Bhutan - Day 5

Today we hiked over Laptsa Gyem pass at 13891' and then up the valley to our campsite at Labatamba. 

All passes have small Stupas that you add a rock to for good luck. And, of course, prayer flags.

The trail climbed steadily up to the pass above the tree line and into the snow.

Just over the pass we saw the Labatamba valley.  We hiked down into it and then up to the end of it where the lakes are. 

Trail into the valley

In the valley we passed by a large yak herder building complex.  These yak herder buildings are all empty this time of year as the yaks are much up much higher.  This one had a archery range setup - archery is the national sport of Bhutan.

Zoom in to see the buildings

Notice the rocks to hold down the roof in the wind

Target is the white bags in the background

Hiking up the valley, we took a break and enjoyed the view. 

After lunch we hiked up to the lakes at the top of the valley.  I was only able to visit three of them, before I was worn out from all the walking above 13000'. The hike was 2.8 miles, 550' of gain, with a max altitude of 14456'.

Looking down at the first lake

Above the second lake there is a small hut used by monks to meditate. 

Zoom in to see the hut on the left

We saw some Yaks far away on the top edge of the valley.

We hiked back down to our camp.

Today was much more difficult and much, much colder than yesterday.  In addition to the hike to the lakes, we hiked 5.8 miles, 2000' gain, and are camping at 13906'.  It is very windy and cold. 

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