It was the Italians. At 16,305 feet, the Pyramid was built as a research station for high altitude.  I'm not exactly sure what they do there but was happy that we got to spend the night. There is plumbing in the building but all the pipes were frozen.

The Italian Research Center, at 16,305 feet

Most trekkers stay in the village of Lobuche just below the Pyramid. From Lobuche, you have to hike over the Khumbu Glacier to get to Base Camp. Many trekkers never make it that far, due to altitude sickness and decreased strength.

I braved the cold to set up the tri-pod for this shot!

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journal
lukla
phakding
namche bazaar
thame
khunde
tengboche
dingboche
the pyramid
gorak shep
kala pattar
base camp
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