Traverse of Central and Eastern Nepal (2011)
Leg 14: From Lukla to Honggu Khola (April 24 - May 1)
From Lukla
we followed the trekking route along Inkhu Khola that leads to Mera La
(5415m) below Mera peak. From Mera
pass, we hiked down to Honggu Khola,
a river that flows from Baruntse. Our goal was to
follow this river down to Bung, a large village on the main trail connecting Lukla to Tumlingtar. However,
following this river turned out to be too difficult. At about 2600m we decided
to turn back. We eventually crossed Mera La in
reverse to return to Inkhu Khola
and reach Bung by another way.
From Lukla
we first climb to Kharheteng (4000m) to cross a pass (~4600m) leading into the Inkhu Khola valley. This photo was taken from Kharketeng.
The pass is at the center, slightly to the left.
Looking down to Kharketeng.
Starting our descent from the pass toward Inkhu
Khola.
Inkhu Khola
valley slightly above Kote village.
Inkhu Khola
valley soon before reaching the small village to Tangnag.
Views while climbing to Mera La from the
village of Khare (4760m).
Reaching Mera La (5415m).
Views toward Mera peak.
A group of climbers starting their ascent of Mera
peak from Mera La (Mera
peak is a popular peak with guided expeditions).
During our descent to Honggu Khola below the tiny settlement of Kangme Dingma.
Crossing a precarious narrow icy bridge on the upper part of Honggu Khola.
After this bridge, the Honggu Khola valley became
increasingly narrow and difficult. Traces of previous human passage (like
neatly cut branches and bamboos) progressively disappeared. The following
photos only partially reflect the difficulties that we encountered. On the
second day we were extremely lucky to see a red panda at close distance, near
the river crossing shown below. Unfortunately, I did not have my camera
available at that time.
The terrain became increasingly
steeper, more slippery, and more dangerous. We had to use our rope more and
more frequently, both for safety and for hauling loads down or up. We were
making very slow progress. On the third evening of the descent, we decided to
turn back.
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During our way back to Kangme Dingma (below Mera
La) the weather was bad and wet. Rather than setting up our tents, we spent two
successive nights in caves.
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