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From the Matterhorn to the Himalayas
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Matterhorntól a Himalájáig / 1989 - 2016
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Matterhorntól a Himalájáig / 1989 - 2016
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Published on Dec 19, 2016
Starring: Hunter Mann Dempster | Jayson Dudas | Bryan Dudas
When my older brother Jayson asked if I could join to trek the base camp of Mt. Everest in Nepal, I was hesitant. Jayson so far has traveled 156 countries; Nepal being #149. He plans to reach all 196 countries of the world in the next year.
The trek begins in Lukla at 2,860 metres (9,383 ft) and continue for 38 miles to the Everest Base Camp and an alternative 2 hours to Kalapatthar lookout, which is 5,545 metres (18,192 ft).
63 years ago , May 29, 1953, Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay were first to reach
the summit of Mount Everest.
On 26th May, 2016 Jayson, Hunter and I made our last 2 hour leg from Gorak Shep, a small settlement towards Everest Base Camp sitting at 5,364 metres (17,598 ft) on our 5th day departing Lukla.
God surrounded us with beauty. We trekked along the rocky terrain of the Khumbu Glacier with a temperature of 40F (4.4C) dropping to 29F (-1.6C) at night. Trekking on the peaks of the world’s highest mountains was constantly a tough challenge both physically and mentally. Perhaps even emotionally.
At high altitudes the sunlight was intense, cold winds buffeted from every direction and the difficulty breathing leaved a headache awakening each morning. However there is nothing to trade for this incredible experience with my brother Jayson and his friend Hunter.
our accent towards EBC, we met up with a Sherpa guide who just summited Mount Everest for the 10th time. We congratulated him and exchange personal details.
We finally arrived at our destination alongside the Khumbu Glacier of Everest Base Camp. The pile of rocks sitting at our feet with prayer flags of the infamous Khumbu Ice Fall in spring is home to some 30 teams (hundreds of climbers and support staff) aspiring to climb to the summit of Everest.
Within minutes after taking pictures/interviews, Jayson, Hunter and I further explored the Khumbu Ice Fall and the region around Everest Base Camp.
I cannot fully begin to grasp what we had experienced. In our own pictures and video clips, I hope to share as vividly as possible in this 1 hour 10 minute film.
The breathtaking beauty of the snow-covered peaks, the unmatched generosity of the local villages, and the sense of peace and contentment that came with slowing making one’s way through the many foot hills of the Himalayas. It was an experience that will stay with us forever.
And that’s the beauty of experience. To truly understand it, you must live it.
Allow it to become part of who you are.
-BDudasProductions 2016
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Published on Dec 19, 2016
Starring: Hunter Mann Dempster | Jayson Dudas | Bryan Dudas
When my older brother Jayson asked if I could join to trek the base camp of Mt. Everest in Nepal, I was hesitant. Jayson so far has traveled 156 countries; Nepal being #149. He plans to reach all 196 countries of the world in the next year.
The trek begins in Lukla at 2,860 metres (9,383 ft) and continue for 38 miles to the Everest Base Camp and an alternative 2 hours to Kalapatthar lookout, which is 5,545 metres (18,192 ft).
63 years ago , May 29, 1953, Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay were first to reach
the summit of Mount Everest.
On 26th May, 2016 Jayson, Hunter and I made our last 2 hour leg from Gorak Shep, a small settlement towards Everest Base Camp sitting at 5,364 metres (17,598 ft) on our 5th day departing Lukla.
God surrounded us with beauty. We trekked along the rocky terrain of the Khumbu Glacier with a temperature of 40F (4.4C) dropping to 29F (-1.6C) at night. Trekking on the peaks of the world’s highest mountains was constantly a tough challenge both physically and mentally. Perhaps even emotionally.
At high altitudes the sunlight was intense, cold winds buffeted from every direction and the difficulty breathing leaved a headache awakening each morning. However there is nothing to trade for this incredible experience with my brother Jayson and his friend Hunter.
our accent towards EBC, we met up with a Sherpa guide who just summited Mount Everest for the 10th time. We congratulated him and exchange personal details.
We finally arrived at our destination alongside the Khumbu Glacier of Everest Base Camp. The pile of rocks sitting at our feet with prayer flags of the infamous Khumbu Ice Fall in spring is home to some 30 teams (hundreds of climbers and support staff) aspiring to climb to the summit of Everest.
Within minutes after taking pictures/interviews, Jayson, Hunter and I further explored the Khumbu Ice Fall and the region around Everest Base Camp.
I cannot fully begin to grasp what we had experienced. In our own pictures and video clips, I hope to share as vividly as possible in this 1 hour 10 minute film.
The breathtaking beauty of the snow-covered peaks, the unmatched generosity of the local villages, and the sense of peace and contentment that came with slowing making one’s way through the many foot hills of the Himalayas. It was an experience that will stay with us forever.
And that’s the beauty of experience. To truly understand it, you must live it.
Allow it to become part of who you are.
-BDudasProductions 2016
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Himalayas / May 20. to May 29. 2016
Himalayas / May 20. to May 29. 2016
Himalayas / Nature | |
File Size: | 6753 kb |
File Type: | pps |
Himalayas / May 20. to May 29. 2016
We Reached the Everest Base Camp / 5362 Meter / 17591.86 Feet
Bryan, Jayson and Hunter Mann Dempster / May 27. 2016
Everest Base Camp / 5362 Meter / 17591.86 Feet
Bryan, Hunter and Jayson / May 27. 2016
Bryan, Hunter and Jayson / May 27. 2016
Jayson and Bryan / Everest Base Camp / 5362 Meter / 17591.86 Feet
Jayson / Everest Base Camp / 5362 Meter / 17591.86 Feet
Jayson and Hunter Mann Dempster in Europe - 2014
"I don't do Facebook or Twitter I have a Life"
"I don't do Facebook or Twitter I have a Life"
Hunter, Jayson and Bryan May 27. 2016
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World’s Largest Human National Flag - Nepal
http://www.nepalmountainnews.com/cms/2014/08/23/worlds-largest-human-national-flag-nepal/
Made from 35 000 Nepali Citizens.
NEPAL / N= Never / E= End / P= Peace / A= And / L= Love
World’s Largest Human National Flag - Nepal
http://www.nepalmountainnews.com/cms/2014/08/23/worlds-largest-human-national-flag-nepal/
Made from 35 000 Nepali Citizens.
NEPAL / N= Never / E= End / P= Peace / A= And / L= Love
Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal
Nepal is the ... Wikipedia / Capital: Kathmandu / Population: 27.8 million (2013)
https://tubbytrek.wordpress.com
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Nepal is the ... Wikipedia / Capital: Kathmandu / Population: 27.8 million (2013)
https://tubbytrek.wordpress.com
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Why are so many climbers still dying on Everest?
http://www.smh.com.au/comment/why-are-so-many-climbers-still-dying-on-everest-20160525-gp43au.html
https://everestbasecamptrekking2012.wordpress.com/2012/12/03/day-11-gorak-shep-5160m-to-kala-pattar-5550m-to-down-to-pangboche-3930m-khumbu-nepal/
Why are so many climbers still dying on Everest?
http://www.smh.com.au/comment/why-are-so-many-climbers-still-dying-on-everest-20160525-gp43au.html
https://everestbasecamptrekking2012.wordpress.com/2012/12/03/day-11-gorak-shep-5160m-to-kala-pattar-5550m-to-down-to-pangboche-3930m-khumbu-nepal/
The world's most - climbed mountains
http://www.topinspired.com/top-10-mountains-you-should-climb/2/
http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/top10/climbs
http://www.topinspired.com/top-10-mountains-you-should-climb/2/
http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/top10/climbs
- Mount Khuiten, Mongolia / 14350 feet (4374 meters).
- Kilimanjaro, Tanzania / 19,340 feet (5,899 meters) high.
- The Andes, Peru / 22,841 feet (6,962 meters).
- Mount Everest, Nepal / 29,035 feet (8,856 meters) above sea level.
- The Matterhorn, Switzerland / 4,478 meters (14,690 ft)
- Mount Elbrus, Russia / 18,510 feet / 5641 meters.
- Cilaltépetl and Iztaccíhuatl, Mexico / The first is 18,406 feet (5,614 meters).
- Denali, Alaska / Mount McKinley, 20,320 feet (6,194 meters).
- Annapurna, Nepal / 17,599 feet; 5,368 meters).
- Damavand, Iran / 18,400 feet (5,612 meters) to more than 19,000 feet (5,795 meters).
Jayson & Bryan / Matterhorn / Switzerland / 1988
Jayson's Departure
On the Way to India on the Airplane / Thursday, May 19, 2016
Lukla Airport
Newark Intl'l / to Indira Gandhi Int'l / India / Departure: 09:45PM EDT / Thursday, May 19, 2016
Arrival in New Delhi / India 09:09PM / Duration: 13 hours 54 minutes / Friday, May 20, 2016
On the Way to Katmandu / From New Delhi / Air India 213 / Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport
to Katmandu / Tribhuvan Int'l Airport. 06:40AM IST / 08:20 AM NPT
Duration: 1 hour 25 minutes / Saturday, May 21, 2016
Arrival in New Delhi / India 09:09PM / Duration: 13 hours 54 minutes / Friday, May 20, 2016
On the Way to Katmandu / From New Delhi / Air India 213 / Indira Gandhi Int'l Airport
to Katmandu / Tribhuvan Int'l Airport. 06:40AM IST / 08:20 AM NPT
Duration: 1 hour 25 minutes / Saturday, May 21, 2016
Bryan's Departure
Bryan's Departure / China Eastern 598 / Vancouver Int'l to Shanghai Pudong Int'l
8 hr 22 min / Wednesday, May 18, 2016 / To Katmandu / 757 to KTM
From Shanghai / Kunming Changshui Int'l / Gate 70 / KTM / Katmandu / Tribhuvan Int'l
02:30PM CST / Duration: 2 hours 40 minutes / Thursday, May 19, 2016
8 hr 22 min / Wednesday, May 18, 2016 / To Katmandu / 757 to KTM
From Shanghai / Kunming Changshui Int'l / Gate 70 / KTM / Katmandu / Tribhuvan Int'l
02:30PM CST / Duration: 2 hours 40 minutes / Thursday, May 19, 2016
Stuck in Kathmandu
Bryan / Thursday, May 19, 2016 / 10:39 PM
So far the flights have been delayed due to weather in Lukla.
