Just when we think it’s all over, we have another big day to take the short route back to Lukla.
We went the long way round coming in order to acclimatise. Now we are all 5000m naturals, a quick jaunt over a 4600m pass is nothing. Besides we have two days to do it.
We start off going down river from Khote, losing altitude .
Turbulent water and cascades to admire.
Eventually it is time to go up.
Pleasant walking through bamboo and rhododendron forest.
Lovely views over our old trekking area.
This busy tea house is our morning tea stop.
It offers a last view of Mera Peak in the distance. We were up there two days ago – hardly seems possible. Wouldn’t want to climb it from this side!
Up and up we go for the rest of the day.
Eventually, our accommodation comes into sight. We’re still not at the pass – that will have to wait for tomorrow.
There is a change in the weather. It feels decidedly wintery as we arrive in Chetrabu. But the common room is warm, the food is alright…
…the rooms are pretty basic – just plywood for the walls and joinery I could have done better myself. Still, I know my sleeping bag can cope and this is the last night before we are back in a proper building (we hope).