Beyond the Finish Line
My Everest Marathon 2026 Journey
A Story of Courage, Determination, and Self-Discovery
By Tsering Tengi Bhote
My name is Tsering Tengi Bhote, and I am 17 years old. I come from Dolpo Buddha Rural Municipality in the Upper Dolpo region of Karnali Province, Nepal. Dolpo is one of the most remote and beautiful regions of Nepal, surrounded by high mountains, rugged landscapes, and rich cultural traditions. Growing up in such a remote area taught me resilience from an early age, but it also meant that many opportunities seemed far beyond my reach. Today, I am fortunate to be living and studying at Kailash Home, where I have received support, guidance, and opportunities that have helped shape my future.
One of the greatest opportunities I received was the chance to participate in the 2026 Everest Marathon. The Everest Marathon is known as one of the world's highest and most challenging marathons. When I first heard about it, I felt both excited and nervous. Running 42.195 kilometers through the Everest region sounded impossible. However, with encouragement from my mentors and friends, I decided to take on the challenge. For an entire year, I trained consistently. There were days when I felt tired, days when my legs hurt, and days when I questioned whether I could really complete such a difficult race. Yet every training session taught me something important: success comes one step at a time. By May 2026, after months of preparation, I stood ready alongside my teammates from Kailash Home (pictured below): Passang Dolma Gurung (Passdol), Tsering Furba Lama, and Passang Tenzin Gurung. Together, we would travel into the heart of the Everest region and attempt something that once seemed impossible.
Team Kailash at our final pre-Marathon Briefing
This is the story of that unforgettable journey. The Everest Marathon was not simply a one-day race. It was the result of one year of commitment, discipline, and perseverance. Throughout the year, we followed regular training schedules designed to improve our endurance, strength, and mental resilience. Some days we ran short distances, while on other days we pushed ourselves through longer and more demanding routes. We learned how to pace ourselves, how to stay motivated, and how to support one another when training became difficult. There were many challenges along the way. Balancing school responsibilities with marathon training was not always easy. Some mornings began before sunrise, and some evenings ended with tired muscles and sore feet. However, every challenge strengthened my determination. As race day approached, I realized that the training had already changed me. I had become stronger, more confident, and more disciplined than ever before. Whether I completed the marathon or not, the journey itself had already taught me valuable lessons. Still, I hoped that I would have the courage and strength to reach the finish line.
Day 1 & 2 – May 20 & 21, 2026
Team Kailash and our Support/Guide Team
The day of departure had finally arrived. I woke up feeling excited and nervous. After spending an entire year preparing for this adventure, I could hardly believe that the journey was beginning. Together with my teammates and supporters from Kailash Home, I travelled to Kathmandu Airport early in the morning. Everyone was eager to begin our trek into the Everest region. However, things did not go according to plan. Due to flight disruptions, our group was separated. While some members of our team were able to continue their journey, I was unable to travel that day. Instead of flying into the mountains, I had to return to the hostel and wait for another opportunity. At first, I felt disappointed. I had imagined beginning the adventure together with everyone else. Watching plans change so suddenly was difficult. But that day taught me an important lesson: not every journey begins the way we expect. Sometimes patience becomes part of the adventure. Although I returned to Kailash Home that evening, I remained hopeful. I knew that tomorrow would bring another chance. I went to sleep feeling excited for what lay ahead.
The next morning brought a new opportunity. Along with Sunny sir (Education Coordinator at Kailash Home), Passang Dolma, Passang Tenzin Dai, and Lhakpa Dai, I boarded a helicopter bound for the Everest region. As we lifted off from Kathmandu, I looked down at the valleys and hills below and felt a mixture of excitement and gratitude. For the first time, I could see the Himalayas stretching across the horizon. The mountains appeared larger and more magnificent than I had ever imagined.
Finally on our way!
