From Kami Kharka we continued north up the ridge
Day 4 : Kami Kharka to Pauwa Bhanjyang
Our first glimpses of the mountains albeit fleetingly through the clouds and mist
Thunderstorms overnight but breakfast and pack up of camp still proceeded with utmost precision.
We set off at 7,30 in the rain but the temperature was perfect for trekking - about 10 degrees. Solid climb up makeshift stone steps, through rhododendron forests, herders' summer camps with views, although obscured most of the time by cloud and mist. Snow -capped peaks still illusive but as we continue north on the ridge on the Panch Pokhari trail we are looking forward to spectacular panoramas.
Full cooked lunch on the track where the porters had found running water. Brian had an unexpected visit from a hungry leech, which are prevalent at this time, as are sand fleas attracted by the cattle moving from kharka (flat grazing fields) to kharka. We've only seen evidence of small herds and experienced no sand fleas as yet.
We did have the good fortune to spy a multi-coloured pheasant, the Nepalese national bird, which captivated us for several minutes.This is very remote country - no more villages until after we cross the pass In about a week's time. This is not a trade route, so we have not seen any other travellers along the path. The only travellers of any quantity are pilgrims en route to Panch Pokhari for religious festivals. We have also discovered some traders using the herders' huts nearby, collecting a rare moss plant, sprouting from a caterpillar's head. It is sold for a premium price as an aphrodisiac.
Unusual flora along the way causing interesting discussion about plant families
As we acclimatise we have quite a few hours of rest time. This was a little disconcerting at first particularly on cold and misty days but there are opportunities for short walks, reading, cryptic crossword lessons, sudoku, scrabble etc. or snuggling up in your sleeping bag.
M&M
4/5/2014
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