Lhasa acclimatization

At 3660m, Lhasa is a good place to safely push the acclimatization process

17-19 April - Lhasa!

Apologies, blending the various groups together kept me busy.

We arrived smoothly and as if to make up for a couple of people's ordinary hotel rooms in Kathmandu, we were given the best rooms in the hotel as they were overbooked; knowing the manager, who is Nepali, and speaking Nepali with him helped. From the rooms the views of the Potala are stunning, which was lucky as a couple of people were hit by a bout of sickness resembling food poisoning but is probably viral. Most people took Diamox to assist with the acclimatization process, although there were still a few minor headaches and minor troubles sleeping. At least they could be sick in comfort. Now as we leave Lhasa though, everyone is back to 100%.

Now, on the morning of the 20th, after a hearty breakfast (the Hotel Himalaya really is good), we will drive to Shigatse where I am sure we won't find such a good internet connection. In fact this will probably be the last dispatch until we are settled in base camp, on the 24th. We actually arrive on the 23rd to meet our sherpa team who have already carried loads to North Col.

Bharkor and Jokhang scenes

The Bharkor is the focal point of the Tibetan quarter of Lhasa, and is a circuit around the Jokhang that is lined with stalls and shops and circumambulating pilgrims and Lhasa locals, and one of my favourite places.