(In Hindi/Urdu, 'chalo' means 'let's go')
“Chalo Ama hamare saath.” I never knew my trek mates' friendly retort would culminate into a reality. Ama Dablam, or Mother’s Necklace, is locally known to be one of the most technical climbs within the mountain fraternity. Traversing through the treacherous Yellow Tower, Gray Tower, and Mushroom Ridge is any mountaineer's fantasy. Steep granite walls and long and narrow ridges, as you climb, break the monotony of any long climbs mountaineers know.
I had always looked at Ama Dablam wistfully and had resignedly accepted that my non-technical skills meant I wasn’t near ready to attempt even the first few camps, let alone dream of reaching the summit. The massive pyramid-shaped, distinct, towering peak of Ama Dablam bellowed with an intensity that only a few chosen ones would be accepted, and I sheepishly knew I was not one among those.
Coming back, I laughed off the idea of climbing Ama Dablam (accha mazaak kar rahe hain). However, Sushil U. and Pooja N., super strong and fun trek mates, insisted that I attempt Ama Dablam with them. I was already reeling in the joy and glory of summiting Island Peak, my first 6K. I already have a fair share of technical climbing experience and a lot of high-altitude acclimatization, so why not try? While mountaineering is often a solo pursuit, having a team around you that offers support and confidence and radiates positivity highlights the power of shared purpose. There’s an undeniable strength in camaraderie, where people uplift each other with shared energy and unwavering support. Their trust in my prowess propelled me to sign up for Ama.
What followed after that was an experience of a lifetime, etched deeply in my heart. The journey from Ama Dablam Base Camp to Camp 2, upon which I called off my expedition, still lingers in my dreams. The surreal landscape as I kept climbing higher and higher reminded me of Jack, who climbed up the beanstalk and disappeared into the clouds. I had to manoeuvre at each step, find my footings, and push myself upwards for the next repetition. Every step upward along the narrow ridge filled me with necessary adrenalin, never letting me get distracted, lose focus, or get bored. At Camp 2, tents were precariously pitched on the narrow ridges where a slight misstep could lead you to roll down the rocky slope on either side, adding another thrill to the expedition.
When I returned to base camp, treats awaited me. I basked in the aromatic smell of ‘hot spring rolls’ (hot towel ;) ) served by the ground staff, reminiscing about the journey and unregrettably yearning to attempt it again. It will remain one of my favourite expedition stretches.
Comments