Classic Everest Base Camp Trek 25th March 2023

Classic Everest Base Camp 25th March 2023

Leader: Dave Pritt

5th April 2023 - Congratulations to the team on reaching Base Camp!

On a glorious morning the team arrived at Base Camp, the timing was perfect with the sun just rising! They left Gorak Shep early this morning and climbed through the moraine on the last stage of the journey to Everest Base Camp. It is a glorous feeling to be there and a real sence of achievment has filled the group, They will remember this moment with fond memories.

Once back down to Gorak shep the team decided to push on and have descended to what will now seem the luxurious surroundings in Dingboche.

4th April 2023 - Gorak Shep & Kala Patthar

After a hearty breakfast and tea, we set out on the trail that would take us to Gorak Shep, our destination for the day. The first part of the journey was relatively easy, as we followed the gently undulating path that wound its way through the rocky terrain. After several hours of trekking, we arrived at Gorak Shep, a small and bustling settlement that serves as a base camp for trekkers and climbers who are attempting to summit Everest. Here, we took a well-deserved break and replenished our energy, but our journey was not over yet. We had one final destination to reach before the day was done - the summit of Kala Patthar, the highest point on our trek and the best place to witness the sunset over Everest.

And then, as the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we saw it - the sight we had come all this way to witness. The golden glow of the setting sun illuminated the snow-capped peak of Everest, turning it a deep shade of orange and casting a warm and welcoming light over the entire landscape.

As the sun disappeared below the horizon, we made our way back down to Gorak Shep. Tomorrow we will visit base camp and then descend to Dingboche on our return journey to Lukla.

3rd April 2023 - An Emotional day at the memorial cairns.

The team have arrived at Lobuche village, in good spirits and enough energy for the brave ones to wash their hair. The team trekked along the trail taking in the amazing views and initially following the Imja Khola river. They then gradually ascended towards Duglha and from there the trail becomes steeper and more challenging as they climb towards the Kyumbu Glacier

Along the way they passed through memorials and cairns dedicated to climbers who have lost their lives attempting to summit Everest. An emotional day for the team.

The lodge rooms are really cosy and warm ready for a cold night ahead.

2nd April 2023 - A Jaunt to Pheriche

As the team set out from Dingboche, they were greeted with a blanket of snow under their feet, a result of the previous night's snowfall. The sun was shining brightly, and the blue skies above created a stunning contrast with the snow. The air was crisp and cold, and the team could feel the chill in their bones, but their spirits were high, knowing that the views that awaited them were worth the effort.

As the team neared Pheriche, they could see the small village nestled in a valley, surrounded by snow-covered peaks. The village is at an altitude of 4,240 meters and is another popular stopover for trekkers heading to Everest Base Camp. The team took a break at a teahouse and enjoyed a hot cup of tea, taking in the stunning views around them.

After spending some time in Pheriche, the team retraced their steps back to Dingboche and welcomed their solar-heated brew.

1st April 2023 - Snow on The Trail

As the team departed the teahouse this morning, snow fell from the sky. However, the weather eventually cleared up as they trekked along the trail to Dingboche (4410m). The surrounding flora and fauna underwent a dramatic transformation in this region, featuring more of an alpine desert than the forested landscapes found around and below Deboche. Throughout the journey, the towering presence of Ama Dablam could be seen on the far bank of the Imja Khola. Along the way, one of the porter team had bit of a slip and injured his arm, so Dave kindly swapped bags with him, so he could rest his arm.

Tomorrow is another acclimatisation/rest day for the team, typically this will comprise of a walk up the ridge line behind Dinboche, where you can easily get to 5000m in a relatively short amount of time.

31st March 2023 - The team have arrived in Pangboche

Today the team left Namche Bazaar, following the trail looking down on the Dudh Koshi River. The trail ascends gradually with great views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.

The trail then descends to the Imja River and to Phunki Thanga before climbing steeply to the village of Tengboche, which is famous for its monastery.

After Tengboche, the trail descends to Debuche and then climbs back up to Pangboche, which is a small Sherpa village. Along the way, they passed through rhododendron forests and small settlements.

