Shishapangma Expedition 2003
the beginning - Kathmandu to BC

The gorge leaving Zhangmu for the climb to Nyalam is probably one of the most breath-taking there is, and quite an engineering feat, gaining 1300m in a couple of hours, then the next day tops out at 5150m, below.

Shishapangma rears behind, our first view of it from the Lalung La.
The Central summit (8008m) is slightly right, the smooth face, and the Main summit (8027m)
is just left of it directly above the truck, and looking just that much higher from this point.

After the middle hills and rugged gorges we cross the pass to the Tibetan Plateau with its wide panoramas.

Tingri is a dusty place where we stayed two nights (and previously two nights at Nyalam) but we got a better hotel than most and the food was good - below.

The meals in Tibet are all included, some good Chinese meals although after 5 days of them they can be all the same.

Just hanging out, we also went for a couple of half day walks to help acclimatize - below.

Tingri is behind us.

Finally we arrived at Shishapangma Base Camp ~5000m on day 9. We spent 4 days here, unlike most teams who only spend 1 full day.

Phil relaxes. There are some great treks and day trips possible from here.

A hardy Himalayan Blue Poppy.