Trip Reports

High Passes to Everest - 9 Oct to 1 Nov '09

Written by Leader Deborah Laugharne, November 2009

It was a hectic scene in Heathrow airport as four Jagged Globe expedition teams assembled, very quickly the individual teams met and after introductions and nervous smiles we were on our way for an exciting challenging three week trek. The route passes through some of the most stunning scenery in the area providing physically challenging trekking with daily rewards of pristine mountain views.

After a remarkably smooth transfer to Lukla time was spent organising loads and introducing our local team of Sherpas and Porters before setting off at a leisurely pace to Phatding. Our gentle ascent to Namche bazaar prepared us well for the increase in altitude and a happy healthy team spent the next day exploring the markets and acclimatising further by trekking above Namche Bazaar.

As we trekked further up the valley the weather improved and throughout the expedition we had windless clear conditions perfect for the photographers in the team. There were emotional scenes at the top of the Renjo La as a tired team reached the top again to rewarded by perfect views of Everest and down the valley to Gokyo, our home for the next few days.

Our time at Gokyo allowed us to walk up Gokyo Ri at first light and take a well earned rest day before tackling the Cho La again in perfect conditions. Crossing the Cho La was a challenging day but due to good acclimatisation the team coped very well and were ready for the following trek to Everest base Camp.

With two nights at Gorak Shep we had plenty of time to climb Kala Pattar for sunset and walk to Everest base camp the following day fulfilling our final aim of the expedition. A happy team then started the descent back to Lukla spending a night in Pangboche allowing us to visit the Pamgboche Monastery and Primary School on the way. Much cake eating took place at Tengboche bakery before visiting the Lama in his house alongside the Monastery which was a special touch to the day. Many thanks to Lapka!

After a fun night with our local team in Lukla we on our way back to Kathmandu in time for breakfast at the Summit Hotel The Summit Hotel provided a warm welcome as ever and over the following two days the team had time to reflect and enjoy a bit of luxury before heading home.

Many thanks to the team and I look forward to hearing when the first reunion is!

Deborah Laugharne, Trek Leader « Previous report | Next report »

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