The alarm went off at 4:45 in preparation of our long trek over Kongma La Pass (elevation 5535 meters, 17,550 feet). The morning dawned crisp and clear, our heavy packs shouldered and trek began. The sun rising over Ama Dablam was mesmerizing, causing us to stop and watch as the sun moved the shadows across the glacier and the peak.
The path climbs steeply and gains a icy basin, lined with frozen waterfalls. A bird, unfamiliar to us, called out as we climbed our way towards the pass. Others answering in return. A lovely early morning serenade.
Black crows sail along the thermals, always present.
A steady pace and we arrive at a seemingly impossible rock face that must be climbed. Investigation leads to a small path that begins the final 100 meter ascent to the pass.
We arrive at the pass and take a short break to refuel our bodies and take in the views. Some black birds alight on the rocks wrapped in prayer flags. Tears of joy stream down the face to be in such a place, in the presence of these majestic mountains.
The descent is a steep decent down an icy path. Micro spikes make our decent quick. After an hour of steady downhill we arrive at a step ascent that will gain us entry to the glacier that covers the distance to the next village, Lobuche.
Winding up, down and around the glacier gives us the experience of being on a living, moving organism. Rocks fall, the glacier groans, debris falls into the emerald green lake. A quick glimpse of a squirrel and some small birds reminds that life can exist even in this harsh landscape.
A final ascent over the edge of the moraine and we arrive in the small village of Lobuche. We quickly secure a room for the night and find a place to get a pot of tea and an afternoon treat.
At this elevation the cold is a constant companion. A constant flow of warm fluids is the best strategy for managing the cold. Layers are essential to protect against the biting wind. A warm blanket offered in the tea house is a welcome addition to the sleeping bag.
Everyday is another highlight and a reminder that the body is often capable of more than the mind believes.
Namaste
WanderJill
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