We will remain at the domestic terminal until 16:00h. Maybe try tomorrow.
I risked earlier on taking a mountain flight for 200 USD to fly near the Himalaya mountains while the flight to Lukla was delayed. I returned and the flight was still delayed. Everyone was envious of my risky decision as it was the only seat available in the plane. I took some beautiful photos of Everest in the distance with my phone and shoot camera.
If the flight is cancelled today, I will have to make better timing to EBC to make it back in time for my flight out June 2 Thursday at 4:15pm.
May find Jayson sooner. Hopefully weather will be okay. It was thunder and rain last night. The clouds are low near the mountains. / Until later.
Bryan / Thursday, May 19, 2016 / 10:39 PM
So far the flights have been delayed due to weather in Lukla.
We will remain at the domestic terminal until 16:00h. Maybe try tomorrow.
I risked earlier on taking a mountain flight for 200 USD to fly near the Himalaya mountains while the flight to Lukla was delayed. I returned and the flight was still delayed. Everyone was envious of my risky decision as it was the only seat available in the plane. I took some beautiful photos of Everest in the distance with my phone and shoot camera.
If the flight is cancelled today, I will have to make better timing to EBC to make it back in time for my flight out June 2 Thursday at 4:15pm.
May find Jayson sooner. Hopefully weather will be okay. It was thunder and rain last night. The clouds are low near the mountains. / Until later.
Happy day / Saturday, May 21, 2016 / From Bryan / 6:50 PM
Made it into Lukla on the 6:15 AM flight. going to try and get to Namche Bazaar. The Sun is shining.
Saturday, May 21, 2016 / 4:09 AM
I made it safely at 15:30 into Namche Bazaar at 3440 Meters / 11286 Feet. I'm staying at the Khumbu Lodge (See Pictures). I have a headache but was planning anyways to stay here tomorrow to acclimate.
Very nice people. Jayson ... Walk through past the Everest Bakery up the hill and take next left,
you will see it on the left hand side.
ROUTE: LUKLA -- PHAKDING -- MONJE -- NAMCHE BAZAAR / 3440 meters
Made it into Lukla on the 6:15 AM flight. going to try and get to Namche Bazaar. The Sun is shining.
Saturday, May 21, 2016 / 4:09 AM
I made it safely at 15:30 into Namche Bazaar at 3440 Meters / 11286 Feet. I'm staying at the Khumbu Lodge (See Pictures). I have a headache but was planning anyways to stay here tomorrow to acclimate.
Very nice people. Jayson ... Walk through past the Everest Bakery up the hill and take next left,
you will see it on the left hand side.
ROUTE: LUKLA -- PHAKDING -- MONJE -- NAMCHE BAZAAR / 3440 meters
Namche Bazaar / 3440 Meters / 11286 Feet.
In Namche Bazaar
Khumbu Lodge / Namche Bazaar, Where Bryan Stayed
10:17 PM / May 21, 2016
No word from Jayson. Hopefully he made it in that flight as weather may have moved into Lukla. I will acclimate all day tomorrow. My stomach wasn't feeling good before my nap.
From Jayson Date: Sun, 22 May 2016 9:00 AM
I arrived now at 9 am to Namche Bazaar with Hunter.
From Jayson Date: Sun, 23 May 2016 06:10 AM
We haven't met with Bryan since he is at another hotel and we are having lunch now.
No, we will continue to Tengboche. / 3867 Meter / 12687 Feet.
We don't have any headache and we are at 11,300 Feet.
We will meet with Bryan soon. The hike to Tengboche is another 4 hours.
We woke up at 2:30am to start hiking at 4am and got here at 9am.
No word from Jayson. Hopefully he made it in that flight as weather may have moved into Lukla. I will acclimate all day tomorrow. My stomach wasn't feeling good before my nap.
From Jayson Date: Sun, 22 May 2016 9:00 AM
I arrived now at 9 am to Namche Bazaar with Hunter.
From Jayson Date: Sun, 23 May 2016 06:10 AM
We haven't met with Bryan since he is at another hotel and we are having lunch now.
No, we will continue to Tengboche. / 3867 Meter / 12687 Feet.
We don't have any headache and we are at 11,300 Feet.
We will meet with Bryan soon. The hike to Tengboche is another 4 hours.
We woke up at 2:30am to start hiking at 4am and got here at 9am.
The First Picture from Bryan / They are Finally Together
Sun, 23 May 2016 / 9:40 AM / From Bryan
We met up yesterday in Namche Bazaar.
We decided to trek to Tengboche. 3867 M. / 12687 Feet.
It was 5 hr. trek. We arrived at 20:30 PM. We will continue to Diboche today.
The only acclimate day I had was in Namche Bazaar for 24 hrs. Hunter and Jayson doing well so far. Feeling the elevation with minor headache but all is well.
We met up yesterday in Namche Bazaar.
We decided to trek to Tengboche. 3867 M. / 12687 Feet.
It was 5 hr. trek. We arrived at 20:30 PM. We will continue to Diboche today.
The only acclimate day I had was in Namche Bazaar for 24 hrs. Hunter and Jayson doing well so far. Feeling the elevation with minor headache but all is well.
Tengboche / 3867 Meter / 12687 Feet.
Monday, 23 May 2016 / From Bryan 8:22 PM
We are staying in Pheriche / 4243 Meter / 13920 Feet / tonight.
Lentil soup and rice. Black molasses protein powder and fruit nut mix on the trail. We will trek to Lombuche tomorrow. If I feel good maybe Gorakshep. / 5160 M. / 16929 Feet .
Since we are 2 days ahead of schedule I am considering Nam Cho Pass and back to Namche Bazaar from there.
Yesterday 4 died on Mt Everest while returning. Frostbite and dying in sleep. Sherpas and other climbers we passed climbing up. At least 400 sumitted this year.
3 days ago a girl was blown off to her death. For what? Glory and Ego?
Beautiful experience and looks like weather will cooperate. / Love Bryan & Jayson
We are staying in Pheriche / 4243 Meter / 13920 Feet / tonight.
Lentil soup and rice. Black molasses protein powder and fruit nut mix on the trail. We will trek to Lombuche tomorrow. If I feel good maybe Gorakshep. / 5160 M. / 16929 Feet .
Since we are 2 days ahead of schedule I am considering Nam Cho Pass and back to Namche Bazaar from there.
Yesterday 4 died on Mt Everest while returning. Frostbite and dying in sleep. Sherpas and other climbers we passed climbing up. At least 400 sumitted this year.
3 days ago a girl was blown off to her death. For what? Glory and Ego?
Beautiful experience and looks like weather will cooperate. / Love Bryan & Jayson
We are staying in Pheriche / 4243 Meter / 13920 Feet / tonight.
http://www.everestbasecamptrek.org/everest-base-camp-trek-map/
http://www.everestbasecamptrek.org/everest-base-camp-trek-map/
Gorak Shep. / 5160 Meter / 16929 Feet
Gorak Shep. / 5160 Meter / 16929 Feet
Tengboche. / 3867 Meter / 12687 Feet.
Tengboche. / 3867 Meter / 12687 Feet.
Bryan with Jayson and Hunter Mann Dempster / May 27. 2016
Bryan with Jayson and Hunter Mann Dempster / May 27. 2016
Ama Dablam “The Himalayas Matterhorn” is undoubtedly one of the most striking mountains on our planet located in the Khumbu, Everest region of Nepal.
The main peak is 6,812 metres (22,349 ft), the lower western peak is 6,170 metres (20,243 ft). Ama Dablam means "Mother's necklace"; the long ridges on each side like the arms of a mother (ama) protecting her child, and the hanging glacier thought of as the dablam, the traditional double-pendant containing pictures of the gods, worn by Sherpa women.
Jayson, Hunter and myself had the honour in watching the sun rise up behind her in Tengboche on Day 3 of our trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp.
The main peak is 6,812 metres (22,349 ft), the lower western peak is 6,170 metres (20,243 ft). Ama Dablam means "Mother's necklace"; the long ridges on each side like the arms of a mother (ama) protecting her child, and the hanging glacier thought of as the dablam, the traditional double-pendant containing pictures of the gods, worn by Sherpa women.
Jayson, Hunter and myself had the honour in watching the sun rise up behind her in Tengboche on Day 3 of our trek from Lukla to Everest Base Camp.
May 29. 2016. / 2.30 PM / Nepal Time
Made it off the mountain at 11:50 this morning.
The 12% downhill grade was something else. It's a miracle getting through the clouds on the 30 minute fly back to Kathmandu. I was only hours before trekking down to Kathmandu as it takes 2 days of trekking and an 8 hr bus ride just in time to fly back to Vancouver 2 June.
May 29. 2016. / 2.30 PM / Nepal Time
63 years on this day, May 29, 1953, Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay were first to reach the summit of Mount Everest.
