Overland from Lhasa to Kathmandu
via the North Face of Everest

Greetings from the Himalaya group.

To Kathmandu (Oct. 5, 6, 7, 2011):

Drive to Nepal Border and Kathmandu
The two day drive to Kathmandu was one adventurous ride with very still more spectacular views of Himalayan giants.

Leaving the Tingri plains we got our last glimpse of Everest and saw Cho Oyu (photo above), which at 8201 meters is the 6th highest peak and then a couple of hours later Shishapangma (photo below) the lowest of the 14 eight thousanders, standing tall at 8025 meters.

From Throng La pass (the final 16,000 foot pass) we started our some 10000 feet of altitude drop with continuous switch-backs, water flowing from mini waterfalls to thundering falls from mountains above and beautiful 'tropical' scenery. In addition, we all felt that the drivers were going a bit too fast. It is fair to call it the adventure ride down the mountains.

Crossing the border in to Nepal
It took almost 2 hours to cross the border (Chinese immigration) and get the Nepal visas.

Paul, Chhoti (Kathmandu coordinator) and Gary
on the bungee jumping suspension bridge

Ride from Nepal Border
We thought the adventure ride was over, little did we know. There is only one road out of the tibet/Nepal border and it is in bad shape. We still had to drop 4000 feet along a zig zag path, up and down with huge bumps and wild swings to the body along narrow widths of road and deep gorges. Often there was water flowing across the road and falling rocks at unexpected places. It turned out to be an advanced version of the adventure ride. The road got better as we approached Kathmandu.

Yak & Yeti Hotel in Kathmandu
What a relief to arrive at this Victorian style hotel, with beautiful gardens, swimming pool, tennis courts etc. Many a dignitaries have stayed at this hotel over the years. A relaxing time here, included an excellent 18 hole game on a tough course.

The golfers at Kathmandu Golf course

Chorus Line from All
It was a great trip, indeed a trip of a lifetime. We lucked out on weather, had good food and everyone made it to the base camp with no issues. Sanjay and his team did a great job.

Tashi Delek