Visualizing the Elevation Gain of Your Trek
The trek to Everest Base Camp is not a steady uphill. It is a series of ups and downs. Understanding the altitude profile helps you pace yourself on your Mount Everest expedition approach.
The first big jump is the climb to Namche Bazaar (3,440m). It is steep and relentless. This is where most people first feel the altitude. Take it slow; this is the gatekeeper of Everest trekking.
Notice the flat spots in the profile at Namche and Dingboche. These rest days are scientifically necessary. They allow your body to catch up before pushing higher towards the Everest summit base.
From Lobuche to Gorakshep, the gain is small but feels massive due to thin air. The profile flattens, but the effort doubles. This is the sting in the tail of the EBC trek.
Study the profile. Know when the hard days are coming. Mental preparation makes the physical effort easier.