Watch the video

Day 5 route overview

The route from Pangboche to Dingboche is probably the most leisurely section of the trail. Leaving Pangboche behind you descend down into the valley and follow the route along the side of the mountains along a flat and steady path featuring epic views to your right all the way to Dingboche.

Elevation

Once into the valley, the route has a steady gain in elevation which is only noticeable due to the altitude. It’s a much welcome break for your legs while making miles toward your destination.

We’re getting closer

Along the route to Dingboche, views of Everest, Lhotse and Nuptse govern the skyline while you’re walking ever closer to them. You can see them slowly scaling up as you etch closer toward Dingboche. This day was particularly clear with less dust in the atmosphere and we were accompanied by a very friendly dog all the way to Dingboche.

Stopping for a break

The Sonam Restaurant is a popular pitstop for hikers along this section of the route and we stopped here to enjoy the views and take in the fresh air over some fried rice, tea and coffee.

We made it to Dingboche

The closer to Mount Everest we got the smaller the villages got, and Dingboche only confirmed the fact. Dingboche was so quiet and with only a few tea rooms, hotels and a small market. There wasn’t much to do except rest and enjoy the beauty that surrounded us. Now, we’re right next to the Everest Range, surrounded by towering giants and epic glaciers which fill the negative space between the mountain tops. I was in awe at the views and surprisingly, the altitude effects seemed to be losing their grip as my body adjusted to the heights of which we were dwelling in.

Gallery