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The Everest Base Camp is an illustrious trekking destination nestled at an elevation of 17,598 feet, situated right at the foot of Mount Everest, the world's loftiest peak. Positioned within the Khumbu region of Nepal, this base camp holds a special significance as the launching point for intrepid climbers embarking on the arduous journey to summit Mount Everest. Additionally, it stands as a beloved haven for adventure enthusiasts and admirers of nature.
At this remarkable altitude, a camp emerges atop the Khumbu glacier, creating a breathtaking scene. The Everest Base Camp truly comes to life during the Everest climbing season, which typically spans from June to the second week of July. During this time, a multitude of individuals from diverse corners of the globe converge upon this site, all with a common aspiration: to attempt the formidable challenge of conquering the legendary Everest.
These aspirants invest an incredible amount of dedication, encompassing physical, mental, and financial aspects, to prepare themselves for this awe-inspiring climb. The pursuit of Everest is a monumental endeavor that demands nothing short of the utmost commitment and resolve.
The trek to Everest Base Camp spans a distance of approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles) round trip. This challenging journey takes trekkers through some of the world's most breathtaking landscapes and offers an unforgettable adventure amidst the towering peaks of the Himalayas.
There are two primary base camps utilized by climbers in their quest to conquer Mount Everest. The North Base Camp is situated in China, while the South Base Camp is located in Nepal. Of the two, the South Base Camp in Nepal enjoys significantly greater popularity. Each year, it attracts an impressive influx of over 40,000 individuals who undertake hikes, treks, and walks to reach this renowned camp.
The journey to the South Base Camp typically starts at Lukla Airport, perched at an elevation of 9,337 feet. To save both time and energy, many trekkers opt to fly from Kathmandu to Lukla before embarking on their trek towards the base camp. However, for the more adventurous, it is indeed possible to trek all the way to Lukla.
Notably, there are no roads connecting Kathmandu to Lukla, necessitating the use of airplanes as the sole means of transporting sizable and heavy cargo to this remote region. This geographical reality underscores the unique and challenging nature of the journey to the Everest Base Camp in Nepal.
Arrival at Kathmandu
Kathmandu Day One
Arriving in Kathmandu was like stepping into a vibrant tapestry of life. The city, teeming with houses, buildings, and businesses pushed together formed a unique ecosystem that seemed to thrive uniquely in the heart of Nepal. My adventure began the moment my plane touched down in the early morning light. Rajess, a friendly face and one of our tour guide assistants, greeted me and efficiently loaded my bags into the car. As we navigated the lively streets, I couldn't help but be captivated by the energy of the city.
Our first stop was the charming boutique hotel called Traditional Comfort, a hidden gem with five floors and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views. After settling into my room, I indulged in a rejuvenating shower, followed by a short nap to shake off any lingering travel fatigue. The day unfolded with a leisurely lunch and a delightful dinner, each moment adding a layer to the rich tapestry of my Kathmandu experience. The city had already cast its spell, and I eagerly anticipated the adventures that awaited in the days to come.
Kathmandu Day two
Embarking on a day of exploration, I decided to delve into the nearby shops and experience the city for myself. I kicked off the morning with a visit to a charming bakery in close proximity to my hotel. The pastries were a delightful treat, perfectly complementing the aromatic coffee that served as a wake-up call to the day's adventures.
Wandering through the vibrant streets, my steps led me to Thamel, a bustling market tailored to cater to tourists. The kaleidoscope of sights and sounds was mesmerizing, and I took the opportunity to engage with the local shop owners. One particular shopkeeper extended a warm invitation, inviting me into his store. What unfolded was unexpectedly intriguing – he proposed a potential business venture, suggesting that I collaborate with him to promote his clothing brand in the United States. The prospect added an exciting twist to my day of exploration, leaving me with much to ponder as I continued to absorb the cultural richness of Kathmandu.
Kathmandu Day three
In the evening, I had the opportunity to meet both the tour lead and the assistant, bringing a sense of camaraderie to our upcoming adventure. The group, a diverse mix of individuals ranging from 23 to 63 years old, was introduced as my trekking companions. Surprisingly, I found myself as the second oldest among the group.
