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Kindly update your bookmark and do subscribe to my blog.
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Everest Movie (2015)
Universal Pictures recently released the trailer for “Everest,” a film starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Josh Brolin, Robin Wright, Sam Worthington and Keira Knightley.
As I have done quite a bit of mountaineering myself and have to say some of the movie scenes really bring back my memories. If you have not watched it yet, go watch it, it portraits quite well the environment, the mindset and the culture of mountaineering community.
Plot:
Inspired by the incredible events surrounding an attempt to reach the summit of the world’s highest mountain, Everest documents the awe-inspiring journey of two different expeditions challenged beyond their limits by one of the fiercest snowstorms ever encountered by mankind. Their mettle tested by the harshest elements found on the planet, the climbers will face nearly impossible obstacles as a lifelong obsession becomes a breathtaking struggle for survival. The epic adventure stars Jason Clarke, Josh Brolin, John Hawkes, Robin Wright, Michael Kelly, Sam Worthington, Keira Knightley, Emily Watson and Jake Gyllenhaal.Everest is directed by Baltasar Kormákur (2 Guns, Contraband) and produced by Working Title Films’ Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner, Cross Creek Pictures’ Brian Oliver and Tyler Thompson, as well as Nicky Kentish Barnes and Kormákur.
Universal Pictures and Cross Creek Pictures’ presentation of Everest—in association with Walden Media—is adapted for the screen by William Nicholson (Gladiator) and Oscar® winner Simon Beaufoy (Slumdog Millionaire).
The film was shot on location in Nepal on the foothills of Everest, the Italian Alps and at Cinecittà Studios in Rome and Pinewood Studios in the U.K. Universal will distribute Everest worldwide.
Trekking Summary (Part 3) - Trek down from Namche Bazzar to Lukla, Exploring UNESCO world heritage sites at Kathmandu Valley and Finally go back Home
This is part 3 of my Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary Summary. If you have missed out the part 1, check it out here. For part 2, check it out here.
Day 11 (06 April 2015)
Destination: Namche Bazaar
Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours
Trekking Duration: 6-7 hours
Today we trek back along the Dudh Kosi River through a magnificent rhododendron forest and past brilliant waterfalls. Shortly before reaching Namche, the trek takes us through a pine forest, where musk deer often graze in the early morning. Arriving in town, we may see lowland porters, highland Sherpas, and Tibetan people trading food and supplies during Namche’s market time. Overnight at the Namche's guest house.
Day 12 (07 April 2015)
Destination: Phakding
Trekking Duration: 4 hours
Trekking Duration: 4 hours
Luckily trekking down to Phakding are quite short; upon trekking down from Namchee village, we take a quick rest at the spot where we can take a glimpse of the mighty Everest again.
Overnight at the guest house.
Overnight at the guest house.
Day 13 (08 April 2015)
Destination: Lukla
Trekking Duration: 3 hours
Trekking Duration: 3 hours
We spent 2 days 1 night here to enjoy Lukla. Mainly, enjoy ourselves at local cafés and bars. Overnight at the Lukla's guest house.
Day 14 - 15 (09 - 10 April 2015)
Destination: Kathmandu
Today, we fly back to Kathmandu after our long mountain journey. The morning flight drops us in Kathmandu. We can rest, relax, sight-seeing, and shopping at Kathmandu for 2 days. Yaay!
For me, I'm going to explore some UNESCO world heritage sites in Kathmandu valley. (Photos coming up later).
Day 16 (11 April 2015)
Destination: Kuala Lumpur -> Singapore
It is our last day in Nepal!! Gonna stuff myself full with some breakfast at hotel before heading to Kathmandu International Airport.
Well, it is also a time to bid farewell to our dear tour and trek guide here. Armed with unforgettable memories and gorgeous photos in our camera, we are ready to go back HOME; Really could not wait to meet our families and friends.
We transit at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLCC) after long 5 hours flight and took another flight to our final destination Singapore.
Well, it is also a time to bid farewell to our dear tour and trek guide here. Armed with unforgettable memories and gorgeous photos in our camera, we are ready to go back HOME; Really could not wait to meet our families and friends.
We transit at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLCC) after long 5 hours flight and took another flight to our final destination Singapore.
Trekking Summary (Part 2) - From Tengboche and Trek to Dingboche, Everest Base Camp, Gorak Shep, and Pheriche
This is part 2 of my Everest Base Camp Trekking Itinerary Summary. If you have missed out the part 1, check it out here.
Day 06 (01 April 2015)
Destination: Dingboche (4410 meters)
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
Trekking Duration: 5-6 hours
With mountains at its backdrop, the monastery at Tengboche looks more spectacular in the morning. At this juncture, we can take pictures of the monastery and the scenery around and as usual starts the day journey. We choose the upper trail for better views on the way to Pangboche village.
