Day 6 - Hike up to Machermo, Christmas Eve
The greenery around us starts to disappear as we ascend above timberline - directly up the valley towards Cho Oyu, but Andy has brought some appropriate greenery with him so we can have a proper Christmas celebration!
10 Photographs
1
Vegetation becomes more and more sparse as we continue our climb up the valley.
2
Although it’s calm where we’re standing, the summit of Cho Oyu is anything but! These clouds are streaming off the peak at a very high speed.
3
Without trees for timber, stones have become the primary building material at these elevations, and stone walls around small corrals are a common sight.
4
An appropriate marker, this rock confirms that we’ve sighted Cho Oyu at the head of the valley.
5
The valley now changes from the V-shape of river-forged cuts to the U-shape of glacier-carved channels.
6
After a short but steep climb, we’re at our destination for the day. The group enjoys relaxing in the sun, while there’s still sun!
7
My tent has a great view out its front door...
8
...as well as its back door. Can’t beat scenery like this!
9
Oh yeah... it’s Christmas Eve! The group makes good use of the KE-supplied Christmas decorations and treats...
10
...and Andy brings out his special Christmas greenery just for the occasion!