Our guide took the lead, providing a comprehensive overview of the day-to-day itinerary and patiently addressing any lingering questions. The meeting served as a valuable prelude to the journey ahead, fostering a sense of unity among the members.
Post-meeting, the group was whisked away to a delightful group dinner held in a posh restaurant. The ambiance was exquisite, setting the stage for a convivial atmosphere. As we shared our expectations and excitement for the trek over delicious food, the sense of camaraderie deepened, foreshadowing the bonds that would undoubtedly form over the course of our adventure.
Kathmandu Day four
Flying to Lukla!! or are we??
The day began with the promise of adventure as we were ushered to the airport at the crack of dawn, checking in with excitement bubbling in the air. However, as 6:30 am approached, our hopes took a hit – the destination airport had shut its doors due to poor visibility caused by stubborn clouds. Nature had decided to withhold its approval for our journey that day.
Undeterred, we lingered in the airport for an additional six hours, clinging to the possibility of a breakthrough. Yet, as the clock ticked on, the verdict was clear: our flight was canceled. A swift change in plans led us to an alternative airport, and so began a five-hour bus journey through the rural beauty of Nepal.
The route unfolded like a visual symphony of Nepal's natural wonders. Passing through quaint villages, lush green pastures, and vibrant agricultural lands, the landscape painted a vivid picture of the country's diversity. The journey offered glimpses of rural life, with animals grazing peacefully and small towns revealing the authentic charm of Nepal.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, we arrived at a modest hotel about an hour away from the next day's departure point around 7 pm. Exhausted but content, we embraced the unexpected detour, finding solace in the beauty that unfolded outside our bus windows. The nightfall marked a pause in our travels, a chance to recharge for the anticipated journey that awaited us at the crack of dawn.
Kathmandu Day five
Flying to Lukla!! and we did!!
The day unfolded with my roommate David stirring early, fumbling in the dim light before the alarm could chime. It was a pre-dawn hustle as we swiftly packed our bags, brushed our teeth, and made our way to the awaiting bus. The 30-minute drive to the airport was a gradual ascent into the awakening day, the horizon gradually illuminating the valley below. Soft clouds caressed the tree tops and hills on either side, while a tranquil river meandered through the valley floor. Colorful roofs of homes dotted the landscape, creating a picturesque morning tableau.
Upon reaching the airport, we patiently waited for about two hours, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery. The plane ride to Lukla proved to be a wild adventure, a thrilling journey offering glimpses of some of the world's most incredible landscapes. From lush green jungles to villages nestled at 8,000 feet elevation, the walking trails unfolded like a visual feast.
Touching down in Lukla, we indulged in lunch at a cozy restaurant, followed by a brief exploration of the charming town. I seized the opportunity to purchase a map of the Everest Base Camp, a guide to the path my team and I would traverse in the coming days. Energized by the anticipation, we set off for Phakding, a trek marked by flat paths with gentle undulations, flanked by lush green hills, riverside views, and distant waterfalls. The journey was enriched by encounters with hillside villages, kind locals, and the entertaining presence of yaks and horses.
Arriving at Shangri-La, our designated tea house for the night, we enjoyed a satisfying dinner, even if the shower left something to be desired. With my evening routine of medication and earplugs in place, I settled in for a restful night's sleep, knowing that the next day's 6 am wake-up call would herald another day of adventure in the stunning landscapes of the Everest region.
Track DAY TWO
Phakding to Namche
Walking distance - 10 kms.
Time 3-4 hours.
Elevation gain - 260m.
Terrain: mostly rocky and uneven with some parts being quite steep and narrow. It's a gradual descent with some uphill sections.
I awoke to the rhythmic serenade of raindrops, their gentle patter creating a soothing melody. Stepping onto the terrace, I found myself captivated by the warm rain that breathed life into Phakding and its neighboring villages. Throughout the night, the rain had painted a tranquil scene, and as I stood there, the symphony of nature enveloped me through the two small windows of my plywood-clad room.
