The Pyramid Laboratory-Observatory

VIDEO OF THE PYRAMID LABORATORYÂ

The Pyramid International Laboratory-Observatory high altitude scientific research center, dedicated to Prof. Ardito Desio, was constructed in 1990 at 5,050 m (16,568 ft.) a.s.l. , in the Khumbu Valley, Sagarmatha National Park, at the base of the Nepali side of Everest.  Since then, the Pyramid, managed by the Ev-K²-CNR Committee together with the Royal Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (RONAST), has become a unique resource for the international scientific community. To date, 520 scientific missions have been carried out there by 220 researchers of 143 scientific institutions from several nations.

The three-story glass, aluminum and steel structure, with its stable square-based pyramid shape [13.22 m (43.37 ft.) x 8.40 m (27.56 ft.) high], is equipped with advanced technological instrumentation and facilities, including telecommunications and internet.  It is totally self sufficient, using only clean energy sources and providing eco-sustainable systems for waste disposal and heating. 

An independent living unit on the south side of the Pyramid, built in typical Nepali lodge style, provides living conditions which meet the standards of the best alpine huts. Up to 20 researchers, technicians and logistical staff can be accommodated there. 

 

The three floors

Level 1:
(Laboratories, store room, electrical plant consoles and bathroom)

• Two large laboratories, furnished with moveable work stations and equipped with electrical power supply and outlets, instrumentation consoles and lighting fixtures, metal cupboards, flexible padded metal chairs
• Area for chemical analysis with: deionization tools, demineralised water production system, tools for handling controlled atmospheric samples, common chemical laboratory glassware.
• Bathroom with shower
• Common area: moveable tables, padded chairs

Level 2:

• Three separate rooms can be used as medium-sized laboratory spaces, with laboratory tables, chairs, lockers, and cupboards.
• A first-aid/emergency treatment area for mountain sickness (hyperbaric chambers, oxygen concentrator, portable oxygen cylinders, mask and regulator) and toilet are also on this floor.

Level 3:

• This area acts as an office for data handling, telecommunications, and general Pyramid management. Aside from computers, radios and telecom equipment, the room has tables, metal lockers, cupboards and padded chairs.

Pyramid regulations

SECTION 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS

ARTICLE 1.0  In order to safeguard the working environment in its integrity, the following regulations apply to both the interior of the Pyramid and the external surrounding areas. All reference to the “Pyramid� from here on, is intended to comprise the pyramid-shaped building used as a research laboratory as well as the surrounding terrain, which includes the lodge, the external scientific facilities and installations (meteorological stations, GPS station, ABC station, etc.) and the outdoor environment itself, including also the lakes area commonly referred to as Pyramid Lower Lake and Pyramid Upper Lake.
 
ARTICLE 1.1 The Pyramid staffing structure shall function as depicted in the organigram. The roles, tasks and responsibilities of each staff member are summarized in sections 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 of these regulations.
 
SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE EV-K²-COMMITTE
 
ARTICLE 2.0 The pro tempore President of the Ev-K²-CNR Committee is the highest authority and has full responsibilities with respect to the scientific research institutions and/or the Committee’s supporting institutions, including, but not limited to, execution of scientific and cooperation projects and the correct functioning of the Pyramid. He also fills the role of Committee Pyramid Supervisor (CPS) and coordinates any other CPSs who may be periodically nominated or working on site at the Pyramid.
In the absence of a CPS on site, the MNS will refer directly to the President regarding activities or proper functioning requirements of the Pyramid.
 
ARTICLE 2.1 The President coordinates the work of the CPSs and Data Acquisition Stations Manager (DASM).
 
ARTICLE 2.2 All staff members shall send periodic activity reports to the President, as scheduled or whenever necessary.
 
ARTICLE 2.3 The President can be contacted for any ordinary or extraordinary reason or in case of emergency.  If he is not available, contact should be made with the Executive Director, the Ev-K²-CNR Committee Secretariat in Bergamo, or the Representative Office in Kathmandu.
 
SECTION 3: RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF THE REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE IN KATHMANDU
 
ARTICLE 3.0 The Representative Office in Kathmandu (RO) shall manage the Pyramid technical Staff contracts and related administrative, financial and logistic provisions, including insurance. Pertinent instructions and orders from the Executive Director or CPS can be carried out through the RO on their behalf.
 
ARTICLE 3.1 The RO will take care of purchasing and procurement of materials, food and instrumentation directly or upon request of the MNS, in coordination with Cho-Oyu Trekking and 8000 Inn.
 
ARTICLE 3.1 The RO shall receive periodic reports from the Pyramid technical Staff, which must be promptly forwarded to the Ev-K²-CNR Committee.
 
SECTION 4: RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
 
ARTICLE 4.0 The Executive Director will be responsible for the duties of the President in his absence or unavailability.
 
ARTICLE 4.1 The Executive Director is responsible for the execution and coordination of organisational activities related to scientific projects.
 
