The plane taxied up to the top of the steep Lukla runway, applied the brakes and pulled back the throttle until the whole plane was vibrating and straining to go. Moments later we were airborne and climbing into the clearest of Himalayan skies.
We flew out over the Dudh Kosi whose milky, foaming waters snake through the autumnal forest. As we banked and climbed to cross the pass to Junbesi we caught our last glimpse of Everest and her awesome courtiers.
After Junbesi the forest gave way to terraces which became increasingly green until we bounced down amongst the rice paddies on a hot and dusty airstrip 4 hours drive from Kathmandu. Sadly a head on collision blocked the road and made our drive 6 hours. I fear that whoever collided with the truck was not so lucky as the barrier was broken and I suspect their vehicle had plunged off the cliff.
Our little Himalayan adventure is over - until next time!