We pass through several Chortens and Mani walls and small villages. The place where we stop for lunch not only serves delicious food but also allows a fantastic close-up view of Mt Ama Dablam.
In the afternoon, we walk north to Pheriche or take the eastward trail beneath the towering north face of Mt Ama Dablam. From here onwards, the walk is fairly moderate as we enter the Imja Valley. The valley gradually unfolds as we approach the confluence of the Lobuche River. We descend into the river and begin the last and steepest climb of the day up to Dingboche.
On arrival at Dingboche, we will see beautiful array of fields enclosed by stone walls to protect barley, buckwheat and potatoes from the cold winds and grazing animals.
Photo Galleries:
Day 07 (02 April 2015)
Acclimatization day at Dingboche (4410 meters)
We spend our second day of acclimatization at Dingboche. A refreshing breakfast while admiring a looming Ama Dablam (6856m/ 22493 ft) to the south is really fantastic. To better appreciate Mt Ama Dablam, Mt Lhotse and numerous other peaks visible from Dingboche; we climb the ridge on the north behind the village.
This will be an ideal acclimatizing excursion. Upon this juncture, we can see three of the world's six highest peaks, Mt Lhotse, Mt Makalu and Mt Cho Yu. To the west, loom the towering peaks of Cholatse (6440 m/21,126 ft) and Taboche (6542 m/ 21,463 ft). As we look northwest, we see an array of peaks rising at the head of the Khumbu Khola valley.
The Lobuche West and Lobuche East peaks are most dominant along with Lhotse which stands over 8500 meters (8501m / 27,890 ft). From a vantage point high on the ridge, we can scan the sweeping Imja Khola valley as well as the picturesque fields and pastures of Dingboche.
Again overnight at Dingboche.
Photo Galleries:
Day 08 (03 April 2015)
Destination: Lobuje (4910 meters)
Trekking Duration: 5 hours
Trekking Duration: 5 hours
We start the day with a climb to Duglha through the Khumbu Khola valley. The walk along the arid terrace is rewarding with awesome views of mountains on all sides. As we come to a yak herder's place called Dusa, the valley begins to narrow and we continue through Phulung Karpo, the camp site of the first successful Everest Expedition in 1953. Above Phulung Karpo is Chola Lake. As we move on, the majestic view of Mt. Pumori (7138 m/ 23418 ft) comes into view. As the trail descends and curves, Mt. Pumori disappears from view and we come across a roaring stream. After crossing a small wooden bridge, we ascend to Duglha. We can see the tip of Mt Nuptse from here as well as Mt Cholatse, Mt Thamserku, and several other magnificent peaks.
Beyond Duglha, we climb up the steep terminal moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. We pass through boulder-strewn slopes as we ascend Chupki Lhara, an eerie ridge top with dramatic mountain views. At the top of the ridge, we will find an array of stones with prayer flags used as memorials to Scott Fischer (American mountaineer) and 10 times Everest submitter Babu Chiri Sherpa (a Nepali mountain guide) who perished on a mission to climb Everest.
As the trail drops to the Khumbu Glacier moraine, we find ourselves facing several great peaks - Khumbutse, Lingtren, Pumori and Mahalangur Himal. We are now in the vicinity of Everest but the great mountain still remains elusive. Mt Nuptse towers to the right as the trail crosses the Khumbu Glacier. As we pass along a murmuring stream leaving the Khumbu Glacier behind, we now begin to feel a little out of breath due to high altitude.
Day 09 (04 April 2015)
Destination: Everest Base Camp (5364 meters) -> Gorak Shep (5180 meters)
Trekking Duration: 8-9 hours
Trekking Duration: 8-9 hours
Finally, trekking to Everest base camp (5364 meters) and back to Gorak Shep (5180 meters) with total around 8-9 hours.
The trail to Gorak Shep goes ahead through the lateral moraine of the Khumbu Glacier. We pass through the pyramid sign post. Ahead on the trail we see crest of north ridge of Everest along with Mt. Pumori, Mt. Mahalangur, Mt. Lingtern, Mt. Khumbutse, Mt. Nuptse, etc. A small ascent would take us to Thangma Riju from where we perceive 360 degree vista of snowy mountains. Climbing steeply up to the top through the torrent of Changri Glacier, we catch our first glimpse of Kala Patthar, a grey-green knoll beneath the Mt. Pumori. As we reach Gorak Shep, we will find snow-capped mountains looming all around us including the top of the world - Mt. Everest. After a brief lunch and rest, we take the trail to Everest Base Camp through the once vast Gorak Shep Lake.
Continuing straight ahead, we come through the Indian army mountaineers' memorials. Only upon reaching the Everest Base Camp do we really appreciate the Everest climbers who brave the hazardous route through the Khumbu icefall. Mountaineer's tents stand out in bright colors against the monotony of gray surroundings (especially in the Spring). Nuptse, Khumbuste and Pumori are the mountains we can view from the base camp. Everest actually is not visible from here.
