My 19 Days in Nepal (October 2024)

Pursuing Myself in 2024

Last year, my close friends asked me, “Kylie, what’s next?”
 
Setting new intentions and goals each year has always been part of my routine. When they asked, I told them, “Next year, you’ll see a healthier, happier Kylie.”
 
I’ve committed to pursuing myself—to becoming the healthiest, happiest, most healed, present, and confident version of who I am.
 
This year, I embraced a drastic lifestyle change. I now cook most of my meals, prioritize 8 hours of sleep, and stay active almost six days a week. I’m more intentional with my time, spending it with my parents, close friends, and, most importantly, with myself and my partner.
 
This year, I had planned to trek to Everest Base Camp. In fact, it was my first time taking such a long holiday (I am going to spend 19 days in Nepal).
 I had been preparing since the start of the year—super excited and ready to go. But things didn’t go as planned. The weather was so bad that there were no flights to Lukla; some hikers were stuck waiting for a week! So, we had to switch it up and ended up hiking to Annapurna Base Camp instead.
 
This change of plans ended up being a blessing in disguise—or maybe just another step in my self-discovery journey. My life feels like it’s always throwing challenges at me, and this trip was no exception, with so many unpredictable moments. Once we made the switch, I had no idea what to expect, and I learned to just go with the flow.
 
First challenge: bed bug bites. I got them all down my left arm, right to my fingers.
 
The second? I got hit with food poisoning and severe diarrhea for almost three days, followed by mild diarrhea for the rest of the trek. Let me tell you, trekking while dealing with that is no joke. The first night was brutal—I was in and out of the toilet more than seven times and got zero sleep. The next day, I had a pounding headache. But thanks to my previous hikes, especially Gunung Rajah, I had really built up my mental resilience. I pushed through the hike despite the headache and diarrhea (and I was so thankful for the toilets along the way!).
 
On the second day of diarrhea, my period joined the party, adding another layer to the challenge. It was tough, but by the end, I felt so proud of myself for making it through.
 
I also slipped and fell, but thankfully, nothing serious—just strained a few muscles.
 
I feel so blessed to be surrounded by genuine people. I was so well taken care of, and they checked in on me every day. I feel so loved!
 
I never would have expected that the day I reached Annapurna Base Camp would also be my birthday. This is an event I will never forget, and it will always be close to my heart.
 
This trip is so meaningful and special (stay tuned for my updates in this page!). And it’s all happening because of my partner—you’re always there for me. Thank you for loving me so much! 
 
It was day 14 when I took some time for myself to reflect and write down my thoughts.

A video recap of my 19 days in Nepal! Leave a comment on YouTube to let me know you stopped by!

Days 1 - 4 of My 19-Day Nepal Trip

I’d been preparing all year to trek to Everest Base Camp, but life had other plans, and I ended up trekking to Annapurna instead—a change that turned out to be the best decision ever.
 
Day 1: The day of the flight felt like the moment I’d been waiting for, and I was beyond excited. Trekking to EBC was something I once thought would be impossible. So I prepared in every way I could—I researched, trained physically and mentally, and gathered the right gear to make this experience as smooth as possible. I even cut my hair short to make it easier to manage during the trek.
 
Arriving in Kathmandu was a thrill in itself. I love traveling and discovering new foods, so I was ready to dive in. After landing, we were warmly greeted by our guide, Krishna, who welcomed us with flower garlands. It was such a special touch! At the hotel, I noticed a small but fascinating detail: the ground floor is marked “0” instead of “G,” and “-1” is for the basement—little things like this make traveling so interesting.
 
After settling in, we headed out for lunch, where I had my first dal bhat—it was delicious! Then we did a bit of shopping and had a quick coffee break before grabbing dinner and heading back to the hotel to repack for the big day ahead.
 
Day 2: After breakfast, we were all set to fly to Lukla. When we arrived at the airport, it was packed, only to find out that flights were grounded due to bad weather in Lukla. Some travelers had already been waiting for over a week! We were offered the option to fly to Ramechhap for the night and try a flight to Lukla the next morning. The plane was small, and they gave us cotton to block the noise—it was quite the experience!
Arriving in Ramechhap was like stepping into another world. The place was incredibly peaceful, with lush paddy fields and a scenic river nearby. We spent the day wandering around, taking in the serene landscape and snapping lots of photos. Later, we walked into town, enjoyed a lovely dinner, and prepared for the next day.
 
