A HIKE TO THE TOP OF THE WORLD

October 23 to November 8, 2020

a program of the stanford alumni association Few events have better captured the essence of our human desire to explore than when Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay reached the summit of in 1953. Under the careful stewardship of our expert mountain guides and in the company of geophysicist and faculty leader Simon Klemperer, we’ll follow a meticulously planned approach that ensures safe and gradual acclimatization as we make our way up the Valley to Everest Base Camp, at an altitude of 17,688 feet. Join us on the adventure of a lifetime as we experience frsthand the majesty of the !

BRETT S. THOMPSON, ’83, DIRECTOR, STANFORD TRAVEL/STUDY

About Our Treks

Best foot forward. To hike Mount Everest is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and our careful and measured approach provides the greatest recipe for success. On a Travel/Study trek, you’re guided by experts who really know the lay of the land.

We go the extra mile. With daily medical assessments, nutritious meals and a highly strategic hiking plan, we’ll ensure you’re well-supported during your expedition.

Learn on the go. Hear firsthand from our sherpas and guides about their experiences on and off the mountain. You also travel beside our carefully chosen faculty leader, a Stanford scholar who offers valuable insights along the way.

COVER: MOUNT EVEREST Faculty Leader SIMON KLEMPERER became a professor of geophysics after studying at Cambridge University and Cornell University. He has taken a special interest in introducing Stanford undergraduates to scientific research, helping found SESUR (Stanford Earth Summer Undergraduate Research), and has involved them in his fieldwork on three continents. He initially visited the Himalayas and in 1992, as part of an international research team that acquired the first deep seismic imaging of the earthquake faults beneath the world’s highest mountains. He has continued to work with scientists and Stanford students to develop an integrated geo- transect across the entire . Simon has crisscrossed Tibet and the surrounding region sampling, and even discovering, geothermal springs, using their chemistry to test ideas from his seismic images. In 2015, the devastating earthquake in led him to deploy Stanford seismographs to help study the fault shapes and future hazards. On this program, Simon will “Simon is a enlighten travelers on the plate tectonics of the Himalayas that created Earth’s highest mountain, the 2015 earthquakes and landslides in Nepal, and the role of the Himalayas in Earth’s climate terrific lecturer cycle and its future. and marvelous Positions: — Professor of geophysics, Stanford University person. I was — Professor (by courtesy), geological and environmental sciences Publications (Author/Co-Author): caught up in — “Lateral variation of the Main Himalayan Thrust controls the rupture length of the 2015 Gorkha earthquake in Nepal.” Science Advances (2019) his knowledge, Accolades: — Fellow, American Geophysical Union (2018) enthusiasm — Fellow, Geological Society of America Academic History: and passion.” — PhD, geophysics, 1985, Cornell University — MA, 1984, Cambridge University — BA, mineralogy and petrology, 1980, Cambridge University JIM HOLDEN, ’66, LLB ’68, STANFORD TRAVELER Visit our website for a complete bio.

SIGN UP ONLINE: alumni.stanford.edu/trip?everest2020 OR BY PHONE: (650) 725-1093 Everest Base Camp CHINA

Kala Patthar Mt. Everest Gorak Lobuche Shep

Pheriche Pangboche Deboche NEPAL CHINA Namche Bazaar NEPAL andu Monjo thm Kathmandu Ka Phakding m ro f athmandu to K MONASTERY, NAMCHE BAZAAR

