We Trek From Dole to Machermo

Today we continued our progress trekking from Dole at 13,200 ft to Machermo at 14,600.   We started in the forest and later reached the tree line. We were chased by threatening rain clouds nearly all the way. We arrived safely in Machhermo followed by heavy snow and hail that accumulated to 5 inches. It was extremely cold and the snow dimmed our hopes for next few days. The lack of internet service was also frustrating but it was clear that things had changed at this altitude. The conditions are much more primitive here. The following day will be our last rest and acclimatization day.  People gathered around a stove in the dining room to keep warm. However, the stoves burn yak dung and the smoke was a bit much. We retired to our rooms, sleeping bags and blankets early to keep warm. Tomorrow will be our last rest and acclimatization day and we woke often concerned about the cold and snow.​





Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Rest Day in Machermo

Image
​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.
Read more

We Trek To Gokyo

Image
​Our trek to Gokyo was arduous but magnificent. We remarked several times that it seemed like a different world. We got an early start, said our goodbyes to Machhermo and with a steep climb, were soon on our way. We followed a beautiful river valley with magnificent views in all directions. After several hours, we began to climb away from the river toward the Gokyo Lakes. After a quick chocolate bar break, we passed the first and second stunning lakes and then finally the third large lake with the village of Gokyo at the far end. There beside Gokyo was the mountain we will climb tomorrow. While it seemed a bit daunting and certainly gave us pause, we feel healthy, ready and prepared for the climb. Our plan is to leave for the summit at 4:00, enjoy the sunrise from the mountain and take advantage of the crystal clear mornings.  Before dinner, our guide Jit led us on a short 500 foot acclimatization hike in an afternoon snowstorm that took us to 16,000 feet. An early bedtime for us is in
Read more