Breaking the Mental Barrier on the Way to Everest
The steep ascent from the river to Namche Bazaar is the first major physical and mental hurdle of Everest trekking. It is the moment every Mount Everest expedition member realizes the true scale of the challenge.
The hill rises 600m in a few short miles. The thin air begins to bite, and the heavy packs of the Everest trekking journey feel heavier with every turn. Slow and steady is the only way to win.
Halfway up the hill is a small gap in the trees. If the sky is clear, this is where you see your first glimpse of the Mount Everest summit. It provides the instant motivation needed to finish the climb.
Success on Namche hill is about pacing. Pushing too hard here can lead to exhaustion and altitude issues later in the Mount Everest expedition. Listen to your guide and breathe deeply.
Once you reach the top of Namche hill, you have officially entered the high Himalayas. The rest of the Everest trekking journey starts here.