We landed at Phakding, where the rest of our team was waiting for us. Seeing everyone again filled me with relief and happiness. It felt as though our Everest journey had truly begun. Together, we continued our trek toward Namche Bazaar. The trail followed rushing rivers, crossed suspension bridges, and passed through beautiful forests. Every step brought us closer to the mountains that had inspired this adventure. Although the trek was challenging, the excitement of finally being with the team gave me energy. Along the way, I shared laughter and conversations with my friends, guides, and supporters. That evening, as we reached Namche Bazaar, I felt proud of how far we had already come. The journey that had almost been delayed was finally underway.
We made it to Namche — gateway to the high Himalayas!
Day 3 – May 22, 2026
I woke up the morning of our third day feeling refreshed and excited for another day in the mountains. As I got ready for breakfast, I felt both happy and a little sad. Although our team was together, I missed some of the people who were not with us and thought about how quickly our group had become like a family. After breakfast, Sunny sir took us to the office of the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC). He introduced our team, and the staff warmly welcomed us. They explained the important work they do to protect the Everest region by managing waste and promoting environmental conservation. Listening to their presentation was very interesting and helped me understand how much effort goes into preserving the beauty of the Himalayas for future generations.
After spending some time there, we continued our walk toward Khumjung. The trail offered breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, and I enjoyed seeing the traditional houses and peaceful atmosphere of the village. Khumjung felt like a special place, surrounded by nature and rich Sherpa culture. Once we arrived, we checked into our lodge, freshened up, and took some time to rest. Later in the afternoon, our team headed out for a training hike toward Khunde Peak. The climb served as an important part of our acclimatization and marathon preparation. As we gained altitude, the air became thinner and the temperature dropped significantly.
Training (and having fun) along the way.
Reaching approximately 4,200 meters was both challenging and rewarding. The cold mountain wind greeted us at the top, but the incredible views made every step worthwhile. We took photos together, admired the spectacular scenery, and celebrated reaching another milestone in our journey. Although we wanted to stay longer, the weather was very cold, so we decided to head back down after spending some time enjoying the view. Back at the lodge, I felt proud of what we had accomplished that day. The training hike had tested my endurance, but it also increased my confidence for the marathon ahead. Later, we went to a nearby school football ground, where we spent time playing and laughing together. These simple moments with my teammates became some of my favorite memories of the trip. Afterward, Passdol and I returned to our room to rest before dinner. During dinner, everyone shared stories from the day, and our guides briefed us about the plan for tomorrow's trek. Listening to the upcoming itinerary made me excited for the next stage of our adventure. As the day came to an end, Passdol and I returned to our room and went to sleep, carrying with us the joy of another memorable day in the Everest region. It had been a day filled with learning, training, friendship, and beautiful mountain views-one that I will never forget.
Day 4 – May 23, 2026
I woke up early that morning feeling tired and sore. The training hikes and long walks from the previous days had started to take a toll on my body, and my muscles were aching. For a moment, I did not feel ready to continue the trek to Pangboche. However, I reminded myself why I was here. The Everest Marathon was only a few days away, and every step of this journey was part of my preparation. After getting ready, I joined my teammates for breakfast. As we ate together, I gathered the energy and motivation needed for another day on the trail. Once breakfast was finished, we packed our bags, left our rooms, and prepared to continue our trek deeper into the Everest region. Before leaving Khumjung, we visited the famous Khumjung Monastery, one of the most respected monasteries in the region. The monastery was peaceful and quiet, creating a calming atmosphere. Inside, I had the opportunity to see the famous Yeti scalp (right), which many visitors come to view. Whether the legend is true or not, it was fascinating to witness something so closely connected to the stories and culture of the Himalayas. Before leaving, I spent a few moments praying. Standing in the monastery surrounded by prayer flags and sacred objects gave me a sense of peace and strength. I silently wished for a safe journey and a successful marathon.
After our visit, we continued our trek toward Pangboche. The trail offered spectacular mountain scenery, but the walk was challenging. We trekked for several hours before reaching our lunch stop, where we enjoyed a well-deserved meal and some rest. The break helped me recover some energy before continuing the journey. Following lunch, we resumed our trek. Although my legs felt heavy at times, I kept moving forward, one step at a time. After several more hours of walking, we finally arrived in Pangboche. I was relieved and happy when we reached our lodge. The hotel was comfortable, and the manager welcomed us warmly. Her kindness made us feel at home after a long day on the trail.