While I write this in Lukla waiting for day 2 of weather to clear for my return flight to Kathmandu, the 14th edition of Tenzing Hillary Everest full Marathon is being held from the Everest Base Camp 17,600ft (5,364 meter) near the Khumbu Glacier and ending at Namche Bazaar 11,300ft (3,446 meter). On May 21, I flew into Lukla at 9,000ft and trekked from Lukla to Namche Bazaar by later afternoon.
This year was the first for at least 300 climbers to summit Everest since all ascent was halted from the catastrophic earthquake that struck Nepal in 2015 and a deadly avalanche that killed 16 Sherpas in one day in 2014.
In the past week, 6 people have lost their life on Everest while we trekked to EBC. This week also stands the busiest week for summitters while meeting dozens of them trekking down the mountain with faces sunburnt and lips torn. I congratulate them and shake their hands. Even if some say it is Pride and Glory, there is a much bigger self achievement that I respect.
Hearing of the details of the 6 deaths from other climbers and a helicopter pilot was very shaking. An Austrian women, a man from Netherlands, and Indians were among the unfortunate. 4 of 6 were above the death zone (higher than 8,000m - 26,200 feet) and others dying in their sleep from oxygen sickness.
At least 200 have passed on Mount Everest since 1953.
My brother Jayson, his friend Hunter and myself had the appreciation to visit Everest Base Camp on our 5th day in the Himalayas. Spending at least 25 hrs at 17,500 feet capturing photos of the Himalayas will be a felt forever. We all made it down safely yesterday. Stumbling across the stone slabs in Lukla without my trekking poles would look no different than a drunk.
The photos and film captured wil be beautiful to relive in high definition once again.
Thank you for all your prayers. This will definitely remain a place open for return.
Made it off the mountain at 11:50 this morning.
The 12% downhill grade was something else. It's a miracle getting through the clouds on the 30 minute fly back to Kathmandu. I was only hours before trekking down to Kathmandu as it takes 2 days of trekking and an 8 hr bus ride just in time to fly back to Vancouver 2 June.
May 29. 2016. / 2.30 PM / Nepal Time
63 years on this day, May 29, 1953, Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay were first to reach the summit of Mount Everest.
While I write this in Lukla waiting for day 2 of weather to clear for my return flight to Kathmandu, the 14th edition of Tenzing Hillary Everest full Marathon is being held from the Everest Base Camp 17,600ft (5,364 meter) near the Khumbu Glacier and ending at Namche Bazaar 11,300ft (3,446 meter). On May 21, I flew into Lukla at 9,000ft and trekked from Lukla to Namche Bazaar by later afternoon.
This year was the first for at least 300 climbers to summit Everest since all ascent was halted from the catastrophic earthquake that struck Nepal in 2015 and a deadly avalanche that killed 16 Sherpas in one day in 2014.
In the past week, 6 people have lost their life on Everest while we trekked to EBC. This week also stands the busiest week for summitters while meeting dozens of them trekking down the mountain with faces sunburnt and lips torn. I congratulate them and shake their hands. Even if some say it is Pride and Glory, there is a much bigger self achievement that I respect.
Hearing of the details of the 6 deaths from other climbers and a helicopter pilot was very shaking. An Austrian women, a man from Netherlands, and Indians were among the unfortunate. 4 of 6 were above the death zone (higher than 8,000m - 26,200 feet) and others dying in their sleep from oxygen sickness.
At least 200 have passed on Mount Everest since 1953.
My brother Jayson, his friend Hunter and myself had the appreciation to visit Everest Base Camp on our 5th day in the Himalayas. Spending at least 25 hrs at 17,500 feet capturing photos of the Himalayas will be a felt forever. We all made it down safely yesterday. Stumbling across the stone slabs in Lukla without my trekking poles would look no different than a drunk.
The photos and film captured wil be beautiful to relive in high definition once again.
Thank you for all your prayers. This will definitely remain a place open for return.
Bryan Dudás at Lukla Airport
May 29. 2016. / 2.30 PM Nepal Time
"Tenzing- Hillary Airport" is situated at 9,334 ft / 2,845 m in the Himalayas, Nepal as the gate way to the Everest region. The History Channel in 2010, rated the airport as the most dangerous airport in the world only because of the high winds, cloud cover, and changing visibility. There hasn't been a fatality since 2008 after a Twin Otter was approaching the airstrip a cloud swept in front of the pilot’s vision causing him to misjudge the landing slightly and catch one of the wings of the plane in a wire fence to the side of the runway.
The landing strip is built on the steep incline of a hillside. Its length is 450 m (1476') and width 20m and the runway incline is a staggering 12%.
In my opinion, the airport is not very dangerous. The History channel will always over exagerate everything including Air-Cranes.
The weather and clouds are very unpredictable though and I have been stuck here for 2 full days waiting to return to KTM. Since my return flight is on 1 June with Tara (Yeti Airlines) I am on a waiting list. They are operating 1 Dornier 228-212 and a Twin Otter and because the short window of nice weather in morning, no standby passengers are able to board.
Since my brother Jayson and Hunter did not purchase a return flight, they purchased through Sita Airlines and was able to board this morning at 7:00 leaving me left behind.
I ended up purchasing an additional ticket through Sita Airlines this afternoon and have a 6:00 departure. As soon as I arrive in Kathmandu, I will be issued a refund with Tara Yeti Airlines with a 10% fee.
I encourage anyone using Sita Airlines.
They use more aircraft and their customer service is much happier.
I will be staying one more night here in Sherpa Lodge for $3usd a night and be returning to Kathmandu on May 30. There is possibility in meeting up with Jayson and Hunter in Pokhara.
From Bryan / 7:39 AM / Pacific Time
May 29. 2016 / Nepal Time / 5.09 PM / Nepal Time / 7:39 AM / Pacific Time
Headache was every morning but as soon as I made it down to Lukla everything is well.
Just waiting for my flight now and weather to clear.
From Bryan / Date: Sun, 29 May 2016 07:38:27 / 2:08 AM Nepal Time 30th. May.
Subject: Re: Good trekker food for high raw vegans! Pheriche
I picked out about 8 rocks from EBC.
Happy to be safely down at 9k. EBC is nearly disassembled now.
The Austrian was taken down 2 days ago. You can find the article of the deaths on CNN.
She was supposedly vegan too.
May see Jayson and Hunter tomorrow if weather is good. / Love Bryan
http://www.cnn.com/2016/05/24/world/everest-asia-deaths-climbing/
May 29. 2016. / 2.30 PM Nepal Time
"Tenzing- Hillary Airport" is situated at 9,334 ft / 2,845 m in the Himalayas, Nepal as the gate way to the Everest region. The History Channel in 2010, rated the airport as the most dangerous airport in the world only because of the high winds, cloud cover, and changing visibility. There hasn't been a fatality since 2008 after a Twin Otter was approaching the airstrip a cloud swept in front of the pilot’s vision causing him to misjudge the landing slightly and catch one of the wings of the plane in a wire fence to the side of the runway.
The landing strip is built on the steep incline of a hillside. Its length is 450 m (1476') and width 20m and the runway incline is a staggering 12%.
In my opinion, the airport is not very dangerous. The History channel will always over exagerate everything including Air-Cranes.
The weather and clouds are very unpredictable though and I have been stuck here for 2 full days waiting to return to KTM. Since my return flight is on 1 June with Tara (Yeti Airlines) I am on a waiting list. They are operating 1 Dornier 228-212 and a Twin Otter and because the short window of nice weather in morning, no standby passengers are able to board.
Since my brother Jayson and Hunter did not purchase a return flight, they purchased through Sita Airlines and was able to board this morning at 7:00 leaving me left behind.
I ended up purchasing an additional ticket through Sita Airlines this afternoon and have a 6:00 departure. As soon as I arrive in Kathmandu, I will be issued a refund with Tara Yeti Airlines with a 10% fee.
I encourage anyone using Sita Airlines.
They use more aircraft and their customer service is much happier.
I will be staying one more night here in Sherpa Lodge for $3usd a night and be returning to Kathmandu on May 30. There is possibility in meeting up with Jayson and Hunter in Pokhara.
From Bryan / 7:39 AM / Pacific Time
May 29. 2016 / Nepal Time / 5.09 PM / Nepal Time / 7:39 AM / Pacific Time
Headache was every morning but as soon as I made it down to Lukla everything is well.
Just waiting for my flight now and weather to clear.
From Bryan / Date: Sun, 29 May 2016 07:38:27 / 2:08 AM Nepal Time 30th. May.
Subject: Re: Good trekker food for high raw vegans! Pheriche
I picked out about 8 rocks from EBC.
Happy to be safely down at 9k. EBC is nearly disassembled now.
The Austrian was taken down 2 days ago. You can find the article of the deaths on CNN.
She was supposedly vegan too.
May see Jayson and Hunter tomorrow if weather is good. / Love Bryan
http://www.cnn.com/2016/05/24/world/everest-asia-deaths-climbing/
Sun, 29. May 2016
... sun is out and hopefully it will break away the clouds to be able to fly out from this village at 9,300ft. The place is beautiful when the sun is shining. Maybe not my face as I didn't apply enough sunscreen at EBC. Lodging is only $3 a night, Internet $2 for 24 hrs and a meal about $5. Hospitality is priceless smile emoticon.
Tuesday, 01. June 2016 / Katmandu, Nepal
I'm in Kathmandu my last day. Editing photos/ preparing for video. Is very cheap and relaxing at the hostel.
Jayson and Hunter left yesterday. They went to visit the zoo, but I ended up sorting out my photos.
Everything is well and a very enjoyable trip.
... sun is out and hopefully it will break away the clouds to be able to fly out from this village at 9,300ft. The place is beautiful when the sun is shining. Maybe not my face as I didn't apply enough sunscreen at EBC. Lodging is only $3 a night, Internet $2 for 24 hrs and a meal about $5. Hospitality is priceless smile emoticon.
Tuesday, 01. June 2016 / Katmandu, Nepal
I'm in Kathmandu my last day. Editing photos/ preparing for video. Is very cheap and relaxing at the hostel.
Jayson and Hunter left yesterday. They went to visit the zoo, but I ended up sorting out my photos.
Everything is well and a very enjoyable trip.
Bryan / Back to the USA
Wednesday 02. June 2016 / Kunming / China
I'm staying the night at airport in Kunming now. Happy to be on my way back. I'm waiting for Hunter to send me a voice over for the video of our trip.
Was unbelievable and so happy I chose to go. / Bryan
Departure, Saturday 03. 2016 / 12:35 AM
China Eastern 597 / CES597 · "China Eastern"
Shanghai Pudong Int'l 12:35 AM CS / Gate 20 to Vancouver Int'l / T0 7:13PM PDT / Terminal M
Estimated / Duration: 9 hours 37 minutes
Just Arrived / Duration: 9 hours 59 minutes
7.41 PM / Friday 3. June 2016
Wednesday 02. June 2016 / Kunming / China
I'm staying the night at airport in Kunming now. Happy to be on my way back. I'm waiting for Hunter to send me a voice over for the video of our trip.
Was unbelievable and so happy I chose to go. / Bryan
Departure, Saturday 03. 2016 / 12:35 AM
China Eastern 597 / CES597 · "China Eastern"
Shanghai Pudong Int'l 12:35 AM CS / Gate 20 to Vancouver Int'l / T0 7:13PM PDT / Terminal M
Estimated / Duration: 9 hours 37 minutes
Just Arrived / Duration: 9 hours 59 minutes
7.41 PM / Friday 3. June 2016
Jayson / Back to the USA
8:10 AM / I'm taking Malaysian Airlines 115 and 601 from KTM-KUL then KUL-SIN tonight.My stomach feels so full all day and I want to go home. Hunter wants to stop in Singapore, so I have to accompany him because he has no money and otherwise he can't travel on his own. I was going to stop for a day in Kuala Lumpur with him, but now that I feel so bad with my stomach, I just want to go home. I have too much stuff with me anyway to do my next trip to Mongolia, so I want to come home to drop off stuff and start a new trip with less things. Bryan will stay another day here at the hostel.
Malaysia Airlines 115 / MAS115 · "Malaysian"
Tribhuvan Int'l / Nepal to Terminal I Kuala Lumpur / Malaysia Int'l Terminal M
Scheduled:11:30 PM NPT / Scheduled: 06:23AM MYT
Duration: 4 hours 22 minutes
Wednesday, June 01, 2016
Thursday, June 2, 2016
United 862 \ UAL862
Hong Kong Int'l Gate 61 to San Francisco Intl Gate INTL
Scheduled: 11:30AM HKT / Scheduled: 08:16AM PDT
Duration: 11 hours 18 minutes
Southwest 3826 / SWA3826 · "Southwest"
San Francisco Intl / to McCarran Intl / 11:10 AM Arrival in Las Vegas
Duration: 1 hours 40 minutes
Thursday, June 2, 2016
8:10 AM / I'm taking Malaysian Airlines 115 and 601 from KTM-KUL then KUL-SIN tonight.My stomach feels so full all day and I want to go home. Hunter wants to stop in Singapore, so I have to accompany him because he has no money and otherwise he can't travel on his own. I was going to stop for a day in Kuala Lumpur with him, but now that I feel so bad with my stomach, I just want to go home. I have too much stuff with me anyway to do my next trip to Mongolia, so I want to come home to drop off stuff and start a new trip with less things. Bryan will stay another day here at the hostel.
Malaysia Airlines 115 / MAS115 · "Malaysian"
Tribhuvan Int'l / Nepal to Terminal I Kuala Lumpur / Malaysia Int'l Terminal M
Scheduled:11:30 PM NPT / Scheduled: 06:23AM MYT
Duration: 4 hours 22 minutes
Wednesday, June 01, 2016
Thursday, June 2, 2016
United 862 \ UAL862
Hong Kong Int'l Gate 61 to San Francisco Intl Gate INTL
Scheduled: 11:30AM HKT / Scheduled: 08:16AM PDT
Duration: 11 hours 18 minutes
Southwest 3826 / SWA3826 · "Southwest"
San Francisco Intl / to McCarran Intl / 11:10 AM Arrival in Las Vegas
Duration: 1 hours 40 minutes
Thursday, June 2, 2016
ROUTE: LUKLA / 2,860 Meters -- PHAKDING -- MONJE -- NAMCHE BAZAAR / 3440 Meters.
-- TENGBOCHE -- PANGBOCHE -- PHERICHE -- DINGBOCHE -- CHHUKUNG -- THUKLA -- LOBUCHE -- GORAK SHEP -- EVEREST BASE CAMP -- KALA PATTHAR / 5,643 Meters --
FROM LUKLA ( 2,860 M ) UP TO KALA PATTHAR ( 5,643 M ).
Base Camp 5,335m (17,500ft) / Camp 1 6,000m (19,685ft) / Camp 2 6,400m (21,000ft) /
Camp 3 7,200m (23,625ft) / Camp 4 7,950m (26,085ft) / Summit 8,850m (29,035ft)
-- TENGBOCHE -- PANGBOCHE -- PHERICHE -- DINGBOCHE -- CHHUKUNG -- THUKLA -- LOBUCHE -- GORAK SHEP -- EVEREST BASE CAMP -- KALA PATTHAR / 5,643 Meters --
FROM LUKLA ( 2,860 M ) UP TO KALA PATTHAR ( 5,643 M ).
Base Camp 5,335m (17,500ft) / Camp 1 6,000m (19,685ft) / Camp 2 6,400m (21,000ft) /
Camp 3 7,200m (23,625ft) / Camp 4 7,950m (26,085ft) / Summit 8,850m (29,035ft)
Trekking in Himalaya Nepal
Mount Everest is rising 29,035 feet (8850 meters) above see level.
The world's tallest mountain ... people inevitably had to climb it. While more than
2,200 people have succeeded, nearly 200 have lost their lives attempting the climb.
The world's tallest mountain ... people inevitably had to climb it. While more than
2,200 people have succeeded, nearly 200 have lost their lives attempting the climb.
https://www.mountainguides.com/wordpress/2010/04/09/everest/himalayan-teams-report-in/
http://www.thecommissionmagazine.com/sagarmatha/
http://www.thecommissionmagazine.com/sagarmatha/
Pictures of the Himalayas
Tengboche. / 3867 Meter / 12687 Feet.
Planed Trip to the Himalayas
I think it would be advisable we postpone this trip as I am researching and it takes minimum 9 days from Lukla to EBC. 4-6 hours a day is what is recommended. More you are risking yourself. Altitude sickness is real and my previous Crew Chief Brandon has been there and he had to turn around due to it.
I can only be off from May 17 - June 6 and a Subaru World Record Parade will be held on June 5 which the Subaru dealership has asked to be part of. The time off is simply too short and being only 1.5 months away I won't have the necessary opportunity to train and prepare for this trek.
The last thing I need is to be rushed on the mountain and it isn't worth it.
I certainly will be better prepared for next year though as I am planning to do more hikes. I am also beginning to work with a different crew this month and I must be at 110% concentration as I will be maintaining the helicopter under my own decisions as we will be working split shift in Stewart, BC during May and it is my time to shine and show full responsibility.
I have found some great information at these websites below on ways to prepare and it has answered a lot of my questions and decision in postponing the trip.
www.alanarnette.com/everest/ebcfaq.php
http://www.alanarnette.com/climbing/gearlist.php
http://www.wittyfeed.com/story/6022/14-Amazing-Facts-You-Must-Know-About-The-Mount-Everest
Q: How many miles do you walk each day?
A: It is about 38 miles from Lukla to EBC and it should take a minimum of nine days. You generally walk about 4 to 6 hours each day starting about 8:00AM.v
Sorry if I had 3 weeks I had off, I would be more inclined, but it is primarily due to the the scheduling.
Thanks for your understanding,
http://www.outsideonline.com/2064481/david-morton-and-ghosts-everest?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=facebookpost
An Other info
Fwd: EBC - May 19-31
Somebody from 3 years ago did the EBC trail in 2002. He just replied to my email. Maybe this will give you more of an idea. I think having a sherpa guide would be a better experience. Brandon seems to still have the Sherpa contact details who took him up. I think it may be too short of time for 9 days. Will see..
Saturday, April 16, 2016
:EBC - May 19-31
I only got a couple free minutes, so forgive me for the short reply.
Yes, you are correct my wife and I did the EBC trek back in 2002. We flew in to Lukla and trekked to EBC. The last little “tea house” is /was in “Gorakshep”. I was hurting from that day of trekking so I didn’t actually go in to EBC. However, my wife and our two friends did. The next day we hiked Kala Patthar, to get up to 18,300’ and a sunrise view of Everest. Everest is not seen from either Gorakshep or EBC due to another mountain ridge shielding it.
We did this trip in 2-weeks, 10 days on the trail. It was brutal at times and depending on the effects of altitude on your body can be paralyzing, headaches, nausea, which help to start the cycle all over again, because the best medicine is hydration (and rest when you can get it). We went in the Spring (late Mar, early Apr). That is considered the dry season. More cold, but better views. Our Summer is their wet season, the mountains stay shrouded in clouds and it rains a lot along the trek, so keep that in mind on the timing of your trip.
