Everest Base Camp Trek Day 7: Touching the Top
The Most Anticipated Day Yet
Today’s the day. The BIG one. The day I’ve been dreaming about since I first started planning my trek to Everest Base Camp. Every grueling step, every freezing night, and every gasping breath have led to this moment.
EVEREST. BASE. CAMP.
But what I didn’t know when I woke up this morning was that this day would also turn into the absolute worst night of my life. After celebrating one of my greatest achievements, I would find myself shaking, sick, and crying in a frozen teahouse. Let me take you through the highs and the unexpected lows of Day 7.
Morning in Gorak Shep – The Final Push
We woke up in Gorak Shep, the last outpost of civilization before Everest Base Camp. And when I say “civilization,” I mean a few stone lodges that feel like freezers, complete with zero insulation and paper-thin walls. I could hear every breath and every rustle from the neighboring rooms.
I layered up but tried not to overdo it—too many layers could lead to sweating, which would quickly turn into freezing in these conditions. After chugging some lukewarm water to kickstart my body, it was time. The final push to Base Camp was ahead.
Waking up in Gorak Shep: The calm before the epic journey to Everest Base Camp.
The Trek to Everest Base Camp – Every Step a Struggle
As soon as we hit the trail, I could feel it—the altitude, the exhaustion, and the lack of oxygen in the air. Walking felt like moving through thick syrup, with every step a fight against gravity. Yet, adrenaline kept me going.
Morning Chill, Everest Base Camp Day 7
Then, in the distance, I saw it: Everest, peeking through the mountains like a silent giant. The sight hit me like a wave of pure emotion. I couldn’t believe I was actually here.
But reality quickly set back in—my head started pounding, and my legs felt heavier with every step. Altitude sickness was creeping in, but I pushed on.
That first glimpse of Everest for the day—surreal and overwhelming. Worth every step.
Arriving at Everest Base Camp – An Emotional High
After what felt like a lifetime, there it was—the iconic Everest Base Camp rock, adorned with colorful prayer flags and surrounded by trekkers celebrating their accomplishment. I stood there, letting the magnitude of the moment sink in. Some people cried. Others laughed. I just stood in silence, completely overwhelmed.
Of course, the quiet reflection didn’t last long—my guide reminded me to get my photos before the crowds piled in. A quick jacket change, a few pose adjustments, and we were on it—turning Base Camp into a mini photoshoot. The shots? Worth every single painful step.
Touching the top of the world—Everest Base Camp. Unforgettable.
The Return Journey – Reality Sets In
We couldn’t linger too long. After snapping the perfect pictures, it was time to head back to Gorak Shep. My head was pounding, and my breathing was labored. The adrenaline had faded, replaced by exhaustion and nausea. I just kept moving, one step at a time.
Climbing Kala Patthar – The Sunset Hike from Hell
Back at Gorak Shep, I barely had time to rest before it was time to head up Kala Patthar. This spot is famous for offering one of the best views of Everest at sunset. But by this point, my body was completely drained.
I struggled up the steep path, every breath feeling like a desperate gasp for air. Eventually, I realized I wouldn’t make it to the top. So, I set up my camera, sat down, and just watched as the sunset bathed Everest in golden light.
The golden glow of Everest at sunset—painful, beautiful, and worth it.
The Worst Night of My Life – Surviving Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness hit me like a freight train. My head felt like it was being crushed, my body ached, and I couldn’t stop shivering despite wearing every layer I had. Then it got worse—I threw up. And because the room was so cold, the puke froze. I just stared at the mess, too miserable to even process what was happening.
In that moment, I wondered if I needed a helicopter evacuation. I spent the entire night shivering, nauseous, and just hoping to make it to morning.
One of the hardest nights—freezing, sick, and just hoping for daylight.
Final Thoughts – A Day of Triumph and Pain
Day 7 was the culmination of every challenge I’d faced so far, both physically and emotionally. Touching Everest Base Camp was the ultimate high, but the night that followed was my lowest point on the trek. It was a powerful reminder that the mountains don’t care about your plans—they just exist, fierce and unyielding.
Tomorrow, we start our descent. And I couldn’t be more ready to leave this altitude behind.
To watch the full EBC day 7 video on YouTube, click HERE.
Google Map Links:
Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp: Google Map Link
Kala Patthar Sunset Spot: Google Map Link
Gorak Shep - Teahouse Location: Google Map Link