Foto: Mount Everest (bron: Ronald van der Veer)
Tibet - Afterwards, we walk at a relaxed pace to the tent camp. The camp is at 5,028 meters, which is noticeable. On one hand, the thin air reduces oxygen availability, and on the other, it is quite cold with a strong wind. The camp resembles a lively street with large tents on either side. Our tent is roughly in the middle. We are welcomed with a warm stove and hot tea. Some still have the energy to head toward basecamp. I decide to take it easy and enjoy the view of Mount Everest from the tent camp. The clouds constantly change the view, prompting us to rush outside repeatedly. Commotion arises when it turns out that one of the reserved tents was also rented to a group of Germans. Fortunately, another tent is available across the way, and the situation is resolved. Later, people enter our tent again. One must stay vigilant. We quickly store our luggage in the tents. The toilet at the camp is a unique experience. Wild urination is not permitted (understandably). A tent on the slope serves as the toilet. The tent faces the wind, and the sheets blow in every direction. Not ideal for a quiet sit. But when nature calls… Meanwhile, Tamdul has prepared a meal. It is very tasty. In the evening, everyone goes to their tents relatively early. We linger a bit longer, chatting. In a corner, our drivers sit. We get the impression they wait until they can sleep. When we roll out our bedding, they leave. I grab a comforter to lie on since the bench is very hard. The hostess rushes in to show me the correct setup. Half of the comforter goes on the bench, then my sleeping bag on top, and the other half over the sleeping bag. Another blanket is spread on the bed, and a heavy yak blanket is added at the foot. I doubt I will get cold. Once everyone is tucked in—almost receiving a goodnight kiss—the lights go out (battery disconnected), and we sleep.
The Ganden Monastery
Tibet - At the turnoff to Ganden Monastery, everyone is awake again. From the valley at around 3,600 meters, the bus ascends via hairpin turns to Ganden Monastery at 4,500 meters. As we climb higher, the view over the valley becomes increasingly beautiful, and ...
The Tibetan Potala Palace in Lhasa
Tibet - The Potala Palace is situated high above the city. Not yet accustomed to the altitude, I climb the nearly 300 steps of the immense Potala Palace at a slow pace. Along the way, I admire the structure. The Potala has a total of 13 floors and more than 1,100 ...