22 MARCH, 2013 - MACHHERMO

Today’s journey is towards Machhermo!!

Another entry into our version of Pepys’s diary. Its been two weeks since our departure from oh so many creature comforts of Calgary. The revelations on this trip are endless … the tremendous luxuries of Canada, our good health and fabulous families as well as the beauty of Nepal.

X-mas tree.

Trail blazing through snow we cross the Dudh Koshi Nadi River and enter the Gokyo Valley. This route will parallel the more easterly course to EBC with our final end point being Gokyo and the Gokyo Ri Peak. Today’s jaunt has been described as  jig-jag. This is not at all like our “jib- jab” where a photoshopped face atop a porters body and a 30 second comedic sketch will take you to your destination!  Alas, no.

We are hadding to Gokye Vally

It is a slog. We pass massive waterfalls that when frozen in November are used for ice climbing. We make Dole (4110m) for lunch but are destined for Machermo (4410m). Given the closure of the Chola Pass, we are needing to re-achieve all those lost meters several slothful days ago. Comparable to the motion of a yoyo we are now on the upward ascent.

View of Phortse

Tendi has proven himself time and time again to be a remarkably considerate guide. His discussion re: the mores of Everest expeditions and the ethical considerations of sherpa/climber interactions are gripping.  He speaks with great pride and enthusiasm about the plans for his new company Mega Adventures and their future trip considerations as well as their priority to give back to the communities of Nepal.

Our Lunch Place – Dole

June darling, there is a motorcycle adventure being considered through Bhutan and India on British Royal Engfield bikes!!!  Interested?  Possibly the 4 of us doiing the Annapurna Trail is more your speed.

Cam is now dreaming of seeing the Taj Mahal and India’s highlights .

Sending love.   a.c. xx