Unforgettable Trekking Moments

At an altitude of 5164 meters, you don’t sleep deeply nor very well. But when your iPhone alarm goes off at 04:15 AM, it's tough—and you don't want to leave your sleeping bag. After all, it’s still very cold in the lodge.

Prem assured us the evening before during our meeting: the efforts will be worth it! And so far, he has been right every time he said that! Every day of this trekking was paved with unique moments and impressions that you absorb and imprint on yourself.

After Prem checked at 04:30 AM that we were awake and ready for the day, we set off towards the southern summit of Kala Patthar with headlamps and an extra layer of clothing, but without breakfast. These 5550 meters had to be conquered as the finale of our EBC trek.

The idea of standing on this summit, which should be reached at sunrise to be rewarded with the magnificent view of "Sagarmatha," is enticing. However, the path is sticky, the air thin, and my energy level was zero that early morning. Thus, Prem’s mental support at that time was especially needed.

His way of being there for you, supporting you with his balanced and calm demeanor, offering you warming tea in moments of doubt about reaching the summit, allowing you a short break before tackling the next ascent— all this, along with his extensive knowledge of his homeland and his network, makes Prem an excellent mountain guide and companion. With every step, it became more desirable for me to achieve this common goal.

Happy, and ultimately on all fours—at least for the last meters of ascent, which was even necessary—we then indulged in a panoramic view of "Mother Earth" at sunrise for a long time. ...until we meet again!

Namaste

Sieglinde Gübeli

Zurich, Switzerland