A Detour from Trouble

Was supposed to get a bus journey from Varanasi in North India to the border (8hours), then having walked across the border get another bus to Pokhara. However, we were warned by several Indian people that the area between Varanasi and the border had become politically unstable due to forthcoming elections. Nothing super nasty, just the sort of thing to make the effort to get around. So we did. Got a flight to kathmandu and will take the bus to Pokhara from there instead.

After getting scammed (we think) by a taxi driver on arrival, our first  impression of Kathmandu was very good. After the filth, stench and grinding poverty of Indian cities (and the letching leers of Indian men at my wife) we were really impressed by Kathmandu. Fairly clean, friendly people (didnt stare at Nat as much) and a vibrant atmosphere.

from Varansi with love

We were aware straight away that we were in a tourist ghetto, Thamel. A sort of base camp for people before they head into the mountains. A good place to stock up on kit and western food.

We had beers, food, enjoyed live music and got up for the bus the very next day (my birthday) to Pokhara.

Simply the most stunning bus journey Ive ever been on. (Nat describes it better later on.)

In summary, glad we missed the bumpy 2 days on the bus and got to see Kathmandu a little earlier than expected - we'll look forward to returning after we've seen a bit more of Nepal!

James