Bimtang to Goa

In case we haven't mentioned it it has been the snowiest spring in 40 years. We arrived in Bhimtang in the driving snow having slid, slithered and slung ourselves down from basecamp. ( don't worry no broken bones and only one burst barrel).

For the first time the hardy group 3 chose to stay in a lodge, many of the other groups have already experienced this mixed blessing. On the one hand you can stand up in the rooms, on the other hand there are potential fleas. We in group 3 had always been staunch campers but after a drenching walk and 5 days in the snow at basecamp we happily settled into our bright yellow chalets and ate dinner in our beautifully carved wooden hall. 

We woke to a beautiful morning and a wonderful view of the mountains that had been invisible the night before. All groups and porters set off together for a stunning walk which changed from winter to spring as rapidly as Narnia. Soon thermal tops were coming off as we walked through flowering rhododendrons and wild strawberry flowers. 

Lunch was a picnic near a lodge under construction where we could admire the local craftsmen planing and sawing and building chairs and tables in the sunshine. Then our route continued along a new river gorge with multiple rock falls and broken trees to constantly remind us of the force of nature arounds us. 

Finally group 3,4 and 5 pitched up in the nirvana of Goa while groups 1 and 2 chose to push on to Tilje. 

2 days till civilisation, let's see if we cope with the smell until then. 

Bye for now

Saskia