21st March

Evening, Monjo

Walk-time: 8.5 hrs – albeit leisurely!

Ascent/Descent: 2840m (Lukla) – 2580m (Thado Koshigaaon) – 2835m (Monjo)

Yeah, it rained.

But it was a brilliant night. Sarita and her sisters laid on an amazing meal – rice, chicken curry, paneer curry, dahl (black lentil thingy), green veg curry and refreshing water. After the calming effect our dinner and temple trip had been, a feast with friends was what we needed – although Ian did have to pick up another flight at 1930hrs so didn’t join us for tea.

The storm did very little – a few flashes and rumbles, a smattering of rain, and that was it. Although the drive through Kathmandu was long and interesting thanks to the ever-shifting traffic. In all though, we agreed that it was sorely needed to lift our spirits – and I think Ian and Sarita knew that. They’ve been doing this for years and would know when a group are feeling low, and they went out of their way to care for us and do the best in a bad situation.

Matt, Paz, Vicki and I just chatted about the mistakes that have occurred, and in all I think blame cannot be laid fully at feet – these last few days have been as much a nightmare for them as it has been for us. I think there should be a few changes (mainly splitting up the trek staff so there was a more equal split, especially having Jeff and Kat on different flights).

Today has been amazing though, well worth the heartache of the last two days. In through by Kathmandu airport 0600hrs – after a somewhat-less brilliant breakfast in comparison to two full fry-ups – and by 0630hrs we were on the plane. The flight was great though, if a little scary as crosswinds shook our light aircraft. It was a real contrast too – sat at the starboard window it was low, brown rolling hills while out Vicki’s window were towering white peaks, imposing mountains. The landing was certainly a heart-stopper as we hit – almost literally! – the runway and fire uphill with all anchors jamming. I video’d the landing from my window, Matt got a view from the cockpit and Baz from port, so between us a 180degree view of the landing.

Stepping out of the plane felt amazing, and after laughing and clearing the petrol-y smell of the runway I felt the cool air straight away on my nose, clearing it beautifully.

Dinner!

-Chris

The view from Lukla airport