There were rumors of internet connectivity at the village of Zhongla. I hesitate to call it a village—more like four tea houses that are seasonally staffed to serve trekkers ascending and descending the nearby Cho La pass. We had seen it the previous day, during our hike up the ridge above LBC. It seemed to … Continue reading Zhongla Rocks
Slept pretty well last night… we are now at 15,600 feet AMSL, and the low oxygen tension has a variety of effects. For one, I am having strange, vivid dreams. Not bad, not good, just odd. I think others on the team are, too. Because this is a planned rest day, we were able to … Continue reading Unwinding at LBC
We bid farewell to the last built structures until the end of the expedition, and walked away from Pheriche right after breakfast. The tea houses have been fun in their own way, with amenities like hot showers, flush toilets, a choice of foods, beds with mattresses and blankets, and even alcohol for purchase (although we … Continue reading A Whole New Lobuche
A planned rest day in Pheriche. Just like last year, we took a morning hike up the hill behind town. This hill is actually the medial moraine of the Khumbu glacier, which deposited masses of stone and earth here millennia ago. It has since retreated, and has left a beautiful acclimatization route in its wake. … Continue reading Righteous in Pheriche
Spectacular scenery and clear skies at the time of our departure from Tengboche this morning. Chilly air soon became warm, and we made good progress. In fact, I had to strip off my merino long underwear, to the delight of everyone. I still think there is a market for quick-release long johns… why does no … Continue reading Closing a Circle
