Pandemonium at the Gate! For every person climbing, there are usually 4 locals involved - a guide (former porter) and 3 porters. There must have been over 100 climbers. so all morning about 400 locals were busy getting their bags weighed before being allowed in. (official limit is 15kg) Fresh food is usually prepared every meal, especially dinner, so they have all kinds of fruits veggies and meats in the bags. I saw one that was full of just mini-watermelons! And after a long, cold wet slog all day, freshly cooked ANYthing was delicious. And their local pineapple was the best I've ever tasted.