May – June 2024: Ascent of Everest North col.
What an incredible experience it was to return to the base of the north side of Mount Everest after 20 years! In 2005, I had the honor of reaching the summit with Monica, a feat that remains one of the most significant achievements of my life. This time, I was joined by Fred, and our objective was different. We aimed to climb to the North Col, not for the glory of the summit, but to truly immerse ourselves in the mountain experience.
We wanted to savor the beauty of Everest, to feel its majesty and power. We sought to understand the hardship, to test our resilience, and to reconnect with the raw, untamed nature that makes Everest such a revered destination. This journey was about embracing the mountain in its entirety, from the serene, awe-inspiring views to the challenging, grueling paths that demand every ounce of strength and determination. It was a pilgrimage of sorts, a chance to rediscover the profound connection between climber and mountain, and to appreciate the enduring allure of Everest.
China had been closed for the last five years, making direct entry via Lhasa impossible. This time, however, we had an amazing opportunity to experience a new route. We flew into Chengdu, where we visited the renowned Panda Sanctuary.
From Chengdu, we continued to Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet. The Potala Palace, with its stunning architecture and rich history, left us in awe. Each corner of the palace whispered tales of the past, deepening our appreciation for the cultural heritage of this incredible region.
Our journey then took us to Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet, and home to the Tashilhunpo Monastery. From there, we traveled to Tingri, a small town that serves as a gateway for climbers heading towards Everest. The anticipation grew as we approached the Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world, nestled in the shadow of Everest.
Finally, we reached the base camp on the north side of Everest. The air was thick with the promise of adventure and the challenge that lay ahead. Each step of our journey had been meticulously planned, yet it felt like a spontaneous adventure, a serendipitous path leading us back to the mountain that had once defined our dreams.
From Base Camp, we began our acclimatization process, spending a week adjusting to the altitude and reviewing the techniques required for the ascent. This period was crucial, allowing our bodies to adapt to the thinner air and preparing us mentally and physically for the challenges ahead.
After a week, we moved to the Advanced Base Camp (ABC) via the Interim Camp. The journey was demanding but invigorating, each step bringing us closer to our goal. At ABC, we continued our acclimatization, taking the necessary time to rest and regain our strength. The environment was both harsh and breathtaking, a stark reminder of the mountain’s grandeur and the effort required to scale its heights.
Finally, on a beautiful, clear day, we made our ascent to the North Col at 7,100 meters. The climb was strenuous, testing our endurance and resolve. The higher we went, the more the air thinned, making each breath a conscious effort. Yet, the views were indescribable, a panoramic display of the world’s highest peaks that made every hardship worthwhile.
Reaching the North Col was a moment of triumph. It wasn’t just about the physical achievement but also the mental and emotional journey that had brought us there. Standing at 7,100 meters, we felt a profound connection to Everest, a mix of respect, admiration, and sheer joy.
