While the trip presents a physical challenge, standing at the roof of the world is a special occasion unlike any other. The profound nature of the experience and the blissful moments are bound to be etched in your memories for a lifetime.
Trekking to Everest Base Camp
Falling in love with Nepal is remarkably easy. The land is filled with friendly people and the landscape is a natural anomaly of piercing mountain peaks, phenomenal rivers, lakes, and valleys. In fact, it is estimated that 75% of the country is covered by the Himalayas. One of the most notable in the Himalaya is Mount Everest at 29,032 feet (8,849 meters), known by the local Sherpa population as Chomolungma, meaning ‘Goddess Mother of the World.’ The allure of Mount Everest has been drawing Western travelers and mountaineers to the area since the 1920s. Our journey to Everest Base Camp takes us along a path that legendary explorers daringly trod, through villages steeped in the rich traditions and history of the Sherpa people, and in the vicinity of some of the world’s most mesmerizing peaks.
Upon arrival in the bustling capital of Nepal, Kathmandu, the cultural journey begins. The historic architecture of tiered red temples, golden towering stupas, and ancient monasteries intertwined with the intricate artwork that adorns these edifices is a sight to behold. The city hums with energy, from the surrounding mountains to the animated markets and bazaars. Kathmandu serves as a great introduction to Nepalese culture.
Our expedition begins with arrival in Lukla Here, where we embark on an eight-day hike, covering approximately 30 miles (48 km) of stunning flora and fauna. The rugged path ascends, introducing us to the captivating peaks looming overhead in every direction. We cross suspension bridges over raging rivers, marvel at the brightly colored prayer flags swaying in the breezy Himalayan wind, and stay in charming tea houses that embrace the mountain lifestyle and the culture of this area. We will encounter monasteries with chanting monks, shiny prayer wheels, and elaborately vibrant designs, and we will see the terrain subtly changes to high moraine features of built-up metaphorical rock, turquoise lakes, and distant glaciers.
Arriving at the base camp in Gorakshep, our high point at 16,942 feet (5,164 meters) is a momentous occasion. This marks the last stop before venturing into the extreme landscape that leads to the summits of these 8,000-plus-meter giants that take shape overhead. The lungs may tingle, and the accomplishment of climbing to such a significant destination is emotional and beautiful. While the trip presents a physical challenge, standing at the roof of the world is a special occasion unlike any other. The profound nature of the experience and the blissful moments are bound to be etched in your memories for a lifetime.