SECTION 5: RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF THE MANAGER OF NEPALI STAFF (MNS)
 
ARTICLE 5.0 A Manager of Nepali Staff (MNS) will be selected from amongst the Nepali technical personnel.  In addition to his/her normal duties, the MNS will manage the entire Nepali Staff, who shall coordinate duty shifts and leave requests with the MNS.  Specifically, the MNS will be in charge of: the ordinary functioning and maintenance of the Pyramid; supervision of the Nepali personnel; running of systems and facilities; supply orders and procurement; kitchen and food storeroom management; management of hospitality and services for guests and staff members; use of communication systems in the Pyramid (radio, satellite mobiles, internet connections etc.); and management of cleaning services and rubbish disposal according to Ev-K²-CNR Committee protocols. The MNS shall provide, to the best of his/her abilities, any support requested by the researchers and technicians working at the Pyramid.  The MNS will manage, to the best of his/her abilities, any emergency situation which might arise. 
 
ARTICLE 5.1 The MNS must keep a constantly updated inventory of all materials, equipment and scientific instruments in the Pyramid.
 
ARTICLE 5.2 Following indications from the Ev-K²-CNR Committee and the official service providers in Nepal, the MNS shall keep accounts concerning management and restocking of Pyramid supplies.
 
ARTICLE 5.3 The MNS must compile a daily report in which any relevant event (problems, rescue requests, etc.) is registered. The report must be sent to the Ev-K²-CNR Secretariat, in copy to the Representative Office in Kathmandu (RO), by 8.00 pm (Nepali time) every day.
 
ARTICLE 5.4 The MNS must answer to the Committee Pyramid Supervisor (CPS) [see Section 6] if present at the Pyramid. Otherwise the MNS answers directly to the President of the Ev-K²-CNR Committee and to the Executive Director. Regarding duties concerning the Data Acquisition Stations, the MNS must coordinate with and answer to the Data Acquisition Stations Manager (DASM).
 
ARTICLE 5.5 Any technical operation, on the part of Italian or Nepali technical Staff (regarding technical or logistical assistance, maintenance, general functioning of any sort) must be coordinated in advance with the MNS.
 
ARTICLE 5.6 Upon the arrival of each research group, the MNS will organise an orientation briefing covering:
a) Pyramid regulations;
b) understanding and preventing risks;
c) emergency and evacuation procedures;
d) protocols for the use and management of hazardous materials;
e) sanitation and hygiene;
f) location of the first aid kit;
g) protocols for emergencies and first aid.
 
ARTICLE 5.7 The MNS must respect and enforce these regulations, ensuring their observance by the personnel and researchers/guests at the Pyramid. Any difficulties or serious non-compliance shall be communicated to the Ev-K²-CNR Committee Secretariat.
 
SECTION 6: RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF THE COMMITTEE PYRAMID SUPERVISOR (CPS)
 
ARTICLE 6.0 A Committee Pyramid Supervisor (CPS) will be appointed by the Ev-K²-CNR Committee to monitor the success of the operations managed by the Nepali Staff.  Periodically (6-8 times a year), especially during research activities or major maintenance operations, the CSP will visit the Pyramid to review performance and procedures. The CSP, in collaboration with the MNS, may suggest improvements in running and management.
 
ARTICLE 6.1 The CPS represents the Ev-K²-CNR Committee management at the Pyramid: guests and staff members must follow his/her instructions.
 
ARTICLE 6.2 The CPS must respect and enforce these regulations, ensuring their observance by the personnel and researchers/guests at the Pyramid.
 
SECTION 7: RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF THE DATA ACQUISITION STATIONS MANAGER (DASM) 
  
ARTICLE 7.0  The Data Acquisition Stations Manager (DASM) is responsible for and shall supervise successful functioning of all scientific and technological data acquisition stations and telecommunications systems.
 
ARTICLE 7.1 The DASM will work in coordination with the MNS and CPS. The DASM answers to the Ev-K²-CNR Committee President and Executive Director and shall direct all communications to them.
 
ARTICLE 7.2 The DASM must respect these regulations.
 
SECTION 8: RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF THE NEPALI STAFF
 
ARTICLE 8.0  The Nepali Staff must follow directions of the MNS and/or CPS.  Access to the common areas of the Pyramid by Nepali Staff is limited to reasons of duty or service. There are two levels of Nepali staff: technical staff and general staff.
 
ARTICLE 8.1  The Nepali Technical Staff is in charge of the technical management (operations, upkeep, maintenance and cleaning) of the Laboratory-Observatory Pyramid, its systems and facilities, as instructed by the DASM. Specifically: the technical staff shall: provide technical assistance to researchers; supervise performance of the general staff; monitor and check internal and the external observatory equipment, etc.
 
ARTICLE 8.2  The Nepali General Staff includes a Cook and Kitchen Manager and Kitchen/Housekeeping staff. Their duty is to carry out all kitchen and cleaning operations and to provide the best possible service to the researchers.  The general staff responds directly to the MNS and/or to the CPS if present.
 
