This report is written through the eyes of ordinary folk (ie two trekkers accompanying the climbing group). After a rest day at Paiju, the group set out for Urdukus and ascended 700m over 15 km. It was the first day when altitude was a serious issue (certainly for the trekkers). It is encouraging to record that the climbing group performed strongly today and those who had stomach and other aliments appeared to be on the mend walking on the Baltoro glacier. (Absence of scenery). Walking on the Baltoro Glacier is like walking in a rock quarry with loose rocks and stones of various shapes and sizes requiring strenuous effort.

This was the first day when Broad peak came into view and the magnificent Trango towers could be viewed from closed quarters.

The expedition Doctor, Dr. James Strohfeldt treated a stricken porter during the course of the trek (with some advice from the italian medico). It was the first day when disputes about load weights of porters was not an issue.
Impressions of the trekkers:
beautiful scenery
physically demanding trekking
copious quantities of dust
lack of water and
most importantly excessive distances between (both vertically and laterally) toilets and tents.