Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Inspiring Achievement: Senior couple conquers Everest base camp trek
Parmod Bharti
Nawanshahr, July 05, 2024: Col. Suresh Kumar Bhardwaj (62) and Mrs. Sunita Bhardwaj (56) from Ivory Towers, Sector 70, Mohali, have achieved a remarkable feat by trekking to Everest Base Camp and Chola Pass.
The couple's determination and perseverance have inspired younger generations to pursue adventure and step away from their busy lifestyles.
Bhardwaj had long dreamed of reaching Everest Base Camp, and Col. Bhardwaj, despite having undergone open-heart bypass surgery, motivated her to achieve her goal. With the support of their family and gym trainers, they embarked on the 18-day trek, completing it in 17 days.
The veteran couple described the trek as an astounding experience, with breathtaking mountain views, glimpses into the lives of world-famous climbers (Sherpas), and visits to high-altitude Buddhist monasteries, including the historic Tengboche Monastery (3,867m). They also spotted endangered flora and fauna in the Everest region.
The Everest Base and Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo ri (5357 m) Trek via Cho La Pass, which they completed, is a challenging yet fascinating journey through the majestic Himalayas of Nepal. This trek offers four of the major iconic gems of the Everest trekking region: Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, Cho La Pass, and Gokyo Lakes & Gokyo Ri. While trekking, they immersed themselves in the distinctive Sherpa culture of the realm, evoking a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Col. Bhardwaj's completion of the trek without any complications, despite having undergone open-heart bypass surgery, is a testament to his courage and determination. His achievement serves as an inspiration to many, showing that age is just a number and that with perseverance, anyone can achieve their dreams.
The trek offered panoramic views of the world's highest peaks, including Mt. Everest (8,848.86m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516m), Mt. Makalu (8,485m), and Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201m). Col. Bhardwaj described the experience as "a lifetime achievement" and "a difficult task" due to the high elevation.
Bhardwaj praised the trek as a "challenging yet fascinating journey" through the majestic Himalayas. They also climbed to Kala Patthar (5,545m), which offered a breathtaking panoramic view of the mountains.
Their remarkable achievement is a testament to their courage, determination, and love for adventure, inspiring others to pursue their dreams, regardless of age.