Trip Reports

Khumbu Climber - 9 Apr to 7 May '06

Written by Leader Chris Groves, May 2006

Our multi-national team (English, Welsh, Canadian, Swedish and two New Zealanders) assembled at the Summit Hotel. It was very strange to travel to the hotel through the deserted streets of Kathmandu under curfew. After an all too brief stay, we were up early for the flight to Lukla and straight off trekking up the Dudh Kosi Valley.

After 6 days of pleasant walking with some stunning views, including our 3 main objectives and the varied culture of the valley, it was time to move from teahouse comfort to camping. As part of our acclimatisation programme the whole team reached the summit of Nagartsang Peak (5,083m)

Shortly after arriving at Pokalde base camp snow started to fall. With several inches by breakfast the following day we were going nowhere so had an enforced rest day and the snow continued. After 36 hours there was c50cm in places, so our only option was to descend. After 2 more frustrating days waiting at Chukhung we were finally able to move up to Island Peak BC (unfortunately, Helen had not acclimatised well and decided to leave the expedition accompanied by partner Paul)

Despite deep snow and a very strong sun the ascent went to plan and Shane, Johanna, Chris, David and Paula reached the summit of Island Peak (6,189m) at 11:00 on 24 April. The good news was that there was no one else on the mountain, however, the bad news what that we had no summit views due to cloud. Though the sunrise and emerging views were well photographed during the ascent.

After a brief spell back in a teahouse (and a shower!) the team experienced perfect weather on Lobuche East. Chris, Shane, David and Johanna enjoyed fantastic views from the summit (c6,000m) at 10:00 on 28 April. It was then over the Cho La pass (5,368m) and a long day to Gokyo and a well-earned rest (plus a beer or 2!), having said goodbye to the tents and moved back to teahouse accommodation.

With a final early morning start the whole team £ Shane, David, Chris, Paula, Johanna and Sadie enjoyed the views (including Everest, Lhotse, Makalu and Cho Oyu) from Gokyo Ri (5,357m) before heading down to thicker air and warmer temperatures. On returning to Namche Bazaar the team enjoyed a lazy day around town before the final day£s trek back to Lukla.

This was a highly enjoyable, varied and successful trip with new high points for just about everybody. This enjoyment and success wouldn£t have been possible without the hard work and support of our local staff, led by Sirdar Karma.

Chris Groves, expedition leader

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