Durban couple complete Everest Base Camp trek ahead of 70th birthday

Durban runners Anand and Lalitha Sookraj at the Everest Base Camp in Nepal.

Retired Durban teachers Anand and Lalitha Sookraj completed a 12-day trek to Everest Base Camp, despite concerns about flooding and landslides in Nepal.

While the couple’s family and friends discouraged their latest adventure, concerned that Nepal was still recovering from deadly flooding, they were undeterred.

What made the 12-day climb event more special for the couple was that Anand celebrated his 70th birthday two days after they completed their trek to base camp.

“The week I made up my mind to attempt the trek, the flash floods occurred in Kathmandu. My family and friends were pessimistic about the trip,” said Lalitha

However, after the travel agent in Kathmandu confirmed that the area was safe for hiking, the couple moved forwarded with their plans.

They said they felt blessed that they were able to complete their trek 5364m above sea level without incident.

“We were ecstatic. The sun was setting by the time we reached base camp. There were no other trekkers only two horses that waited in the distance with their horsemen to take us back,” the couple said.

 “Both Anand and I were overwhelmed when we saw the sign posted boulder marking base camp, our voices broke as we gave thanks to God for his strength in bringing us to our destination,” said Lalitha.

The couple have years of running experience between them with several Comrades Marathon runs under their belts. Hence preparing for the trek included a 21km trail run, 21km road race and a 42km marathon.

The said this was a once in a lifetime as they braved suspension bridges, high altitudes and rugged mountain terrain.

“This trip signified that faith in God is important and faith overcomes fear. We realised the mind had to be in a positive state to overcome adversities. I could see the sheer joy and victory on Anand’s face,” added Lalitha.