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Published: June 16th 2010
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Our chosen Travel Agent to Tibet - Gorkha International Travels (P.) Ltd. Overland by Landcruiser - organised by Gokul Adhikari
Liff, GP and I begun the week long task of organising a bespoke trip into Tibet. We ploughed through the mountains of information, books and suggestions we had received form other travelers. Eventually we produced a clear brief of the trip, specifications for vehicles, Monasterie's we wanted to visit and Treks to be included. (and even how many Yaks we would require while completing a Kora circuit of Mt Kailash)
Armed with our Itinerary we began trawling the travel agents of both Thamel and Boudanath to find a tour agent we trusted and that could offer us the bare basics at an affordable price.
We approached, Trekking Team, Eco Trek, Responsible Treks, Tibet International Tours and Explore Himalayas and many randoms who didn't bother quoting.
We received a wide range of responses, some half of what others were offering. However we know that price is not what matters when organising a trip of this nature. After much deliberation over Chai we decided Gokul from Gorkha Internationl Travels was not only to be trusted but could get us through
Pokhara Lightning
Monsoon season is imminent with storms most evenings Tibet safely. We will keep you posted and update this blog entry from Chengdu, the end of our road through Tibet.
Commitment made we decided to take a break from Kathmandu's hectic streets and all night night clubs (we had 3 surrounding our hotel) and return to Pokhara for a week. It takes no less than a week to organise the Visa's, permits, TTB/PSB passes and the required military clearance to go to Tibet's far west.
Back in Pokhara we found a fantastic guest house with a great view of the lake.
A calm place to chill and explore the surrounding hills, caves, temples and chutt stands (local food outlets on wheels)
We explored several cave systems in the area, the most memorable moment being the 3 of us squeezing through a small hole to exit one of them. The hole being so small that our small day packs had to be pushed ahead of us, leaving us completely in the dark. Well done Liff, were both proud of you.
We rented bikes and rode around the lake (Phewa Tal) and relaxed watching the monsoon storms come down the valley and over the lake each evening.
GP
has decided to return to North India for several months. So unfortunately our threesome has ended. Leaving after an emotional final Pizza, game of rummy, and lake side cocktail he set off to reclaim his passport from Indian immigration in Kathmandu. (good luck GP). GP we wish you well on the next chapter of your mission. It has been a pleasure traveling with you over the last 3 months. We cant wait to hear your stories when we meet again. Who knows you might still be in India when we find you next... Oh and I have to mention that he won the Rummy contest for both India and Nepal.
Well rested we return to Kathmandu to stock up on food and supplies before heading to the Chinese border, we will keep you posted.
P.s. For those of you following from a Tibet entry and tour perspective, I will post our itinerary and trip details in a few days.
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Lisa
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Anything to worry about?
Hi! I really enjoyed reading your blog! I am traveling to Nepal with my mother in September and she is concerned about some of the political things going on there. Did you ever have any trouble worth mentioning in nepal? Any Maoist interactions? Anything you think that should prevent us from going? Thanks! Lisa