Gokyo Ri

Despite the recommendations of other trekkers and our best intentions, we got up a bit late for our ascent of Gokyo Ri, a high point above Gokyo and the lake that offers tremendous views down-valley and also of Everest (on clear days). The recommendation was to get up and out such that we reach Gokyo Ri by 6 or 6:30am to get the best views...which means we'd have to start the hike by 5 at the latest. Well, given our long day the previous day, we slept in a bit and finished breakfast around 7:30. We decided to make an attempt on Gokyo Ri anyway, and leisurely hiked up the steep, dusty path over the course of about 2 hours. We were pleasantly surprised to find that the weather held out (i.e., the clouds rolled in later that day) and gave us stunning views of the glacial lakes, the glacier to the west, and the peaks to the north. We encountered beautiful, almost iridescent, blue birds on the way, as well as numerous people really struggling with the hike. Although there were lots of people up there when we arrived and some clouds had emerged, we were gratified by the hike and views. We descended easily to Gokyo to relax, take some lunch, and plan our trip over the Renjo La.

After lunch we were itching for some cleanliness. Wearing the same socks for day after day on these hikes had taken its toll on our feet and we decided to wash our feet in the lake. It was incredibly refreshing and soothing to clean up a bit, although the water certainly chilled to the bone. After washing, we lazed in the sun on a hillside taking in the view of the lake, Gokyo Ri, and examining the route up to Renjo La. We later retreated to the Lodge for more Yak steak and beers with the Hills.

Blue bird on the approach to Gokyo Ri:

Looking down-valley at the glacier and glacial lakes from Gokyo Ri:

 View looking west from Gokyo Ri...looking for Everest but the clouds prevented us.

Cleaning up in Gokyo Lake...