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Climb for Kid’s Sake Day 5: One CRAZY landing then a hike to Phakding

I was so glad to leave Katmandu and all the unrest in favor of this beautiful Nepalese valley!  We headed to the Katmandu airport early this morning, cleared customs and waited for the plane to Lukla. There were 5 airlines flying out the same morning and we waited on the tarmac about 20 minutes for our flight to arrive from Lukla.  The passengers deplaned and we boarded.   Just as we were about to take off, the pilot was notified that the airport in Lukla was closed due to heavy rain and poor visibility!! We were instructed to go back our hotel and try again tomorrow but Leila, our guide, asked if we could wait to see if the sky cleared. He agreed and about half an hour later we were cleared to fly!  It was raining and the clouds were thick…poor visibility but no wind. Lucky for us because the planes can’t land in Lukla if there is any wind.  Check out this video of a “Lukla landing” and you’ll see why!

After breakfast we hiked from Lukla to the village of Phakding.  This easy hike took us along the Dudh Kosi River – the valley was incredible!  The trail boasts amazing scenery, buildings built with hand cut stones, suspension bridges, mules and yaks meandering along the trail and children playing.  I swear, some of my photos will have National Geographic calling!!

At my last suspension bridge I had to wait for a horse to go all the way across first! He crossed nonchalantly, oblivious to the fact that anyone was waiting and not nearly as nervous as we were!  So awesome!  After some sight-seeing, we checked into our rooms (changed out of our sweaty clothes!) then sat down to a late lunch. We’ll stay here over night then head to Namche Hill and its famous bazaar tomorrow.  I can’t wait!

Berg Adventures are our hosts on this trek…check out our guide’s dispatch report for more information and pictures!

And remember… This is all to raise money and awareness for Big Brothers Big Sisters.  Show your support by donating some time or money in support of this great cause!  You can contribute by visiting the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lethbridge website or click on the blue become a sponsor button to the left.  As always, thanks for your support Lethbridge!