Today we hiked from Phakding to Namche Bazaar. It was a 7 hour amazing hike that lead us along the river for about 4 hours then up for about 3. We started the day at about 8,500 ft and ended at about 11,400 ft. As we got above 10,000 ft you could begin the feel the altitude, but it wasn’t too bad until the last 500 ft then you really felt it. Tomorrow we stay in Namche again (2 nights), but we do a acclimatization climb to about 13,000 ft. Then come back down to sleep. We need our bodies to adjust as we will begin to really start to get into some altitude in the coming days. It’s hard to believe, but we still have 8-9 days before we get to base camp. Wow.
The hike today ways amazing. One beautiful view after another. I was trying to figure out what pictures to show, but there are just too many to tell the full story. We stayed along the river for quite a while with beautiful little tea houses and homes along the way. We also got our first glimpse of Everest although you could see much due to the clouds. Was exciting to see some of where we are going – and it looks very high. I thought I was being so touristy taking photo after photo, but one of the ladies who is summiting for her second time was taking as many as me. To all who come this place is magical.
I am getting to travel and stay with the folks who are summiting because I am with my friend john. This is not normal. Usually, the Trekkers are separate and do not get to stay at base camp. They usually go up and touch the rock and come right back down. I get 2 nights at base camp which should be fun and cold! It is very humbling as the 10-12 folks who are summiting all have incredible stories. It is about half women and half men. Each has climbed most of the summits of the world. I am really enjoying talking to them about there travels about getting to know them.
Our guides are also very special. Vern tajas is our lead. He used to hold the world record for the shortest period of time in summiting the 7 highest summits of the seven continents. He has also para sailed off each of the summits. Crazy. Another guide is a Sherpa named Lakpa. He has summited Everest 18 times. This will be his 19th. His brother holds the record for Everest summits with 21. It is very cool to be among climbing royalty.
The path thus far has been busy with people, yaks, and Sherpas carrying incredible loads of materials and bags on their heads or backs. A couple of guys were carrying 6 ft by 4 ft plywood boards. They carried them on their backs bent over. This isn’t easy climbing. I can’t even imagine doing what they were doing for 100 yards, much less miles like they do. Makes you very grateful for the opportunities we get in the states. Kids, make sure to stay in school and study hard!