ARTICLE 8.3  The Nepali Staff salaries are fixed; researchers should not give tips unless they have been approved  by the MNS or CPS.
 
ARTICLE 8.4  The Nepali Staff must respect these regulations.
 
SECTION 9: DUTIES AND RIGHTS OF THE RESEARCHERS/GUESTS
 
ARTICLE 9.0   Only researchers with projects which have received prior approval from the Ev-K²-CNR Committee Scientific Council and the Ev-K²-CNR/NAST Bilateral Technical Committee (BTC) may access the Pyramid facilities. Researchers are not allowed to carry out any activity which is not included in the approved scientific protocol.
 
ARTICLE 9.1  Researchers/guests must carry out their work in line with these regulations.  For special requests – beyond their research activities – researchers should speak to the MNS or CPS (if present) or their accompanying Alpine Guide. The MNS will do his/her best, compatibly with the needs and requirements of others, and bearing in mind the circumstances of the moment, to satisfy any logistic and organisational requests of the researches/guests.
 
ARTICLE 9.2  The researchers/guests are responsible for their personal scientific equipment and its functioning.  Ev-K²-CNR will only provide power and logistic support; researchers must verify the technical functionality of their own instruments at high altitude in advance.  Handbooks and manuals must be provided for any instrument/equipment to be used at the Pyramid.  All documents and declarations must be prepared for identification of the equipment and luggage at Customs, upon both departure and return to Italy. All personal equipment to be used at the Pyramid must be reported in advance to the Ev-K²-CNR Committee Secretariat.
 
ARTICLE 9.3  Researchers/guests must observe strict professional confidentiality with respect to the work of any colleagues or other researchers present at the Pyramid at the same time, especially regarding the content of research activities.
 
ARTICLE 9.4  Before leaving the Pyramid area for any reason, the MNS must be informed and radio assistance (walkie-talkies) provided. Radio contact with the Pyramid, while off site but in the vicinity, is obligatory. During field work or data collection outside the Pyramid area, and while trekking, researchers are strongly encouraged to limit their impact on the landscape, using common sense and respecting local rules to the best of their ability, so as to safeguard the fragile high altitude ecosystems. They must also bear in mind that they are working within the boundaries of the Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.
 
ARTICLE 9.5  Following their stay at the Pyramid, researchers/guests must return any materials they were assigned by the management in the same conditions as when they were received. Rooms and work spaces must also be left in the original conditions. Keys and walkie-talkies must be turned over to the MNS and any outstanding accounts must be settled. Neglecting and/or not communicating any irregularities in the communications systems constitutes a breach of the Pyramid safety rules.
 
ARTICLE 9.6  Any complaint from the researchers/guests concerning the conduct of the MNS, the Nepali Staff, technicians or other researchers must immediately be sent to the Ev-K²-CNR Executive Director (beth.schommer@evk2cnr.org), in copy to the Ev-K²-CNR Secretariat (evk2cnr@evk2cnr.org).
 
ARTICLE 9.7  The researchers/guests must obey all safety rules, fire prevention norms and evacuation plans, which are explained by the MNS upon their arrival.  Special attention must be given to protocols for handling chemical and biological hazards. In case of emergency, to request medical assistance or rescue, researchers/guests must contact the MNS or their accompanying Alpine Guide.
 
ARTICLE 9.8  Researchers/guests must take part in the orientation briefing held by the MNS upon their arrival at the Pyramid.  They are obliged to follow all safety rules and information as indicated and behave according to the regulations that are illustrated at that time. 
 
ARTICLE 9.9  Research involving animals or which foresees collection of flora samples, may be carried out only if permission has been granted by the pertinent Nepali authorities.  Documentation of said authorization must be available at all times.
 
SECTION 10: RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES OF THE ALPINE GUIDE
 
ARTICLE 10.0  The Alpine Guides answer directly to the Ev-K²-CNR Committee Management.  They shall coordinate their activities at the Pyramid with the CPS and the MNS.
 
ARTICLE 10.1  The Alpine Guides are hired to accompany researchers/guests during their trip from Italy to Nepal and are responsible for the group while trekking and during any field activities outside the Pyramid. They are responsible for overseeing the travel operations, of persons and goods, of whomever they have been requested to accompany, helping ensure the success of the mission, while applying criteria of safety and wellbeing.
 
ARTICLE 10.2  In case of emergency or if rescue operations are needed, the Alpine Guides must oversee and monitor the safety of such operations.
 
ARTICLE 10.3  Additional duties may be agreed in advance with the Ev-K²-CNR President and Management. The Alpine Guides must respect these regulations.
 
SECTION 11: NON-ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
 
ARTICLE 11.0  Non-routine maintenance of the Pyramid shall be carried out by professionals selected by the Ev-K²-CNR Committee, while routine maintenance is the responsibility of the MNS and shall be executed under his/her direction.
 
