Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Everest Base Camp & Kala Patthar 07-23.05.2011 (2)

8May2011 - Lukla(2800M) > Phakding(2600M)
Lukla airport dubbed as 1 of the most dangerous airport in the world for its 460M mountain cliff side runway. When comes bad weather, cloud will cover the surrounding mountains, making it impossible for Twin Otter pilots to see n navigate the flight safely. Often, the passengers have to wait for a clear sky.

The landing at Lukhla was eerie. I still can recall the bumpy ride. KMeng greeted us at the airport exit. At last, we met! This trip was OX's ultimate goal since 6yr ago but it was abruptly cancelled due to the political turmoil in Nepal.

We then heading to Phakding after a breakfast n that, we started our climb to EBC in this vast Khumbu region, homeland of Sherpas. We immediately felt the thick culture of Sherpa. Symbols of Buddhism are crafted to stone along the trail. Hses that r built with stone n woods. Donkey, horses, cows, yaks were everywhere. A 4hr leisure walk, we checked in Mt resort, a serenity n tranquil lodge.


Twin Otter plane.
Inside the plane.
That landing moment at Lukla airport.
460M runway with gradient. At the end of the runway, there's a valley. VALLEY!!! Yeah, you only have 1 chance to take off & to land.
The team is excited to kick start the journey.
Hard earn $ by the potters. 30Kg at least person.
Buddhism mantra is all over the trail. That says enough abt sherpas culture & life influence.
Hmm... looking back this pic, who know 'that virus' is already inside him.
My same apparel until Dingboche. I felt the cold at my skin layer, but at core, somehow, Im alright. you just need to keep walking!

Our 1st day 'resort'. Very cosy & quiet lodge to rest.
Dining area. Filled with our laughter at the end of the dinner.
A tranquil valley view right in front of the resort.

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