Beyond Tok Tok village winding in north along the river is the trail leading further into the Khumbu region. The crashing din of the rushing Dudh Kosi is gradually rising as little by little the incline tips higher and a distant hint of the glacier source gets closer. The hiking trail skirts this river and alternates across banks with rickety wooden bridges. This route is really just conditioning leading up to the day’s ultimate challenge of the Namche Hill, but as a point for one last rest and a place for your pack to settle is Monjo Village. This is a relatively major settlement, with perhaps over 100 villagers, and it is the location of the entrance to the Sagarmatha National Park. The sign at the entrance gives an elevation of 2,835 meters, or 9,300 feet. This is more or less at the level of Lukla, but by this point the climbing and descending of the trail has given you quite a workout. Think of it more as a way to warm up and loosen the legs because the final ascent for the day will certainly be the greatest challenge you’ll face, unless you’re a Sherpa yourself. At 9,300 feet you’re still relatively low and the breeze blows warm over colorful flowers and green grass.