The sun hits Nupla (left), 5885m (19,308ft) and Kongde Ri (right), 6187m (20,299ft), as we set out for our climb up the ridge to the northeast of Namche Bazaar.

The steep path gives us great views right away over Namche itself, now looking pretty small under the faces of Nupla and Kongde Ri.

In addition to the altitude (we’re at about 3600m, 11,800ft), the steep initial climb leaves us gasping for breath!

But the views are definitely worth it...

Our leader, Rex Munro, looking casual while the rest of us catch our breath. The notched summit of Thamserku, 6608m (22,680ft) becomes a distinctive landmark for much of our trip.

Lodges and tea houses have sprung up in opportune locations to cater to the increasing numbers of tourists coming through this area.

Looking back down the valley towards Lukla...

...the hills merge into the mist over the lush greenery we would be leaving behind in a few more days.

A helicopter pad allows access to the views for those wanting instant gratification (and instant altitude sickness!). Here, some of the major distant peaks come into view - the summit of Mt. Everest is just to the left of the windsock, Ama Dablam stands proudly on the right, with Tawoche on the left edge. (L to R: Tracey, Dik, Helen, Ed)

One of the most picturesque peaks in the Himalayas, from one of its most picturesque angles. Ama Dablam, 6856m (22,493ft) is a popular target for commercial mountaineering expeditions.

From higher up, we get a better view of Tawoche on the left, 6542m (21,463), another major landmark we’ll see for the rest of our trip. We’ll travel entirely around it from the left, up the Dudh Koshi Valley, across its backside over the Cho La pass, then return on the right, down the Imja Khola Valley. Further away, Mt. Everest peeks out from behind Chhukhung, 5833m (19,137ft), center, and Ama Dablam stands guard on the right. The town of Phortse is visible on the flattened lighter area of the center brown hill, and the Thyangboche Monastery lies on the flatter portion of the ridge extending from the right side.

The top of our climb puts us back into civilization for a short while at the Everest View Hotel, 3800m (12,370ft) - built by foreign businessmen exploiting the desire of some tourists to reach these views without having to rough it or work for it (except for stepping in and out of the helicopter...!). (L to R: Godwin, me, Toni, Helen, Dave K.)

The trail we’ll be taking back down from the mountains at the end of our trip is visible as it winds up the Imja Khola Valley on the lower right of the photo.

Heading back into Namche, our tents are clearly visible (the yellow objects in the lower right) to guide us back to camp.

With some time left in the afternoon, we stroll down the main street of Namche, where vendors colorfully display all types of trinkets and souvenirs to entice the tourists.

Bargaining is expected, and good deals can be found in Namche - the last trading post we’ll cross before heading up into the mountains.

The sun sets early on the valley, leaving Thamserku standing out against the shadows of the town.

The split summit of Thamserku remains in the sun the longest over the silhouette of the town.