We have a friend that has a non-profit in Nepal, if you need the hook up on some guides, let me know, he will help and get you good people. The guides are helpful in communicating and they also get you deals on the Tea houses you stay at along the way. Plus they provide information along the way and help yo gain access to some of the really cool monasteries along the trek. My wife and I shared a guide and our other friends shared one. If I remember right, we paid them $5.00, or $20.00 a day… either way, It was so minimal, but well worth it.
Plus they can help read your condition and aid in giving you the rest stops you will need on such a short trip. I highly recommend it. And it helps support their economy. We kept in contact with our Sherpa for probably a good five years after. He took us to his house and met his family. Our friends Sherpa did the same, but we went to his Grandparents house and had tea with them. He was very cool and we all had tears in our eyes when he dropped us back off at Lukla. It really made the experience what it was, instead of just blasting up a trail, taking some photos and them leaving again.
I’ll have to touch on your other parts of the email a little later…. just too busy right now to write down all I want to! Plus, I got to tell you about our spring break trip….. It was EPIC!
Talk soon ...
Planed Trip to the Himalayas
Booked flight (Wed, Apr 18 - Fri, Jun 3)
China Eastern Flight 598
Apr 18
Vancouver YVR
1:30 AM
Shanghai PVG
5:00 AM
China Eastern 598
YVR to PVG Apr 18, 1:30 AM
China Eastern 598
PVG to KMG Apr 19, 8:00 AM
China Eastern 757
KMG to KTM Apr 19, 2:30 PM
China Eastern 758
KTM to KMG Jun 2, 4:15 PM
Items to purchase:
ULA Circuit Backpack (2lbs)
Sawyer Mini Water Filter (REI) - http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP103-Filtration-System/dp/B00MPH1LEU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1461314308&sr=8-1&keywords=sawyer+water+filter
1 Empty Smart Bottle (Sawyer threads on lid)
20F Northface Furnace Down Sleeping Bag (Temperatures will be low 20F at basecamp)
Big Agnes Seedhouse 2 tent - Is this the tent you have? I also just purchased one 3 months ago.
I have theTherm-aRest NeoAir X Term with an R Value of 5.7 weighing 15 oz and thickness of 2.5". Anything above 3.0 is efficient.
http://www.cascadedesigns.com/therm-a-rest/blog/r-value-meaning/
-Toilet paper (mountain money)
-Sunscreen
-Rain gear (lightweight - pants - jacket)
-No Cotton
-3 layers
-3 pair wool socks
-1 pair waterproof socks
http://www.amazon.com/SealSkinz-Thin-Mid-Length-Waterproof-Black/dp/B00LYC4OLY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1461315347&sr=8-1&keywords=seal+waterproof+sock
-Sunglasses
-Trekking Poles
-Electrolytes (I purchased these with Stevia - the old style they used sucrolose)
http://www.amazon.com/New-Nuun-Active-Hydrating-Electrolyte/dp/B018NZJE00?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00
************* Itinerary 2016 / Loukla-EBC Trek *********************
Apr 16 - Last day of work in Stewart, B.C. N163AC
Apr 17 - Travel to South Terminal Vancouver - Alwin picks me up - brings my packed backpack and duffle bag which I have given to him prior
Apr 18 - 1:30AM - Depart North Terminal Vancouver to Shanghai - Kunming - Kathmandu
Apr 19 - Arrive at 3:15PM in Kathmandu
Apr 20 - Flight from Kathmandu - Lukla 6:16AM (Weather permitting) $147usd each way
Apr 20 - Spend day in Lukla and finding a Sherpa 2,860 metres (9,383 ft)
Apr 21 - Start trek to Phakding*, or Benkar, Monjo or Jorsalle
Apr 22 - Namche Bazaar* 3,440 metres (11,290 ft)
Apr 23 - Acclimatization day in Namche* (Jayson arrived KTM - Lukla - Start Trek Noon)
Apr 24 - Trek to Tengboche* (Jayson trek to Namche Bazaar)
Apr 25 - Trek to Dingboche* 4,260 metres (13,980 ft) (Jayson trek to Tengboche)
Apr 26 - Another acclimatization day* (Jayson trek to Dingboche where we meet up)
Apr 27 - Lobuche - Skip?
Apr 28 - Gorakshep* - EBC* - Gorakshep*
Apr 29 - Kalapatthar* 5,545 metres (18,192 ft) early morning and return to Pangboche*
Apr 30 - Namche Bazaar* or Jorsalle or Monjo
Apr 31 - Trek to Lukla*
Apr 1 - Fly to Kathmandu 7:00AM
June 2 - 4:15PM - Depart Kathmandu to Kunming (21hr 30 min layover) - China Eastern Airlines may provide Hotel
June 2 - 6:55PM - Depart Kunming - Shanghai - Vancouver
June 3 - Arrive Vancouver 7:10PM
June 4 - Prepare Subarus for World Record Parade - Stage Cars @ Birchbay, Washington
June 5 - World Record Parade Noon
June 6 - Travel Day to work Stewart, B.C.
* My Friend stayed at these villages on his trip in 2002 - He skipped Lobuche.
************* Acclimation comparison with Kilimanjaro ********************
Kilimanjaro Climb (February 2016)
Day 1: from 6,700 to 9,000 feet
Day 2: from 9,000 to 12,000 feet
Day 3: from 12,000 to 15,000 feet (2 hour break) then 15,000 to 19,000 feet and back to 15,000 feet
Day 4: from 15,000 to 3,000 feet
Lukla, Nepal: 9,383 feet
Everest Base Camp: 18,192 feet
************ Cost Details *********************************
($800.06) + Travel Protection Policy ($52usd) Vancouver - Kathmandu Round Trip
$147 + $147 KTM - Lukla Round Trip
Total: $1,146.06
Travel dates May 18, 2016 - Jun 3, 2016 (China Eastern Airlines)
Booking ID48DM4VManage reservation
Departure Wed, 18 Apr
Web Fare
China Eastern Airlines 598
Vancouver (YVR)
1:30 AM
Terminal: MShanghai (PVG)
5:00 AM +1 day
Terminal: 1
Arrives on Apr 19, 2016
Cabin: Economy / Coach
Seat: 35A
12h 30m duration
3h stop Shanghai (PVG)
China Eastern Airlines 598
Shanghai (PVG)
8:00 AM
Terminal: 1Kunming (KMG)
11:20 AM
Cabin: Economy / Coach
3h 20m duration
3h 10m stop Kunming (KMG)
China Eastern Airlines 757
Kunming (KMG)
2:30 PMKathmandu (KTM)
3:15 PM
Terminal: I
Cabin: Economy / Coach
Seat: 34A
3h 3m duration Total Duration
25h 3m
Return Thu, 2 Jun
Web Fare
China Eastern Airlines 758
Kathmandu (KTM)
4:15 PM
Terminal: IKunming (KMG)
9:25 PM
Cabin: Economy / Coach
Seat: 35A
2h 52m duration
21h 30m stop Kunming (KMG)
China Eastern Airlines 597
Kunming (KMG)
6:55 PMShanghai (PVG)
9:55 PM
Terminal: 1
Cabin: Economy / Coach
Seat: 35A
3h duration
1h 55m stop Shanghai (PVG)
China Eastern Airlines 597
Shanghai (PVG)
11:50 PM
Terminal: 1Vancouver (YVR)
7:10 PM
Terminal: M
Cabin: Economy / Coach
10h 20m duration Total Duration
39h 37m
____________________________________________________________________________________
My booked flight Vancouver-Lukla (Wed, May 18 - Fri, Jun 3) Inbox
B . D 2:07 PM (5 hours ago) / April 25 / 2016
More info from Brandon. Dont bring tent.
I am buried in major issues at work right now, so I will keep this short.
I reached out to my friend back home to provide some contacts to guide you and your brother. I will forward those to you as soon as I get them.
As for you packing supplies you listed, I suggest not bringing a tent. As far as i know opening camping is not allowed and you stay at “Tea houses” (similar to a hostel) along the route. So lighten your load and drop the tent. Bring a sleeping bag and pad. Google the tea house option and see what pops up.
We took our bivy sack, stove and extra gear with the plan to sleep one night at ECB. That was a mistake, it was extra weight and ECB is all rocky moraine, not the place to pitch a tent for one night. Just stay in Gorakshep, and run up to ECB and back down for the night. Food and water you can buy along the route. We brought hydration packs. Just check temps during that time, our hose started to freeze at the higher elevations. We did have Nalgene bottles with us at that time too.
Thats all the time I got for now, I’ll be back as soon as I have more to share.