along the holy Bagmati River, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1 which is lined with temples and NAMCHE BAZAAR PANGBOCHE / Itinerary Today is an acclimatization day. PHERICHE (14,250’) cremation sites. HOTEL YAK AND Continuing our trek upward YETI (B,L,D) Tour the Namche Monastery from the Khumbu Valley, the FRIDAY TO SUNDAY, and the city’s cultural center, surrounding vegetation grows OCTOBER 23 TO 25 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27 then delve into the culture and U.S. / KATHMANDU, KATHMANDU / PHAKDING history of the at sparse. The land becomes NEPAL (ELEVATION: 4,593’) (8,694’) / MONJO (9,372’) the Sherpa Culture Museum. more barren as we gain altitude. Depart on flights to Nepal, Head to the Kathmandu helipad Also admire the statue of Tenzing PHERICHE TEAHOUSE (B,L,D) crossing the international date early this morning to board Norgay, one of the first known line en route and arriving in helicopters bound for Phakding. individuals to reach Everest’s MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2 PHERICHE Kathmandu on Sunday. Largely We meet our porters and Sherpa summit, along with Sir Edmund Spend today adjusting to the isolated from Western culture guides, then begin our trek. Travel Hillary. HOTEL NAMCHE (B,L,D) until the 1950s, Kathmandu is a along the Dudh Kosi Valley to high altitude of Pheriche. In the morning take a short hike to fascinating mix of Buddhist and Monjo, the official entrance of FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30 Hindu influences. Take an optional Sagarmatha (Everest) National NAMCHE BAZAAR / see spectacular views of the walk to Durbar Square to admire Park, a UNESCO World Heritage DEBOCHE (12,660’) highest peaks in the Himalayas. the temple of Kumari Chowk site, and check in to our first Leaving Namche Bazaar, traverse Later visit the Himalayan and its beautiful three-story teahouse. MONJO TEAHOUSE the steep valley above the Dudh Rescue Association Nepal courtyard embellished with (B,L,D) . Each step provides and learn about high-altitude beautifully carved wooden magnificent vistas of the valley acclimatization. PHERICHE balconies and window frames; WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28 as we ascend more than 1,500 TEAHOUSE (B,L,D) it’s the centerpiece of the MONJO / NAMCHE feet to the , BAZAAR (11,500’) TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3 residence of Kathmandu’s which has been at the heart of Make our way up the formidable Sherpa culture since 1916. Attend PHERICHE / prepubescent, divine living LOBUCHE (16,207’) Namche Hill, our first real taste of the afternoon call to prayer before goddess (or Royal Kumari). Today we ascend to the Khumbu the “hills” in the Himalayas. If the hiking on to Deboche, where Enjoy a welcome reception, Glacier. As we leave Pheriche, weather is clear, we’ll get our first we stay overnight. DEBOCHE folk dance performance and the lateral moraine of this glimpse of Everest on the way up TEA HOUSE (B,L,D) dinner this evening. HOTEL YAK to Namche Bazaar, the gateway famous glacier becomes visible. AND YETI (10/25: D) Distances are short now, and our village to the Himalayas. Observe SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31 a dynamic mix of Tibetan traders, DEBOCHE / PANGBOCHE steps become more measured MONDAY, OCTOBER 26 (13,074’) and deliberate as we move KATHMANDU tourists from around the world, In Deboche, enjoy a quieter day higher. In the early afternoon, Today visit Swayambhunath (also expedition climbers, experienced to rest from our journey thus far climb past the chortens known as the Monkey Temple), Sherpas, monks, Nepalese and to prepare for the strenuous (monuments) that have been a remarkable stupa encircled by civil servants, colorfully garbed days ahead. Stop for a visit at the constructed in memory of dozens of smaller stupas, temples villagers and yaks in this vibrant peaceful Pangboche Monastery, Sherpas and climbers lost in and fluttering prayer flags. Stroll Himalayan town. HOTEL NAMCHE (B,L,D) silhouetted against the mountain expeditions over the years. peaks. PANGBOCHE TEAHOUSE LOBUCHE TEAHOUSE (B,L,D) (B,L,D) TENGBOCHE MONASTERY, NAMCHE BAZAAR