ARTICLE 11.1  Technical staff involved in maintenance operations must use appropriate protections and follow the Italian workplace safety laws (L. 626/94, and DL 4 agosto 1999, n. 359).
 
SECTION 12: EQUIPMENT, INSTRUMENTS  AND THE LABORATORY AREA
 
ARTICLE 12.0  Any technical equipment or research instruments brought to the Pyramid (personal equipment) or taken out of the Pyramid must be registered.  Materials or equipment assigned for individual use must be registered by name.  Access to storerooms, the power room, battery room, or the hydroelectric turbine is strictly limited to the MNS and technical staff only.
 
ARTICLE 12.1  Special care must be used when operating Pyramid instruments or machines.  No Pyramid instruments, equipment or machine may be used without prior authorization by the MNS or, if present, the CPS.  Authorization may only be granted if researchers have proven their ability to use said instruments or machines. MNS or CPS instructions for use must always be followed. Instruments, equipment or machines must be put back in the place and conditions in which they were found after use.
 
ARTICLE 12.2  Any changes made to Pyramid work spaces, or to Pyramid instruments, must receive prior authorization by the MNS or, if present, the CPS.
 
ARTICLE 12.3  Any damage caused by researchers/guests must be immediately communicated to the MNS or, if present, the CPS.
 
SECTION 13: THE LODGE: KITCHEN AND DINING ROOM  
  
ARTICLE 13.0  The kitchen is under the direct supervision of the MNS.   The MNS will provide information on the weekly menu and meal times. Access to the food storeroom and the kitchen is regulated by the MNS.
 
ARTICLE 13.0   Nepali food and fuel supplies (from Kathmandu, Namche or elsewhere) are the responsibility of the cook, who shall inform the MNS when orders need to be placed. The MNS will be in charge of supply orders and will check their delivery, prices and quantities.
 
SECTION 14: HEALTH
 
ARTICLE 14.0  Given the high altitude and remote, isolated location of the Pyramid, the living and working conditions are physically and mentally strenuous. To avoid conflicts or additional stress, researchers/guests are asked to be especially disciplined and well-behaved.
 
ARTICLE 14.1  Any abnormal physical condition, especially any sign of mountain sickness, must be promptly reported to the MNS or, if present, the CPS, or to the accompanying Alpine guide while trekking. Special attention should be paid during the first hours after arrival at the Pyramid.
 
ARTICLE 14.2. The Pyramid has a small pharmacy; only the MNS and, if present, CPS, may access the medical supplies there. The MNS and CPS must refer to the Pyramid First Aid procedures cards and, before administering any medication, must consult the doctors or medical facilities who have confirmed their availability for consultations.
 
ARTICLE 14.3  Pharmacy supplies need to be constantly replenished and kept up to date. Any medicine used must be registered and replaced before the supply runs out. The available diagnostic instruments: 2 pulse oximeters, standard thermometers, blood pressure gauge and electrocardiograph must be kept in proper working order. The Gamow bags and oxygen concentrator should also be constantly checked for proper functioning. At least two full oxygen cylinders, masks and regulators should always be available.
 
SECTION 15: CLEANING AND WASTE MANAGEMENT
 
ARTICLE 15.0  Lodge occupants must keep personal spaces (rooms) clean; in case of lengthier stays, housekeeping services – weekly change of sheets and room cleaning – may be requested. Cleaning of common areas and rooms before arrival/after departure is the responsibility of the Nepali staff under the direction of the MNS.  Researchers/guests, in general, must contribute to maintaining order and cleanliness. Use of laundry facilities is coordinated by the MNS.
 
ARTICLE 15.1  Separation of recyclable waste is obligatory at the Pyramid. Waste management is the responsibility of the MNS, who must obey the relevant procedures.
 
SECTION 16: BATHROOMS AND SHOWERS
 
ARTICLE 16.0  Use of showers is managed by the MNS and must respect the timetables drawn up periodically according to season and energy consumption. Water must always be used sparingly.  Measures must also always be taken to save electricity and to avoid dispersion of heat when the heating system is in use (i.e., do not open windows).
 
ARTICLE 16.1  Use of either the internal or external toilets is obligatory.
 
ARTICLE 16.2  In order to save resources and respect the environment, guests are requested to shower at most once every two days.
 
SECTION 17: COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS 
 
ARTICLE 17.0  Use of Pyramid communication systems is regulated by the MNS or, if present, the CPS.  Use of any Pyramid communication system/instrument must be according to manual instructions.
 
ARTICLE 17.1  Communication systems may only be used for research-related purposes and in line with the communication licences granted to NAST by the HMG/N Ministry of Communication and Information. No radio or satellite instrument may be used which is not in the communication licences.
 
SECTION 18: FREE TIME
 
ARTICLE 18.0  Pyramid space is divided into areas for research, video entertainment, reading and document consultation, meetings and briefings. The Laboratory has a space dedicated to consulting and writing e-mail.
 