Cheers, ...
from: Bryan Dudas <[email protected]>
Thu, May 5, 2016 at 1:33 AM
My guide sent me his website here which was helpful:
www.pasangdendi.com
I also watched this documentary and gave a pretty good idea what we are up to.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dW5kRBq30m4
Until later, / Bryan
EBC Trek Check List - SEE PICTURES ABOVE
- ULA Circuit Backpack w/ rain fly
- 5 each Zip Lock Bags (Small/Large)
- 5F North Face Furnace Down Sleeping Bag w/ Mummy Liner
- 1 ea. Mountain Money
- 2 ea. Kleenix
- NeoAir Therm-a Rest Sleeping Pad
- Spoon/Fork Combo
- GPS Garmin Oregon 650 w/ Belt carrying case
- Trekking Polls (Snow / Rock feet)
- 2 ea. Electrolyte tubes, Black Molasses, Chia Seed, Fruit Bars
- SWRT Flag
- Dakota gloves, Seal Skin gloves, Wool finger tip mittens
- All Weather Notepad/ Pen
- 2 ea. IT Band
- Smart Water bottle w/ Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System
- Platypus 3L Camel pack
- Nalgene bottle w/ Thermo cover
- Petzel Tactilkka Head Lamp
- Medical Kit 7 w/ Blister Tape
- Outer Shell Jacket w/ Down Jacket
- Mid Layer Polyster long sleeve T shirt and pants
- Under Armor Long Sleeve and Pants
- Northface Zippable pants/shorts
- Long Sleeve T-shirt
- Waterproof pants
- 2 pair wool socks
- 1 pair waterproof socks
- 3 pair underwear
- Asolo Hiking boots
- Tilly Sun Hat/Neck Cover
- Sun Screen small container
- Advil 15 tablets
- Chap Stick
- 8 ea. AAA batteries for headlamp
- 25’ Para Chord
- Compact Stove w/ Titanium Cup (Purchase gas in Lukla)
- Sunglasses/case
- Canon 5D MKiii w/ 16-35mm f/2.8 w/ 3 spare batteries w/ 3 Spare SD Card
- Go Pro Hero 4 w/ 3 batteries w/ Spare SD Card
- Front Chest Pack for Camera
- 2 lb tripod w/ remote
- 6 ea. AA batteries
- Toiletry Bag: Tooth brush/Paste/Magnesium oil, Peppermint oil, Tweezer, Finger Nail Clipper
- Floss Stick/ Gum Container
- Aussie Plug/Eu Plug Adapter
- Food: Fruit/Lemon Larabars, Dried Fruit, Chia Seed, Molasses
- Toiletry Bag: Tooth Brush, Baking Soda, Tweezers, clippers
- Swiss Army Knife
I can only be off from May 17 - June 6 and a Subaru World Record Parade will be held on June 5 which the Subaru dealership has asked to be part of. The time off is simply too short and being only 1.5 months away I won't have the necessary opportunity to train and prepare for this trek.
The last thing I need is to be rushed on the mountain and it isn't worth it.
I certainly will be better prepared for next year though as I am planning to do more hikes. I am also beginning to work with a different crew this month and I must be at 110% concentration as I will be maintaining the helicopter under my own decisions as we will be working split shift in Stewart, BC during May and it is my time to shine and show full responsibility.
I have found some great information at these websites below on ways to prepare and it has answered a lot of my questions and decision in postponing the trip.
www.alanarnette.com/everest/ebcfaq.php
http://www.alanarnette.com/climbing/gearlist.php
http://www.wittyfeed.com/story/6022/14-Amazing-Facts-You-Must-Know-About-The-Mount-Everest
Q: How many miles do you walk each day?
A: It is about 38 miles from Lukla to EBC and it should take a minimum of nine days. You generally walk about 4 to 6 hours each day starting about 8:00AM.v
Sorry if I had 3 weeks I had off, I would be more inclined, but it is primarily due to the the scheduling.
Thanks for your understanding,
http://www.outsideonline.com/2064481/david-morton-and-ghosts-everest?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=facebookpost
An Other info
Fwd: EBC - May 19-31
Somebody from 3 years ago did the EBC trail in 2002. He just replied to my email. Maybe this will give you more of an idea. I think having a sherpa guide would be a better experience. Brandon seems to still have the Sherpa contact details who took him up. I think it may be too short of time for 9 days. Will see..
Saturday, April 16, 2016
:EBC - May 19-31
I only got a couple free minutes, so forgive me for the short reply.
Yes, you are correct my wife and I did the EBC trek back in 2002. We flew in to Lukla and trekked to EBC. The last little “tea house” is /was in “Gorakshep”. I was hurting from that day of trekking so I didn’t actually go in to EBC. However, my wife and our two friends did. The next day we hiked Kala Patthar, to get up to 18,300’ and a sunrise view of Everest. Everest is not seen from either Gorakshep or EBC due to another mountain ridge shielding it.
We did this trip in 2-weeks, 10 days on the trail. It was brutal at times and depending on the effects of altitude on your body can be paralyzing, headaches, nausea, which help to start the cycle all over again, because the best medicine is hydration (and rest when you can get it). We went in the Spring (late Mar, early Apr). That is considered the dry season. More cold, but better views. Our Summer is their wet season, the mountains stay shrouded in clouds and it rains a lot along the trek, so keep that in mind on the timing of your trip.
We have a friend that has a non-profit in Nepal, if you need the hook up on some guides, let me know, he will help and get you good people. The guides are helpful in communicating and they also get you deals on the Tea houses you stay at along the way. Plus they provide information along the way and help yo gain access to some of the really cool monasteries along the trek. My wife and I shared a guide and our other friends shared one. If I remember right, we paid them $5.00, or $20.00 a day… either way, It was so minimal, but well worth it.
Plus they can help read your condition and aid in giving you the rest stops you will need on such a short trip. I highly recommend it. And it helps support their economy. We kept in contact with our Sherpa for probably a good five years after. He took us to his house and met his family. Our friends Sherpa did the same, but we went to his Grandparents house and had tea with them. He was very cool and we all had tears in our eyes when he dropped us back off at Lukla. It really made the experience what it was, instead of just blasting up a trail, taking some photos and them leaving again.
I’ll have to touch on your other parts of the email a little later…. just too busy right now to write down all I want to! Plus, I got to tell you about our spring break trip….. It was EPIC!
Talk soon ...
Planed Trip to the Himalayas
Booked flight (Wed, Apr 18 - Fri, Jun 3)
China Eastern Flight 598
Apr 18
Vancouver YVR
1:30 AM
Shanghai PVG
5:00 AM
China Eastern 598
YVR to PVG Apr 18, 1:30 AM
China Eastern 598
PVG to KMG Apr 19, 8:00 AM
China Eastern 757
KMG to KTM Apr 19, 2:30 PM
China Eastern 758
KTM to KMG Jun 2, 4:15 PM
Items to purchase:
ULA Circuit Backpack (2lbs)
Sawyer Mini Water Filter (REI) - http://www.amazon.com/Sawyer-Products-SP103-Filtration-System/dp/B00MPH1LEU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1461314308&sr=8-1&keywords=sawyer+water+filter
1 Empty Smart Bottle (Sawyer threads on lid)
20F Northface Furnace Down Sleeping Bag (Temperatures will be low 20F at basecamp)
Big Agnes Seedhouse 2 tent - Is this the tent you have? I also just purchased one 3 months ago.
I have theTherm-aRest NeoAir X Term with an R Value of 5.7 weighing 15 oz and thickness of 2.5". Anything above 3.0 is efficient.
http://www.cascadedesigns.com/therm-a-rest/blog/r-value-meaning/
-Toilet paper (mountain money)
-Sunscreen
-Rain gear (lightweight - pants - jacket)
-No Cotton
-3 layers
-3 pair wool socks
-1 pair waterproof socks
http://www.amazon.com/SealSkinz-Thin-Mid-Length-Waterproof-Black/dp/B00LYC4OLY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1461315347&sr=8-1&keywords=seal+waterproof+sock
-Sunglasses
-Trekking Poles
-Electrolytes (I purchased these with Stevia - the old style they used sucrolose)
http://www.amazon.com/New-Nuun-Active-Hydrating-Electrolyte/dp/B018NZJE00?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00
************* Itinerary 2016 / Loukla-EBC Trek *********************
Apr 16 - Last day of work in Stewart, B.C. N163AC
Apr 17 - Travel to South Terminal Vancouver - Alwin picks me up - brings my packed backpack and duffle bag which I have given to him prior
Apr 18 - 1:30AM - Depart North Terminal Vancouver to Shanghai - Kunming - Kathmandu
Apr 19 - Arrive at 3:15PM in Kathmandu
Apr 20 - Flight from Kathmandu - Lukla 6:16AM (Weather permitting) $147usd each way
Apr 20 - Spend day in Lukla and finding a Sherpa 2,860 metres (9,383 ft)
Apr 21 - Start trek to Phakding*, or Benkar, Monjo or Jorsalle
Apr 22 - Namche Bazaar* 3,440 metres (11,290 ft)
Apr 23 - Acclimatization day in Namche* (Jayson arrived KTM - Lukla - Start Trek Noon)
Apr 24 - Trek to Tengboche* (Jayson trek to Namche Bazaar)
Apr 25 - Trek to Dingboche* 4,260 metres (13,980 ft) (Jayson trek to Tengboche)
Apr 26 - Another acclimatization day* (Jayson trek to Dingboche where we meet up)
Apr 27 - Lobuche - Skip?
Apr 28 - Gorakshep* - EBC* - Gorakshep*
Apr 29 - Kalapatthar* 5,545 metres (18,192 ft) early morning and return to Pangboche*
Apr 30 - Namche Bazaar* or Jorsalle or Monjo
Apr 31 - Trek to Lukla*
Apr 1 - Fly to Kathmandu 7:00AM
June 2 - 4:15PM - Depart Kathmandu to Kunming (21hr 30 min layover) - China Eastern Airlines may provide Hotel
June 2 - 6:55PM - Depart Kunming - Shanghai - Vancouver
June 3 - Arrive Vancouver 7:10PM
June 4 - Prepare Subarus for World Record Parade - Stage Cars @ Birchbay, Washington
June 5 - World Record Parade Noon
June 6 - Travel Day to work Stewart, B.C.
* My Friend stayed at these villages on his trip in 2002 - He skipped Lobuche.
