Gokyo/EBC Day 2: Phakding – Namche Bazar

My first night in the Himalayas was quite comfortable, my sleeping bag is almost a bit too warm for the temperature in Phakding. But I guess that will change quickly… Shortly before 8am we started our day task of about 11km to Namche Bazar. We passed a beautiful path around the mountain Nupla, the river Bhote Koshi Nadi down at the other side. The Sherpa villages Benkar, Chhumova and Monju with restaurants and shops were on our way and finally we passed the entrance of Sagarmatha National Park. So far, it was a very crowded but easy route which leads a bit up and a bit down. We had lunch early at Jorsalle – it was our last chance to get some food before we will arrive in Namche Bazar. Beyond Jorsalle, conditions are changing. The first suspension bridge I passed with fears (Hillary Bridge) leads to a very long, steep walk in the forest, on rocky and sandy underground. At my slowly, steady pace it took about 2 hrs to the first houses of Namche Bazar at 3.440 meters. Namche Bazar is waiting for the trekkers. Outdoor shops, massage studios and even the highest Irish Pub in the world will delight the tired arrivers. A noticeable fall in temperature combined with big clouds forced myself to snuggle in the sleeping bag early. But I still feel very well, I drank lot of water and had no problem with the exertion of the day, and still no signs of altitude sickness occurred.

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