Day 3 of Everest Hike: Acclimatisation day at Namche Bazaar

Our acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar was a well-deserved quieter day after the major climb from the day before. It was a strategic pause in our journey to allow our bodies to adjust to the increasing altitude and decreasing oxygen levels.

After a leisurely breakfast, we set out for our acclimatisation hike. After a relatively short but steep climb out of the town into the surrounding hills, and a walk along an enormous valley, we reached a vantage point that provided breathtaking panoramic views of snow capped Himalayan peaks. Ama Dablam's distinct pyramid-shaped summit, Lhotse's icy slopes, and the formidable Nuptse were all there, standing tall in their snowy glory. It was a mesmerising sight.

But the real star of the show was Everest, bathed in the light of the morning sun. It was an indescribable feeling to stand there, with the world's highest mountain right in front of us. The sense of accomplishment and the sheer beauty of the moment made it all worth it.

After taking in the views and snapping photos to capture the memory, we made our way onto a tea house called "Hotel Everest View" at 3880 metres for a refreshing drink which meant we had ascended a total of 430 metres that day. 

We then descended to a nearby village called Khumjung (3,790 metres). Russell discovered there was a geocache in the village so took us all on a treasure hunt. We also stopped by a school, funded by the Hillary foundation that does a great deal of good in Nepal, and gave the kids high fives.

The rest of the day was spent exploring Namche Bazaar and relaxing. The highlight was apple pie and real coffee at a local bakery.

Ascending out of Namche Bazaar on our acclimatisation hike

An ascent of 430 metres up the surrounding hill

Stunning views into the valley

Beautiful flowers along the path

The ubiquitous Himalayan crow

We reached a vantage point that provided breathtaking panoramic views of Himalayan peaks...

... including views of Mount Everest !

Me pointing at Mount Everest

We head onto the a tea house for more views and a refreshing drink

Stopping off at Khumjung on the way back (3,790 metres)

Meeting local school kids

Views of Namche Bazaar as we descended back to the town

Day 4 of Everest Hike: Namche Bazaar (3445m) to Tengboche (3850m)

The hike from Namche to Tengboche was a medium hard day.  When clear, this part of the hike offers extensive views of peaks but it was cloudy and misty for us.  Not that this mattered. It was cool and pleasant hiking conditions and the mist and cloud added to the atmosphere and made for some lovely photos. 

Leaving Namche Bazaar

Climbing up to and then walking along a valley

Stupors along the way

Stupas are sacred Buddhist structures that symbolize the enlightened mind of the Buddha. They are places of worship, meditation, and reverence for Buddhists.  Stupas are built at strategic locations along trekking routes and in villages to provide blessings and protection to travelers and communities. They are considered auspicious and are believed to ward off evil spirits.

Walking along a river

Birds and flowers along the way

Eurasian hoopoe

The going gets tough after lunch

The hike followed a familiar pattern with a relatively easy morning followed by lunch and a brutal climb at the end to get to our destination.  By now were were learning the secret. Climb steadily, but super slow, focusing only on the step at hand.

Reaching Tengboche and its beautiful monastery

On a clear day, Tengboche offers extraordinary views of Himalayan peaks but it was cloudy and misty when we arrived so the views were hidden. We stayed at a tea house right next to the famous Tengboche Monastery which we got to visit. It was an amazing and very spiritual experience.  The monks were in the midst of a prayer and chanting session in the inner sanctum when we entered.  We were allowed in and got to observe and listen close up.  Very special.