ARTICLE 18.1  Smoking is prohibited inside the Pyramid or Lodge and no animals are allowed inside the premises.
 
ARTICLE 18.2  Silence is requested after 10:30 p.m. Use of the TV or stereo/radio/CD player/etc. is not allowed after this time. No unofficial, unauthorized activity is allowed after 10.30 p.m.
 
ARTICLE 18.3  Order and quiet are requested at all times inside the Laboratory and Lodge, bearing in mind that work time and free time may vary significantly between groups.  Guests are requested to use soft voices when speaking in the hallways and bedrooms.
 
SECTION 19: VISITORS, RESCUE SERVICES  
 
ARTICLE 19.0  Visitors are allowed only with prior authorization from the Ev-K²-CNR Executive Director.  The MNS and, if present, the CPS may authorize short guided visits for tourists at their discretion; such visitors must be directly and constantly supervised by the MNS or CPS and must not disturb researchers at work.
 
ARTICLE 19.1  In case of emergencies, the MNS and, if present, the CPS may use the Pyramid for first aid or rescues.
 
ARTICLE 19.2  No visitor is allowed to spend the night at the Pyramid or Lodge.
 
SECTION 20: SAFETY AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
 
ARTICLE 20.0  Caution must be used to avoid hazards and prevent fire.
 
ARTICLE 20.1  In case of emergencies, established safety procedures must be followed under the direction of the MNS or CPS.
 
ARTICLE 20.2  In case of fire, all personnel must be alerted. The Pyramid and lodge have extinguishers and evacuation plans.
 
ARTICLE 20.3  In case of a medical emergency, refer to the Pyramid First Aid Procedures.

Getting to the Pyramid

Trekking to the Pyramid lasts 5 days (+ 1 for the acclimatisation). It starts from Lukla, which can be reached by plane from Kathmandu. Coming back, from the Pyramid to Lukla, it lasts 3 days only. The trek stops along the upway to the Pyramid are the following:

• 1st day: from Lukla to Monju
• 2nd-3rd day: from Monju to Namche Bazar
• 4th day: from Namche Bazar to Tengboche
• 5th day: from Tengboche to Pheriche
• 6th day: from Pheriche to the Pyramid

Please note that this trek dos not require any particular preparation, although it is suggested that you have some mountain experience and much respect for nature, as the route lays within the Sagarmatha National Park. 

Here you can find some general information about the trekking in Himalaya:

• Trekking equipment checklist 
• The trekking route Lukla-Pyramid
• Health advice

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1st day - from Lukla to Monju

The long, sometimes strenuous trek to the Pyramid starts at the village of Lukla (2,800 m - 9,186 ft.), where Twin Otter STOL airplanes transporting up to 20 passengers and their baggage land on a newly renovated short uphill airstrip after approximately 40 minutes of exhilarating flight.

Even though departures from Kathmandu are usually scheduled just after dawn, fog and clouds can often delay early morning flights. (Flights out of Lukla are equally unreliable, and there are often backlogs of frustrated trekkers waiting to fly back to Kathmandu.)
Ecureuil and Kawasaki BK-117 helicopters can also be booked for charter flights, while the large Russian MI-17 helicopters (no longer allowed to perform passenger transport) are used for cargo deliveries.

Upon arrival at Lukla, an organized expedition spends a couple of hours waiting for their guide or sirdar and porters to divide and load the group's baggage.
Cultural note: While the guides and sirdars are generally Sherpas, often right from the Solu-Khumbu region, the porters are usually seasonal laborers from other regions of Nepal and different ethnic groups.
Baggage is physically transported for the entire trek by porters (around 30kgs a person) or pack-animals: yaks (photo below) or dzos (a crossbreed between yak and cow).

After a nourishing brunch at the Himalaya Lodge in Lukla, the expedition sets out for an approx. 5 hour trek to Monju, along a trail leading continuously up and down as it crosses the tributaries of the Dudh Kosi River. This pleasant walk is a good opportunity to test your trekking equipment and put simple rules to use, like protecting your skin against the strong sun, keeping your rucksack light and staying hydrated. The Alpine Guides who accompany research groups often take advantage of this first leg of the trek to give helpful advice on hiking skills, use of walking poles, etc.  The destination is Monju (2,835 m - 9,301 ft.), where the group receives hospitality at the Welcome Mount Kalash Lodge.

 

2nd, 3rd day - from Monju to Namche Bazar

Leaving behind Monju, the trek quickly reaches Jorsale (2,805 m - 9,203 ft.) and the entrance to the Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park where forest rangers collect required park entrance fees from the group’s sirdar and guides. The trail then continues for an often breathtaking hike along the Dudh Khosi, crossing the river several times on cantilevered wood bridges or steel suspension bridges.

