Rest Day in Machermo

​As in Namche, it was important for us to acclimatize in Machhermo (Big Yak Butter) before our big push up to Gokyo at 15,583 ft. and the summit of Gokyo Ri at 17,575. We arose to a crystal clear morning with about 5 inches of fresh snow. After a typically great breakfast, we set off on a steep climb up the skirts of Machhermo Peak.Trekking in fresh snow in the bright sun, we were surrounded with magnificent views. Although difficult, it will remain one of our favorite climbs. Despite many days of trekking, it seems that the higher we get, the bigger the mountains get and we continue to stop every few minutes with our mouths agape. We had particularly clear views of Cho Oyu, the world’s 6th highest peak. We gained a new high altitude of 15,500 feet and returned to Machhermo after about 4 hours ready for our push up to Gokyo the next day.





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