The push to Thukla and finally Lobuce

EBC Trek Day 7: it was particularly cold when we woke up in Pheriche this morning. There was a hard frost overnight that made everything outside sparkle in the morning sun. As we made our way up the valley it was apparent just how thin the air is now. It’s natural to want to rush the flat parts, but at this altitude even the easy bits don’t feel so easy. Once we settled into a slow, steady pace, we were able to make good time to the village of Thukla, where we stopped for a cup of tea before tackling the steep wall that leads to the memorials for those who have died on Everest. It’s a really beautiful tribute - chortens of all different sizes and prayer flags hung amongst them - but it’s also a bit of a somber place. We rested there for a short time before pressing on to Lobuche where we’ll stay the night. After a quick lunch, we dropped our packs and climbed the ridge above Lobuche where we had amazing views of the Khumbu Glacier, Lhotse and Pumori. Getting enough sleep can be elusive at this altitude but is vital to staying healthy and strong, so now we are resting up - tomorrow’s another big adventure. Today definitely was a push, but it was worth it.