That evening turned out to be one of the most memorable parts of the day. During dinner, we had the opportunity to meet several people who had successfully summited Mount Everest. Listening to their stories was incredibly inspiring. They shared their experiences, challenges, and emotions from standing on the highest mountain in the world. My teammates and I were full of curiosity, and we asked them many questions. I was amazed by their determination and courage. Hearing their stories reminded me that extraordinary achievements are possible when people believe in themselves and refuse to give up. As the evening came to an end, I reflected on everything I had experienced that day. Although I had started the morning feeling tired and uncertain, I finished the day feeling motivated and inspired. After a long day of trekking, learning, and listening to incredible stories, I returned to my room and went to sleep. My body was exhausted, but my mind was filled with inspiration for the challenges that still lay ahead.
Day 5 – May 24, 2026
I woke up feeling excited because this day was different from the previous ones. We were heading to Dingboche, where we would stay for two nights to acclimatize and prepare our bodies for the higher elevations ahead. Knowing that we would have some extra time to rest made me look forward to the journey. After breakfast, we packed our bags and got ready to leave Pangboche. The morning was beautiful, and I felt motivated to continue our trek. As we walked, the landscape gradually changed. The trees became fewer, the air felt thinner, and the mountains seemed even closer than before. The trail was mostly uphill, making the trek more challenging. Along the way, I began to feel discomfort in my stomach and found the climb difficult at times. To stay hydrated and keep my energy up, I drank plenty of water throughout the day. The higher altitude was beginning to make its presence felt, and I realized how important it was to take care of my body. Despite the challenges, I continued moving forward step by step. After about four hours of trekking, we finally arrived in Dingboche. Reaching the village felt like an achievement, and I was relieved to have completed another important stage of our journey.
One of the highlights of the day came shortly after we arrived. Passdol and I decided to take a hot shower. After several days of trekking, it felt wonderful to finally relax and warm up. The shower cost NPR 800, which seemed very expensive, but at that moment it felt completely worth it. The hot water washed away the tiredness of the trail and left us feeling refreshed and comfortable. After enjoying our shower, we had lunch and spent the rest of the afternoon relaxing and spending time together. Since we would be staying in Dingboche for two nights, there was a more relaxed atmosphere among the team. We played games, shared stories, and talked about the days ahead. I also spent time observing the village. Dingboche felt very different from the places we had passed earlier. It was a small mountain settlement with only a few houses, a school, and a small number of children. Life here seemed simple, peaceful, and closely connected to the surrounding mountains. During dinner, we discussed our plans for the following day and the acclimatization activities that would help us prepare for even higher elevations. As the marathon drew closer, I could feel both excitement and anticipation growing inside me. That night, I went to bed feeling relaxed and grateful. Although the trek had been challenging, reaching Dingboche felt like an important milestone in our journey. With another day to acclimatize and train, I felt confident that I was becoming stronger and more prepared for the challenge ahead.
Day 6 – May 25, 2026
In the afternoon, we set out for an acclimatization hike. The weather was not very favorable, and strong winds made the climb more challenging. Despite the cold conditions, we continued upward and enjoyed beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. One of the most memorable moments of the day was meeting Jamling Tenzing Norgay, the son of the legendary mountaineer Tenzing Norgay Sherpa. We had the opportunity to talk with him, learn about his experiences, and take photographs together. Meeting someone connected to such an important part of Everest's history was truly inspiring. As part of our marathon preparation, we also trained along the trail toward Bibre, practicing our running and getting familiar with the terrain. Although we had hoped to climb higher, the cold weather encouraged us to return to the village earlier than planned. Back at the lodge, the evening was filled with laughter and cultural exchange. We enjoyed dancing Tibetan Gorshey, and even other guests joined in the fun. Later, we spent time talking with a friendly Indian couple who shared stories from their travels. As the day came to an end, we discussed the plan for the next day's trek to Lobuche. I went to bed feeling happy, inspired, and excited for the journey ahead.