************* Acclimation comparison with Kilimanjaro ********************
Kilimanjaro Climb (February 2016)
Day 1: from 6,700 to 9,000 feet
Day 2: from 9,000 to 12,000 feet
Day 3: from 12,000 to 15,000 feet (2 hour break) then 15,000 to 19,000 feet and back to 15,000 feet
Day 4: from 15,000 to 3,000 feet
Lukla, Nepal: 9,383 feet
Everest Base Camp: 18,192 feet
************ Cost Details *********************************
($800.06) + Travel Protection Policy ($52usd) Vancouver - Kathmandu Round Trip
$147 + $147 KTM - Lukla Round Trip
Total: $1,146.06
Travel dates May 18, 2016 - Jun 3, 2016 (China Eastern Airlines)
Booking ID48DM4VManage reservation
Departure Wed, 18 Apr
Web Fare
China Eastern Airlines 598
Vancouver (YVR)
1:30 AM
Terminal: MShanghai (PVG)
5:00 AM +1 day
Terminal: 1
Arrives on Apr 19, 2016
Cabin: Economy / Coach
Seat: 35A
12h 30m duration
3h stop Shanghai (PVG)
China Eastern Airlines 598
Shanghai (PVG)
8:00 AM
Terminal: 1Kunming (KMG)
11:20 AM
Cabin: Economy / Coach
3h 20m duration
3h 10m stop Kunming (KMG)
China Eastern Airlines 757
Kunming (KMG)
2:30 PMKathmandu (KTM)
3:15 PM
Terminal: I
Cabin: Economy / Coach
Seat: 34A
3h 3m duration Total Duration
25h 3m
Return Thu, 2 Jun
Web Fare
China Eastern Airlines 758
Kathmandu (KTM)
4:15 PM
Terminal: IKunming (KMG)
9:25 PM
Cabin: Economy / Coach
Seat: 35A
2h 52m duration
21h 30m stop Kunming (KMG)
China Eastern Airlines 597
Kunming (KMG)
6:55 PMShanghai (PVG)
9:55 PM
Terminal: 1
Cabin: Economy / Coach
Seat: 35A
3h duration
1h 55m stop Shanghai (PVG)
China Eastern Airlines 597
Shanghai (PVG)
11:50 PM
Terminal: 1Vancouver (YVR)
7:10 PM
Terminal: M
Cabin: Economy / Coach
10h 20m duration Total Duration
39h 37m
____________________________________________________________________________________
My booked flight Vancouver-Lukla (Wed, May 18 - Fri, Jun 3) Inbox
B . D 2:07 PM (5 hours ago) / April 25 / 2016
More info from Brandon. Dont bring tent.
I am buried in major issues at work right now, so I will keep this short.
I reached out to my friend back home to provide some contacts to guide you and your brother. I will forward those to you as soon as I get them.
As for you packing supplies you listed, I suggest not bringing a tent. As far as i know opening camping is not allowed and you stay at “Tea houses” (similar to a hostel) along the route. So lighten your load and drop the tent. Bring a sleeping bag and pad. Google the tea house option and see what pops up.
We took our bivy sack, stove and extra gear with the plan to sleep one night at ECB. That was a mistake, it was extra weight and ECB is all rocky moraine, not the place to pitch a tent for one night. Just stay in Gorakshep, and run up to ECB and back down for the night. Food and water you can buy along the route. We brought hydration packs. Just check temps during that time, our hose started to freeze at the higher elevations. We did have Nalgene bottles with us at that time too.
Thats all the time I got for now, I’ll be back as soon as I have more to share.
Cheers, ...
from: Bryan Dudas <[email protected]>
Thu, May 5, 2016 at 1:33 AM
My guide sent me his website here which was helpful:
www.pasangdendi.com
I also watched this documentary and gave a pretty good idea what we are up to.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dW5kRBq30m4
Until later, / Bryan
EBC Trek Check List - SEE PICTURES ABOVE
- ULA Circuit Backpack w/ rain fly
- 5 each Zip Lock Bags (Small/Large)
- 5F North Face Furnace Down Sleeping Bag w/ Mummy Liner
- 1 ea. Mountain Money
- 2 ea. Kleenix
- NeoAir Therm-a Rest Sleeping Pad
- Spoon/Fork Combo
- GPS Garmin Oregon 650 w/ Belt carrying case
- Trekking Polls (Snow / Rock feet)
- 2 ea. Electrolyte tubes, Black Molasses, Chia Seed, Fruit Bars
- SWRT Flag
- Dakota gloves, Seal Skin gloves, Wool finger tip mittens
- All Weather Notepad/ Pen
- 2 ea. IT Band
- Smart Water bottle w/ Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System
- Platypus 3L Camel pack
- Nalgene bottle w/ Thermo cover
- Petzel Tactilkka Head Lamp
- Medical Kit 7 w/ Blister Tape
- Outer Shell Jacket w/ Down Jacket
- Mid Layer Polyster long sleeve T shirt and pants
- Under Armor Long Sleeve and Pants
- Northface Zippable pants/shorts
- Long Sleeve T-shirt
- Waterproof pants
- 2 pair wool socks
- 1 pair waterproof socks
- 3 pair underwear
- Asolo Hiking boots
- Tilly Sun Hat/Neck Cover
- Sun Screen small container
- Advil 15 tablets
- Chap Stick
- 8 ea. AAA batteries for headlamp
- 25’ Para Chord
- Compact Stove w/ Titanium Cup (Purchase gas in Lukla)
- Sunglasses/case
- Canon 5D MKiii w/ 16-35mm f/2.8 w/ 3 spare batteries w/ 3 Spare SD Card
- Go Pro Hero 4 w/ 3 batteries w/ Spare SD Card
- Front Chest Pack for Camera
- 2 lb tripod w/ remote
- 6 ea. AA batteries
- Toiletry Bag: Tooth brush/Paste/Magnesium oil, Peppermint oil, Tweezer, Finger Nail Clipper
- Floss Stick/ Gum Container
- Aussie Plug/Eu Plug Adapter
- Food: Fruit/Lemon Larabars, Dried Fruit, Chia Seed, Molasses
- Toiletry Bag: Tooth Brush, Baking Soda, Tweezers, clippers
- Swiss Army Knife
Travel ...
The one-hour long Trans-Himalayan flight between Kathmandu and Lhasa is
one of the memorable flights in the world that offers the breathtaking view of the world's highest Mount Everest (8,848m / 29,028ft) and other great Himalayan range.
The holy city Lhasa (3,600m / 11,811ft) is the capital of Tibet.
In Lhasa, there are plenty of scenic spots and historical attractions such as the Potala Palace of the Dalai Lama, Norbulingka Palace, the holiest Jokhang Temple, Barkhor market, Sera and Drepung Monastery.
Sera together with Ganden and Drepung Monastery in Lhasa are known as
the 'three Great Monasteries of Tibet'.
The tour starts crossing over the high passes of Karo La (5,010m / 16,437ft),
Kamba La (4,794m / 15,729ft) and the colorful Yamdrok Tso Lake (4,425m / 14,518ft).
Then we cross the Gyatchu La pass (5,220m / 17,126ft), the highest point on our journey
with a visit to the Shakya Monastery.
We drive to Ronbuk and visit Ronbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world.
The next day, we make an excursion to the Everest Base Camp (5,150m / 16,897ft)-8km, the tallest peak right in front as if communicating with us in a spiritual language and filling us with stunning views of its north face.
After the visit to the Everest Base Camp, we continue our drive to Nyalam by crossing over the Lalung La pass (5,050m/16,569ft) from where the views of Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201m / 26,907ft) and Mt. Xishapangma (8,012m / 26,287ft) are truly magnificent.
When necessary border formalities are completed, we cross the Friendship Bridge that spans the Bhote Koshi River and marks the Nepal-Tibet border. We then drive to Kathmandu-156km through the scenic countryside of Nepal.
Season for Tibet Travel:
Tibet travel is ideally good for the period of March through October.
The best times considered to visit are spring, early summer and late autumn. Because of Tibet's high altitude, it is wiser to get prepared before starting the journey.
Due to the large temperature differences during the day, warm clothes should be taken to keep away the cold. Since the land also receives a great deal of sunshine; sunglasses, sunscreen and a sun hat are indispensable items that are required while travelling in Tibet.
http://www.trekkingencounters.com/tibet/cultural-tours/tibet-everest-base-camp-tour/#sthash.U2KzR0b5.dpuf
How to trek to Everest Base Camp
JENNY LING - https://www.lonelyplanet.com/asia/travel-tips-and-articles/77621
Lonely Planet Writer
Mount Everest has captivated intrepid men and women since the 1920s. The exploits of legends such as George Mallory, Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay put the mighty mountain on the map; thousands have followed, making huge sacrifices – many with their lives – in their own attempts to the summit.
Mount Everest and the Khumbu Glacier in Sagarmatha National Park. Image by Dan Rafla / Getty Images.
But today, the trek to Everest Base Camp has become an achievable goal for people from all walks of life who want a glimpse of the world’s highest peak. In 2012, between 35,000 and 37,000 people trekked in the Everest region.
What's it like trekking to Everest Base Camp?
Aside from breathtaking scenery, travellers to the region can experience unique Sherpa culture by visiting monasteries and museums along the way. Days are filled with walking for the sheer pleasure of it, past colourful prayer wheels and across swing bridges straight out of an Indiana Jones movie, while evenings are rewarded with hot food and conversation with like-minded people around the dining-room fire.
The heady mix of natural beauty, fascinating culture and a personal sense of achievement, as well as warm Nepalese hospitality from the people of the Solukhumbu region, makes the Everest Base Camp trek one of the world’s most unforgettable.
When should I make the trek?
From March to May and from September to December. It gets hot in May, just before the monsoon season; be prepared for possible rain. December reaches below-zero temperatures but the days are still beautiful and there are fewer trekkers (but remember to wrap up warm in the evenings).
Do I need a guide?
The Nepal government is considering making the hiring of a guide compulsory this season, after the disappearances of some lone trekkers and the death of a Belgian trekker in the Langtang region in June 2012.
But the solo trekking ban has been put on hold, so for now it’s still possible to go it alone. But hiring a guide or porter has many advantages: for US$10 to $20 a day you’re giving someone a valuable job and in turn you will learn plenty about the local culture and natural environment.