Inside, the room housed two beds on either side, but the allure of the morning outside held me in its spell. I resisted leaving the comfort of my bed, wanting to savor this magical moment. The soft light, the scent and sound of rain, the aroma of fresh breakfast, and the rhythmic chime of bells adorning yaks outside formed an enchanting ambiance. It was a feeling beyond the ordinary, a pure enchantment that held me in its embrace.
As I looked out, a gentle fog danced with the rolling hills, resembling a bride adorned in her white dress frolicking on the lush green grass of spring. The air, invigorated by the rain-kissed surroundings, filled my lungs with an overwhelming sense of joy. This place, Phakding, exuded a magical allure, and my anticipation for the day's journey to Namche grew. Each moment in this Himalayan haven felt like a glimpse into a fairy tale, and with thoughts of Namche swirling in my mind, I eagerly anticipated the enchanting adventures that lay ahead.
Entering the tea house, we indulged in a satisfying breakfast before setting out once again on the winding path towards Namche. The trail hugged the contours of a roaring river, flanked by lush green trees of varying sizes. Yaks and donkeys accompanied our journey, adding to the picturesque landscape. Today's highlight awaited us in the form of the tallest hanging bridge on the route – the Hilary Bridge, suspended at a breathtaking 135 meters above the ground, earning its status as the highest cable bridge along this path.
Crossing the bridge was an exhilarating experience. The structure swayed from side to side, offering a jumpy yet immensely enjoyable journey. Beyond the bridge, the real challenge began. A steep ascent of 700 to 1000 meters awaited, leading us to the tea house where we would rest for the night. The hike proved to be demanding as we climbed up a canyon wall, navigating numerous switchbacks. Fortunately, the path was adorned with the comforting shade of trees, babbling water streams, and the camaraderie of fellow trekkers making their way to Namche.
Finally, at around 4 pm, we reached the captivating Namche Bazaar. Words can scarcely capture the beauty of this jewel of a town nestled atop a canyon. The scenery, the journey, and the arrival at Namche all combined to create a day filled with adventure, challenge, and the unparalleled beauty of the Himalayan landscape.
Taking a well-deserved break, we paused by the soothing water streams after a challenging climb. Capturing the moment with photos, we then made our way to the hotel to drop off our bags, recharge with a shower, and return to explore Namche Bazaar. The hot shower, though priced at $5, proved to be a rejuvenating luxury, well worth the cost.
Venturing into the charming bazaar, I couldn't help but marvel at its quaint allure. After picking up some essentials like soap and shampoo, we treated ourselves to the cutest little coffee shop. There, we savored Nepalese coffee and indulged in a slice of red velvet cake, creating a perfect moment of respite.
Returning to the hotel, Kevin and I enjoyed some milk tea before deciding to capture the essence of the night with photographs. We climbed a narrow path up the mountainside, reaching a spot with a clear view of Namche from top to bottom. The night shots were a success, and we descended to join the rest of the crew gathering at the tea house in the hotel.
Dinner was a delightful affair, and afterward, our tour lead conducted oxygen level checks for everyone. He then outlined the plan for the next day, announcing our departure at 8 am for the upcoming destination. The camaraderie, the scenic moments, and the meticulous planning set the stage for the continuation of our Himalayan adventure.
Entering my room, I was greeted by the sight of clouds rolling over the hills as I peered out of the window. The bustling energy of the closed bazaar, adorned with the glow of lights, painted a serene picture. Reflecting on the challenges overcome and the sights witnessed throughout the day, a mix of hope, excitement, and nervous anticipation for the adventures awaiting tomorrow filled my thoughts.
As I settled into bed, I carried the day's memories with me, cherishing the moments of triumph and the beauty that surrounded Namche. Tomorrow promised new delights and challenges, and I vowed to embrace every bit of the journey, savoring the unique experiences that each day in the Himalayas would undoubtedly bring. With a heart full of anticipation, I closed my eyes, ready to welcome whatever the next day in this enchanting landscape had in store.
