Nepal 2024

We had wanted to go to Nepal since the early 2000s, aiming to fly there when we were in India. However the opportunity to go trekking in Then Annupurnas along with a visit to Kathmandu and the surrounding areas was the much better option. We spent a few days in Kathmandu, seeing the sights in the city as well as Patan and Bhaktapur. Lots of colour, sights, sounds and smells. What a wonderful place. We also broke the bank and took an early morning flight over Mount Everest—wow that was absolutely amazing.

After that we flew to Pokhara and enjoyed some time round the lovely lake, enjoying some fresher air, before taking the bus to Syauli Bazaar which was the start point of our trek. Day one we climbed what seemed like forever until we reached our first teahouse at Ghandruk and our first experience of no hot water—not so good after a day of trekking, but unfortunately a sign of things to come. Wet wipes and splashing “bits and pits” became the mantra for the duration of the trek. We spent the next day trekking in the area before another evening spent in 5 layers, coats and hats. So glad for those cosy sleeping bags!! We marched on to Jhinu Danda. A longish trek,  but the main event was crossing Nepal’s longest rope bridge. Not an easy feat for Kathryn, but she overcame her fears and did it. After that all the other rope bridges seemed a doddle! At Jhinu Danda, we managed time to have a soak in the hot springs, which was refreshing. The trek to Lhandruk gave us waterfalls and valleys…..and a hot water shower. Such luxury! It was well needed as the next day was our biggest trek—over the mountains to Dampus. The final trek was relatively short and by evening we were back in Pokhara for a well deserved “trekkers’ massage”. What an amazing adventure the 6 day trek was. Constantly surrounded by amazing views, greeting lots of lovely locals, eating amazing food (including lots of momos!!!) and enjoying the company of the 9 others in our group.

We spent the last few days in Kathmandu where we did a bit more sightseeing before going to the airport for our delayed flight home. Highlight of the trip? Too many to mention. The flight over Everest? The temple at  Bhaktapur? The sunrises in the Annapurnas? The trekking through the most beautiful countryside? The food? All of the above.