24.04 – Namrung to Lho Gaun (3,135m)

Today was what our guide called an “easy” day—just 12 kilometers on foot with a 770-meter ascent. Still, up here, even the easy days make you feel alive.

A few of us started the morning slowly, sitting in silent meditation by a stupa on the hillside. As the first golden rays of sun touched our faces, it felt like time briefly paused. A quiet, magical beginning.

The trail led us once again through postcard-perfect villages and lush green fields. Locals passed us with warm smiles, adding to the charm of this route. I broke away from the group for a while, curious to visit a small monastery tucked away off the main trail. Ang, one of our sherpas, walked with me, and we hiked together in companionable silence. The solitude, the mountains, the quiet—it gave me space to soak it all in.

We reached our tea house in Lho Gaun early. After a rest, we climbed up to a monastery perched above the village, just in time to witness the young monks beginning their evening ritual. Their chants filled the space with something ancient and powerful.

I’ve added some colorful photos below so you can feel a bit of what we did today.

We’re still heading up, and I’m not sure if I’ll have internet over the next few days—but I’ll share more as soon as I can. Stay tuned.