Everest Base Camp and Kala Pattar trek

This morning, looking across the valley, you can see the path sloping diagonally up towards the famous monastery of Thyangboche, but first you have to descend to the river. This takes half an hour to an hour, descending steeply in a series of zigzags to the Dudh Kosi river. Here you cross a suspension bridge in the lee of a gigantic overhanging cliff (10498ft/3200m). A little way further on is a small hamlet, Phunki Tenga, where you could stop for a cup of tea. It is 2-3 hours from the bridge to reach the monastery at a slow, even pace. At first you climb steeply up through a pine forest, thankfully in the shade, and then emerge to walk up a long gentle straight path that rises like a ramp to the monastery. Emerging at the top, there is a mandala gateway and a huge chorten which are passed before your first sight of the gompa. The setting is nothing short of magic and it is incredible to think that the temple was burnt down only a few years ago and was re-built largely through the efforts of the Sir Edmund Hillary Trust. There is a very good Visitors Centre and in the afternoon it is possible to sit down inside the temple for afternoon prayers. Conch shells are blown, the monks arrive and visitors are expected to sit quietly on the right hand side of the temple. A small donation is appreciated.