Nepal
Even though we spent far less time in Nepal than in India, we felt more moved and intriqued. Someday we hope to spend more time here to explore and understand this ancient culture.
Our wing of the Yak 'N Yetti Hotel lost power and people had to dress for dinner either in the dark or by candle light. We were taken to a very old house (maybe 120 years young). On the third floor we were served in a tent-like room where we sat on cushions on the floor native-style. Little terracotta bowls were set out; these bowls might hold a tablespoon of salt or whatever. The waiter came with "teapot" and proceeded to fill the little bowls. Now we know that they are cups filled with native rice wine. The flavor was very similar to sake except that it is 90 proof! When lit, it burns with a bright blue flame. Just take a sip and your cup is filled again. How any of us made it downstairs for dinner is a mystery! Dinner was native, too, and excellent. The wine and beer kept flowing.
One of the high points was a visit to the oldest Hindu temple
in Nepal. Only Hindus are permitted inside but that was okay because we got
to watch cremations along side the river. Whoopie! At least three cremations
were underway and we watched the ceremony at the beginning of another cremation.
Walking around Kathmandu, we saw 15th century palaces of competing kings. The squares in front of the palaces are filled with Buddhist and Hindu temples in various stages of decay and deferred maintenance. Monkeys, cows and mangy dogs share the space with people and vendors.
Bright and early we arrived at the domestic airport for our flight with Buddha Air. How's that for a corporate name? Other airline names were Cosmic Air, Yeti Air, Gorhka Airlines, Spice Jet, Sita Air and Kingfisher Airlines. Kingfisher is a popular beer; I'm sure the pilots don't drink beer on the job. At last we board a Beech 1900D, a narrow craft with a single seat on each side and every seat has a window. This is a very powerful plane outfitted with twin turboprops. The view from the plane was sparkling clear. This hour-long flight was far too short as are most wonderful moments.
Click on the photo below to view our Nepal photos.
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