The day started with a gentle climb through the valley and the sun was shining. The gradual accent quickly became boulder climbing as we pushed on higher to the 5400m of base camp. Helen was powering ahead this morning but for me and most others it was one foot at a time and regular stops to catch breath. You fight for breath at some stages and the recommended 'slow and steady' is by far the best policy. A steady rhythm of plodding and regulating your breathing g...

The morning was a struggle as the altitude kept me tossing, turning and gasping for breath all night. I would estimate 30 minutes sleep at best. Nevertheless, it was onwards and upwards. Breakfast of porridge and we were off. We left behind many of our friends who were all staying in Dingbouche for another acclimatisation day. Our guide, Bikram was happy with our fitness and progress so far, therefore no rest for us. The day started with a steep climb up the side...

After a very cold sleep in Dingbouche we set off for Debouche. We started the gentle climb up along the river passing some men rebuilding an earthquake damaged house. The route was gentle to start and it was another sunny morning as most misting a here appeared to be. We passed a broken bridge that was damaged by an avalanche a few years back that made our route over the river a bit longer. Over the river we stopped for a much needed hot soup and Tom visited the ...

Today's destination was Debouche at over 4000 meters. The first part of the journey from Namche was pretty easy, we were walking around the side of the hill which was a nice wide, reasonably flat track. We passed through a coupe of small villages and a few jewellery stands on the way. We passed loads of local porters who were taking goods up to higher villages. The porters get paid by the weight they carry, and some of the loads are unbelievable! Many are carryin...

Today was our rest or acclimatisation day in Namche. We were now at around 3800m and failure to have acclimatisation days can have a real impact of the trip. The rule is, walk high, sleep low therefore this morning we had to embark on an 'acclimatisation hike' which would bring about our first view of Mount Everest. We set off early to get the best of the stunning morning and made our way up to the Everest View Hotel, a 3 hour trek up the back of Namche. On the w...