We met for a late breakfast (0800), and then started climbing out of Namche. Down in Namche, you could only see snow covered peaks in one direction, with one more peaking out over closer, lower peaks. But as we climbed up, the scenery really opened up around us.

On the way to Khunde peak (13,779 ft), we stopped at Syangboche. We happened to luck into a few helicopter landings at the short dirt airstrip. We saw both supply and tourist helicopters. It seemed like half the village came out to help unload.

After that, we continued the difficult climb up to Khunde peak. The point of this exercise was to work our bodies at a higher altitude and then to descend to sleep. This would help with our acclimatization. While there were fewer rocks on the upper half of the path, the path was narrow and quite honestly, a bit on the concerning side; you really had to pay attention to what you were doing. Trekking poles made a huge difference however, it gave me 4 wheel drive! It also amazed me to see animals grazing on the side of the mountain.

As we went up, the environment changed. We hit the tree line and it turned cold on us; insulated jackets and gloves came out. We finally reached the top, and the view was spectacular. It was nice to get a rest and eat a little snack.

We then started down to Khunde, where we were planning on having lunch. I won’t lie that I was ready for some downhill after ascending roughly 2500 feet. It didn’t take long to get to Khunde. The food here still surpasses my expectations. For around $4.50, I got a huge plate of potatoes covered by cheese. The lodges and restaurants on the trail also continue to exceed my expectations. Sitting in the restaurant, we got our first snow of the trip. It was clear in Khunde we were finally leaving a bit of the commercialization/tourist spots we had seen in Lukla and Namche behind.

By time we were done eating, it had turned to rain. It was only a short jaunt over to Khumjung, where we were staying for the night. We dropped our stuff off in our rooms, and headed out to visit the Samten Choling Monastery in town. On the way, one of our group sidetracked us over to the Hillary school in town, and it was worth it.

Got to the monastery and paid our entrance fee. It was clear this was the monastery from a distance as it was the most ornate building in town. They also have a Yeti skull at the monastery (wink wink).

Walking through Khunde, the devastation from the 2015 earthquake is still evident. Kami (one of our sherpas) lost his home in the quake; he has a new structure, but estimates 2 years until it will be done. Even humble enclosures are super expensive to build as any supplies that can’t be sourced locally must be brought in by helicopter.

Got a nap before supper. Then ate and settled in for the night. My O2 is at 89% with the new altitude; we’ll see what it does overnight.

Another great day. Each day I’ve seen more beautiful that the day before!