Day 3: We woke up hopeful, ready to catch a flight to Lukla. But after waiting at the airport until noon, we were told the weather hadn’t cleared up, and all flights were still canceled. With no flights in sight, we decided to shift our plans and trek Annapurna Base Camp instead. Back in Kathmandu, Krishna laid out our new options and quickly replanned the trip. I couldn’t have been more grateful for him! Meanwhile, my bed bug bites from Day 1 were now red and itchy, adding an unexpected twist to the adventure. With our new itinerary in hand, we split up for a bit—some rested, while others explored more of Kathmandu. We met up for dinner later, regrouped, and caught up on the day’s events.
 
Day 4: Knowing we were starting fresh with Annapurna lifted my spirits—I had no expectations, so I let myself just go with the flow. After a warm breakfast, we hit the road for Pokhara. Along the way, we made stops for coffee and lunch and even took photos of the mountains and rivers as we drove.
 
Arriving in Pokhara felt like a breath of fresh air. The town is vibrant and beautiful, nestled by a serene lake and surrounded by mountains. It started to drizzle, so we threw on raincoats as we explored. Krishna showed us around and gave us tips for navigating the area. We wrapped up the day with a relaxing massage, which was the perfect end to our first days in Nepal.
 

Day 5 of My 19-Day Nepal Trip

Today was the official start of our Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trek! I woke up early, full of excitement, and headed up to the rooftop to soak in the beautiful morning views. Enjoying coffee with breakfast as I looked out over the scenery was the perfect way to start the day. Then we geared up and got ready to set off.

We kicked off from Pokhara with a scenic 2.5-hour jeep ride to the trailhead. Along the way, we passed by snowy mountains and spotted a big herd of mountain goats, which made us stop to let them pass—a surprisingly peaceful sight as they moved together in perfect harmony across the road.

Our first stop was the Annapurna Conservation Area checkpost, where we registered for the trek. The checkpost, nestled between towering hills, marks the boundary to this protected area, keeping it safe and pristine for wildlife and trekkers alike. Once all set, we continued with the jeep toward the trailhead. The road was rugged and bumpy, with the jeep even needing to cross a river along the way!

We started our trek towards Ulleri, a charming village set high on a hillside. The journey took about four hours, and we stopped for lunch at a cozy tea house along the way. Our first tea break came with hot lime tea, a sour and refreshing drink I loved! Finding out that it would be served at every break was the cherry on top. 

For lunch, we had dal bhat—a hearty, flavorful meal that was just right for fueling us up.

As we continued trekking, our guides handed out bananas for a quick snack. The path took us through stunning landscapes dotted with charming local homes, small bridges, and the occasional herd of horses or mountain goats grazing nearby. 

The weather turned slightly cooler, and then a beautiful rainbow appeared in the sky—the colors were so vivid it felt like nature was putting on a show just for us!

Once we reached our hotel at Ulleri, we had some free time to explore the village before regrouping to discuss the next day’s plan. We wrapped up with a warm dinner, followed by a fun evening filled with card games, laughter, and great company.

Unfortunately, later that night, I came down with food poisoning, and severe diarrhea started to kick in. I couldn’t sleep at all. The altitude affected my heart rate, and I ended up with a pounding headache by morning. I think I made around six or seven trips to the toilet that night—a rough ending to an otherwise incredible day.

Days 6-7 of My 19-Day Nepal Trip

Day 6: A night of relentless diarrhea and a pounding headache definitely wasn’t the ideal start to my morning. I’m so grateful to Alvin, who checked in on me and took care of everything. He encouraged me to rest, packed my bag, and even offered to carry my stuff—no small feat, considering it’s not light! Thanks, B!

After cleaning up, I managed to have a light breakfast and updated Krishna about my condition so he could keep an eye on me. As our guide, he was incredibly supportive, checking in on me throughout the trek. A teammate even offered reiki healing, which surprisingly eased my headache a bit.

We warmed up and set out for our 6-hour trek to Ghorepani. Thankfully, there were tea houses along the way, which made bathroom breaks manageable. After a long but beautiful hike, we arrived at Snow View Lodge & Restaurant, our cozy stop for the night.

