Nick's early start (Monday)

This morning Nick started his endeavour of his 54 mile solo quest for the summit.  He is planning on doing just over half of the railway route today, with the remainder tomorrow while the rest of us trudge our way up.

Nick and Richard at NJP station

After a night of yet another curry, we set off at 5.00am to New Jailpaiguri station where the Toy Darjeeling train starts its own run to the summit.  The sun was just rising through the mist/smog and in the half light parts of India that in the daylight look quite tawdry suddenly look quite charming.

It was the time of day when there are few people about, those who were were taking a few moments to commune with themselves and nature, on the edge of the road.

Richard accompanied Nick for the first 5 miles while the rest of us yawned in the bus.  Locals took absolutely no notice, I guess not much is a surprise in India!

Nick and Richard about to be passed by a man with a stick out for his morning walk.

We're keeping track of Nick's progress today, after another fabulous breakfast of indian curries and chapati.

Pip has just woken up and made it to breakfast!  Martin and Paul have just got back from a prelim cycle in advance of tomorrow.

Patricia and Theresa