Elevation: 13,386' to 12,172'
Distance: 14+ miles
Today, back below tree line, our path followed the Thimphu Chhu River. We descended through rhododendron, juniper, and mixed alpine forests. There were stunning views of rocky cliff faces and waterfalls along the way. We descended a steep stone staircase to the river and stopped for lunch.
After lunch, we made our way up to the ruins of Barshong Dzong, then back down to meet up with the river again. It rained as we passed through an ancient, moss covered forest. The trail went on and on. It was another long day... longer than originally expected. Our guide, Tandin, decided it would be better to get a few more miles under our feet today in order to get back to civilization in time for lunch tomorrow. He promised us yak burgers and beer!
And speaking of beer... can you believe that Tandin had one of his "boys" hike in to the campsite, arriving after dark, with a pack full of beer and whiskey?? We enjoyed the celebratory campfire that night, especially the traditional songs performed by the crew.
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| morning view of campsite in the valley |
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| breakfast under blue skies |
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| toilet tent - What's inside? Just a hole in the ground. |
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| stupa |
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| mountain bliss - Rouse's happy place |
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| for scale, find the people in this pic |
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| crossing the river |
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| make way for pack animals |
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| the moss - natural prayer flags |
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| lunch stop |
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| taking a cue from the nomadic dogs |
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| Barshong Dzong |
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| stupa at Barshong Dzong |
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Barshong Dzong is being restored.
These young monks were hauling rocks up the hill
to be used in construction of their bathroom. |
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| beautiful moss laden trees in ancient forest |
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| it rained |
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| Yes, I was tired. Rouse kept me going. |
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| campsite by the river |
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Festive evening around a campfire. This was the only place we were able
to have a campfire as we were below tree line here... plenty of fuel. |