DAY THREE
Enjoy Namche Bazaar and acclimatize
Walking distance - 9kms.
Time: 3 hours.
Elevation gain - 360m.
Terrain: mostly uphill.
After the mornning routine, the day brought us to a climb towards a small airport perched atop another hill, a mere 300 meters above us. Although lacking a traditional tarmac, our guide informed us that certain types of fixed-wing planes and helicopters could land here in case of emergencies. A few steps above the airport, we encountered the Waste Management Museum and Sagarmatha Next Group, dedicated to raising awareness among tourists about how they can contribute to maintaining cleanliness in the mountain and its surroundings. This visit was an essential part of our mandatory acclimatization hike.
Following a satisfying lunch back at our tea house, the afternoon granted us the freedom to explore the city and engage in some local purchases. Postcards were also available, allowing us to send a piece of our journey anywhere in the world for a nominal fee of $2.
In the evening, a fellow teammate and I embarked on a hike to a viewpoint that offered a panoramic vista of the entire city. Under the moonlight, the city below looked enchanting, providing a picturesque setting for capturing night shots.
Returning to the tea house, we concluded the day with dinner, mindful that tomorrow would present one of the more challenging segments of our journey. As we retired for the night, the anticipation of what lay ahead mingled with a sense of accomplishment from the day's exploration and acclimatization activities.
DAY FOUR
Namche Bazaar to Tyangboche
Prepare for a captivating trek that unfolds over 5 to 6 hours, leading you through enchanting pine and rhododendron forests until you reach the picturesque village of Tengboche. Nestled at an elevation of 3,810 meters (approximately 12,503 feet), Tengboche is a quaint settlement renowned for hosting the illustrious Tengboche Monastery, the largest monastery within the Khumbu region.
The route from Namche to Tengboche is nothing short of a visual masterpiece. As you progress, the Dudh Kosi river flows far below, while a grand panorama of peaks including Thamserku, Kantega, Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and the magnificent Everest itself majestically dominates the horizon. Your path will meander through serene woods, verdant pine forests, adorned with vibrant rhododendrons, and you'll encounter intriguing mani walls, sacred chortens (stupas), and graceful suspension bridges that gracefully traverse the rushing river. This stretch of your journey is a truly lovely walk, offering a profound connection with nature and the Himalayan landscape that surrounds you.
Walking distance - 10kms.
Time: 5-6 hours.
Elevation gain - 600m.
Terrain: Steep ascents and descents, passing through forest of rhododendron, pine and fir trees.
DAY FIVE
Tengboche to Dingboche
Walking distance - 12kms.
Time: 5-6 hours.
Elevation gain - 600m
Terrain: As you make your way to Dingboche, the trail predominantly presents an uphill challenge, featuring occasional flat sections to offer some respite. However, as you draw nearer to Dingboche, the terrain undergoes a transformation, becoming increasingly rugged and rocky. The once lush vegetation becomes sparse, giving way to a barren and rugged landscape as you ascend to higher altitudes.
The morning unfolded with a chilly breeze, yet the gentle caress of the sun's rays warmed my face, and the exotic oxygen filled every breath with vitality. The snow-covered mountain tops stood proudly, free from the previous night's fog, presenting a breathtaking sight. The sounds of the gateway city to the Himalayas resonated, and the enticing aroma of breakfast wafted from nearby restaurants. I found myself willingly captivated by this enchanting place, no physical restraints but the city itself holding my soul hostage. As I bid farewell to lovely Namche, moving on to my next stop, Tengboche, I stood on a hillside, basking in the September morning sun, pondering how a city could have such a profound impact in just two days. The answer was clear – yes, it indeed could.
Our trek commenced with a relatively flat trail, mostly descending. Along the way, we encountered a few "yak-attacks," a playful term coined by my team for the yaks crossing our path in the opposite direction. Turning a corner, the majestic peak of Everest finally unveiled itself, a surreal moment that left us in awe. Taking a break for tea on the left side of our path, we overlooked a river on one side and a mountain covered in lush green forest on the other. Local merchants set up stalls selling handicrafts, and helicopters en route from Everest Base Camp to Lukla passed by, adding to the symphony of the surroundings. Lunch was enjoyed at the bottom of a canyon by a hanging bridge.