After a steep 600 m (1,969 ft.) climb, the trail enters Namche Bazar (3,440 m - 11,286 ft.), a large Sherpa market town bustling with traders and tourists. The numerous shops and lodges sell all variety of goods, including imported foodstuffs and locally made woollen articles. Trekking and climbing equipment can also be bought or rented. A colorful local market is held each Saturday, while Tibetan traders selling clothing and goods from China are frequently seen laying out their wares for sale during the week.

Lodges in Namche have indoor lighting powered by the nearby hydroelectric plant in Thame, but local phone service is still not consistently available. A couple of recently opened Internet points do however provide useful net and email access via satellite hook-up. Researchers on their way to the Pyramid stay at the Thamserku View Lodge, where an excellent menu and welcoming atmosphere make your visit particularly pleasant.

As a measure to help avoid altitude sickness, an acclimatization day is spent in Namche, where you can rest and visit the village. Also worth a visit is the Sagarmatha Park Headquarters visitor center/museum, where you can learn about the geology, botany and zoology of the Himalayas. Possible interesting day trips also include the villages of Syangboche, Khumjung and Khunde, all about 400 m (1,312 ft.) above the bowl-shaped valley of Namche.

At Khumjung, worth seeing is the Buddhist monastery where an alleged Yeti scalp is on display. In Khunde, there is a Sir Edmund Hillary Foundation hospital run by foreign volunteer doctors. Syangboche is home to the highest airstrip in the Khumbu valley at 3,720 m (12,205 ft.). Nearby is a luxury hotel built by Japanese investors from which Mt. Everest can be seen.

Another shorter side trip from Namche is to Thame monastery (3,800 m - 12,467 ft.) along a practically level trail. Thame is the gateway to Thasi Lapcha pass (5,820 m - 19,094 ft.) for Rolwaling Himal and also the last place in the Bothe Kosi valley where trekkers are allowed: the upper valley is an ancient trade route to Tibet via the Nangpa La pass (5,710 m - 18,734 ft.).

4th day: from Namche Bazar to Tengboche

The trail is level for a long stretch. From about half an hour out of Namche, rising above the elegant crest of Nuptse, the peaks of Everest (8,846 m - 29,022 ft.) and Lhotse (8,501 m - 27,890 ft.), the fourth highest mountain in the world, can be seen.

A quick descent from Teshinga (3,450 m - 11,319 ft.) leads to the last crossing of the Dudh Kosi at Phunki Tangka (3,250 m - 10,663 ft.) from where another steep 600 m climb leads to the Tengboche Monastery (3,867 m - 12,687 ft.). The night there is spent at the Lodge, or alternatively, down the hill in Deboche at the Amadablam Garden Lodge, surrounded by luxurious rhododendron forest.

The Tengboche Monastery burnt down in 1988, but has been since reconstructed. Today, a new gate, monastery museum, visitors center and gift shop have been added. Tours of the gompa (temple or place of meditation) can be arranged for a fee, donated to the monastery fund.

Also worth a visit is the nunnery in Deboche, seen to be greatly lacking in support when compared with the monastery in Tengboche. There are few nuns and their number is declining. Some attempts at renovation have been made in the recent years.

5th day - from Tengboche to Pheriche

Walking northeast through groves of juniper, rhododendron and fir, under a spectacular view of majestic Ama Dablam (6,814 m - 22,356 ft.) the altitude starts to shorten your breath. Mani walls and chortens announce your arrival in Pangboche (3,860 m - 12,664 ft.), home to another ancient monastery.

In Pheriche (4,280 m - 14,042 ft.), where you may spend an extra rest day acclimatizing, hospitality will be provided at the Himalaya View lodge. Pheriche, home to numerous yak pastures and potato fields, is located in a wide, windswept part of the valley.
The Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) runs a clinic/health post in Pheriche for trekkers and porters during peak trekking months. Talks on how to avoid altitude sickness are given daily.

In this part we approach to the very high mountains, going above the forest we receive a very high degree of sun energy, a lot of UV. It's important now to protect the eyes with sunglasses, also if there is not snow on the ground, and use a high protection-degree cream for the lips (which have very delicate skin) and nose first and for the face.
We have to learn to breath better in order to compensate the altitude, over 4,000 m (13,123 ft.), and start to move slower, looking at the breath rate, which should'nt be too much accelerated.

In Periche a possibility for communication in case of need (not as a public service) is offered by the HRA Clinic which has a daily radio contact with Kathmandu and also a satellite phone.

6th day - from Pheriche to the Pyramid

Walking up the level valley, you reach the terminal moraine of the Khumbu glacier. A 300 m (984 ft.) steep ascent leads to the hamlet of Duglha (4,620 m - 15,157 ft.) - your last stop before reaching the village of Lobuche.
The day's ascent represents one of the most taxing due to the difference in altitude, even if the trail isn't particularly difficult. You will be encouraged to rest and hydrate a lot, as well as to keep a comfortably slow pace.

