A Journey to Everest Base Camp: Trekking Through the Himalayas
This was the final of my 13 challenges in 10 months in memory of my sister (link here) - https://www.gofundme.com/f/raise-awareness-of-zoe-panayi-zoes-law
A tough couple of weeks carrying this out and one of the most rewarding experiences of my life!!
We landed in Katmandu and spent a day sightseeing to the monkey temple, then relaxed to prepare for what was to come! Below is a breakdown of my experience on Mt Everest with Active Mountaineering.
Day 1: Lukla 2860m - Phakding 2610m
The adventure began with a breathtaking flight into Lukla (turns out this is the most dangerous airport in the world!), offering stunning views of the majestic mountains. After a quick tea break, the trek commenced, stopping for a delicious mixed pizza and chips lunch. We crossed three swing bridges and reached Pineforest Hotel, encountering a bit of rain towards the end.
Time: 2.22, Distance: 5.57 miles, Elevation: 280m
Day 2: Phakding 2610m - Namche 3500m
Despite the freezing room, equipped with a trusty hot water bottle, we started with a hearty breakfast before tackling a challenging uphill trek. Lunch at Bishal Restaurant featured mushroom pizza and chips. Amidst encounters with donkeys and swing bridges, we arrived at Namche, indulging in mac n cheese and apple pie for dinner.
Time: 4.30, Distance: 8.61 miles, Elevation: 1063m
Day 3: Namche Acclimatization Day
A surprising amount of walking awaited us on this acclimatization day, culminating in breathtaking views from Syangboche viewpoint. After a leisurely lunch with tuna pizza, we explored the local shops, marveling at the steep prices.
Time: 2.15, Distance: 3.22 miles, Elevation: 412m
Day 4: Namche 3500m - Dibuche 3800m
Fueling up with pancakes and eggs, we embarked on another uphill journey, punctuated by stunning lunch views. Despite the inclines, we pressed on to Dibuche, completing a challenging day.
Time: 4.35, Distance: 9.6 miles, Elevation: 915m
Day 5: Dibuche 3800m - Dingbuche 4410m
A cold start gave way to an early lunch break before reaching Dingbuche ahead of schedule. With time to spare, I indulged in reading Will Smith's biography.
Time: 2.58, Distance: 5.63 miles, Elevation: 621m
Day 6: Dingbuche Acclimatization Day
Despite battling altitude-induced headaches, we ascended Nakarsang Hill, followed by a descent back to Dingbuche.
Time: 1.56, Distance: 2.02 miles, Elevation: 329m
Day 7: Dingbuche 4410m to Lobuche 5050m
An early start led us to a mid-morning sandwich break, followed by a warm night's rest at Pyramid Hotel, preparing for the next day's early ascent.
Time: 3.57, Distance: 7.06 miles, Elevation: 731m
Day 8: Lobuche 5050m - Kala Pattar 5545m - Everest Base Camp 5364m
Beginning at 5:30 am, we embarked on a monumental journey, reaching Everest Base Camp and conquering Kala Pattar for an extra challenge, despite battling altitude sickness.
Day 9: Gorekshep 5150m - Pangboche 3950m
Enduring headaches, we persevered through a long day of trekking, finally reaching Pangboche.
Time: 5.40, Distance: 12.76 miles, Elevation: 222m
Day 10: Pangboche 3950m - Namche 3500m
With an early start, we covered the distance in record time, fueled by determination and adrenaline.
Time: 4.03, Distance: 10.64 miles, Elevation: 562m
Day 11: Namche 3500m - Phakding 2610m
Enjoying warm and sunny weather, we embarked on the penultimate leg of our journey, relishing the sights along the way.
Time: 3.05, Distance: 8.14 miles, Elevation: 890m
Day 12: Phakding 2610m to Lukla 2800m
Completing our epic adventure with a final descent to Lukla, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of the past twelve days.
Time: 1.29, Distance: 5.82 miles, Elevation: 426m
Embarking on this journey to Everest Base Camp taught me the power of perseverance, the beauty of nature, and the importance of setting micro-goals to achieve macro success.
