Nepal
Three weeks in Nepal delivered a perfect mix of culture, calm and high-altitude adventure. The highlight was a 12-day trek to Annapurna Base Camp (4,300 m), but our trip also included rich urban history in Kathmandu and peaceful moments on Fewa (Phewa) Lake in Pokhara.
The 12-day Annapurna Base Camp trek took us through terraced fields, rhododendron forests and traditional Gurung villages. Mornings began with steaming cups of tea in teahouses and ended with dramatic Himalayan sunsets. Reaching Annapurna Base Camp felt like stepping into an amphitheater of mountains—360-degree views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machapuchare—and a powerful reminder of why this trek is on many hikers’ bucket lists.
Kathmandu offered a sharp but welcome contrast: crowded lanes, ancient temples and intense spirituality. Visiting Pashupatinath Temple on the Bagmati River was a moving cultural experience—intricate pagoda architecture, devotional rituals and the city’s living spiritual traditions. It’s a place to observe respectfully and learn about Nepalese Hindu practices.
Pokhara provided the relaxed, lakeside counterpoint to trekking and temple visits. We spent quiet afternoons on Fewa Lake, took boat rides beneath the looming Annapurna range, and enjoyed sunset reflections on the water. Pokhara’s lakeside cafes, nearby Peace Pagoda and adventure options like paragliding made it an ideal place to recharge after the trail.
