Today we caught one of the first flights (via small plane) out of Kathmandu to Lukla, high in the Khumbu region (9,350ft.) for the start of our trek to Everest.

All seemed pretty tame until we approached the tiny airstrip at Lukla. The surrounding mountains and the exceedingly short, uphill-slanted airstrip force the pilots to dive into a narrow valley, slam the plane onto the runway, and screech to a halt before crashing into the rock wall at the end of the strip. Somehow we and the plane survive this improbable landing. Still dazed, we are hurried out of the plane while our duffles are thrown hastily into a cart and pushed by three men to the terminal.

At Lukla our duffle bags, barrels, and other baggage are carried by animals and porters to each night's destination. Our acclimatization schedule has been suggested by our trekking agent:

First night is spent in Phakding, then two nights at Namche Bazaar, one at Thame, one at Khumjung, one at Tengboche with its beautiful and important monastery, one at Dingboche, one at Chukhung, then on to the base camp for Island Peak (16,896ft.).

Island Peak (20,252ft.) is recommended as an excellent acclimatization climb for those making an attempt on Everest or hoping to make it to Everest base camp. So we have arranged for permits to climb Island Peak together. We are hoping for good weather and moderate temperatures for that climb.