of finding an Irish pub at the end of the world.
It turns out that the pub has been closed since April 10, when the Nepalese government closed access to the mountain due to the pandemic. The country has suffered a strong economic impact, as tourism is responsible for about 8% of GDP, attracting more than 1 million visitors every year. Even so, the owner remains confident. The Nepalese government plans to start issuing mountaineering licenses for the fall season, which runs from September to November.
Although small, the village of Namche Bazaar is quite busy in normal times, thanks to the many tourists who visit it before (or after) climbing Mount Everest. It is normal to spend a few days in the city to acclimate to the altitude before starting the climb. In the streets, you can see inns, restaurants, exchange offices and equipment stores, as well as Sherpas, who guide climbers to the top of the mountain.
The pub has a very cozy atmosphere, with a small wood stove that helps to warm the atmosphere and a pool table. On the walls, you can see flags, band posters and photos of the climbers who reached the top of Everest. The menu includes wines, spirits and, of course, Guinness beer! The stock is supplied thanks to the Sherpas, who carry the products on their backs for the 13km that separate the airport from the village of Namche Bazaar.
If you ever have the courage and willingness to climb Everest, don’t miss the opportunity to drink the highest altitude pint in your life.
