DAY 17 : NEPAL : Bimthang (3590m) - Gho (2515m) - 6 hour walk

Today our destination was Gho.

Snapped returning from our 'blue tent' on an icy morning. Last night Glenis and I forwent dinner. She was asleep by 5.30 and I by 7.30 - 10 glorious uninterrupted hours sleep. Mark has woken with a sunburnt face after so many hours of reflected snow yesterday.

Breakfast overlooking early morning activity of departing groups and mule trains.

Female porters with another trekking group.

As we set off south we had the views of the north fact of Mt Manaslu and Phungi Himal.

Old wooden bridge diminished by the massive marain and glacier.

Unbelievable views on such a clear day.

Excellent walking in a beautiful stretch of forest.

Spectacular display of rhododendrons - the native flower of Nepal.

Trees are forbidden to be cut in this forest so some are burnt so that they

can salvage the wood without penalties - unfortunately many are just left in this state.

Lunch at a local teahouse en route, prepared by our excellent staff - note Khem's salad display.

Our campsite is next to a tea house in Gho. Fortunately it has electricity powered by a small hydro-electric plant nearby - which means one powerpoint in the 'dinning' area. Great we've been able to charge our PC but we are hanging out for some wifi. The 'no hair wash' ban has been lifted as we are in warmer temperatures. Hallelujah!

The owner of the tea house warned Satish that they had an intruder into one of the trekker's tents a few days ago so the porters organised an hourly roster during the night to maintain security.

M&M

mm_smith@bigpond.net.au