There was nothing in his early life to indicate that this son of a Scottish minister would go on to lead a life of adventure, travel and intrigue. Yet George turned his back on all that he knew and journeyed into remote Tibet at the conclusion of the Second World War. He not only underwent a great spiritual awakening there, but George also became involved with the Tibetan resistance to the invading Chinese Communist army.

The Scottish Long Rider's equestrian journey across the Himalayas in the winter of 1949 to deliver a plea for help from Tibet to the outside world is now the stuff of legend. Because of his lifelong support for the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people, the Chinese government imposed a death sentence on George which has never been lifted. George was recently (March 2011) awarded the Light of Truth Award, which honours individuals and institutions that have made significant contributions to the public understanding of Tibet.

Hailed as “Patterson of Tibet,” the 90-year-old was the spiritual guide of the Long Riders’ Guild, a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, who continued writing to the end of his life, and lectured at Cambridge about his travels. 

Basha O'Reilly was able to interview him shortly before his death.

George's late wife, universally known as "Dr. Meg," discovered a scientific means of helping addicts recover completely from drug-addiction.

Left:  George receiving the Light of Truth award. Right:  George with His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

What is your favourite exploration book and why?

Regarding the secular aspects of exploration, I found the writings of Aurel Stein to provide a fascinating view on exploration into Asia. The terrain of spiritual exploration, however, is travelled wonderfully by Mildred Cable and Francesca French, both famous women missionary explorers.

What is your favourite exploration film and why?

Lawrence of Arabia; strictly speaking it was not an exploration film, but T. E. Lawrence was the explorer’s ideal in identifying with the people rather than with the geography.

If you were travelling to the South Pole in the “Heroic Age,” would you prefer to travel with Amundsen, Shackleton or Scott, and why?

I’d travel in the company of Scott. With the exploration party in distress, one of his men (Oates) sacrificed himself for the sake of his fellow explorers, walking out of the tent with its limited food supply towards his certain death.

How would you describe the various types of courage needed – physical, emotional and spiritual – for your visit to Tibet and your amazing equestrian journey across the Himalayas?

My journey across Tibet, challenging in mid-winter, appears courageous when looking back on it. At the time, I was simply driven by the necessity to obtain needed medical supplies and to request military assistance for the anticipated battle with China.

What is the single greatest change you have witnessed in the exploration world since you began?

It is no longer possible to arrive on the borders of a strange country with little more than a suitcase.

What modern technology or techniques would you find most helpful?

On one occasion, I nearly lost my life when my compass and binoculars were left with the animals. I’d choose GPS over a compass today, but there is still no substitute for good binoculars.

What piece of equipment always went with you?

Other than a compass, and whenever possible, toilet paper!

Which book would you recommend to would-be explorers today?

David Livingstone’s Diaries, or T. E. Lawrence’s 7 Pillars of Wisdom

What would you tell young explorers to be wary of?

Amorous Tibetan women . . .

Why is it important for humans to continue exploring?

Someone, somewhere, will always want to know what is on the other side of the hill.

Which of your many achievements do you think will be most remembered?

My newspaper writings about the battle against the Chinese invasion of Tibet.

What’s your greatest concern for the future of exploration?

Curiosity about other sides of hills is part of human nature, and will never be snuffed out.