A chance encounter with Jamling Tenzing Norgay
Day 7 – May 26, 2026
This was the most emotional and difficult day of our entire journey. In the morning, my friend Passdol told me that she was not feeling well and had a severe headache. We had breakfast together, but she could hardly eat. At first, we hoped she would feel better, but as we continued our trek, her condition became worse. Our guides immediately took the situation seriously. Passdol returned to the lodge, where she rested and later visited a health clinic. After an examination, the doctor advised her to stop ascending and rest because she was showing symptoms of altitude sickness. We waited and hoped that she would recover, but unfortunately her condition did not improve. After careful discussion, it was decided that she would descend to a lower altitude for her safety. Tenzing Ghela also made the difficult decision to accompany her back to Namche Bazaar, where Micheline and Sohan Dai were waiting. The moment we said goodbye was heartbreaking. Passdol and I had trained together for an entire year, and we had imagined completing this journey side by side. When I realized that she would not be able to continue with us or participate in the marathon, I could not hold back my tears. We both cried, knowing how much this opportunity had meant to her. As our team continued the trek toward Lobuche, I felt an emptiness that stayed with me throughout the day. I missed my friend deeply and found it difficult to stay positive.
By the time we reached Lobuche, my emotions had taken over. I spent some time alone reflecting on everything that had happened. That evening, although I was grateful that Passdol was receiving the care she needed, I felt sad knowing that she would not be standing beside me on race day. From that moment on, I became the only girl from our team continuing toward the Everest Marathon. It was a difficult day, but it also reminded me that true friendship means supporting one another, even when our paths unexpectedly change.
Day 8 – May 27, 2026
I woke up feeling emotional and a little lonely. After Passdol had returned to a lower altitude the previous day, I missed her deeply. We had trained together for so long, and it felt strange to continue the journey without her by my side. After breakfast, we began our trek from Lobuche to Gorakshep. The trail was challenging, but the breathtaking mountain scenery kept me motivated. Along the way, something magical happened-it started to snow. Watching the snowflakes fall around us made the mountains feel even more beautiful, and despite the cold, we stopped to take photos and enjoy the moment together. After reaching Gorakshep, we continued our acclimatization hike to Kala Patthar (5,645 meters/18,520 feet), the highest accessible point on the Everest Base Camp trekking route. The climb was demanding, but it was an important part of preparing our bodies for the marathon and the high altitude ahead. The weather was snowy and cold, which limited the mountain views at the summit, but reaching such a high elevation felt like a major accomplishment. On the trail, we even spotted a Tibetan Snowcock and happily shared some food with it, creating another memorable moment from the journey. After returning to Gorakshep, we freshened up, enjoyed a warm drink, played cards together, and shared stories from the day. Although I still missed Passdol, spending time with my teammates helped lift my spirits. As I went to bed that night, I felt both excited and nervous. Tomorrow, we would finally reach Everest Base Camp-the place we had been dreaming about for so many months.
Day 9 – May 28, 2026
This day was one of the most exciting days of our journey. Tomorrow would be the Everest Marathon, and after months of preparation, we were finally heading to Everest Base Camp. The morning was extremely cold and windy. As we started our trek from Gorakshep, light snow began to fall, making the landscape look even more beautiful. Despite the cold weather, I felt excited because we were getting closer to our destination. After several hours of walking, we finally reached Everest Base Camp. Standing there felt surreal. This was the place I had heard about for so many years, and now I was actually there. Snow and ice surrounded us, and colorful tents covered the glacier, creating a unique and unforgettable scene.
After arriving, we had lunch and settled into our tents. The weather outside was very cold, so most of us stayed inside, resting, talking, and playing UNO cards together. Later in the afternoon, all runners participated in a mock race and photo session. We quickly took photos and videos before changing back into warm clothes to escape the freezing temperatures. In the evening, we attended the marathon briefing, where we received important information and final instructions for race day. The excitement among the runners was growing as everyone prepared mentally for the challenge ahead. One of the most enjoyable moments of the day was making and sharing tsampa (roasted barley flour) with both Nepali and international runners. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with people from different countries and celebrate the spirit of the marathon together. Although the food and toilet facilities at Base Camp were quite basic, spending the night in a tent on the glacier was an unforgettable experience. As I prepared my gear for the next morning, I felt both nervous and excited. Tomorrow would be the day I had trained for over the past year. The finish line was still far away, but my dream was finally within reach.
