Day #6 - Everest BaseCamp
Thursday, February 24, 2022
Itinerary- Phakding to Namche Bazar
Elevation: 8,661’ to 11,319’
It’s 6:20pm - sitting in the lounge of the Comfort Inn in Namche Bazar. It’s not a Comfort Inn that we all our familiar with - this place is less than spectacular. The bathroom (which is community) requires you turn the water on manually to fill the tank - there’s also a layer of ice on the floor - we may need to wear microspikes in the middle of the night.
Honestly - my expectations are quite low with regard to accommodations. The fact we have a building to sleep in and something other than an outhouse - A+ stuff. There’s no heat (there won’t be heat anywhere we stay), you can buy internet for $5 - but it’s barely functional, rooms have lights and electrical outlets- but the lights have burned out bulbs and produce little light while the electrical plug only works if the adapter is secured with some outside device.
(Note - we were just told we’ll be moving places in the morning due to the conditions!)
I’m currently laying in my sleeping bag at 7:50pm after dinner. It’s probably 20 degrees in my room (still rooming with Warren). I’m basically writing the blog inside the bag to keep from freezing. We’re at 11,319’ - and weather is coming in tomorrow. Expected snow tomorrow afternoon and overnight - maybe around 3-4 inches.
Tomorrow is a Zero Day. It’s scheduled as a planned rest day in Namche Bazar to allow for proper acclimitization as we continue to higher elevations. We’re still set to go out on a couple excursions to get the blood flowing, visit a monastery, and hopefully get our first views of Everest.
Today was a really solid effort. We hiked 7 miles, was on trail 8 hours, and did roughly 2,700’ of vertical ascent. The views continue to impress as we make our way up the Khumba Valley. We have been walking across a number of bridges which span from one cliff face to the other. As you’re walking across, the bridge is swaying and moving under your feet. I can’t look down at the raging river and rocks below - I just face forward and keep moving slowly. On one of the bridges - S2Mountaineering had provided a prayer flag that we all signed. The prayer flags were then strung out on the bridge and secured for years to come. Very cool - my name will be on a prayer flag for all future Everest climbers as they head up the mountain.
I’m feeling pretty good - all things considered. The rest day tomorrow is huge. I’m only 6,300’ from Everest BaseCamp - but it’s another 6 days before we get there. I really like how they have set up the schedule - it maximizes are chances of success.
Keep the Faith! To health and strength - in getting me through this journey.
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