My 8-Day Adventure in Nepal
Could you experience the wonders of Nepal in just over a week? Well, I set out to explore as much as I could in that time. I had always dreamt of visiting Nepal, and being relatively close while living in Qatar, I seized the opportunity during a mid-term break. Armed with my trusty backpack, I embarked on a thrilling journey through the heart of the Himalayas, immersing myself in Nepal’s breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and the warmth of its people. Join me as I recount the highlights of this unforgettable adventure.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu – A Bumpy Welcome
My adventure began with a nail-biting flight into Kathmandu. The approach to Tribhuvan International Airport involves navigating through a series of valleys, making even seasoned travellers feel a tad uneasy. There was some strong turbulence. A good friend of mine worked as cabin crew on this flight route and he did warn me about the potentional bumps into Kathmandu. However, the sight of snow-capped Himalayan peaks in the distance was awe-inspiring and made it all worthwhile. Clear skies and the right seat on the plane made it an unforgettable experience. After touching down, I braved lengthy queues for visa processing and immigration, but I didn’t mind, as I had expected this.
Days 2-3: Discovering Kathmandu’s Historic Gems
Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, is a city steeped in history and culture. It was truly amazing! Over the next two days, I explored its historic sites, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath Stupa (also known as the Monkey Temple), and the impressive Boudhanath Stupa. Each location was a testament to Nepal’s rich heritage, boasting intricate architecture, vibrant colours, and a profound spiritual energy. I wandered the streets of Kathmandu, particularly around Thamel, where I encountered some fantastic local artists and made some purchases. The warm hospitality of the locals was a delightful, and I always felt safe, even when I got a bit lost.
Day 4: An Adventurous Bus Journey
On the fourth day, I embarked on a twelve-dollar tourist bus to Pokhara, a breathtaking nine-hour journey that allowed me to soak in Nepal’s natural beauty – bumps and all! The road was perilous, and it felt like the bus could tumble down a mountainside at any moment, but our skilled driver kept us safe. Given the recent air crash and the safety record of Nepali airlines, I preferred this over flying. Despite the bumps, the bus was comfy with large seats, and water was even provided.
Days 5-6: Exploring Pokhara’s Beauty
Upon arrival in Pokhara, I first took in the serene beauty of the lake, a truly picturesque sight. While strolling along the lakeside, a Tibetan refugee shared her story and offered some beautiful jewellery, which added to my growing collection of Nepali bracelets. Pokhara’s surroundings are adorned with climbing shops, restaurants, and tranquillity. I joined a local tourist bus tour with a friendly group from India, allowing me to explore the area efficiently. The camaraderie on the bus was fantastic.
The next day, I embarked on an easy hike near Pokhara, up to and just past The Australian Base Camp. Although Pokhara serves as the gateway to some of Nepal’s famous trekking routes, I chose a more leisurely adventure due to an ankle injury. Despite my limitations, the day was filled with stunning panoramic views of the Annapurna Range, offering a peaceful atmosphere and refreshing mountain air. My guide shared captivating stories of his mountain journeys, and also shedding light on the hardships, especially during COVID times, and the challenges of accessing medical care for Nepali people.
Day 7: The Adventurous Return Journey
The journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu was an adventure in itself. Opting for a different tourist bus, I braved winding mountain roads, carved into steep cliffs, which made for another hair-raising experience. At times, I thought I might not make it, but the beautiful countryside views and a glimpse into the daily lives of the Nepali people made it unforgettable. The delay of the journey was due to unfinished road construction, a result of many construction workers leaving for countries like Qatar.
Day 8: Farewell to Nepal – Kindness and Cuisine
As my trip neared its end, I was deeply moved by the kindness and generosity of the Nepali people. From friendly chats with street vendors to heartfelt conversations with my hotel host, the warmth of the locals left a lasting impression.
And let’s not forget the food! Nepali cuisine is a delectable fusion of flavours influenced by Indian, Tibetan, and Asian cuisines. I savoured dishes like momo (dumplings), dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), and various curries, each bursting with exquisite taste. My heart forever belongs to Nepali momo and Nepali Thali.
The cost of this trip was budget-friendly. I booked my plane ticket well in advance with Qatar Airways. My return ticket cost £300 for the flight from Doha to Kathmandu. If I had booked it a couple of months before leaving, the cost would have been more than twice the price. I stayed at a four-star hotel in Pokhara, which I booked using Booking.com a day before my arrival, securing a discount. In Thamel, Kathmandu, I stayed at a recommended budget hotel, once again saving money by booking it on the same day.
My whirlwind 8-day journey through Nepal was filled with historic sites, breathtaking beauty, and the warmth of its people. Nepal captures the hearts and souls of travellers, leaving them with memories that endure. If you seek culture, adventure, and natural beauty, Nepal is a must-visit destination that will leave you inspired and eager to return. I can’t wait to explore more of this incredible country in the future. I mix up my travel adventures with independent as well as tours. GAdventures offers some great tours of Nepal, and this could be an option to look into if you don’t want to arrange your tour. They also have a tour that goes from Delhi to Kathmandu which I am keen to try soon myself. It sounds amazing!
