12/04/2020
Up here the air is silent. In this vast rugged land, the only sound is the wind belting the peaks, the roaring torrents of rivers, and the rhythmic ringing from the bells on the yaks. A soft calmness permeates the atmosphere as snowflakes slowly fall to the ground,
Up here it's hard living, the weather comes and goes faster than the tourists. Nights are well below -10 degrees Celsius. It's a miracle that human life can thrive in this extreme climate. Clouds roll in rendering darkness and snow.
Up here the Sherpa people have lived in these mountains for over 600 years, toiling the land to live. Life is hard, all supplies have to be carried on the backs of animals or humans. The peaks tower above their settlements, decorated in shrines and prayer flags.
Up here they believe the mountains are gods and don’t understand why westerners travel far to climb the world’s highest peaks. They risk their lives carrying heavy gear and equipment over treacherous terrain.
Up here I walk full of wonder, in awe of the Sherpa and the mountains. Each direction a peak will humble you making you feel insignificant. I walk for an escape from my comfortable life. I walk for a physical and mental challenge. I walk for curiosity. But mainly I walk up here because it makes me feel alive. @ Khumbu