Day 2: The Trail to Namche Bazaar

The trail up to the town of Namche Bazaar climbs steadily and steeply to an elevation of 3,440 meters. Views of the Himalayan peaks tower directly above and it is easy to feel that there isn't a more beautiful place on earth as this. The day is warm and clear as we set out for the first major settlement on our trekking route. Namche Bazaar is not quite far enough along to feel beyond civilization. There is internet here and the apple pie is a specialty. The main street is lined with shops selling every type and style of counterfeit gear. Still, as the path climbs beside a glacial river the sense that we are moving toward the upper limit of the earth is real. As we come around the last turn toward the town a buddhist procession winds up the mountain pass.