The south Col region is a key pass for trekkers on their journey to Everest, the highest peak of the world. It is nestled between Everest and Lhotse at the mighty altitude of 7,900 meters. As it is a particularly final camp en-route to Everest, traversing South Col symbolizes the traveler’s indomitable spirit, pushing their boundaries.
South Col is a crucial part of the southern approach to Everest’s peak from the Nepal side. At nearly 7,900 meters, it marks the beginning of the “death zone,” where oxygen is scarce and climbers are affected by near-fatal altitude sickness and digestive issues. Survival beyond the point is an ultimate test of physical and mental strength.
South Col is the final staging ground for summit attempts. The flat, exposed terrain often experiences sweeping high winds which makes it challenging. Yet it is a strategic camp for climbers to acclimate before their final push to the summit.
South Col has witnessed some of the most iconic moments in mountaineering history. It was the route used by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay during their historic first ascent of Everest in 1953. Since then, countless expeditions have passed through, including Reinhold Messner’s oxygen-free ascent. South Col, in itself, is a symbol of mountaineering achievement.
Preparation for all types of high-altitude climbing, especially for Everest, requires intense physical training. Activities like running, cycling, swimming, and weight training, along with specific exercises such as stair climbing with a weighted pack, over a period of a few months are necessary to develop the fitness levels for such a climate. However practicing on other peaks is also recommended as it builds cardiopulmonary endurance, and flexibility.
It is equally important to undergo a thorough medical check-up before an expedition. This includes a general health assessment, cardiovascular tests, and specialized evaluations for those with prior health issues. To be fit for climbing, analysis of other records such as past medical and surgical history, drug history, allergies, immunisations is needed. Ensuring physical fitness is crucial to handle the extreme conditions encountered during the climb.
Good medical screening, well before the expedition allows for adequate planning of everything from what to put in the medical kit to planning how to detect and manage specific condition-related complications e.g. ensuring a good supply of emergency drugs and kit to manage seizures if a group member is known to have epilepsy.
Additionally, emergency information such as passport/ insurance/ next of kin needs to be kept securely, and be readily accessible to the expedition medic.
Crossing the South Col is not complete without numerous obstacles. The extreme altitude leads to severe hypoxia, and the weather can change rapidly, with temperatures plunging suddenly as winds reach extreme speeds. With the constant risk of avalanches and falls, its mixed terrain of ice, snow, and rock requires advanced technical skills to navigate.
Headaches, nausea, dizziness, and exhaustion are some of the symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS), often known as altitude sickness. High-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) and high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), which are both life-threatening and necessitate a rapid descent, are examples of severe instances.
A gradual ascent, ensuring ample water intake, refraining from alcohol, and taking prescription drugs like acetazolamide are vital measures to prevent altitude sickness. It’s important to pay attention to your body rather than speed the climb.
Achieving effective acclimatization requires gradual ascent, rest days built into the itinerary, and some time spent at intermediate elevations. The body adjusts to the altitude with the aid of the “climb high, sleep low” technique, in which climbers go to greater altitudes during the day and descend to lower altitudes for sleep.
Inspired by the South Col, the rooftop bar at Varnabas offers the thrill of Everest at a more accessible altitude. Featuring elements reminiscent of mountaineering expeditions—ropes, carabiners, and climbing-themed decor—the bar captures the spirit of adventure.
The bar provides breathtaking panoramic views of Kathmandu city center, creating an ambiance akin to the awe-inspiring vistas of the Himalayas. Cozy seating, warm lighting, and a rustic yet modern design make it a perfect retreat after a day of urban exploration.
Specialties range from themed cocktails, international blends and local favorites along with hearty snacks such as mountain goat platters and high-protein energy bites, inspired by the sustenance climbers rely on during their expeditions.
From the meticulous preparation for a high-altitude climb to enjoying a relaxing drink at the rooftop bar, this mission of Varnabas Museum Hotel is to capture the essence of adventure. Travel embodies the human spirit, resilience, and the joy of overcoming challenges and Varnabas welcomes travelers with a thirst for adventure. High-altitude adventures, whether in the Himalayas or in Kathmandu city, inspire a sense of accomplishment and wonder.
Embrace the call of the mountains, prepare to ascend to another level of luxury and comfort with Varnabas Museum Hotel.