The trek was absolutely breathtaking—snow-capped peaks in the distance, waterfalls cascading down cliffs, and the crisp, fresh mountain air. We even crossed paths with donkeys carrying supplies along the trail. By the time we arrived, the cold was settling in, so a hot shower and a quick nap were exactly what I needed before dinner.

For dinner, I ordered chicken chop, but my appetite was still low, so I couldn’t finish it. Ironically, after dinner, Alvin started to feel unwell, likely because we’d been sharing food. Now it was my turn to look after him, and I was glad to be feeling a bit better so I could help.

Day 7: The next day, we decided to stay an extra night at Snow View Lodge in Ghorepani. Perched atop a hill, this lodge not only offered incredible views but was also home to some of the warmest and kindest people. Breakfast was simple yet comforting—warm oats, bread, and eggs. The view from our room of the snowy mountains was truly stunning.

We were so grateful for the kindness and support from our friends, our guides, and the thoughtful lodge staff, who made this a perfect place to recover. The day was spent exploring Ghorepani, taking it easy, and enjoying some much-needed downtime. 

I kept my meals light with noodles, as they were gentle on my stomach, and we got to try Gurung Bread—a lightly fried, golden-crusted bread with a fluffy inside, served with honey.  It was delicious!

After this day of rest, I felt recharged and ready for tomorrow’s adventure.

Day 8 of My 19-Day Nepal Trip

I’m still in disbelief as I write this—it’s Day 8, and I made it this far!

Today felt like a turning point, with both of us finally feeling better, though I still had mild diarrhea (which, honestly, lingered through most of the trek!). After yesterday’s rest day, we geared up for what would be our longest trek yet—to Chuile. We started our 7-hour journey after a hearty breakfast at 7 am, stepping onto the trail at 8 am. The path was filled with breathtaking views and vibrant glimpses of local life, like villagers drying vegetables in the sun.

The weather was ideal—a mix of chilly breezes and warm sun, just enough to keep us alternating between sweating while trekking and cooling off at each stop.

Our first break at Thapla Danda around 9 am was unforgettable, with stunning views of the snow-capped mountains—a perfect backdrop for photos! Along the way, we saw locals selling handmade goods. It reminded us of the importance of supporting sustainable tourism, so we made a mental note to follow some key practices: avoiding bargaining, trying local foods, supporting eco-friendly initiatives, and buying locally made goods whenever possible. 

The trail was mesmerizing, with cascading waterfalls and rocky paths. We even stacked stones along the way—a trekking tradition said to bring good fortune, balancing each rock carefully. Later, we stopped at Banthanti Hill for lunch around noon. Every teahouse adds its own twist to the menu, making each meal feel like a cozy, home-cooked treat. As we waited for lunch, I savored my favorite hot lime tea, and I ordered noodles again—the safest choice for my stomach.

On the trail, we passed some very well-fed buffalo, their full bellies a fun sight! Higher up, we even saw ponies and horses; apparently, pony rides are offered as an alternative for trekkers needing a break.

By evening, we arrived at Chuile, where we’d be staying at the Mountain Discovery Lodge. It was the coziest spot, with comfortable rooms and panoramic views of the valley and snow-capped peaks. As the sun set, a soft glow illuminated the landscape, turning it into a magical scene. 

We ended the day with some stretches, a hot shower, and card games to unwind. I also tried local chicken momos—steamed dumplings with savory chicken and spices—a perfect, comforting end to a long day. 

Feeling grateful for another unforgettable day on the trail!

Day 9 of My 19-Day Nepal Trip

I woke up naturally, just before sunrise, after a great night’s rest. I stepped outside to capture some early morning photos, waiting patiently as the sun began to light up the stunning peaks. The peaceful scenery and crisp weather made me fall in love with this place, and I already miss it.

Today’s journey took us from Chuile to Sinuwa, a serene village surrounded by misty forests and distant snow-capped mountains. Waking up to this mountain scenery was an incredible start to the day!

After breakfast, we set off around 8:30 am, with warm-ups complete and our porters prepared. The 7-hour trek to Low Sinuwa led us to Hotel Chino Restaurant & Bar, a cozy place with scenic balconies and a lively atmosphere—perfect for a recharge. The trail was alive with local life—drying corn, animal furs, and vegetable farms added vibrant touches to the landscape. We crossed a scenic bridge over a fast-flowing river, a refreshing sight amidst all the green.

