Day #11 - Everest BaseCamp
Tuesday, March 1, 2022
Itinerary: Dingboche to Labuche
Elevation: 14,042’ to 16,207’
It’s 3:30pm - I’m sitting in the lounge of the Pyramid Inn in Labuche (Elevation: 16,207’). I’m exhausted. The altitude is certainly affecting me right now. Our group of 9 (myself, Greg, Liam, Korby, Priscilla, John, Margot, Ann, Leah) got into camp at 3pm. We’re drinking hot tea. There’s very little conversation - everybody is spent.
It’s now 5:30pm - I’m back in the lounge after getting my room situated. I’m staying with Greg and Korby tonight. This place has a variety of 3 & 4-bed rooms - so I am split up from Warren tonight.
The day started off at 8am from Dingboche. The morning portion of the hike had a gradual incline; therefore, it was really enjoyable. The scenery was spectacular as we worked our way up the Khumba Valley. I took a ton of pictures. After a relaxing lunch, the afternoon trek was again extremely brutal. We gained 1,200 feet in only 3 miles or so. I had my first experience where I just couldn’t quite keep up with the lead pack. I did better before getting into the hotel - but I definitely need to slow down and manage my oxygen intake.
There’s a lot of anxiety and uneasiness amongst the group right now. All 20 of us are still standing - but nobody is 100%. I have a major sore throat and cough. (They say it’s the Khumba cough - about half the group has it). Tomorrow we push to Everest BaseCamp. I’m hoping to get some good sleep tonight - and make it happen.
It’s interesting in the lounge right now. There’s a guy (Dom) here acclimatizing for an upcoming Everest bid in April. Really cool to here his stories. There’s also a German guy (Yost) who is attempting to do a solo ascent of Everest in the winter along the West Ridge. Do to extreme conditions - he wasn’t able to summit this year. He’s actually on his way down the mountain to Kathmandu- it’s just a crazy coincidence he is here this evening.
Wi-fi is out in the whole Khumba Valley. I’m continuing to write the blog everyday - and will post promptly when possible.
I wish I could touch base with my family and friends - I could use a little inspiration right now. That’s OK - I’ll be thinking of you tomorrow.
“You know - when I’m on that trail - and my head is hurting, my legs are hurting, and I’m struggling to keep on my feet from fatigue - I’m thinking - man, just send the helicopter and get me off this mountain. But then, there’s this side that comes out - this side that wants to continue on, wants to go that 1 more mile —- because going those few extra miles when you don’t think you can - that’s what makes all the difference in your life”.
Keep the Faith out there!!!!
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