Hello everyone and welcome to the 2017 Mountain Trip Everest Expedition!

Today is Monday May 8th. We have been in Dingboche now for two days. It’s great to spend some time in the lower Khumbu. It’s a bit warmer, with thicker air, and a little bit of vegetation!

The team relaxes in the sun near Chukkung

Yesterday we walked over to the small village of Pheriche after breakfast. It was nice to stretch the legs and say hello to the good people at the HRA ( Himalaya Rescue Association).  In the afternoon, we spent time in the local bakery enjoying our favorite caffeinated beverages and, of course, a slice of cake. Later, we entertained ourselves with card games before and after dinner.

Today we went for a causal hike up to the village of Chukhung. From Chukhung, you get amazing views of Nuptse, Lhotse, Island Peak and the north side of the beautiful Ama Dablam. Chukhung can be a very busy little village as it’s the last stop before Island Peak, locally known as Imja-tse, a really fun and popular “Trekking Peak” here in Nepal.  Island Peak is a great first step for any of you prospective mountaineers! (Hint, hint!!)

Lhotse rises to the left and Island Peak carve the skyline near Chukkung

We enjoyed great weather during our trip to Chukhung. It was warm enough that some of us wore t-shirts. It was nice to be able to sit outside on the patio and enjoy a good meal from pizza and club sandwiches, to veggie fried rice and momos (Nepali dumplings – yum!). With of course, ginger lemon honey tea and coffee for some.

Terry, Ossy, Ivan, and Chris Jentz enjoy cake and coffee on their rest day.

Tomorrow will be our last day here in Dingboche. It’ll be another rest day with the main goal of fueling up and getting ready to head back to EBC.

Please check back as team members will call in a dispatch to say hello to friends and loved ones back at home.

Until next time,
Jacob Schmitz