We sat out on the porch under the morning sun eating a breakfast of eggs, Tibetan bread, and tea, while taking in our first views of Annapurna. Each day would bring clearer views of this incredible mountain.

Winding up the mountain to our next destination, we passed through more small villages. Stairs and more stairs were the theme again today. Hovering around 8,000 ft, we were low enough for blooming rhododendron bushes in a full range of colors. Water was plentiful and added interest to the trail, as we had several water crossings over handmade bridges. 

As we arrived in the town of Ghorepani, our stopping place for the day. We stopped for a picture under the village's banner, then proceeded into the village of blue roofs. We were ready for lunch and seat, but our guides directed us out of the village and up another set of stairs (shocking). At the top, we caught a glimpse of snow-capped mountains. I was about to walk through the village to get a better glimpse, but we were told to turn left and head up more stairs.

I'm glad I abandoned the picture attempt, because we were led to an amazing patio overlooking Annapurna and other towering mountains. Picnic tables lined the patio and served as our lunch spot. It wasn't long before the clouds covered the mountains. An evening hike to watch the sunset was abandoned because of the clouds, but other hikers told us it was amazing because they hiked above the clouds.

In the common area, where meals are served, there was a potbelly stove which provided heat to the room. The bedrooms in the teahouses are not heated, so everyone hangs out in the common room until it's time to jump in a sleeping bag. I decided to wash my hair, so sitting by the stove served as my hairdryer.

It was an early night, because the next day we were climbing 2,000 stairs to Poon Hill to catch the sunrise.