21 MARCH, 2013 - PHORTSE

Downhill to Phortse

Given our amended schedule we are departing Pheriche and heading for Phortse. This route will take us up to the Gokyo Valley. Half way through our day the tide turns and with it so does our good fortune with the weather. What begins with a few sweet snowflakes culminates in an all-out bloody snow storm!  Rain is falling in Kathmandu up to Namche but at higher altitudes it is thick snow.

Pheriche Village covered by Snow!!

The trail quickly takes on the appearance of Sunshine Mt’s ski out!  Rocks are slick and snow-clad and any downward steps are somewhat treacherous.  Apparently yaks are kept at home today owing to the increased risk of yak slippage … off and away from the edge.

Praise be, we somewhat blindly make our safe way into Phortse.  Yak dung is fired up in the cauldren and our wet clothes are laid over assorted chairs to dry.

Trail leading to Phortse

The lodge owner summitted Everest in 1983 and his son, Pemba Sherpa has successfully summitted as well. In fact on May 19,2012. He actually spoke with Shah Klorfine on his way down/ her approach to the top.  He is part of an expedition team departing in 2 weeks time with every intention of a second summit.  He is all of 21 years of age!

Snowing one the way to Phortse

Praying for dried clothes, vastly improved weather and an endless supply of dung to warm the spirits!

Missing you darlings … and the flick on gas fireplaces in the house.

Loads love.   a.c. xx