After crossing the bridge, we embarked on a challenging ascent to a monastery on the opposite hill, a climb of 600 meters that felt arduous. Remembering the Kilimanjaro guide's advice to go "pole pole" (slowly), I paced myself to maintain a steady but deliberate speed. The last 200 meters brought rain, intensifying the physical exertion. The team completed the hike in less time than anticipated, securing our rooms for the night. A hot shower provided much-needed rejuvenation, and I ventured out to capture more photos of Mt. Everest and the surrounding mountains.
The day, though incredibly challenging, was filled with once-in-a-lifetime views. Grateful and honored to be part of this extraordinary journey, I eagerly anticipated the unknown wonders that tomorrow would unveil. As I bid the world goodnight, my thoughts lingered on the majestic Everest, waiting patiently for my journey to continue towards its awe-inspiring presence.
DAY SIX
Tengboche to Dingboche
Walking distance - 10kms.
Time: 5 hours.
Elevation gain - 600m
Terrain: mild
The morning began with the persistent ring of the alarm at 5:30, signaling the time to witness the unveiling of the Himalayan beauty. The girl, draped in her golden-orange veil, made her appearance against a sky adorned with a scattering of clouds. The clouds, already tinted in hues of orange, resembled bridesmaids eagerly awaiting the bride. After a brief 15-minute wait in the crisp and chilly morning of the Himalayas, she emerged, resplendent and breathtaking. Everest, with its white front and golden back, revealed itself as the sun rose behind, casting a cascade of melting gold in her hair. My girl, Everest, never ceased to amaze me with her beauty.
Following breakfast, we gathered for a group photo and set out on the trail to Dingboche. The path, relatively flat with a few undulations, transitioned from lush greenery to rocky terrain, adorned with short shrubs and trees. As we progressed, the majestic Ama Dablam came into view for the first time, its tall peaks adorned with pristine snow. The sight was nothing short of awe-inspiring, prompting everyone in the team to pause and capture the moment.
Tea breaks at local tea houses punctuated our journey, providing moments to savor the surroundings. Lunch was enjoyed at another tea house before we embarked on the uphill hike to Dingboche, gaining an elevation of about 1000 feet. The workout was invigorating, and our guesthouse for the night, a newly built one, welcomed us with warmth. After a cup of tea, I succumbed to the allure of a brief nap, finding it rejuvenating.
Dinner, a simple affair, concluded the day's activities. I purchased internet for my phone, making preparations for the upcoming days. With a rest day on the horizon, I eagerly anticipated the chance to soak in the beauty of Dingboche and the surrounding Himalayan landscape. Cheers to a well-deserved break.
DAY SEVEN
Rest day in Dingboche
Walking distance - 11kms.
Time: 5-6 hours.
Elevation gain - 490m
Terrain: Gradual uphill following glacial river upstream and passing through small settlements. Mostly rocky and rugged.
It was a restful night, and I woke up feeling refreshed, despite a hint of cold making my nose burn. Sensing the changing weather and the increasing cold, I decided to start taking antibiotics in the morning to prevent any worsening of my condition. The team gathered for breakfast, and our day began with a mandatory hike to a nearby hill, gaining an elevation of about 1000 feet.
The view from the hill was nothing short of amazing. Although we hoped to catch another glimpse of Ama Dablam, her peaks were veiled by clouds on this occasion. Undeterred, we took photos and enjoyed the breathtaking scenery. During the hike, our team leader took the opportunity to teach us a famous Nepali song, adding a cultural touch to our mountainous adventure:
"Resam pehri re resam pehri re"
"Udera jau ki dada ma bhanjang resham firiri"
After reaching the peak, we took a well-deserved break, resting for about half an hour. From our vantage point, a village with around 20 homes came into view. Each home had a small piece of land where the residents cultivated vegetables, and their yaks peacefully grazed on the hillside. The distant sound of the roaring river, approximately 1500 feet below us, echoed in the tranquil air. Gentle winds played with the leaves of the short vegetation, creating a serene melody.
