Blogs from Tadapani, Nepal, Asia

Day 4 - Ghandruk to Tadapani (2,590m) We set of from our Tea House for a much shorter trek this morning heading for Tadapani. This trekking was very different from the previous day as we entered lush sub-tropical forests of mainly rhodedendrons dripping with moss and ferns. Having spent many a day hacking down and burning the smaller, invasive varieties that are taking over our British countryside it was nice to see them growing where they are meant to be! There were loads in blossom in a deep pinking red colour. We also saw tiny mauve primula, mahonia, ferns and mosses and daphne growing beneath the canopy of trees. Daphne used by the mountain people for either making paper or for use as rope. The outside of the stems are peeled back then the inside peeled ... read more

Okay, let’s get this outta the way - Poon Hill was a big disappointment. Cloudy. ‘Nuf said. Back on the trail after Manthos ate my cooling breakfast to ensure I was presented with a warmer one after arriving a little late from my room (he’s like that), the cloud cleared and afforded a couple of Kodak moments before we plunged into Rhododendron Jungle, although here at the tail end of the bloom it was more acne than small pox spotted, but picturesque nonetheless. Trail ducked into some Washington state-like rainforested valleys with steamy clouds creeping through the canopy and the unrealized threat of alleged leaping leeches. We’ve emerged at Tadapani, probably the least civilized stop, lacking light bulbs or showers, which at least excuses a day off from my exercises, but instead featured a menagerie of ... read more

It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood, a beautiful day in the neighborhood yet we didn't get to see the sunrise. Instead I learned how to create my own version of a sleeping bag. I couldn't sleep as I didn't have a blanket so I took a sheet and wrapped it around my body and then zipped my arms up inside my jacket and put my hands in my armpits. This morning I came to learn they would have given me a blanket. But an experience is an experience and after doing that I slept fine so I'm not worrying. I've learned a bunch of things while travelling. One of the most important things is to listen to your body - go at your own pace not that of others, your body will teach you when ... read more