Last year, in 2019, I got an immense opportunity to trek at the base of the tallest peak in the world. It was shocking news for me because I was stepping into the Khumbu region which is mesmerizing and is worth visiting in itself.
Although I was born in Nepal, I had not been to the Himalayas frequently. This was my ample opportunity to trek there. Without any confusion, I said ‘yes to my office and rigorously waited for the wonderful journey. My dream was turning into reality to capture the close-up views of the giant peaks.
As Everest Base Camp Trek offers astonishing views of the mesmerizing landscapes, flora, and fauna of Sagarmatha National Park, explore the Himalayan lifestyles and cultures of Sherpas, there occur some obstacles as well. Hikers who are new in the Himalayas can have Altitude Sickness Problems in the thin air.
Everest Base Camp, a dream destination of many trekkers is situated at 5,364 m (17,598 ft) ASL. Along with this, trekkers enjoy the panoramic 360-degree views of the Himalayas with an astonishing sunrise view from Kala Patthar- the vantage point.
Our journey started from Lukla (2,800 m/9,184 ft)- a small town with a small airstrip. As the road is not connected to Lukla, we should fly there. It is only a 30 minutes’ thrilling flight over the snow-heap peaks.
Upon reaching there, I became surprised to see the crowd of the trekkers and the locals who were busy in their own way. The locals were marketing the gears required for the trip and the trekkers (guests, guides, and porters) were preparing for their journey.
We activated our journey following the main trail passing floppy suspension bridges, walking along with sides of the Dudh Koshi river, and passing the herds of Yaks and Zho. Such the herds of the Himalayan animals were my first experience.
We stopped our steps of the first day’s hike reaching Phakding 2,652 m (8,700 ft). The next day, we trekked towards Namche Bazaar (3,440 m/11,283 ft).
On the course, we followed the rocky forest trails, passed several woodlands of rhododendron trees, Mani walls, and enjoyed the whole atmosphere. Entering Sagarmatha National Park, we continued the journey to reach Namche Bazaar.
One of the largest towns of Solukhumbu district Namche Bazaar offers a plethora of services. I was surprised to see plenty of hotels, lodges, restaurants, bakeries, shops, and ATM services at that altitude. All the supplies and food are brought with the help of porters, animals, or helicopters.
Continuing the excursion, I could capture a 360-degree awe-aspiring glimpse of the Himalayas, well-known Buddhist monuments, multi-colored stupas, colorful prayer flags, and painted sarsens. As I expected, the journey was too strenuous, it did not feel such. Instead, I could view the panoramic views of the peaks and landscapes passing the remoteness.
Our team stayed a day in Namche Bazaar for acclimatization. This helped me to be prevented from Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Walking gradually, I did not feel drain but I could capture the panoramic views of the snow-clad peaks from different angles. Further marching towards the elevation, I could capture the close-up views of the gleaming peaks.
I could step my legs at the Base Camp on the 8th day afternoon. It remains on an enormous glacier. Several tents were set there as many expeditions were preparing for their ascent. As I heard there the glacial terrain changes timely, the excursionists change their tents every two weeks.
Exploring the gateway of the top of the world and my dream destination, we got back to Gorekshep. The next day waking up early, we moved towards Kala Patthar 5,644 m (18,519 ft) for the morning views.
The first rays of the sun over giant peaks including the Everest, Cho yu, Nuptse, Lhotse were enthralling. Stepping Kala Patthar experienced me a lifetime memory. Afterward we got back to Gorekshep and further to Dingboche. Descending 3 days more, we reached Lukla before flying to Kathmandu.
Being adventurous, this trip is not untouched with some hazards as well. Lukla airstrip is considered one of the most dangerous airports worldwide. Flying above the Himalayas and land to the lower part offers a thrilling experience. Ascending to Kala Patthar, walking through rocky hills was somehow challenging but I could manage as I hiked at my own pace resting several places.
Trekkers take Altitude sickness as a major concern. Our company had kept two superfluous days which abetted us accustomed to the high raise. This itinerary was helpful for us to be accustomed to the air as it grew thinner in the alpine atmosphere.
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