On the trails

When the Nepali say a trek is easy/moderate they have greatly understated its difficulty. For two physically fit Americans who have been working out to prepare for this, easy was not an adjective to be used.

We were in a group of our Habitat friends, 16 in all. Everyone managed OK, but no one would have described this as easy/moderate. Difficult/hard would have been more suitable.

Overall it was an incredible experience. And, we did it! The steep uphills were called "slopey up" by our guides. Not! And, their "Nepali flat" was more like up and down without changing much altitude.

What were the days like?

Day one, steep uphill for most of the morning. Breaks for tea and lunch at a tea house. Break again for afternoon tea and accommodations in guest house overnight. Double rooms, twin beds, sheet, pillow and quilt provided for 200 rupees (less than $3).

We had gained about 3,000 ft that day to settle in for the night at about 1900 m, or 6233 ft.

There is more to tell than possible in this short time. Trekking, people, life on the mountain, animals, exhilaration, grandeur of the mountains and more. We share here a quick view.



ANNAPURNA SOUTH AND PRAYER FLAGS




MACHHAPUCHHRE MT. AT SUNRISE



MORNING AND CHRISTY AT GUESTHOUSE



BRIDGE CROSSES DEEP GORGE,
VIEW FROM WASHROOM WINDOW

5-DAY OLD GOATS

FULL GROWN GOATS STAY ON THE TRAIL

MORNING IN A MOUNTAIN VILLAGE

RICE PLANTED IN TIERS ON STEEP SLOPES

CHILDREN'S CHORES INCLUDE GATHERING CROPS

NANCY AND CHRISTY SETTING OUT ON LAST MORNING