At the top of the moraine past Duglha is a plateau which has been transformed into a memorial place, filled with chortens in remembrance of the Sherpas and some foreign climbers who have lost their lives on the Khumbu's highest peaks.
Continuing north along the trough of the Khumbu glacier you reach Lobuche (4,930 m - 16,175 ft.), the highest year-round village in the valley as well as the low altitude base camp of many international expeditions on Everest and Lhotse.

About 20 minutes past Lobuche, you find the frontal moraine of Lobuche glacier to the left of the trail. A left turn after the moraine takes you into a short, narrow valley which soon opens to show you your first view of the Pyramid Laboratory-Observatory.

You've reached the Pyramid and the end of your trek! 

Health Advice

The suggestions and recommendations on this page are not  intended as a substitute for professional advice. You are encouraged to confirm all health-related information contained herein with other sources, and to review the information carefully with your professional healthcare provider. USE OF THE CONTENT AVAILABLE ON THIS WEB SITE IS AT YOUR SOLE RISK.


Going to the Pyramid International Laboratory-Observatory means visiting a semi-tropical environment (Nepal) with a stop for a few days in Kathmandu at 1,350 m a.s.l. (4,429 ft), a week-long trek at an altitude between 2,800 m (9,186 ft) and 5,050 m (16,568 ft), a stay at 5,050 m and another three days trekking on the way back. 


We suggest getting at least a basic check-up prior to departure, and discussing the following vaccinations with your doctor. None of these prophylaxis are required by law.

• Tetanus
• Hepatitis
• Malaria

Apart from high altitude related illnesses such as acute mountain sickness (never to be underestimated considering the remoteness of the areas we are dealing with), it is important to follow some basic practical guidelines:

• Promptly communicate any abnormal and even minor physical problems which might be connected to altitude to your group leader
• Increase altitude gradually
• Control physical activity (reduce physical exertion, maintain an average low rate of effort)
• Stay hydrated
• In case of mild acute mountain sickness: interrupt your ascent, spend an extra day acclimatizing
• In case of acute mountain sickness: go back to the previous night's stop

Doctors often suggest having some common medicine on hand during the trek. Also, do not forget to bring a sufficient supply of any personal medications needed from home.

• Diamox (a diuretic) which has apparent positive side effects which help acclimatization by increasing ventilation. It should be taken in the evenings to get increased benefit at night. generally above 3500-4000 m (11,482 - 13,123 ft), or if you have mild altitude-related ailments (like headache)
• Aspirin – often low temperatures can make you more susceptible to catching a cold
• Antibiotics for bacterial (respiratory and digestive tract) infections
• Products for water disinfection (even if boiled water and tea or hot drinks are easily available for hydration)
• Hard candy or throat lozenges to keep the upper respiratory area moist in the dry Himalayan climate
• High UVA and UVB protective lotions or creams


Other general recommendations include:

• Eating: do not drink water if it has not been boiled first or if it comes from unsealed bottles. Avoid raw vegetables and meat. Wash and disinfect your hands before eating anything.
• Regarding physical activities: avoid useless exertion, such as carrying a rucksack that is too heavy, running after your group when you've stopped to take a picture or hiking at an unnecessarily rapid pace; stay hydrated; do not panic if you feel tired or short of breath - it's normal at high altitude.
• For proper protection always wear appropriate clothes against the cold and rain as well as against the sun.

The Sagarmatha National Park

The Ev-K²-CNR Pyramid International Laboratory - Observatory is within the borders of the Sagarmatha Natural Park.

The Sagarmatha National Park was established in 1976.

The Park is spread over an area of 1,148 Km² (713 miles²) of the Himalayan ecological zone in the Khumbu region of Nepal.

The Park includes the upper catchement areas of the Dudhkoshi and Bhotekoshi rivers and is largely composed of rugged terrain and gorges of the high Himalayas, ranging from 2,845 m (9,334 ft.) a.s.l. Monjo to the top of the world “Everest� or “Sagarmatha� at 8,846 m (29,022 ft.) a.s.l. 

It comprises two other peaks above 8,000 m (26,246.72 ft.) (Lhotse, Cho Oyu) and four over 6,000 m (19,685.04 ft.)(Thamserku, Nuptse, Amadablam and Pumori).

The vegetation at the lower altitude of the park includes pine and hemlock, forests, while fir, juniper, birch and rhododendron, scrub and alpine plant communities are common at the higher altitude.

The park is home to the red panda, snow leopard, musk deer, Himalayan tahr etc.

For its natural beauties, UNESCO put this park in the World Heritage Site list in 1979 (click here to see the dedicated webpage).

DOWNLOAD THE BROCHURE of the Sagarmatha National Park, tha reports - apart from some essential news about the territory - a code of behaviour to observe during the visit.

