13 MARCH, 2013 - NAMCHE

This day was certainly not for the faint of heart.

After spending a delightful evening at a Phakding Tea House, we set off on our trek for Namche Bazaar full of postive energy. It is a route that contours the river but crosses the green glacial water multiple times along swaying suspension bridges. Beasts of burden, both animal and human, heavily ladden with expedition gear and products destined for the Namche markets share the metal walkways.

The sights from the ever increasing heights are outstandingly beautiful. There are 3 checkpoints on the way to Namche Bazar as one enters the Sagarmatha National Park . We took lunch at the River View Restaurant in Jorsale, after which the steady climb into Namche only seemed to increase. We were both so grateful that our daily treadmill workouts were paying off! In a New York minute, in a Nepalese hour we ascended to stunning heights. Finally staggering into Namache under the Kami gate of welcome we were thrilled to have reached today’s destination.

Namche Bazaare is the main trade centre for the entire Solu Khumbu region. It a bustling centre with tea houses, shops, restaurants, bakeries, ATM machines and, Internet cafés.

Completely exhausted but still breathing easily with the aid of Diamox, we were shown into our room at the Khumbe Lodge. Ironically, Room 20, also known as the Tenzing Norgay Sherpa Suite! Mega Adventures have made tremendous choices in our accomodations. Khumbu Lodge is steeped in history and our room has a spectacular view of a snow covered mountain and the valley below. From Cam’s perspective it is glorious … heating pads on the beds, a proper sit down toilet and hot shower in the room.

Following a great supper we were too tired to explore the market place but plan to stock up on toilet paper and a larger camera card tomorrow. Kudos to Tendi ,our chief guide for another fabulous day in the hills of Nepal.

Good night and sweet dreams in Calgary and Toronto