Everest day 6 – Namche to Tengboche

I woke up today feeling a little sick after a restless night. Breakfast helped a little but for the first time I couldn’t finish everything.

The weather outside looked grim, clouds had settled in and the temperature was lower than previous days. I dressed accordingly but by the time we departed the sun had broken through and I was cooking.

The route for today was described as flat for and hour, decent to the river then a climb up to the monastery.

The first part was rolling rather than flat but stunning as the path wound it’s way along the valley. At the first chorten the rowing posse ran another stretching session. Woody’s joining in and everyone else thinks it’s hilarious.

The morning section ended with a descent to the river and a crossing over the powerful rapids. Lunch was had in a nondescript location where the wind whipped round and soon left us reaching for extra layers.

With full bellies we hut the trail for the uphill section the lead to Tengbouhe. We generally walk quicker than the others so when we hit the front of he group we stop until we’re at the back. This gives us time to step aside and admire the views.

The climb wasn’t too hard and I felt strong, better in fact than at the lower altitude. We reached Tengbouche around 3. The entrance gate leads you straight into the monastery area. The religious buildings dominate the surrounding guesthouses.

Our accommodation is basic, more like what I expected but still a shock to the system. In summary a bed in a cold room, and outside toilet and no showers.

After settling in we headed into the monastery to watch a prayer ceremony. The gate is opulent and the main building had an overwhelming air of spirituality. After taking off our shoes we entered the main room where the monks were sitting and chanting. I took a few photos but preferred to sit and be part of the experience. I left feeling incredibly relaxed.

For the rest of the afternoon we were house bound due to a white out. Still no view of Everest today but we did get some moon lit views of the surrounding peaks after the clouds cleared.

Nepalese words of the day:
Kitcha – how are you

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