Day 9 - Waiting in Thorung Phedi     Heads throbbing at 14,685 feet above sea level The trail had seemed so empty of people for the past few days. What a surprise to join an unruly throng of trekkers at Thorung Phedi. We crammed into the dining hall for warmth and tried to ignore the headaches, passing the time playing cards, eating, and drowsing. The hall had wall-to-wall windows, which offered a view back down the valley. (Better to be reminded of our progress than of the steep climb waiting above us.)   Photo by Alistair Adams