It’s 6.30pm and it’s taken us 1.5 hours to arrive at the checkpoint where we need to show our passports. I feel exhilarated. The final challenge is a short steep climb up a hill festooned with prayer flags, This is the ultimate viewing spot. It’s bitterly cold and windy but the views of Everest are awe-inspiring. There is a tiny cloud cap covering the summit, otherwise the views are of blue skies and brilliant white snow.
Behind the hill is a plain from which Everest rises majestically to 8850 metres. During the months of May, June and July this area is apparently crawling with the tents of expedition groups. There are none now and venturing into this area without a guide could land you with a hefty fine. Clouds are starting to creep across the plain and the light starts to fade quickly so we catch donkey cart back down the hill for 25 Yuan (about £1.75). By the time I’ve reached the tent I can’t feel my hands at all.
(Photo - Everest from Base Camp)
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