Phortse to Tengboche
Monday, 13th March 2012
| Distance |
6.9 miles |
| Total Ascent |
1,800 feet |
| Maximum Altitude |
13,400 feet |
| Time |
5 hours 55 minutes |
| A snow shower overnight left quite a different scene this
morning but we were disappointed to find that it was also misty.
Climbing directly from the tea hut we eventually reached a balcony
path - where the mist hid the fact that there was a long drop to the
valley below. Contouring around the side valleys the mist did clear
to an extent but not enough to see Everest and Ama Dablam. A sharp
ascent brought us to the highest point of the walk at 13,400 feet
though it was too exposed for us to spend time
here - and it was pretty cold! Continuing on to Pangboche we had a
long slow descent punctuated with some steeper rocky sections. A tea
house at Pangboche, the highest year round settlement in the valley,
was the venue for lunch and we were pleased that we decided to sit
inside as there was quite a heavy snow storm while we were eating.
After retracing a short section of our route we descended to cross
the Dudh Kosi River. By this time the snow had stopped and the sun
came out as we made the gradual climb to Tengboche. After depositing
our bags at the Tashi Delek Lodge some of the group explored the
monastery which is the most important monastery for the Sherpas of
the Khumbu region. It is tradition that every climbing expedition to
Mt. Everest be blessed by the head Lama of this monastery. |
A misty ascent as we set out . . .
but atmospheric views . . .
are punctuated with glimpses of the summits
Looking back along the narrow balcony path . . .
and onwards
Tengboche lies on the opposite side of the valley but we need to visit Pangboche
first
Yak and raven in close proximity
The group finds a sheltered spot . . .
while Al and Jane take the opportunity to explore the cave above
Yaks come into view across a small valley . . .
and zooming in reveals their terrain . . .
but as I meet up with the group the yaks have reached the rocky staircase . . .
and make their way down carefully . . .
then along the path we have just followed (25 yaks were counted)
Heading into Pangboche for lunch
Continuing on our way after lunch with more snow around . . .
at least the trees look picturesque
Under construction - and under the yellow tenting the men are still shaping the
stones
Nearing Tengboche we meet up with the Boys who have already deposited our bags
at the tea house
A large stupa at Tengboche . . .
where Ama Dablam . . .
can be seen in the mist
The Tashi Delek tea house, our night's accommodation . . .
and a quick look at the monastery
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