14,403ft/4390m - 15,584ft/4750m - 6 hrs hiking
Had to say my goodbyes to Katelyn and Rubin this morning. Neither are feeling well and are uncertain if they will continue or stay a day to regain strength, so they are taking the morning to decide.
As we get above treeline, the fuel source shifts from wood to yak dung. The locals will collect the dung, flatten into 'patties', dry in the sun, and then store until used as a cooking fuel. These are from the village of Macchermo.
Along today's trek, I enjoyed great views of Cholatse. And as I approached Gokyo, there are beautiful torquoise lakes passed that are marked with numerous cairns...I was reminded of an Andrew Goldsworthy art project. There are more yaks on the trails as we go higher and higher, which I have enjoyed.
Chorten & prayer flags crossed along the way to Gokyo, with Cho Oyu barely visible in the background:
Arriving at the 3rd lake- Dudh Pokhari and the village of Gokyo:
