For the travelers who are unable to make a
trekking to the mountains either because of lack of or physical
fitness, or due to sheer want of the adventure streak, there are
mountain flights to simulate the experience.
The one hour flight takes you within camera range of some of the
highest peaks in the world, and cruising this close to the
awe-inspiring massifs of rock and ice, is an out of this earth
experience. The aircraft takes off and heads eastward and almost
immediately, the peaks come into view. The first peak that
appears on your horizon is the majestic Gosainthan, standing
8,013m tall. To its right, appears Dorje Lhakpa (6,966), looking
like a massive figure of 8, lying prone and covered is snow. To
its right is Phurbi Chtachu, which looms over the Kathmandu
valley.
Next to your vision is Choba Bhamre, rather small in this
company at 5,933m. But singularly stubborn as it remains
unconquered to this day. Then comes Mt. Gauridhanker (7,134),
standing out sharp and conspicuous-Hindus believe that lord
Shiva and his consort Parvati protect this mountain.
As the flight moves toward the Eastern Himalaya, a succession of
the majestic mountain follows. Melungtse, with a plateau-like
top stands at 7,023m; Chugimago is at 6,297m, and still remains
to be scaled. at 6,956m. Mt. Number resembles a breast, and is
believed to be the maternal source in the sky providing pure
milk to the Sherpas of Solokhumbu. then, Karyolung, a
gleaming-white mountain at 6,511m, and Cho-Oyu, the sixth
highest in the world at 8,021m.
The last and most exciting stretch of the journey takes you
close to the 7,952 m. tall Gyachungkhang, which is considered an
extremely tough climb. To its right is Pumori at 7,161m and
Nuptse 7,855m. Finally, there is Mt. Everest itself 8,848 m.
called Sagarmatha by Nepalese and Chomolungma by the Tibetans.
It is an altogether different feeling as ones comes face to face
with the world’s tallest and most enigmatic of mountains. |
