Today we woke up to crystal-clear skies and captivating views of AmaDablam and Mount Everest. After another substantial breakfast, we left Tengboche (without succumbing to the temptation of a bakery visit, I might add) and hiked across the river to Pangboche.

After about an hours wait, we were finally granted an audience with Lama Geshe. Once again, we were blessed and presented with necklaces and Khata scarves. This time, we also received en envelope with a postcard containing a short version of the Buddhist history of creation as well as a personal note to each of us from Lama Geshe. We will carry these envelopes to the summit.  We were all very much impressed by the long list of renowned mountaineers whose photos decorated Lama Geshe’s walls – photos where they too held copies of the very same cards we had just received.

Enlightened and grateful, we had a quick lunch consisting of Rama Noodle Soup and Hash Browns with Veg, Eggs and Cheese. Whilst we waited for our food, Mingmar played a trick on all of us, as the date requires. He pretended to receive a phone call from two girls from another Peak Promotion group, where they asked us to come over to another lodge for tea. Chris was the only one nice enough to rush off to meet the ladies – the rest of us were too focused on our coming lunch. Once Chris returned, quite confused and, as he realized that he had been played for April Fools, slightly annoyed, the group decided to avenge him. As retaliation, we placed stones in all three of our Sherpas’ backpacks. Unfortunately, they were immediately discovered.

Three hours of hiking later, we finally arrived in Dingboche (4300m/14080ft). The thin air and beautiful views conspired to take our breath away! We were lucky enough to have attached toilets to our rooms. After a snack of tea and French fries, Huseyin, Mark and Chris hiked a little bit higher whilst the rest of us showered and rested.
After another of our spectacularly voluminous dinners, we are now ready for bed.
Night, night!
Johanna Eneling