Day 7 - Namche Bazaar

Today we made our way along the Dudh Koshi from Phakding. We started out at 8:30 am, stopping for lunch in view of Kyashar, a 6770 m peak. Back on the trail at 12:30, we hit the steep final approach to NB at 2:30, climbed the last 2000 feet in an hour, and settled in at the Panorama Hotel to wait for the rest of our trekking party. Along the final climb we had a fantastic view of Everest, Lhotse, and Nuptse. We have walked about 9 miles in two days. We have climbed to about 12500 ft.

Weather has been perfect for our two days in the high country. Highs in the low 70s (oF)and last night's low was 35 oF or so. Should be colder tonight as we are 4000 ft higher than yesterday.

We will stay here 2 nights, leaving for Gokyo on Sunday. Our group will split up for a week, with Maya and Sharon trekking up to the Tengboche Monastery with Dawa's sisters Conchi Maya and Yongdi and her friend BK, while the rest of us head higher, up to 18000 ft. We plan to meet up with Sharon and the group for the Mani Rimdu festival in about 10 days.