Travelers visiting Serka Zong have a number of choices for lodging. One of the more popular spots, just on the outskirts of the village, is the Shangri-La Trekkers Inn. For western visitors especially, the Shangri-La offers moderns conveniences such as its Internet Cafe.
Shangri-La isn't the only game in town, though. In fact, they're about to get some stiff competition right next door, where the new Yeti Palace Hotel is set to open next season. Right now, the hotel is still an active construction site. Take note of the cement mixer, pulley system for raising materials to the upper floors and the stack of handmade bricks, imported from India and awaiting placement in the walls of the new building.
The marquee painted on the wall of the Yeti Palace Hotel is credited to Bhavani Sign Painting. Bhavani is an aspect of the Hindu goddess Parvati. It means "giver of life" and is considered the source of creative energy. It is also the name of a town and river in India.
Several services have been provided for travelers staying in the area, including access to pay telephones operated by Anandapur Telegraphy. There is also a source of fresh drinking water, along with an advisory to "not drink from streams and wells."
Those heading on mountaineering expeditions will want to stop by Gupta's Gear. This small shop at the base of the Shangri-La Trekkers Inn offers "First Class Mountaineer Equipment," including backpacks, boots, oxygen tanks and anything else one might need to conquer the Himalayas.
Gupta's has also become an informal gathering place for parties heading out on expedition. A bulletin board at the shop allows group members to leave messages for one another and provides other important information, like the map of the area. Take time to read some of the notices, though, and you'll also discover there's a bit of an argument brewing. Some are insisting that the local legends about a Yeti that protects the mountains are true and should be taken seriously, while others are quick to dismiss the reported sightings as cases of mistaken identity.
Is there a Yeti on the "Forbidden Mountain?" Only those who dare to take the journey may ever know for sure.
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