For Tibetan refugees, crossing the Himalayas is an obstacle on the path to freedom. But for others, the mountains themselves hold an allure. The Himalayas have always been a magnet for spiritual seekers and adventurous backpackers.

South African Emma Bestall recently trekked in the Himalayas with her hiking partner, Christian. They decided to attempt their trek without guides or horses. They stayed in local homes for only a few dollars a night.

The trip was supposed to take just five days. But, as Emma explains, things didn't go exactly as planned.

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