Nepal Notes पाँच
October 26, 1989
Thursday am
Seti, Nepal
(continuing from last entry)
The first day, Jiri to Bhandar, was a killer. Going up the second ridge (a 900 meter or 2950 foot climb from Shivalaya) was very slow. That night we thought about hiring a porter. We found out they wouldn't be easily available due to some regional festival.
Between Jiri & Shivalaya |
The trail itself is good; basically a well worn footpath. There are lots of switchbacks to accomodate the elevation changes. Groups of porters are pretty common, generally a dozen or so men (some women) carrying large triangular wicker baskets that look pretty well loaded. Most carry a sort walking stick with a T-bar handle thus they can sit on it in a semi-standing position.
Looking west over the village of Shivalaya |
Approx. 9,000 ft ; village of Shivalaya below |
That's an interesting aspect of the hike - you meet people from all over. We learned something from the Israeli’s: don’t drink local water that hasn’t been boiled. They had a couple bad days early in their trip. The standard beverages are hot tea or hot lemon (hot water with some lemon squeezed in).
Our guide is a small book, Treking in the Nepal Himalaya, by Stan Armington. We’re staying in small guest houses in the towns along the route to Mount Everest National Park. Thus far the guest houses provide a small room with two beds and an evening and morning meal.
We’ve usually been able to buy lunch (glucose biscuits) along the way. Being prepared for this our packs include clothes, sleeping bags and our personal effects.
Terraces for farming purposes everywhere (potatoes & grain mostly) |
Not having to carry a tent, lots of food or cooking utensils is a big help. Our packs probably weigh 30-35 pounds. At this point the temperatures are similar to what we’d have in Wisconsin this time of year. We did bring some warm clothes.
Ang Choti & her worker, Zang Moe (5 year old hired worker) No chimneys - The copper pot is for hot water... |
The local food, at least what they’re feeding us for supper, is right down my alley; Dal bhat is the staple. It’s some type of lentil based soup that’s poured over rice. It’s simple, filling and it shows up every night every place we’ve stopped so far. At home I’m used to eating rice and ground beef with soy sauce six or seven nights a week; this isn’t a radical change for me.
- Mr. Foresterman
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Still fascinating!!
ReplyDeleteG.W. Feral Woman, and Mr. Foresterman,
ReplyDeleteOut in the countryside is so beautiful, and the people all seem to be so humble with what they have (which isn't much).
I really think they're the true preppers.
I'm really enjoying these posts. Thank you!
ReplyDeletewhat an amazing journey!
ReplyDeleteGads! The photographs are amazing! I'm not sure about those biscuits, though....
ReplyDeleteYes, those photos are stunning so imagine what it would be like in person! Thanks.
ReplyDeleteGosh- I've missed what is going on. Sounds like you are off on a wonderful adventure!
ReplyDeleteThis is very interesting and what a great thing to have done in your life. My friend Rachael went there also, which has made me wonder why this never even occurred to me when I was young. Thank you, thank you, thank you soooo much for all your comments. I love to hear from you, my friend.
ReplyDeleteWhat an experience! Thanks for sharing it with us!
ReplyDeleteSomehow, I didn't think you would be away during Forest Fire Season in Montana. (And elsewhere.)
ReplyDeleteThere are fires burning hundreds of miles away from us here in River City, and we're getting smoked out. Not fun. But not as bad as having to fight brush fires. Ben there; done that; too mature to try that again.
Blessings and Bear hugs to all of you!