Finally after continues endurance we have finally arrived at our ultimate objective of our trip: EVEREST BASE CAMP. Word can’t do justice, but my heart really screaming at joy; all these efforts really worth it! We spent around 30 minutes taking self-photos and as well as group photos.
As getting late, we ‘quickly’ return back to Gorak Shep for overnight at a local lodge.
Photo Galleries:
Day 10 (05 April 2015)
Destination: Kalapattar (5545 meters) -> Pheriche
Trekking Duration: 7 hours
Trekking Duration: 7 hours
We are supposed to visit Kala Patthar in the next morning as per our itinerary, however due to un-bearable tiredness; we have decided to skip Kala Patthar, instead precede trek down to Pheriche.
Trekking Summary (Part 1) - From Kathmandu fly to Lukla and trek to Namche Bazzar, Phakding, and Tengboche
Day 01 (27 March 2015)
Destination: Kathmandu (1310 meters)
Fly to Tribhuwan International Airport at Kathmandu. Upon arrival, check-out from immigration custom, collect our baggage, and finally we proceed to meet with our tour guide that has been waiting for us with a mini-bus to transfer us to Moonlight hotel.
Day 02 (28 March 2015)
Destination: Lukla -> Phakding (2610 meters)
Trekking Duration: 6 hours
Trekking Duration: 6 hours
After enjoying our one last bed-and-breakfast meal in Kathmandu; we boarded a brief flight to Lukla. For your information, Lukla airport is known as the world most dangerous airport. The flight itself will take around 30-40 minutes.
After arrival, all of us will gather at one spot infront of shop-house. Here we get a proper introduction by our guide and porters! Get well-acquainted as we will see a lof of one another.
Our trek starts mildly with a stroll through Chaurikharka village and descent towards Dudhkoshi Ghat. We are walking the path of the Dudhkoshi River until we have arrived in the popular resting stop of Phakding (2,652m/8,700ft). The air’s already getting thinner already and most of us are really exhausted but we felt so much excitement.
Photo Galleries:
Day 03 (29 March 2015)
Destination: Namche Bazaar (3440 meters)
Trekking Duration: 6 hours
Trekking Duration: 6 hours
During our trekking to Namche Bazaar, we are really astounded by the largest Sherpa village in the country! Well, to be fair, it’s a really long trek to Namche, so much stunning scenery to see and enjoy.
We crossed by the Dudhkoshi River and wend our way through a gorgeous pine forest. Stop by to Monjo for a permit check and descent towards Dudh Kosi River. Along the way, we found so many mythical Mani stones. The river is our guide towards Jorsale, and lunch. After the thrilling Hillary Suspension Bridge crossing, it’s all uphill to Namche. Hold a breath! From the village, we take a glimpse of the mighty Everest for the first time.
Photo Galleries:
Day 04 (30 March 2015)
Destination: Acclimatization day at Namche Bazzar (3440 meters)
Trekking Duration: 4 hours
Trekking Duration: 4 hours
We are really astounded by the largest Sherpa village in the country. However, today’s our rest day and we took this opportunity to experience the wonders of Namche and its eponymous Bazaar! This central shopping hub caters not only to the daily needs of the local Sherpas, but is chock-full of trekking and mountaineering equipments. Some of us do some shopping and brought cute-looking-winter-hats and gloves; while some of us dozing-off at their own room as weather is getting colder. As for me, I take my chances drinking at nearby local bar with some of the guys.
Photo Galleries:
Day 05 (31 March 2015)
Destination: Tengboche (3860 meters)
Trekking Duration: 5 hours
Trekking Duration: 5 hours
Upon breakfast in Namche, we set out towards Tengboche, enjoying superb view of Mt. Everest, Mt. Nuptse, Mt. Lhotse, Mt. Ama Dablam and close up view of Thamserku. Our trek follows more or less smooth trail with few ups and downs which will not bother us as the magnificent view of the Himalayas keeps our company all through the journey.
Along the way, we can spot wildlife musk deer, a herd of Himalayan Thar and multicolored pheasants. The trail goes gradually down up to Kayangjuma. The path eventually reaches Sansa, which is the major trail junction to Gokyo valley and Everest Base Camp. The track then follows through the pine forests and after we cross the prayer flags festooned bridge over the Dudh Koshi River, we reach Phunki Thenga, a small settlement with a couple of teahouses and a small army post amidst the alpine woods.
After having a relaxed lunch at Phunki Thenga, we gear up for a slightly tougher climb through the pine forests before we reach Tengboche. Tengboche is a great place for close up views of Mt Ama Dablam, Mt Nuptse, and Mt Everest, and it has the biggest Buddhist Monastery of the Khumbu region. We pay our visit to the monastery the same day at around 3 pm to witness the ceremony in the principal and popular monastery of Everest region. Overnight stay at a lodge at Tengboche.
Photo Galleries:
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