The trekking route Lukla-Pyramid

The word "trekking" first started to be applied to hiking trips in Nepal in the 1960s. To go on a trek in Nepal generally implies going on a multi-day journey by foot, on trails traditionally used for communications and trade. Trekking is not mountaineering and no special skills are required. Only an adequate level of physical fitness, along with a positive and appreciative attitude are all that's needed.
Before flights to Lukla became the main way to access the Khumbu valley, trekkers had to take a bus from Kathmandu to Jiri and spent an additional 7 days trekking up and down the Himalayan foothills to reach Lukla. Today some visitors still prefer this approach.

A typical day's walk lasts from 5 to 7 hours at a reasonable pace, and involves a number of ascents and descents.
You rarely to spend much time at one altitude!
Normally, you rise early (before 7am), prepare your baggage for the porters, who like to load up and set off before you do, and have breakfast. During the trek, you will likely stop for brunch (late morning) or lunch, as well as have one or two tea breaks. You can calculate getting to your destination around 3 or 4 p.m. Don't be discouraged if your porters do not arrive with your gear when you do. They often take their time, stopping and resting in between stints of sustained exertion.

Researchers on their way to the Pyramid are often accompanied by Italian Mountain Guides (Guide Alpine), who help keep an appropriate pace to ensure that acclimatization is successful. They will also help you to respect your limits as you trek up into the higher altitudes, reminding you to stop and rest, to drink plenty of fluids and to eat (altitude can lead to loss of appetite). It sounds like basic advice, but many people who get Altitude Sickness do so because they break simple rules such as these! The Mountain Guides will also help you adjust to certain rules of hygiene necessary for a healthy trip in the high Himalayas, for example, paying attention to organic pollutant factors which can influence water quality.

 

COMMUNICATIONS

Today , the Khumbu Valley is partially connected to the local Nepal phone system by satellite hook-ups at a few lodges in Lukla, Namche and Tengboche.  There are also “Internet Cafès� in Lukla, Namche and Tengboche, where you can use e-mail, Internet and web-phone services like Skype.  Normal long distance calls may also be made at satellite rates.

 

CULTURAL CONTEXT

The Khumbu valley is rich in manifestations of the Sherpa culture, such as devotion to the practice of Tibetan Buddhism. Trailside Buddhist monuments, called stupas or (chortens in Sherpa) are common along the entire trekking route.
They act as memorials and often contain offerings or relics. Mani walls can also be frequently seen on the trail.
These are made up of piles of carved Mani stones displaying a combination of the stonecutter's art and the elegant calligraphic style of Tibetan script.

The most common Tibetan mantra (chant or prayer) inscribed on the stones, "Om Mani Padme Hum"(or Om Mani Peme Hung), is said to contain all the teachings of Buddha (literally translated it is "hail the jewel in the lotus").

Trekking equipment checklist

Here you can find the suggested equipment for the Khumbu Valley trek from Lukla, 2800 m, to the Pyramid, 5050 m.

SUGGESTED CLOTHING

• sun hat with visor
• stocking cap
• scarf
• sun glasses
• sun block (minimum spf 6 for face, 12 for lips)
• T-shirts (cotton or wool) · comfortable underwear
• long and short sleeved shirts · polar fleece (pile) jacket
• wool sweater
• cotton pants
• shorts (culturally less acceptable for women)
• warm pants, e.g., polar fleece (pile)
• silk long underwear
• wool long underwear
• cotton socks
• wool socks
• ski jacket (gore-tex shell and down liner, see notes)
• rain gear (waterproof jacket and pants)
• tennis shoes
• hiking boots (broken in!)
• warm gloves and/or mittens

TREKKING SUPPLIES

• down sleeping bag
• medium size backpack/rucksack (50 liters)
• small flashlight or headlamp and batteries (see notes)
• safety pouch (i.e., money belt) for passport, personal documents, money

PERSONAL BELONGINGS

• toiletry kit (soap & shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste, small scissors, safety pins, mirror)
• personal pharmacy and first aid kit small sewing kit
• kleenex
• toilet paper
• towel
• multi-purpose ("Swiss army") camping knife (NB: knives and scissors must not be carried on
  the plane as hand luggage and should always be packed with the checked luggage)
• nylon cord

VARIOUS ITEMS

• camera and film
• small thermos or water bottle (1/2 liter), trail bars, vitamins (see notes)
• umbrella (see notes)

NOTES

1) Down items can be rented in Kathmandu and in Namche;

2) Normal hiking and trekking gear is available both new and used in Kathmandu and in small shops along the way, along with a variety of local equipment and clothing items;

3) Good umbrellas can be purchased in Kathmandu;

4) Normal sized alkaline batteries can be purchased in Kathmandu and at some places along the trek;

5) Tea shops and lodges serve a variety of food and drinks along the way. It is, however, recommended that trekkers have something along to eat and drink should the need arise.

 

Pyramid personal equipment use form

The researchers who needs to use their personal equipment during their permanence at the Pyramid Laboratory-Observatory must fill the following form "Pyramid personal equipment use form".