As with my visit to Gorkha, I went to Nagarkot because of its close proximity to the Himalayas and for the opportunity to see the world's tallest peak, Mount Everest. This 8,848 metre high giant is used as a symbol for tourism in Nepal. Only a handful of seasoned mountain climbers can even consider attempting the ascent. For the ordinary mortals amongst us, simply seeing it is an immensely rewarding experience. Nagarkot is a pretty mountain village and serves as a nice base from which to head out on any of the numerous hikes that exist here. The choice of walks to do is practically unlimited, and each has its own particular collection of wonderful views to offer.
I had an absolutely delightful time walking in the countryside of the surrounding area and admiring the Himalayas, even if I didn't actually get to experience the joy of seeing Everest. I do recommend coming here to try your luck yourself. Though Lady Everest didn't choose to reveal herself to me, I've still been left with wonderful memories of my time in Nagarkot anyway.
*Following the powerful earthquakes that struck Nepal in April and May of 2015, the country is gradually being rebuilt. This article was written before that natural disaster occurred.
Our trip to Nepal started on a difficult-to-navigate, bumpy, pot-holed road. After a seemingly endless procession of bends in the road, in a dismal state (altitude sickness is awful), we finally arrived in Nagarkot. It's a small village, very discreet, with prayer flags hanging here and there... the suffering we endured on the bus was just so worth it.
After a 3-week slog on a bus going left, right and centre, we wanted to take a week to stop and breathe in life in Nepal. We wanted to rest, and sink into the local culture. We got up at 5am every morning to drink in the beautiful sunrise. What you see is an environment that is never still, where even sometimes, because of the misty clouds, the line of the horizon would blur and the land and the sky melt into one another, all of which is revealed as the sun comes up. And then, from time to time, the sun would pierce the clouds, slashing and draping the view with uncountable shades of pink, orange and blue. Enchanting, fleeting moments in the Himalayas.
This week-long holiday also gave us the opportunity to meet the locals and build new friendships. Here, you are welcomed with open, smiling faces. Oh, and if a villager invites you back to their home, leap at the chance, you won't be disappointed! You will meet their family, drink traditional tea and eat sweetcorn. As for communication, you'll all get by using approximative sign language, a lot like a good game of charades!
*Nepal after the powerful earthquakes that shook the country in April and May 2015. The country is slowly coming back to its feet. This article was written before the disaster struck.