The Everest 18 Team were eager to hit the trail this morning up to Tengboche (3,867 metres | 12,687 ft) after a solid acclimatization period in Namche. We were rewarded with blue skies and beautiful vistas of Everest and Ama Dablam for most of the hike. Taking the old route the team smashed up the notorious Tengboche hill in fine form at record speed – these are some fit and healthy climbers indeed!

It was shorts and tshirt weather for most of the walk although as soon as we arrived up on the ridge at Tengboche there was a noticeable drop in temperature and down pants and jackets were being  pulled quickly out of the depths of duffel bags.

After lunch at the teahouse, we were fortunate to visit the famous Tengboche Monastery on an auspicious day in the Tibetan Buddhist calendar to receive blessings from the High Monk for our journey ahead. The Monk chanted prayers for our team’s safety and permission to climb the mountain while occasionally ringing a small bell. His prayers lasted around half an hour before each member of the team was presented with a Kata scarf and a Sungdi – which is a red cord that has been prayed over by the monks for a period of time and is then tied around the climbers neck as protection with a special knot.

No photos are allowed inside the Monastery so while we aren’t able to share the special moment with you at home, it somehow made us more present and in the moment.

We will spend 2 nights here in Tengboche before moving further up towards Everest.

CTSS Team

Welcome to Tengboche – Have a quick look around!