Pangboche is a great place to spend the night with amazing views of Ama Dablam

On the trail with Ama Dablam in the backround

30th March 2023 - Views Of Everest

The team visited the Tenzing Norgay statue this morning and were rewarded with some spectacular views of Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse & Ama Dablam. They walked over to the old airstrip at Syangboche and then paid a visit to the Everest View Hotel for a spot of lunch. Sadly the clouds came in and blocked the view while they were there. They are now back relaxing in the comforts of Namche for their second night.

Acclimatisation Above Namche Bazar

29th March 2023 - Trek to Namche Bazaar

Today the team continue to follow the Dudh Kosi River, trekking through dense forests, criss crossing suspension bridges, and passing through small Sherpa settlements. The first part of the trek is relatively easy, with gradual ascents and descents, making it a great warm-up for what's to come.

After about 3 hours of trekking, the team reached the small village of Monjo, where they had to register at the Sagarmatha National Park checkpoint. This is where groups usually get their first glimpse of the majestic Mt. Everest, the highest mountain in the world. From Monjo, the trail starts to get steeper and more challenging as it follows the Bhote Kosi River upstream.

After crossing another suspension bridge, the team arrived at Jorsale, a small village located at an altitude of 2,740 meters. A fine spot for taking a lunch break and refueling for the remaining part of the trek. From Jorsale, the trail continued to climb steeply through dense forests of rhododendron and pine trees.

As we approached Namche Bazar, the team began to see more and more of the towering peaks of the Himalayas. Namche Bazar is a bustling Sherpa market town located at an altitude of 3,440 meters. It is the gateway to the Everest region and a hub for trekkers and climbers. The town is famous for its vibrant markets, where trekkers can find everything from hiking gear to souvenirs.

Namche Bazar is also a great place to acclimatize to the altitude before continuing on the trek. Tomorrow we will explore the town's monasteries, museums, cafes, and take a hike up to the Everest View Hotel for a the opportunity to take in the stunning panoramic view of the mountains.

28th March 2023 - The Team are on the Trail

After the early morning drive to Ramachape, the team made the the flight to the Tenzing-Hillary Airport at Lukla, which is considered one of the most dangerous airports in the world due to its short runway and high altitude. Lukla is a small town situated at an altitude of 2,860 meters above sea level. It is the gateway to the Everest region and the starting point of many trekking expeditions.

After landing in Lukla, the team began their journey towards Phakding. The trail starts with a steep descent towards the Dudh Koshi River, which is a glacier-fed river that originates in the Everest region. The trail is well-defined and lined with prayer flags, mani stones, and chortens. These traditional symbols of the Buddhist religion are a common sight throughout the trek.

The first part of the trek is relatively easy and mostly downhill. The trail passes through small villages and dense forests of rhododendron and pine trees. Along the way, the team came across several suspension bridges that cross the Dudh Koshi River. These bridges can be quite exhilarating to cross, as they sway with the movement of people and animals.

Phakding is a small village located at an altitude of 2,610 metres above sea level. As the team approached Phakding, the trail became steeper and more challenging, but they were encouraged by the sight of their welcoming accommodation and the chance of a refreshing hot brew.

27th March 2023 - The Team have arrived.

Yesterday the team arrived in Kathmandu. The transfer from the airport gave them their first introduction to the sights and sounds of the city. The honking of car horns, the colourful and bustling streets, and the beautiful architecture all vied for their attention.

Today the team are out on tour to see the best sights of Kathmandu they will see the unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist cultures, with ornate temples and shrines scattered throughout the city. Visiting Boudhanath Stupa, also known as Bodnath. This iconic structure is one of the largest stupas in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. it's striking white dome and golden spire, adorned with colorful prayer flags. The area surrounding the stupa bustles with activity, with street vendors selling souvenirs, monks walking around in their maroon robes, and locals performing their daily prayers and rituals.

This evening the group will attend a cultural evening sampling the local cuisine and perhaps even joining with the dancing.

22nd March 2023 - The team are getting ready to fly out to Nepal

Excitement is building as Dave and the team will fly out this weekend, ready for the adventure of a lifetime.