overview: Trekking for Charity

Everest Base Camp trek

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Trekking for Charity: Doc McKerr’s Great Himalayan Trail Mission

Embarking on a journey across the rugged landscapes of the Himalayas is a feat few dare to undertake. Doing so with a higher purpose—supporting military charities that serve soldiers and their families—requires a special kind of dedication. One such adventurer, Doc McKerr from the United Kingdom, is currently trekking across Nepal’s renowned Great Himalaya Trail (GHT) with a goal that transcends personal achievement. His mission is to raise funds and awareness for two respected military organizations: the Gurkha Welfare Trust (GWT) and the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) Forces Help.

A Personal Connection with the Gurkhas

Doc McKerr’s connection to Nepal and the Gurkha community goes far beyond admiration; it’s rooted in direct experience and a deep sense of loyalty. In 2009–2010, McKerr served as a Project Engineer for the Gurkha Welfare Scheme (GWS), the operational field arm of the GWT. During his time based in Pokhara, he played a crucial role in developing infrastructure in rural Nepal—constructing 22 new schools, rehabilitating more than 160 existing ones, and helping to build a medical center to serve remote communities.

These contributions weren’t just short-term fixes. They were transformative changes that improved the lives of thousands of Nepalis, many of whom are veterans or family members of Gurkha soldiers. “So naturally, my allegiance to the charity is strong,” says McKerr. “Plus, I think they do a marvelous job supporting retired Gurkhas—many of whom weren’t entitled to a British Army pension—and the communities they live in.”

Each year, the Gurkha Welfare Trust undertakes numerous development projects across Nepal, ranging from clean water initiatives and school constructions to healthcare delivery in high-altitude, underserved areas. Doc’s continued support reflects not only a professional bond but also an emotional one.

Supporting SSAFA: A Broader Mission

In addition to GWT, Doc McKerr chose to support SSAFA Forces Help, another prominent UK-based military charity. SSAFA has a broad mission: to assist anyone who has served in the British Armed Forces, regardless of rank, service branch, or era of service. Their support includes recovery assistance for injured veterans, emotional and logistical help for those suffering from PTSD or other post-operational traumas, and comprehensive care for the families of service members, especially during times of crisis or loss.

“I’ve had a number of friends and colleagues receive direct assistance from SSAFA,” says McKerr. “They are an incredibly versatile and compassionate organization. That’s why I felt it only right to include them in this fundraising effort.”

Raising Funds Through the Power of Trekking

The GHT expedition is not just about personal endurance—it’s a strategic effort to raise awareness and donations for the causes McKerr believes in. Through his dedicated website and support from friends, family, and well-wishers, McKerr is collecting funds using Virgin Giving, a UK-based fundraising platform. This system ensures that donations are securely and transparently split between the two charities.

An added benefit? The UK government’s Gift Aid program. “When someone donates and is paying British tax, the government adds 25% to the donation,” McKerr explains. “So it’s a win-win for everyone involved.”

Why the Great Himalaya Trail?

Stretching over 1,700 kilometers, the Great Himalaya Trail is one of the longest and most challenging trekking routes in the world. It traverses the entirety of Nepal, from the subtropical jungles of the east to the stark alpine deserts of the west. The trail weaves through remote valleys, high mountain passes, ancient villages, and diverse ethnic regions, making it a cultural and environmental mosaic.

McKerr was drawn to the GHT because of its diversity and the opportunity it presented to revisit regions where he had previously worked. “This trek offers something for everyone,” he notes. “And for me, it’s more than just a physical challenge—it’s a way to review past GWS projects and potentially identify new humanitarian needs in neglected communities.”

His goal is to assess possibilities for new infrastructure development, such as suspension bridges, micro-hydro energy projects, and individual aid for people with disabilities. These are the kinds of targeted interventions that can dramatically improve living standards in remote Himalayan villages, which are often isolated from development assistance due to geography and lack of access.

A Unique Route and a Solo Challenge

Unlike most treks that follow either the lower cultural trails or the high-altitude adventure routes, Doc’s journey combines both the upper and lower sections of the GHT. “This mix allows me to explore landscapes, cultures, and traditions I hadn’t really encountered during my previous time in Nepal,” he says.

The trail will take him through the Kanchenjunga region, the remote and spiritual Makalu-Barun valleys, the Arun River basin, and onward toward the mid-western and far-western territories. These areas are not just off-the-beaten-track—they’re largely untouched by modern tourism, giving McKerr a raw, immersive experience of Nepal’s rural soul.

In an age when most expeditions involve teams of guides, porters, and logistical crews, McKerr’s choice to trek entirely solo is both admirable and daring. “I decided to do this alone to save money and maximize the funds going to charity,” he explains. “And I also wanted to make it as challenging as possible—physically, mentally, and emotionally.”

His previous time in Nepal gave him a solid foundation in Nepali language and cultural etiquette. “A friendly smile and a few words in Nepali go a long way. The people are incredibly kind and helpful once you show respect and humility,” he adds.

Timing the Impossible

Doc began his trek on April 1st, departing from Taplejung in eastern Nepal, with an ambitious aim: to complete the GHT in under 100 days. For most trekkers, even completing just one section of the GHT can take several weeks. Attempting the entire trail—across multiple climate zones, ecosystems, and elevations—in this short time is a colossal undertaking.

“I know it’s ambitious,” says McKerr. “Some might even say it’s unrealistic. But I’m the kind of person who needs a high bar to stay focused. Plus, 100 is a nice round number!”

His planning process was meticulous. Without the support of a team or supply caches, he had to consider every contingency—from route navigation and food sourcing to injury recovery and weather disruptions. “It’s like organizing a military operation, but with you as the only soldier,” he jokes.

Beyond the Trek: Long-Term Vision

Doc’s initiative is not just about raising money—it’s about raising awareness. By completing the Great Himalaya Trail and sharing his journey, he hopes to draw international attention to Nepal’s developmental needs, especially in areas far from Kathmandu’s influence. Many of the regions he passes through are still recovering from past earthquakes, floods, and long-standing poverty. If his trek can inspire others to visit, volunteer, or donate, then the impact will ripple far beyond his solitary footsteps.

He also hopes to increase the profile of the GHT itself. “This trail deserves more attention. It offers an unmatched experience for trekkers seeking both challenge and cultural immersion. And more exposure could lead to more tourism dollars flowing into rural economies that need it the most.”

Final Words from the Trail

We had the chance to interview Doc just before his departure from Kathmandu. When asked if he had any final message, his words were both humble and hopeful:

“This isn’t about me. It’s about the people of Nepal, the veterans who served with honor, and the families that support them. I just hope this trek brings attention to their needs. And if someone out there can spare a few pounds or share my story, then I’ve already succeeded.