Occasionally, the distant hum of helicopters descending from Everest Base Camp added to the peaceful ambiance. Standing at 15,000 feet, observing the lives of the people in this village, their daily trials and tribulations, left me humbled. It put into perspective the challenges they faced at such high altitudes. It was a profound experience that served as a lesson and an example.
Whenever I face difficulties back home, I'll reflect on Dingboche, its resilient residents, and the unimaginable challenges they tackle daily. This village has gifted me a perspective that will stay with me for years to come, a reminder to appreciate the resilience and strength within myself when facing life's adversities. Thank you, Dingboche, for humbling me and imparting this invaluable gift.
DAY EIGHT
Dingboche to Lobuche
The morning routine mirrored the preceding days: breakfast followed by a brisk walk up a small hill that provided a panoramic view of our journey. The trail traced along a shallow ridge, revealing the picturesque Peireche village on one side and a massive mountain shrouded in clouds on the other. Across the ridge, another substantial mountain, its peak persistently cloaked in fog, stretched as far as the eye could see. Today, however, I didn't feel my best. Despite the trail not being steep, I sensed a heaviness and found myself breathing harder to acquire the necessary oxygen. The air grew colder and sharper, leaving my hands cold and nose running. Yet, my spirits remained high, knowing that today's hike wasn't too strenuous, and nightfall would bring us closer to the day we'd reach Everest Base Camp.
Before lunch, we crossed a river that had previously flowed on our left far below. Lunch served as a much-needed energy boost and a well-deserved rest. Following lunch, the team began a steep ascent up a hillside leading to a pass. Everest, in its testing ways, seemed to challenge our endurance almost daily, and reaching this pass felt like overcoming another trial. At the top of the pass lay a memorial space dedicated to sherpas and others who lost their lives in the pursuit of climbing or supporting climbers. The atmosphere was cold and shrouded in fog, and we paused there briefly before continuing for another 45 minutes to our accommodation for the night.
The guesthouse was extremely cold, necessitating the donning of thermals, jackets, and crawling into sleeping bags. Even then, my hands remained cold. Dinner was served at 6, and soon after, it was lights out. Tomorrow marked the approach to Gorakshep, where we would leave our bags and embark on a short walk to Everest Base Camp. Despite battling a cold and aching back, nothing was going to deter me from the excitement of reaching Everest Base Camp. EBC, here we come.
Today's adventure promises a challenging ascent, beginning with a demanding climb past the imposing Khumbu Glacier, gradually leading you to the stunning destination of Nuptse. The journey will test your mettle as you navigate the rugged terrain, but the awe-inspiring scenery surrounding you makes it all worthwhile. After your ascent to Nuptse, your trek will take you across the Changri Glacier, where you'll continue toward Gorakshep. The landscape here is a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of the Himalayas, and every step brings you closer to your ultimate goal. Finally, you'll arrive at the pinnacle of your journey, the moment you've been working toward: reaching the legendary Everest Base Camp. This iconic destination marks a significant achievement and offers you an up-close encounter with the majestic Everest. The sense of accomplishment and the breathtaking views are sure to leave an indelible mark on your Himalayan expedition.
The First Leg
The day's trek presents a substantial challenge due to the higher altitude. As you continue your journey, the formidable Changri Glacier looms ahead, marking the path to Gorakshep at an elevation of 5,164 meters (approximately 16,946 feet). The air becomes thinner, and the terrain more demanding, but your determination propels you forward. By midday, the group will reach a small, typically frozen lake, offering a well-deserved opportunity to rest and acclimatize to the increasingly high altitude. This pause allows your body to adjust and prepares you mentally and physically for the upcoming endeavor: the final push to reach the legendary Everest Base Camp.
Walking distance - 5kms.
Time: 3 hours.
