Elevation change: 7,382' to 11,844'
Distance: 13.67 miles
After a two hour drive over rough roads past rice terraces, fields of millet, and apple orchards we arrived at Shana Zampa where we began our trek. We entered the Jigme Dorje National Park, the largest protected area in Bhutan.
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| our bus arriving at Shana Zampa |
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| grateful for the pack animals |
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| festive beginning to our trek |
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| Tandin, our fabulous leader |
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| happy to be on the trail |
The trail followed the Pa Chhu river, ascending and descending through pine, oak and spruce forests.
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| a type of primrose - it was abundant |
After crossing a bridge to the left bank of the river, we stopped for lunch.
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| our guides, Jigme and Sonam, serving ginger tea - a staple |
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| Rouse - always tracking the birds |
Refreshed, we continued along the river, climbing higher. The forests gave way to hillsides of rhododendron, bamboo, and ferns.
It was a long afternoon treading along rocky trails. Stepping up and over those rocks took its toll. By the end of the day, I was on the verge of tears. We crossed the river once more before reaching our campsite. Believe me, after 13.67 miles our first day, those tents were a welcome sight!
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funny stuffed yak to the left - photo op?
toilets to the right |
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| view from the far end of the campsite |
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| the kitchen |
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| The food was hot. The stone house was cold. |
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Morning Tea - They called it "bed" tea, typically served
in the tents, but we were all early risers. |
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| A herd of yaks moved through the campsite after breakfast. |
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