02 October 2013 – Tengboche

As the day fades into dusk and the cold winds blow down from the snow capped peaks surrounding us, across this small little village of Tengbouche, the temperature drops drastically.  I’m absolutely convinced that it is below zero, but Sam assures us that its only 10 Degrees Celius.  Anyway, I am really happy because for the first time, the Tea-House we are staying at, “The Himalayan Lodge”, have actually setup there Bhukaari (Central metal stove heater), and the dining room is now lovely and warm, with a beautiful view of the mountains outside the bay windows.

Morning departure from Namche to Tengboche

Walking along trail route

Today was one of the most pleasant walks we’ve had so far on the trek.  The route meandered along the mountain face as we left Naamche with very gentle ascends & descends, jokingly referred to as ‘Nepali Flat’.  We descended down to the river where we had lunch.  Since we were lagging behind, Sam stayed with us, and as we made our ascend to Tengbouche, Sam took us through this really beautiful and scenic forest trail.  On our way, we came face to face with a huge Tahl Ram (Himalayan Mountain Goat) which was a fantastic sight.  We walked up at our own pace, laughing and talking throughout the way, and before we realized it, we had reached Tengbouche. The moment we entered the village, we were dumb struck by our first glimpse of the Tengbouche Monastery.   After freshening up, we made our way to the Bakery, where we indulged ourselves with Apple Crumble and Rum Balls.  Not too sure if there was actually any alcohol in the pastry, but within minutes we were overcome with uncontrolled fits of laughter at some funny joke of Anant’s.  Having had a lovely evening in the bakery, we quickly shuffled our way through the cold to make our way into the warm confines of our dining room where we eagerly look forward to Dinner and some much needed rest.

Lunch and Chai at Phungitenga

Candid snap of a Thar (Himalayan Mountain Goat) 

Trekking through Rhododendron forest