Day 10 – May 29, 2026
This was the day I had been waiting and training for over an entire year.
I woke up at 5:30 a.m. feeling both excited and nervous. The marathon was scheduled to begin at 7:00 a.m., and our team had already made a plan. I would run together with Sunny Sir and Pratik Dai, while Tsering Furba Dai, Passang Tenzin Dai, Mingmar Dai, Pierre, and Lhakpa Dai would move ahead. However, the morning became even more challenging when I unexpectedly started my menstrual cycle. The freezing weather and stomach pain made me feel uncomfortable and worried before the race had even begun. Despite the pain, I was determined not to give up. My guides supported me, provided hot water, and encouraged me to stay positive. Standing at the starting line at Everest Base Camp, surrounded by snow and mountains, I reminded myself of all the training and preparation that had brought me here.
When the race began, I started slowly alongside Sunny Sir and Pratik Dai. Their constant encouragement became one of the reasons I was able to keep moving forward throughout the day. The weather was difficult, with cold temperatures, wind, and occasional snowfall. At every checkpoint, I battled stomach pain and exhaustion. Pratik Dai helped me find medicine and hot water, while other supporters along the route offered small acts of kindness, including chocolates and words of encouragement. As the race continued, my stomach gradually improved, but new challenges appeared. My legs became painful, and at times I struggled even to run. During one checkpoint stop, I honestly believed I might not be able to finish the marathon. At Dingboche, everything changed. Sunny Sir showed me videos of the children from Kailash Home cheering for me. Seeing their support gave me a new source of energy and motivation. I remembered that I was not running only for myself but also for everyone who believed in me. I also thought about Passdol, who had trained with us for a year but could not continue because of altitude sickness. From that moment, I decided that I would carry her dream with me to the finish line.
Hour after hour, I continued forward. The downhill sections were hard on my legs, and the final uphill stretches felt endless. Yet Sunny Sir and Pratik Dai never left my side. They motivated me through every difficult moment and helped me believe that finishing was still possible. As we approached Namche Bazaar, I could hear people cheering near the finish area. Suddenly, I heard someone call my name. It was Passdol. I ran toward her as fast as I could and hugged her with tears in my eyes. Seeing her waiting for me at the finish line was one of the happiest moments of my life.
I crossed the finish line with a time of 10 hours, 10 minutes, and 40 seconds, wearing Bib Number 026 and finishing 154th out of 218 participants in the full marathon category. I was also told that I was the youngest female participant to complete the race, which made me incredibly proud. As my teammates, guides, and supporters congratulated me, I felt overwhelmed with gratitude. The day had been filled with pain, challenges, and moments of doubt, but I had not given up.
Standing there with my medal and certificate, I realized that the greatest victory was not finishing the marathon-it was proving to myself that I was stronger than I had ever imagined.
Day 11 & 12 – May 30 & 31, 2026
I woke up feeling happy and proud because I still could not believe that I had successfully completed the Everest Marathon. Before leaving Namche Bazaar, our team fulfilled a promise we had made to the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC). During our earlier visit to their office, we had committed to carrying waste bags from Namche toward Lukla to help keep the Everest region clean. Each team member collected approximately 2 kilograms of waste and carried it with us during our trek. Before starting our journey, we spent some time playing basketball together, enjoying a few relaxed moments after the marathon. We then began our trek to Monjo and reached our lodge around lunchtime. The afternoon was peaceful, and we spent time exploring a nearby monastery and meeting local people along the way. One of the highlights of the day was meeting two young children on the trail and sharing some chocolates with them. Their smiles made us very happy. In the evening, we enjoyed dinner together, watched a football match, and shared stories from our adventure. As I went to sleep, I felt grateful for everything we had experienced and excited for the final days of our journey.
