Day 3 of Everest Hike: Acclimatisation day at Namche Bazaar

Our acclimatization day in Namche Bazaar was a well-deserved quieter day after the major climb from the day before. It was a strategic pause in our journey to allow our bodies to adjust to the increasing altitude and decreasing oxygen levels.

After a leisurely breakfast, we set out for our acclimatisation hike. After a relatively short but steep climb out of the town into the surrounding hills, and a walk along an enormous valley, we reached a vantage point that provided breathtaking panoramic views of snow capped Himalayan peaks. Ama Dablam's distinct pyramid-shaped summit, Lhotse's icy slopes, and the formidable Nuptse were all there, standing tall in their snowy glory. It was a mesmerising sight.

But the real star of the show was Everest, bathed in the light of the morning sun. It was an indescribable feeling to stand there, with the world's highest mountain right in front of us. The sense of accomplishment and the sheer beauty of the moment made it all worth it.

After taking in the views and snapping photos to capture the memory, we made our way onto a tea house called "Hotel Everest View" at 3880 metres for a refreshing drink which meant we had ascended a total of 430 metres that day. 

We then descended to a nearby village called Khumjung (3,790 metres). Russell discovered there was a geocache in the village so took us all on a treasure hunt. We also stopped by a school, funded by the Hillary foundation that does a great deal of good in Nepal, and gave the kids high fives.

The rest of the day was spent exploring Namche Bazaar and relaxing. The highlight was apple pie and real coffee at a local bakery.

Ascending out of Namche Bazaar on our acclimatisation hike

An ascent of 430 metres up the surrounding hill

Stunning views into the valley

Beautiful flowers along the path

The ubiquitous Himalayan crow

We reached a vantage point that provided breathtaking panoramic views of Himalayan peaks...

... including views of Mount Everest !

Me pointing at Mount Everest

We head onto the a tea house for more views and a refreshing drink

Stopping off at Khumjung on the way back (3,790 metres)

Meeting local school kids

Views of Namche Bazaar as we descended back to the town

Mating Malachite kingfishers at Rondevlei

 It was my dream to get a photo of a Malachite Kingfisher at Rondevlei. They are like tiny jewels and one of my favourite birds. I chose a little section of river with a photogenic branch and waited. About half an hour later, to my utter delight, a beautiful Malachite perched on the branch in the sun. It sat contentedly and every so often, did a dive into the water to catch something. I didn't think it could get better but then it did. Another Malachite arrived from nowhere and they started to mate! Then afterwards, they lovingly touched beaks and exchanged food. One of the highlights of my birding and photography career. 

I also got to photograph a couple of other birds on the same stretch of river.