2 April – Namche to Khumjung

Low overnight in our room was 47F. Today’s trek started at 3335 metres (10941 ft) and ended at 3780 metres (12400 ft).

Today’s trek would take us from Namche to Khumjung. We would not be leaving until after lunch, however, and so we headed out into Namche for some sightseeing and photography. And mocha. We were making our way to the Everest Bakery, but retreated in the face of a contingent with more pressing business.

Lead, follow, or get out of the way...

Having deferred to the superior shaggy brawniness that is a caravan of yaks, we were able to proceed to the bakery. I usually carry a cribbage board with me on journeys, and this one is no exception. I have recently taught Julia how to play. We have played three games on this trip. I have won none of them.

I think winning would be like beating Julia at Power Grid,
but I don't know what that's like either

After lunch it was time to head for Khumjung. The first part of the trek consisted of climbing up out of Namche. By the time we were clear of the town, we had gained over 200 metres.

Above the horseshoe shaped amphitheater that is Namche

The trail continued to climb, ultimately up to a total of 415 metres gained from our starting point. From there, we would descend into Khumjung. At the crest of the trail was a stupa, keeping watch in all directions.

The trail then wound down steeply into town, until flattening out into an easy road.

The dark tablet shaped rocks all bear inscriptions

It’s worth noting that the core business of the outfit with whom we are trekking, Himex (Himalayan Experience) is summit expeditions. Many of the people we are travelling with are actually planning on summiting Everest. A good many of the Sherpa who work for Himex are from Khumjung. The lodge where we are staying belongs to Phurba Tashi, the Sridhar (head Sherpa) for Himex.

The "Laundry Service" notice caught the attention of many

Phurba Tashi is a legend. I look forward to meeting him.  I had a brief opportunity to do that just before we left Namche, but I was too star-struck to approach and introduce myself. Which is just silly, but that's me.

Tomorrow is a non-trekking day.  We will sleep here in Khumjung a second night to acclimatize.