Hiked to the top of the ridge this morning for acclimitization and to see, weather permitting, mt everest. we were not disappointed.  been looking forward to this view for longer than i know. ama dablam, considered by mountain enthusiasts to be the most majestic mountain, is to the right.

Continued up to the Everest View hotel, probably the highest luxury hotel in the world. Built by the Japanese, it is aesthetically beautiful in its siting and design. Guests can hop a helicopter from Kathmandu to a little landing pad below the hotel. We marveled at the views from the back patio, posed for the only complete group picture of the trip, and had an overpriced coffee. Actually in this setting can anything really be overpriced?

Hiked back to Namche. Had a fleeting feeling that I’d seen Everest and why was I going to put myself through the next almost two weeks of misery to see it even closer? No way out, though. Thankfully.

Strolled through the markets (it is Namche *Bazaar* after all) and bought a yak bell. What, you don’t have one?

Ram Kaji sets up dinner.