DCP_0885.JPG 2001/11/08 14:09 6.3mm f3.0 1/125s

Outside our lodge in Chame where Steve and Jamyang have swapped packs. Although it doesn't look like it, they both carried about the same weight.

Jamyang's family originates in Tibet but they now live in the east on Nepal near Makalu, about two hours walk from the border. Four years ago, when he was 16, Jamyang left home to work in Kathmandu. He has not been back since. The journey home would take two days (and one night) by bus followed by five days walk, or seven with a load.

That infectious smile wasn't put on just for the camera - he wore it almost continuously!