Elevation gain - 224m
Terrain: Mostly rocky and barren with scattered shrubs and vegetation.
The Second Leg
Following a satisfying lunch break, you'll embark on the eagerly anticipated trek to Everest Base Camp, which sits at an impressive altitude of 5,300 meters (approximately 17,388 feet). The route unfolds along the Khumbu Glacier, an awe-inspiring journey that offers unique glimpses of the glacier's intriguing features, including its impressive 15-meter (approximately 49-foot) high seracs of ice—characteristics that are distinctive to Himalayan glaciers. As you approach your destination, the anticipation and excitement grow, and with every step, you draw nearer to this iconic site. Upon reaching Everest Base Camp, you'll be greeted by the humbling presence of the world's highest peak, Mount Everest. This moment marks a significant achievement in your Himalayan adventure. After taking in the grandeur of Everest Base Camp, the group will begin their return journey to Gorakshep for a well-deserved overnight stay, reflecting on the remarkable experiences of the day.
Walking distance - 9kms.
Time: 4-5 hours.
Elevation gain - 136m
Terrain: Mostly rocky, barren with scattered boulders and glacial moraines. It involves crossing the Khumbu Glacier.
Lobuche to Gorak Shep to EBC Everest Base camp
The air was electrified with excitement on this cold, chilly morning. Today was the day—the day we would finally set foot on the sacred grounds of Everest Base Camp. It was the pivotal moment, the culmination of meticulous planning, tireless efforts, rigorous training, endured pain, and unyielding human resilience. Today, we would face some of the toughest tests and touch the rock at EBC.
The morning began with a short uphill hike and an hour of walking on the ridgeline over the same hill. Pheriche village lay below us, and beyond it, a river and a massive mountain, a familiar sight from previous trails. After a sharp right turn, we encountered a river crossing on a tiny bridge made of rocks, signaling it was time for lunch. Post-lunch, our journey continued with a 30-minute ascent up a somewhat steep hill, followed by a mix of hill and flat terrain until we reached the small settlement of Gorakship. Rooms were secured, bags dropped, and an early lunch was enjoyed at 11.
After lunch, we commenced the walk to Everest Base Camp. The path was relatively flat, with the dead glacier on our right side, a remnant of ice now replaced by a river of rocks. The iconic base camp rock, seen in countless photos, finally came into view—this moment, a surreal culmination of months of preparation, research, training, and anticipation since March. We covered a total distance of 100 kilometers through forests, hanging bridges, alpine deserts, enduring various weather conditions just to get here, and now, we stood at our ultimate destination.
As I touched the massive, cold rock, the sense of achievement was overwhelming. Carefully unfurling my beloved Afghanistan's flag from its storage, I fastened it around my hiking pole, and it waved proudly in the air. Climbing the rock, I let the flag dance in the cold air of Everest Base Camp, a moment that marked the pinnacle of this journey. Cheers and congratulations echoed from my team below, capturing the moment in photographs. Words couldn't capture the depth of emotions in that instant.
Standing there at the epicenter of Everest Base Camp, beside the iconic rock that embodies the essence of this sacred place, I found myself overwhelmed with emotions that are difficult to put into words. As I reached out and touch that rock, my fingers traced the imprints of countless dreams, hopes, and aspirations left behind by the fortunate souls who have stood in this very spot before me. The writings, the memories, the collective energy of those who have embarked on this awe-inspiring journey – it all converges here. in this very spot, the sounds of the past achivers echoed everywhere, it was as if I could heard them.
In this moment, I am suspended between Earth and sky, between reality and dreams. The enormity of this achievement, the sheer audacity of reaching this hallowed and sacred ground, was still sinking in. It was a feeling that transcended the ordinary, something truly out of this world.
This is a place where human spirit and nature's grandeur intersect, where ordinary individuals become part of an extraordinary legacy. It's a place where limits are tested, where dreams are realized, and where the heartbeat of adventure resonates in every stone and snowflake.
I am leaving this space here, a void waiting to be filled with the emotions and reflections that will come as I continue my journey in this extraordinary corner of the world. I might come and visit again.
