Watch the video

Day 6 route overview

The second rest day begins at Dingboche where a steep hike up to the viewpoint near the summit of Nanghkarshang takes you to the highest point yet on the route bringing you to over 5,000 metres in altitude. It will be the first real test of your body’s ability to cope with the altitude and if you successfully complete this day, you can be much more confident that you’ll be able to make it to Base Camp.

Elevation

In just over a mile and a half of hiking, you’ll climb almost 3,000 feet in elevation, making it the steepest section along the Everest Base Camp Trek. 

The ascent to Nangkartshang

I woke to a beautifully clear morning and an epic alpenglow on the mountain tops. I decided to carry much less today. Taking only what was necessary for the day ahead and leaving less important items in the tea house back in Dingboche. We’d begin the day walking a short part of the route to Lobuche before gunning up the spine of a northwestern slope. 

The most epic view of the trip

Halfway up the slope we stopped at a small viewpoint and the valley below was one of the most impressive views of my life. The glaciers melting into the river below, coupled with the clear air, dark soil and snow-capped peaks were outstanding to say the least. I thought that was us done for the day, but luckily we were going higher.

The summit of Nankartshang

The summit which was entwined with prayer flags and carved rocks was occupied by a lucky and hardy few who’d made it to the top. The rewards were grand and spectacular. I could’ve spent hours sat up there. “If you’ve made it this far, you’ll get to Base Camp”, Kalyan uttered. “Not everybody makes it this far” he added. I felt like I’d already achieved a great thing getting this far and with those words from Kalyan, I felt completely surprised. Tomorrow, Lobuche.

Gallery