Tengboche, yak power

In Tengboche we had the priviledge of visiting the Buddhist Monastery. In the afternoon, we entered the Temple and witnessed the ending half of the ceremony.


entrance to temple

The next morning, when we were up early to watch the sunrise, we heard a Tibetan opera of horns being blown and bells chiming in the monastery courtyard in preparation for the morning service. We were able to witness and participate in the beginning of a Buddhist service that morning. It was difficult to leave the incredible sound of the Monks chanting in the sacred space of the Temple.


inside Buddist temple

Unfortunately, we had to have our breakfast and proceed with our journey. Sometimes, it was difficult to eat, as we did not feel hungry. But we knew we had to eat to have the energy and strength to proceed with our trekking.

For five days now, we have not seen a car, motorcycle, bicycle, only Yak power.


Having approached 4,000m, the landscape has changed -- the trees are gone replaced with short spruce bushes and rocks.


sharing the trail


We arrive in Dingboche that afternoon on April 23rd. The Tea House is 'nice' and the bathrooms have one 'squatter' and one 'regular' bathroom -- a sitdown -- what a treat. We had a 'shower' with one bucket of hot water. It goes a long way.




We are now hearing stories of people getting sick, i.e., AMS and not able to proceed higher to Base Camp. Our Guide is telling us to watch for certain symptoms, i.e., headaches in the back of your head, feeling nauseous, feeling dizzy. We are being reminded to eat Garlic soup everyday and to drink large amounts of water. We have also been reminded that we are not to nap during the day because of the altitude. Our group of nine individuals is very experienced and diligent in listening to our Guide's advice.






day 2