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Hiked down to Pheriche with Chris and Bridge

April 9, 2006 By paul.adler

This is the meal we were served right after sending last night's update. Quiche, coleslaw and sausage, followed by fruit cake for dessert. Fantastic! Photo Paul Adler.
This is the meal we were served right after sending last night’s update. Quiche, coleslaw and sausage, followed by fruit cake for dessert. Fantastic! Photo Paul Adler.

Location: Himalayan Lodge, Pheriche
Altitude: 4243m
Local Time: Sunday 9th April, 6pm
Weather: Cloudy and windy, 0C

Hi its Paul here,

Last night we learnt that the route through the icefall would not be complete for about 4 more days and then camp 1 a few days after that, so we decided to hike down the valley with Chris and Bridget. We are at a small town called Pheriche and enjoying the comforts of a lodge for the first time this trip.

Acclimatisation Plans
After talking with our Sherpas, we deliberated about what the best strategy would be for acclimatising so that we’re ready for a summit bid sometime from around 8th May onwards. Between now and then we need to make at least two trips up the mountain – one to reach camp 2, and the last to spend a night at camp 3. But there are a lot of other variables to consider.

Although we have now got a small taste for the icefall, many advise that several trips are needed for familiarisation to ensure that this section can be covered with enough speed. On the other hand though, it may be best to minimise the total amount of time spent in the icefall as the upper sections represent some risks out of our control.

Best way to Acclimatise?
In terms of the best way to acclimatise, there are many theories but few conclusions about the best strategy. There seems to be a balance between working hard (aerobically) and getting enough rest. There are also theories about walking high and sleeping low, as well as sleeping high. As well, there are theories about coming down low to consolidate the effects of acclimatisation and improve overall health. But countering this are some fears about health risks associated with staying in lodges and mixing with more people. So, what to do?

Maybe coming down to Pheriche now is a good dry run for next month.

Cheers,
Paul Adler.

Relaxing in Pheriche
Exploring Base Camp

Filed Under: Everest 2006

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. MC says

    April 10, 2006 at 3:57 am

    It seems you have very good info on the acclimatisation process. Like most important issues, there are usually different theories. Good luck with your acclimating as you continue on.
    MC
    p.s. The photo showing your meal of quiche, coleslaw and sausage looks beautiful (restaurant quality!)
    …..

  2. Johanna says

    April 10, 2006 at 9:51 am

    Dear Paul and Fiona
    Like your other readers, I too cannot wait for the next installment! Reading the messages is just like keeping in touch with the extended Adler family -Tim and Inna, Dame and Bec, Max and Judy, etc.
    Fiona, you made the icefall look easy – which I’m sure it wasn’t. Glad to hear that Paul’s sore throat is on the improve. I hope this is the only hurdle which you need to overcome.
    much love
    The Ryans
    …..

  3. Jan says

    April 10, 2006 at 10:04 am

    Hi Fi & Paul (& Bridge & Chris?) from getting-chillier melbourne. Cyclists on beach rd down a bit this weekend, with strong southerlies, but bandidos out in force! Enjoy your luxury meals and accommodation – it’ll help you get fit and strong for the days ahead!
    lots of love from the melbourne cheer squad, Jan XX
    …..

  4. John Parncutt says

    April 10, 2006 at 10:16 am

    Still addicted to this site, and my armchair trip to Everest. Thank you.
    I’ve been reading about the American Medical Research Expidition to Everest, and the way I read it, sleeping at high altitude is more likely to wear you out than to be of much use, so I guess I’d agree with the ‘walk high, sleep low’ school of thought. On the subject of sleep, have either of you noticed the other stopping breathing during sleep? Is it hard to sleep at base camp altitude?
    And by the way, have there been any dogs along the way? Plenty of yaks, sure. But do people have pet dogs in the foothills or higher? And cats?
    …..

  5. Dad H says

    April 10, 2006 at 10:36 am

    Hi Fiona & Paul,
    Great to see you’re handling the icefall well. It sure looks a challenge so take care. Maybe the 3 – 4 day delay will be a good thing for rest & acclimatisation. I’m sure you’re going to miss Bridget & Chris, their trip finished up being quite a hit. We’ve been down in BG for a couple of days – it was quite chilly & showery.
    Love, Dad
    ….

  6. Vassie Vlachos says

    April 10, 2006 at 11:03 am

    Hi Paul & Fi!!
    Just saw a link to your site throug E-Bulletin here at Sensis! It’s so good to hear about your adventures – you guys are so inspiring. I must admit I have not read many of your entries yet but very gald to hear that you are both well. I have to go back and read them, need a cup of coffee and to put my feet up on the desk i think!!
    Best of luck with it all! We are all cheering for you.
    Vass xxx
    …..

  7. Chris and Bridget says

    April 10, 2006 at 10:58 pm

    Hello from Naaaaammmmmchheeeeeee.
    We made it! Hope your rest day was relaxing. Thanks for the mars bars!
    Chris and Bridge
    …..

  8. Gracelyn says

    May 7, 2006 at 7:46 am

    Good luck on Mount Everest!!!!!!!
    😉 😛 😀 🙂
    hope you have the time of your guys lives!
    …..

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