The next morning, I woke up feeling excited because we were finally heading to Lukla. After breakfast, we continued our trek and carried the waste bags we had collected, dropping them off at the SPCC office in Lukla as promised. It felt good to contribute in a small way to keeping the Everest region clean. After reaching Lukla, I enjoyed a warm shower and some well-deserved rest. The atmosphere felt very different from the high mountains we had spent the past days exploring. We also met a well-known coffee maker and had the opportunity to take photos together, adding another memorable moment to our journey. In the evening, we gathered for a special celebration. We thanked our guides and porters for their hard work and support by offering small tips and words of appreciation. We also celebrated the successful completion of the marathon and the four runners from Kailash Home received rewards in recognition of our achievement. The most meaningful part of the evening was a small farewell celebration for Micheline. Despite being over 80 years old, she had travelled all the way from the United States to support us and make this Everest Marathon journey possible. We cut a cake, shared memories, and thanked her for everything she had done for us. The evening was filled with joy, gratitude, laughter, and dancing. As I went to sleep that night, I knew it was a memory I would cherish forever.
Day 13 – June 1, 2026
The final day of our journey had arrived. I was excited because I would soon return to Kailash Home and share my experiences with everyone. After breakfast, Micheline and Pierre left early for the airport, while the rest of us spent some time playing cards, taking photos, and enjoying our final moments together. I was especially happy to spend time with Asmita Sister, whom we had met during our journey. Her kindness and positive energy made our trip even more memorable. Later in the morning, we headed to Lukla Airport. Although I was excited to fly home, I also felt nervous because Lukla is known as one of the world's most challenging airports. Before boarding, we said goodbye to Asmita Sister and thanked her for all her support. The flight itself was short but emotional, and I was relieved when we landed safely in Kathmandu. When we finally arrived at Kailash Home, I was overjoyed to see everyone again. We shared hugs, stories, and laughter as we reflected on our unforgettable adventure. That evening, we watched the documentary Snow Leopard Sisters, featuring Sonam Choekyi Lama, a Kailash Home alumna. Inspired by her story, we shared our own marathon experiences with the Kailash Home family. Everyone was happy to hear about our journey, and it felt wonderful to celebrate together. As I went to bed that night, I felt proud, grateful, and transformed. The Everest Marathon had challenged me in ways I never imagined, but it also taught me the value of perseverance, friendship, and believing in myself. It was truly a journey I will never forget.
With Thanks
As I reflect on this incredible Everest Marathon journey, my heart is filled with gratitude for everyone who made this experience possible. Completing one of the world's highest marathons was not only my achievement-it was the result of the support, encouragement, and belief of so many people. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Micheline and Tenzing Ghela, who travelled all the way from the United States to support us throughout this journey. I am also sincerely thankful to Pierre Rivier, who came from France, ran alongside us, and encouraged us every step of the way. My special thanks go to my sponsors, Rob and Jen Gelling, whose continued support has given me opportunities that I never imagined possible. I am deeply grateful to my family in Dolpo for always believing in me and motivating me from afar. I would also like to thank Swati Miss, General Manager of Kailash Home, for her care and guidance over the years, and Sunny Sir, Academic Coordinator and marathon trainer, whose dedication, encouragement, and support helped make this dream a reality. My sincere thanks also go to Niruta Miss, Sital Miss, Ganga Miss, and Sabita Aunty for taking such good care of us during our training period. Thank you to my teammates Passang Dolma Gurung, Tsering Furba Lama, and Passang Tenzin Gurung for sharing this journey with me and creating unforgettable memories. I am grateful to Mingmar Dai, Lhakpa Dai, Pratik Dai, Asmita Didi, and Sohan Dai for their guidance and support throughout the trip. I would also like to thank all the porters for their hard work, every member of Kailash Home for their encouragement, and vonKathmandu for professionally organizing the logistics and making this adventure possible. Thank you all for believing in me. Your support helped me reach the finish line, and I will carry the lessons and memories from this journey with me for the rest of my life.
