Acclimatisation hike in Pheriche

Local time: 10 April 19:00
Location: Pheriche
Altitude: 4250m
Weather: Sunny in the morning becoming overcast with snow in the afternoon.

Hi Everyone,

It’s Damien coming to you from Pheriche.

Today we had planned to go up to Lobuche however Paul still had a sore throat (although improved) and another member of our group had some minor altitude symptoms so we decided to stay an extra day in Pheriche. The body’s ability to heal reduces with altitude so staying here at a lower level increases the opportunity to recover as well as reduce the likelihood of anyone experiencing altitude sickness.

Getting some exercise
Today we decided to go for a hike up a nearby mountain to get some exercise and help speed up our acclimatization. While I had only initially planned to go part-way up I was feeling really well during the hike and decided to continue on up with Paul and some of the other climbers from our group to the top (5050m). Tim was climbing well however the cold air was aggravating his throat so he turned back to ensure it did not worsen.

Although 5050m is not high in Himalayan terms it was new record for me and I felt a sense of accomplishment making it to the top. From the summit we had a spectacular view of Ama Dablam with the sun glistening off the snow and ice covered slopes. On the other side we could look directly down over Pheriche 760m below. Our altitude was put into perspective when a rescue helicopter flew into Pheriche while we were watching from the top. The helicopter looked like a small mosquito flying around a long way below us. It was a surreal experience to see an aircraft flying below rather than above.
After admiring the view from the summit for 20mins we began our decent. What took us 3 hours to climb only took about 40 mins to descend. I learnt that descending is an art form with the Sherpa leading the way half running and half slipping and sliding in a zigzag manner downhill. The others were much more proficient at this than me and I quickly realised I had absolutely no chance of keeping up and thus conceded I would need to descend at a much slower and less impressive manner. They were kind enough however to wait at various points to ensure I wasn’t left behind.

We have a winner….
Three days ago an epic battle of the cards (500) was commenced between Team Australia, Tim and Paul and Team Canada, Megan and I. I am pleased to advise that after many heated rounds spread over several days Team Canada was able to come from behind to convincingly win. While we are currently enjoying the win we are confident Team Australia will ensure a rematch occurs before the end of the trip.

Tomorrow
Having now had a rest day here, and with everyone generally feeling well we are all set for the hike to Loboche tomorrow morning.

Your Messages
Jordan,
Thanks for your message. The preparations and acclimatization on the trek to base camp is going well. We are taking our time on the way to base camp to ensure everyone arrives healthy. The monks certainly make some unusual sounds while praying and chanting.

Inna,
I can’t believe you would have a go at my lawn care skills while I am at 4000m and on the other side of the world:) Everybody in the group got a good laugh from your comments.
Miss you, Love Tim.

Ray,
Thanks for your message and being part of this journey with us. I am glad you are enjoying site.

Bev,
Glad you liked the photo of Everest. The scenery all around us is so amazing that it is often difficult to do it justice in photos. As first timers to this area Tim and I almost have to pinch ourselves everyday as it is so surreal.

Liane,
Thanks for your message. Fortunately the Easter Bunny did make it to Nepal. He was spotted with a specially customized down jacket, thermal leg warmers and beanie with holes cut in the top to allow his ears to poke through. Thanks for the message from Gordon. Hopefully he will enjoy the site. Megan was surprised to hear about the snow. We are getting some snow here in the afternoons also and expect more as we go further up. Thanks for your support of Team Canada!

Den-n-Tam,
Thanks for your support and I am glad you are enjoying the site. Paul says the track is not as muddy this year. The rain has not yet hit.

Corinna,
Glad we can help by passing on messages to Rudi. We know he enjoys hearing from you.

MC,
Thanks for your message. We haven’t seen the gear bags yet but are assured they will be at BC by the time we get there.

Regards,
Damien