We lingered around, taking more photos, before starting our journey back to Gorakship for the night. What a day it was—truly an unforgettable and triumphant day.
DAY NINE
Gorak Shep to Pheriche
Walking distance - 3kms.
Time: 3 hours.
Elevation gain - 480m.
Terrain: steep with rocky boulders.
After enduring a cold night in small wooden boxes that served as our rooms, each measuring about 8x8, we bid farewell to the village of Gorakship. The weather had prevented anyone from ascending Kalapattar, as snow and rain eliminated the chance of catching a glimpse of Mount Everest. Following breakfast, we embarked on our journey, with Pheriche as our destination.
The walk proved to be a mix of downhill stretches, uphill patches, river crossings, and green pastures. The weather was relentless, throwing wind, rain, and snow at us simultaneously. Despite wearing warm clothing, my gloves were not waterproof, leaving them wet and cold. Today marked another test, another opportunity to push our limits and gauge the extent of human resilience. Surprisingly, we made it to Pheriche around 2:30, either due to our swift pace or the biting cold pushing us to walk faster. I know the latter was true for me.
After warming up with some hot tea, I visited the village doctor to address my lingering cough. Fortunately, it was on its way out, and I received some light medication. Pheriche appeared to be a relatively newer village compared to the ones we had stayed in before, boasting an actual hospital undergoing renovation and staffed by a UK doctor.
Dinner was served, and we retired to our beds. Exhausted, I knew that tomorrow would bring the most challenging day of our trekking journey.
DAY TEN
Pheriche to Namche
Today was a make-it-or-break-it kind of day. We had a challenging trek ahead, covering about 20 kilometers with a mix of uphill climbs, downhill descents, varying speeds, and unpredictable terrain. Personally, I wasn't feeling my best. My knees were taking a toll, and the lingering effects of the cold made it difficult for me to get enough oxygen, especially during climbs. It was a genuine struggle.
In such moments, I reminded myself that this journey wasn't a race. The key was to take it one breath at a time, one step at a time. Embracing this mindset helped me navigate the difficulties of the day and persevere through the challenges.
DAY ELEVEN
Namche to Lukla
Walking distance - 9kms.
Time 5 hours. Elevation loss - 1005m
Terrain: Steep, mostly downhill with a few waterfalls.
Today presented another set of challenges for us. While the path was somewhat flat, there were sections that descended into canyons, demanding subsequent climbs up the opposite canyon wall. We encountered familiar sights—animals, people, and bridges along the way. Lunch was a welcome treat, providing much-needed sustenance.
After lunch, the walk continued, but my knees were becoming increasingly insistent that I should give up with every step. However, my stubbornness prevailed, as I couldn't fathom giving up after coming this far. Today marked the last leg of our journey. We reached our hotel close to dusk and enjoyed a fantastic dinner. We spent the evening hanging out, talking late into the night. By this point, the group had transformed into a close-knit family. We shared stories, laughter, teased each other, and made plans for future trips. It was a fun and lighthearted evening, sealing the bonds formed over the course of the trek.
DAY TWELVE
Fly to Kathmandu
As we bid farewell to the breathtaking Himalayas we caught a short flight back to Kathmandu, where the bustling city awaited us. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, we checked into another hotel since the previous hotel did not have enough room to accommodate everyone.
You might choose to explore the city's vibrant markets, indulging some shopping for souvenirs or local crafts. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Kathmandu by visiting historical sites and temples that dot the cityscape. If relaxation is your preference, consider unwinding at one of the many rooftop cafés, where you can sip on local beverages while soaking in the city's unique atmosphere.
As you look up at the sky, you might even catch sight of the planes taking off and landing, a reminder of the incredible journey you've just completed, soaring above the world's highest peaks. Your return to Kathmandu marks the end of your Himalayan adventure, and the city offers a delightful blend of experiences to help you savor the final moments of your trip.
YOU DID IT !!! :)
DAY THIRTEEN
Back in Kathmandu
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