What Dingboche is
Dingboche is a Sherpa village at about 4,410 m in the Imja valley. Its fields are closed in by long stone walls, to keep out the wind and the yaks. In summer people grow potatoes and barley here. Around the village stand Ama Dablam, Lhotse and Island Peak, and the valley goes on east towards Chhukung.
For most walkers on the way to Everest Base Camp, this is where they stop for two nights to let the body adjust to the height.
Getting there
Most people come from Tengboche or Pangboche. Above Pangboche the trees end, and the trail goes through open, dry country. At Somare and Orsho there are small places for tea. After the bridge over the Imja river, the path turns up into the Dingboche valley. The other trail goes to Pheriche, which lies in the next valley just over the ridge.
Staying here
On the extra day, most people walk up the ridge of Nangkartshang behind the village and then come back down to sleep. Climbing high and sleeping lower is the best way to help the body. You do not need to reach the top; go as high as feels right, and turn back in time. Then rest, drink water and eat well. It makes the days above easier.
Honest notes
- Above 4,000 m, headaches and poor sleep are common. Do not skip the rest day. Read my page on altitude sickness.
- If you feel very unwell, go down. Pheriche has a health post in the main seasons, and Pangboche and Tengboche are lower again.
- Afternoons are often windy and cold. Keep a warm layer with you.
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