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4 Kala Patthar (18,500’). GORAK FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6 Himalayas and the Khumbu Valley LOBUCHE / GORAK SHEP SHEP TEAHOUSE (B,L,D) LOBUCHE / PHERICHE to Lukla. After a brief stop at the (16,800’) Set out from Lobuche this Lukla airport to refuel, we continue The trail today meanders through THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5 morning, heading through the our journey to Kathmandu. Upon the ice and rubble of the massive GORAK SHEP / EVEREST Khumbu Valley. Pay attention to arrival transfer to our hotel for Khumbu Glacier on the path BASE CAMP (17,688’) / the fleeting views of Mount Everest some much-deserved rest and to Gorak Shep. Historically a GORAK SHEP / LOBUCHE before settling in at Pheriche for relaxation. Enjoy a festive farewell seasonal yak grazing area, Gorak Head to Everest Base Camp, the night. PHERICHE TEAHOUSE reception and dinner this evening Shep today is the last outpost where climbing expeditions (B,L,D) to celebrate our journey. HYATT before Everest Base Camp. Take pause to prepare for their summit REGENCY (B,L,D) in stunning views of Mount Everest, attempts. Sip tea and revel in the SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7 beauty of Mount Everest before PHERICHE / KATHMANDU Everest Base Camp and the SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8 returning to Gorak Shep for lunch. Khumbu Icefall. Travelers interested This morning bid farewell to KATHMANDU / U.S. in an additional challenge have the Continue down the valley to our local Sherpas and load Transfer to the Kathmandu option to climb to the summit of Lobuche, where we spend the into helicopters for a scenic airport for flights home, arriving night. LOBUCHE TEAHOUSE (B,L,D) mountain flight through the the same day. (B)

SELF PORTRAIT IN A FELT HAT, VAN GOGH NAMCHE BAZAAR

WHAT TO EXPECT Trekking to Everest Base Camp is one of the world’s greatest adventures and challenges. Our nontechnical, 13-day route allows for maximum acclimatization. Most people, however, will experience some difficulty because of the high altitude (17,688 feet at Base Camp), and we cannot guarantee we will get to Base Camp. Participants must be physically fit, active and in excellent health.

A TYPICAL DAY On average we trek six to eight hours each day (approximately 75 miles over 13 days, with a maximum of 10 hours on the day we trek to Base Camp). Participants must carry a daypack (approximately 15 to 20 pounds) on uneven, rocky and scree terrain, with some steep sections. Elevation gains and losses vary from day to day. All trekkers must be comfortable with rolling ascents and descents. Each night you will be able to read, write in your journal, or simply sit and enjoy the views and the company of fellow travelers.

MEALS & ACCOMODATIONS We stay in simple teahouses during our trek. The teahouses are clean and comfortable, with very basic guest rooms and a common area where people gather to eat and talk. Although loss of appetite is common at such high altitudes, plentiful and nutritious hot meals are provided each day. Bathrooms in the teahouses are shared facilities, most of which include Western-style toilets.

PREPARATIONS Upon enrollment each participant will receive a medical history and health assessment questionnaire requiring a physician’s signature. We will send each registered participant a complete list of recommended trekking gear and a suggested fitness regimen to prepare for the pro- gram. There is a strict luggage limit of 40 pounds per person, including sleeping gear, in accordance with domestic flight restrictions. Yaks and porters carry all gear except for your daypack. Expect an adventurous and rigorous, rather than luxurious, travel experience. We welcome travelers 15 years of age and older on this trek. Terms & Conditions Information

