October 23, 2011: Himalaya to Machhapuchhre Base Camp
The village of Himalaya is at 2900m and many of our group were feeling the effects of the altitude. Some of us were taking Diamox to counter the effects of altitude, which included headaches. David had been feeling the effects yesterday and while we had a shorter day, every step was labored.
We left Himalaya just after 8:00 am and hiked all morning ever upwards along the valley where the Modi Khoda River flows. By 11:30 am we were in Deurali where we ate lunch in bright sunshine on a plateau next to the village. We all had a rest, before heading off up a broad valley that followed the river. Then it was time for a final push up a narrow valley until we popped out at the top at Machhapuchhre Base Camp.
By now, the typical afternoon clouds had rolled in. Between that and the elevation, it was cold and all of us had to bundle up in our warmest clothes. After a rest several of us watched as the light started to fade. Just before sunset, the clouds parted and Machhapuchhre (Fish Tail) appeared out of the mist shining bright in the orange light of the setting sun. It was a spectacular way to end a long day after which we settled in at 3700m for the night.
David Being Helped Across a Bridge
Linda and David Discuss the Morning
Group Break
Sherpa and Jan on the Trail
Judy and Jim
Jane Crossing a Bridge
Walking Up the Valley next to the Modi Khola River
Dick and Razzu at MBC
David Dressed for the Cold
The Valley We Just Climbed Up
Fish Tail (Machhapuchhre) at Sunset
More photos are available in David's Annapurna Sanctuary Photo Set.
Our trip was organized and led by Marian Leighton of Vancouver, BC with local support for our trip provided by Razzu Tuladha of Samsara Journeys based in Kathmandu, Nepal.