Graeme and Leanne Carling Climb for a Cure: The Everest Diaries – Day 4
Day 4 of the Everest Base Camp trek was the most challenging day thus far. After a restful night in Namche Bazar, we set off early this morning towards our destination for the day, Deboche. The morning was relatively straightforward, with a gradual ascent through the lush green forests of the Khumbu region. The scenery was breath-taking, and the fresh mountain air invigorated us for the day ahead.
As we continued on our journey, we encountered a steep climb up a 600-meter ascent after lunch. The altitude had started to affect our breathing, and the climb felt like an uphill battle. We had to take frequent breaks to catch our breath and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. The climb was strenuous, and the terrain was rocky and uneven, making it even more challenging.
Once we reached the top, we were rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The peaks of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Everest were visible in the distance, and we felt a sense of awe and humility in the face of their majesty. We stopped for a brief rest and a snack before continuing on our journey towards Thyangboche Monastery.
Thyangboche Monastery is one of the most important cultural and religious centers in the Khumbu region. It is situated at an elevation of 3,867 meters and is surrounded by stunning mountain views. The monastery is home to a community of monks who have dedicated their lives to the study and practice of Buddhism.
As we approached the monastery, we felt a sense of calm and serenity wash over us. The atmosphere was peaceful, and we could hear the sound of chanting coming from inside. We removed our shoes and entered the monastery, feeling a sense of reverence for the sacred space.
Inside, we were greeted by colorful prayer flags, intricate wall paintings, and a large statue of Buddha. The monks were performing their daily rituals, and the sound of their chanting filled the air. It was a humbling experience to witness the devotion and dedication of these monks and to be able to share in their spiritual practices.
After spending some time at Thyangboche Monastery, we continued on our journey towards Deboche. The descent was steep and challenging, and we had to be careful not to slip on the rocky terrain. As we descended, we noticed that the vegetation was changing, and the landscape was becoming drier and more barren.
Finally, we arrived at Deboche, exhausted but proud of our achievements. We have completed a challenging day of hiking, and have experienced some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. As we settle into our lodge for the night, we have had a chance to reflect on the day’s events and look forward to the adventures that lye ahead.
In conclusion, day 4 of the Everest Base Camp trek was a tough but rewarding experience. We had to push ourselves to our limits and overcome the challenges of altitude and steep terrain. However, the stunning mountain views, cultural experiences, and sense of accomplishment make it all worthwhile. The Everest Base Camp trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that tests your physical and mental capabilities, but it also rewards you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Leanne and Graeme are raising funds for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) to support their efforts to find a cure for Type-1 Diabetes. In a bid to raise as much money for the charity as possible, Graeme and Leanne have launched a JustGiving page which can be found here: justgiving.com/page/graeme-and-leanne-carling-1681063124419
