In October we flew into Kathmandu, spending two days in that chaotic and vibrant city. Luckily for us, it was festival time, so we saw many sights and cultural experiences. The highway out of Kathmandu was quieter than usual (really, it was!) and everyone agrees that the dirt road to Arughat Bazar was a revelation in both our drivers skill and Nepali road courtesy.
Once we began trekking we really settled into the rhythms of the trail. Morning began with hot tea in bed and warm washing water. Breakfast was supplemented by espresso from Kicking Horse Coffee, and off we went! Trekking is an amazing way to experience a country. You really have time to meet people, look at the views, and get away from it all. The first couple days it feels like you are trying to get somewhere, but after that, you settle into the journey itself. The trek around Manaslu takes you through immense river gorges, beautiful villages, quiet old growth forests and high alpine passes. We crossed Larkya La at 5200m in perfect weather and everyone did well. Our chef and the kitchen crew made sure that none of us lost any weight and we were always very well fed. Our staff was fantastic, always helpful and very personable, especially our guiding crew. We have to say, our porters were the best crew we have ever had!
Once we began trekking we really settled into the rhythms of the trail. Morning began with hot tea in bed and warm washing water. Breakfast was supplemented by espresso from Kicking Horse Coffee, and off we went! Trekking is an amazing way to experience a country. You really have time to meet people, look at the views, and get away from it all. The first couple days it feels like you are trying to get somewhere, but after that, you settle into the journey itself. The trek around Manaslu takes you through immense river gorges, beautiful villages, quiet old growth forests and high alpine passes. We crossed Larkya La at 5200m in perfect weather and everyone did well. Our chef and the kitchen crew made sure that none of us lost any weight and we were always very well fed. Our staff was fantastic, always helpful and very personable, especially our guiding crew. We have to say, our porters were the best crew we have ever had!
We were sad to leave the mountains, but Seppi and Ray extended their trip over the Annapurna Circuit and still made their flight out of Nepal! For this I have to thank Aki, as I know guiding my father is like herding cats.... The rest of us continued down the Marsyangdi Khola to the comforts of Kathmandu.
Merry Christmas to the Nepali crew!