A trekking company offers the advantage of having everything arranged for you, including airport transfers, accommodation and porters and/or guides and their insurance. You can book before you go with western tour companies, though you’ll pay significantly less by booking in Kathmandu – ensure they’re registered with the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN). For a list of registered companies visit www.taan.org.np.
How do I get in shape?
Nothing can really prepare you for the trek’s extreme hills and altitude of up to 5545m. But don’t be put off – people with average fitness can do this trek. ‘Slow and steady’ is the key to achieving, and enjoying, your trek.
Prepare with cardiovascular training several times a week: cycling, swimming, hill climbing and lots of walking. Aim for a five-hour walk once a week. Seek out hills or find a tall building and repeatedly walk up and down the stairs.
What should I take?
Pack lightly – aim for 10 to 15 kg. Consider your porter’s load before you include that big bottle of shampoo or pair of jeans.
A fleece jacket, down jacket and thermal underwear are a must, as the Himalaya gets cold above 3000m any time of the year. Also take two pairs of long pants, two or three T-shirts (synthetic fabrics – not cotton – that wick away sweat), and another warm jumper or light fleece.
Footwear requires lightly broken-in boots, trekking socks, and sneakers or sandals for evenings. You will also need a raincoat, gloves, woollen hat, sunhat and polarised sunglasses. A good sleeping bag (rated to -20°C/0°F) is essential; if it’s winter, a thermal liner makes it extra toasty.
Opt for travel-size toiletries, including a good sunscreen, lip balm, travel towel and tissues. Baby wipes are handy for days when you can’t shower.
Your first aid kit should include medication for diarrhoea, antibiotics for a chest or sinus infection, and adhesive bandages for blisters. Visit your doctor for Nepal-specific immunisations. Using two 1L water bottles with water purification tablets is a reliable and safe way to drink water – and more environmentally friendly than buying bottled water from lodges.
Staying healthy and safe on the trek.
Take your time.
Altitude sickness can affect anybody – even the extremely fit. (The acclimatisation days, usually at Namche and Dingboche, are set for a reason.) Watch for signs of altitude sickness: symptoms include headaches, dizziness, sleeplessness, loss of appetite and breathlessness. Bring a supply of the medication Diamox for treatment; if symptoms persist, descend.
Be vegetarian.
As tempting as it is to try a juicy yak steak or ‘buff burger’, be aware that all meat is carried up by porters from below Lukla due to the no-killing policy in Sagamartha National Park, so by the time you have it, it’s getting old. The safest, healthiest option is to eat dal bhat (lentil soup with rice) – it’s made fresh daily and is a great source of protein and energy. As the saying goes, ‘Dal bhat power, 24 hour!’
Cover up.
The sun here is harsh, so use a good sunscreen and reapply regularly.
Wear long-sleeved tops, long pants and a light scarf – or be prepared to blister.
one of the memorable flights in the world that offers the breathtaking view of the world's highest Mount Everest (8,848m / 29,028ft) and other great Himalayan range.
The holy city Lhasa (3,600m / 11,811ft) is the capital of Tibet.
In Lhasa, there are plenty of scenic spots and historical attractions such as the Potala Palace of the Dalai Lama, Norbulingka Palace, the holiest Jokhang Temple, Barkhor market, Sera and Drepung Monastery.
Sera together with Ganden and Drepung Monastery in Lhasa are known as
the 'three Great Monasteries of Tibet'.
The tour starts crossing over the high passes of Karo La (5,010m / 16,437ft),
Kamba La (4,794m / 15,729ft) and the colorful Yamdrok Tso Lake (4,425m / 14,518ft).
Then we cross the Gyatchu La pass (5,220m / 17,126ft), the highest point on our journey
with a visit to the Shakya Monastery.
We drive to Ronbuk and visit Ronbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world.
The next day, we make an excursion to the Everest Base Camp (5,150m / 16,897ft)-8km, the tallest peak right in front as if communicating with us in a spiritual language and filling us with stunning views of its north face.
After the visit to the Everest Base Camp, we continue our drive to Nyalam by crossing over the Lalung La pass (5,050m/16,569ft) from where the views of Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201m / 26,907ft) and Mt. Xishapangma (8,012m / 26,287ft) are truly magnificent.
When necessary border formalities are completed, we cross the Friendship Bridge that spans the Bhote Koshi River and marks the Nepal-Tibet border. We then drive to Kathmandu-156km through the scenic countryside of Nepal.
Season for Tibet Travel:
Tibet travel is ideally good for the period of March through October.
The best times considered to visit are spring, early summer and late autumn. Because of Tibet's high altitude, it is wiser to get prepared before starting the journey.
Due to the large temperature differences during the day, warm clothes should be taken to keep away the cold. Since the land also receives a great deal of sunshine; sunglasses, sunscreen and a sun hat are indispensable items that are required while travelling in Tibet.
http://www.trekkingencounters.com/tibet/cultural-tours/tibet-everest-base-camp-tour/#sthash.U2KzR0b5.dpuf
How to trek to Everest Base Camp
JENNY LING - https://www.lonelyplanet.com/asia/travel-tips-and-articles/77621
Lonely Planet Writer
Mount Everest has captivated intrepid men and women since the 1920s. The exploits of legends such as George Mallory, Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay put the mighty mountain on the map; thousands have followed, making huge sacrifices – many with their lives – in their own attempts to the summit.
Mount Everest and the Khumbu Glacier in Sagarmatha National Park. Image by Dan Rafla / Getty Images.
But today, the trek to Everest Base Camp has become an achievable goal for people from all walks of life who want a glimpse of the world’s highest peak. In 2012, between 35,000 and 37,000 people trekked in the Everest region.
What's it like trekking to Everest Base Camp?
Aside from breathtaking scenery, travellers to the region can experience unique Sherpa culture by visiting monasteries and museums along the way. Days are filled with walking for the sheer pleasure of it, past colourful prayer wheels and across swing bridges straight out of an Indiana Jones movie, while evenings are rewarded with hot food and conversation with like-minded people around the dining-room fire.
The heady mix of natural beauty, fascinating culture and a personal sense of achievement, as well as warm Nepalese hospitality from the people of the Solukhumbu region, makes the Everest Base Camp trek one of the world’s most unforgettable.
When should I make the trek?
From March to May and from September to December. It gets hot in May, just before the monsoon season; be prepared for possible rain. December reaches below-zero temperatures but the days are still beautiful and there are fewer trekkers (but remember to wrap up warm in the evenings).
Do I need a guide?
The Nepal government is considering making the hiring of a guide compulsory this season, after the disappearances of some lone trekkers and the death of a Belgian trekker in the Langtang region in June 2012.
But the solo trekking ban has been put on hold, so for now it’s still possible to go it alone. But hiring a guide or porter has many advantages: for US$10 to $20 a day you’re giving someone a valuable job and in turn you will learn plenty about the local culture and natural environment.
A trekking company offers the advantage of having everything arranged for you, including airport transfers, accommodation and porters and/or guides and their insurance. You can book before you go with western tour companies, though you’ll pay significantly less by booking in Kathmandu – ensure they’re registered with the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN). For a list of registered companies visit www.taan.org.np.
How do I get in shape?
Nothing can really prepare you for the trek’s extreme hills and altitude of up to 5545m. But don’t be put off – people with average fitness can do this trek. ‘Slow and steady’ is the key to achieving, and enjoying, your trek.
Prepare with cardiovascular training several times a week: cycling, swimming, hill climbing and lots of walking. Aim for a five-hour walk once a week. Seek out hills or find a tall building and repeatedly walk up and down the stairs.
What should I take?
Pack lightly – aim for 10 to 15 kg. Consider your porter’s load before you include that big bottle of shampoo or pair of jeans.
A fleece jacket, down jacket and thermal underwear are a must, as the Himalaya gets cold above 3000m any time of the year. Also take two pairs of long pants, two or three T-shirts (synthetic fabrics – not cotton – that wick away sweat), and another warm jumper or light fleece.
Footwear requires lightly broken-in boots, trekking socks, and sneakers or sandals for evenings. You will also need a raincoat, gloves, woollen hat, sunhat and polarised sunglasses. A good sleeping bag (rated to -20°C/0°F) is essential; if it’s winter, a thermal liner makes it extra toasty.
Opt for travel-size toiletries, including a good sunscreen, lip balm, travel towel and tissues. Baby wipes are handy for days when you can’t shower.
Your first aid kit should include medication for diarrhoea, antibiotics for a chest or sinus infection, and adhesive bandages for blisters. Visit your doctor for Nepal-specific immunisations. Using two 1L water bottles with water purification tablets is a reliable and safe way to drink water – and more environmentally friendly than buying bottled water from lodges.
Staying healthy and safe on the trek.
Take your time.
Altitude sickness can affect anybody – even the extremely fit. (The acclimatisation days, usually at Namche and Dingboche, are set for a reason.) Watch for signs of altitude sickness: symptoms include headaches, dizziness, sleeplessness, loss of appetite and breathlessness. Bring a supply of the medication Diamox for treatment; if symptoms persist, descend.
Be vegetarian.
As tempting as it is to try a juicy yak steak or ‘buff burger’, be aware that all meat is carried up by porters from below Lukla due to the no-killing policy in Sagamartha National Park, so by the time you have it, it’s getting old. The safest, healthiest option is to eat dal bhat (lentil soup with rice) – it’s made fresh daily and is a great source of protein and energy. As the saying goes, ‘Dal bhat power, 24 hour!’
Cover up.
The sun here is harsh, so use a good sunscreen and reapply regularly.
Wear long-sleeved tops, long pants and a light scarf – or be prepared to blister.