We have just returned from our 2016 EBC trek. It was another successful trip, with all nine in the team that were intending on standing on KP's sumit (@ 5,545mts amsl) successfully doing so on Tue 1st March.
This years trip was challenged by constant clouds rolling in every day around late morning or early afternoon, often hiding the magnificent scenery and resulting in light snow showers in the late afternoon or evening. But most mornings were splendid, with great views of Everest and her mighty neighbours. Our morning climb up KP was one of the best mornings I have had in years.
It was a good team to share my 10th visit with. Lots of laughs and some genuine appreciation of the country, the people and the trek itself. As with several trips, the gap between the quicker and slower walkers was evident, but most of the time we walked together, or at least waited up for the slower walkers.
We did have to deal with some illnesses along the way. From mild stomach upsets to some genuine altitude sickness. Fortunately, both these were mild and with some caring (and perhaps some good decision making), those who suffered these ailments were able to climb up onto Kalar Pattar a few days later..!!
As usual, the blog proved to be a handy communication means for those back home, although several of the team kept an up-to-date dialogue of the trip via their own personal Facebook accounts. It was enjoyable reading your responses and we all appreciated your support.
Evidence of the 2015 earthquakes could be seen throughout Kathmandu. From damaged buildings, to collapsed temples and extensive bracing (timber and steel beams) holding up and supporting several structures. Restoration works have started, but it will take a while.
2017 will shortly become the focus. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is already full. Sue will be meeting and finalising her team over the next month. The EBC team is around 1/3 full, and is still taking bookings.
This years trip was challenged by constant clouds rolling in every day around late morning or early afternoon, often hiding the magnificent scenery and resulting in light snow showers in the late afternoon or evening. But most mornings were splendid, with great views of Everest and her mighty neighbours. Our morning climb up KP was one of the best mornings I have had in years.
It was a good team to share my 10th visit with. Lots of laughs and some genuine appreciation of the country, the people and the trek itself. As with several trips, the gap between the quicker and slower walkers was evident, but most of the time we walked together, or at least waited up for the slower walkers.
We did have to deal with some illnesses along the way. From mild stomach upsets to some genuine altitude sickness. Fortunately, both these were mild and with some caring (and perhaps some good decision making), those who suffered these ailments were able to climb up onto Kalar Pattar a few days later..!!
As usual, the blog proved to be a handy communication means for those back home, although several of the team kept an up-to-date dialogue of the trip via their own personal Facebook accounts. It was enjoyable reading your responses and we all appreciated your support.
Evidence of the 2015 earthquakes could be seen throughout Kathmandu. From damaged buildings, to collapsed temples and extensive bracing (timber and steel beams) holding up and supporting several structures. Restoration works have started, but it will take a while.
2017 will shortly become the focus. The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is already full. Sue will be meeting and finalising her team over the next month. The EBC team is around 1/3 full, and is still taking bookings.
