Gearing up for the uphill trek to Namche Bazaar. Solid breakfast full of carbohydrates, combined with the excitement of getting first glimpse of mighty Everest. That fuelled me enough for the Namche Bazaar trek.
Unlike previous day with rough weather, this was a beautiful day and nature in full splendour. Crossing over long suspension bridge, body swinging all the way, was a fun experience in itself.
Trekking continued through dense forest area. Then had to stop for permit check to enter Sagarmatha National Park, a World Heritage Site that includes Everest region.
Guide had the permits ready so quickly completed all the formalities. Trekking trail was now downhill, to Dudh Kosi river. On the way I spotted carved mani stones and ornate prayer wheel, symbolic to Buddhism. A pretty sight and moral booster, indeed.
After few hours of trek, it was time for much needed lunch break. I ordered dal bhat. Dal bhat is a popular vegetarian meal among locals there, and became my favourite too. Dal bhat comprised of rice, pulses and vegetables, very much like in India, my home country. I was told that vegetarian meal was not a problem while trekking to Everest Base Camp. So, all aspiring vegetarian trekkers out there, no worry on veg meal.
During lunch I got to know that day was Alka’s birthday and I wished her very happy birthday.
Trekking along Dudh Kosi river, two more suspension bridges were to be crossed which included famous Hillary Suspension Bridge. So clicking time for a group photo at the picturesque backdrop of two bridges.
Onward trek to Namche Bazaar was steep ascent and high altitude too, so the real test of my stamina. But the excitement of catching first glimpse of Mt Everest kept me mentally energized. To pull physical strength, I did lot of deep breathing, took short measured steps but not much rest. That was the trick I had been adopting in my earlier high altitude treks and that always worked.
By the time I reached Namche Bazaar it was not dark yet, I was trying to figure out, then I saw guide Ishwar signalling me towards Mt Everest peak. One look at Everest, wow! It was love at first sight for me and the urge to get more of Everest.
MY Adventures continue….
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