DATES Deposit & Final Payment for the passenger with respect October 23 to November 8, 2020 (17 days) A $1,000-per-person deposit is to transportation and exercise every required to reserve space for this care possible in doing so. However, SIZE program. Sign up online at alumni. we can assume no liability for 22 participants (single accommodations limited—please call stanford.edu/trip?everest2020 or injury, damage, loss, accident, for availability) call Travel/Study at (650) 725-1093. delay or irregularity in connection Final payment is due 120 days with the service of any automobile, COST prior to departure. As a condition motor coach, launch or any other $10,895 per person, double occupancy of participation, all confirmed conveyance used in carrying participants are required to sign out this program or for the acts $11,995** per person, single occupancy a Release of Liability. or defaults of any company or *Stanford Alumni Association nonmembers add $300 per person person engaged in conveying the Cancellations & Refunds **Due to limited accommodations at the teahouses, single travelers passenger or in carrying out the Deposits and any payments are may be in single accommodations at our hotels but paired with arrangements of the program. We refundable, less a $500-per- a roommate on the trail. cannot accept any responsibility for person cancellation fee, until 120 losses or additional expenses due days prior to departure. After that INCLUDED to delay or changes in air or other date, refunds can be made only services, sickness, weather, strike, 3 nights of deluxe hotel accommodations 11 nights in if the program is sold out and war, quarantine, force majeure or best-available teahouse accommodations 14 breakfasts, your place(s) can be resold, in other causes beyond our control. 13 lunches and 14 dinners Welcome and farewell receptions which case a $1,000-per-person All such losses or expenses will cancellation fee will apply. Gratuities to guides, drivers and porters for all group activities have to be borne by the passenger, All tours, hikes and excursions as described in the itinerary Insurance as tour rates include arrangements Transfers and baggage handling on program arrival and depar- Stanford Travel/Study provides only for the time stated. We reserve ture days Helicopter flights from Kathmandu to Phakding and all travelers who are U.S. or the right to make such alterations Pheriche to Kathmandu via Lukla Minimal medical, accident Canadian citizens with minimal to this published itinerary as may and evacuation insurance Global Rescue Individual Medical medical, accident and evacuation be deemed necessary. We reserve Evacuation membership Educational program with lecture coverage under our group-travel the right to cancel any program prior to departure, in which case series and predeparture materials, including a recommended insurance policy. Our group policy is intended to provide minimal the entire payment will be refunded reading list, a selected book, a map and travel information levels of protection while you are without further obligation on our Services of our professional tour manager to assist you traveling on this program. You may part. We also reserve the right throughout the program choose to subscribe to optional to decline to accept or retain trip-cancellation and baggage any person as a member of the NOT INCLUDED insurance. Information will be program. No refund will be made International and U.S. domestic airfare Passport and visa provided to travelers with their for an unused portion of any tour fees Immunization costs Meals and beverages other welcome materials. The product unless arrangements are made in than those specified as included Independent and private offered includes special benefits sufficient time to avoid penalties. Baggage is carried at the owner’s transfers Trip-cancellation/interruption and baggage if you purchase your policy within 14 days of written confirmation of risk entirely. The airlines concerned insurance Excess-baggage charges Personal items your participation on the trip. are not to be held responsible such as internet access and telephone calls (where available); for any act, omission or event laundry and gratuities for nongroup services Eligibility during the time that passengers We encourage membership in the are not on board their plane or AIR ARRANGEMENTS Stanford Alumni Association as conveyance. Neither the Stanford You are responsible for booking and purchasing airfare to the program cost for nonmembers Alumni Association nor Stanford the start location and from the end location of the program. is $300 more than the members’ University nor our operators accept price. A person traveling as a paid These air purchases are NOT included in the program cost. liability for any carrier’s cancellation guest of a current member will To assist you in penalty incurred by the purchase of not be charged the nonmember a nonrefundable ticket in connection making these fee. To purchase a membership, with the tour. Program price is independent visit alumni.stanford.edu/goto/ based on rates in effect in February arrangements, membership or call (650) 725-0692. 2020 and is subject to change we will send you Responsibility without notice to reflect fluctuations details with your The Stanford Alumni Association, in exchange rates, tariffs or fuel confirmation Stanford University and our charges. materials on operators act only as agents when to arrive and depart.

TELEPHONE (650) 725-1093 EMAIL [email protected] California Seller of Travel Program Registration #2048 523-50

© COPYRIGHT 2020 STANFORD ALUMNI ASSOCIATION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Stanford Travel/Study Nonprofit Org. Frances C. Arrillaga Alumni Center U.S. Postage 326 Galvez Street PAID Stanford, CA 94305-6105 Stanford Alumni (650) 725-1093 Association

A HIKE TO THE TOP OF THE WORLD

October 23 to November 8, 2020

alumni.stanford.edu/goto/travelstudy

“This was the trip of a lifetime—a physically challenging, intellectually stimulating and spiritually fulfilling journey.”

JENNIFER PINTO MARTIN, ’78, EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK, 2015

BOUDHANATH STUPA, KATHMANDU