Along the way, we stopped for banana breaks, water, and breathers to keep our energy up.

For lunch, I enjoyed momos, while Alvin went with an egg curry and rice combo—simple yet delicious!

Passing through Chhomrong, I was pleasantly surprised to find a German Bread Bakery & Coffee Shop! The pastries were too tempting, so we picked up a few treats to enjoy later at tea time. Chhomrong also has a checkpost for trekkers where permits are verified for those venturing further into the conservation area—a reminder of the importance of sustainable tourism in these sacred mountains.

Further along, we encountered a beautiful stupa, a traditional Buddhist monument symbolizing peace and enlightenment. We spun the prayer wheels surrounding it, a gesture for good luck and safe journeys ahead. Just beyond, we saw the first sign for Annapurna Base Camp, sparking our excitement as we realized how much closer we were getting!

Once we reached Low Sinuwa, we were welcomed with a hot shower and tea time, including some wonderful coffee and hot chocolate—a delightful surprise after a long day.

Dinner was cozy, with potatoes and eggs on the menu, and I called it an early night to rest up for tomorrow. We also welcomed a new porter tonight, a genuinely nice guy who joined our team for the journey ahead.

Day 10 of My 19-Day Nepal Trip

The day began early with a breathtaking sunrise casting a golden glow over the snow-capped peaks—a sight that never loses its charm. Outside our hotel, beautiful horses grazed peacefully, adding to the serene atmosphere. Feeling refreshed and excited after a great night’s sleep (despite a few late-night toilet visits), I enjoyed a hearty breakfast and warmed up for the day’s trek. 

By 8 am, we were back on the trail, heading to Himalaya, where we would stay at the cozy Hotel Royal Family Himalaya Lodge & Restaurant, known for its stunning mountain views and warm hospitality.  

One of today’s highlights was Fish Tail Mountain, or Machapuchare. This sacred peak, with its iconic fishtail shape, stands tall as a symbol of beauty and reverence for the locals. Often shrouded in mist, its mystical aura captivated us throughout the journey.  

The trail led us through a chilly forest where we marveled at the strength of locals carrying heavy loads. The soothing sound of waterfalls accompanied us, growing louder as we reached Dovan for lunch. While waiting for our meal, we indulged in a chocolate chip cake—an unexpected treat that gave us a little extra energy.  

A short distance from Dovan, we encountered the magnificent Doban Waterfall, the largest I’ve ever seen! Its powerful cascade thundered over massive boulders, creating a refreshing mist and a sense of awe. Surrounded by vibrant greenery, the waterfall felt like a hidden oasis in the mountains. We spent time here snapping photos, exploring the area, and ringing the nearby bells, a traditional gesture for good fortune. This moment became one of the most memorable highlights of my journey.  

As we climbed higher, the air grew colder, and a mystical fog enveloped the trail, adding a sense of adventure. Reaching Himalaya felt like a triumph, especially when I spotted the Malaysian flag waving proudly in the mountain breeze—it was a heartwarming welcome after a challenging trek.  

A hot shower was pure bliss in the chilly evening, and we ventured out briefly to enjoy coffee and hot chocolate at a nearby café. The rest of the night was spent playing card games while waiting for dinner. I had egg curry with rice, and our guide, Krishna, shared sardine cans he’d brought along, adding a protein boost to our meal. To top it off, we ordered a pizza—because why not end the day with a little indulgence?

Day 11 of My 19-Day Nepal Trip

What an exciting day it was!

I kicked off the morning with an early breakfast, eager to soak in the crisp mountain air and admire the serene views outside. Despite the chilly altitude, the peace and beauty of the surroundings were well worth braving the cold.

By 8 am, we began our trek, and after 5 hours of steady hiking, we reached Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC) at 3,700 meters. MBC is a popular resting spot for trekkers, offering incredible, up-close views of the Annapurna peaks. It was the perfect place to acclimate, recharge, and take in the grandeur of these legendary mountains.

The trail to MBC was nothing short of breathtaking, with sweeping views of the Modi River winding through a rugged valley. We navigated a steep section leading to Hinku Cave, catching a distant glimpse of Deurali village. As we climbed higher, the vegetation thinned, and the rocky terrain signaled our approach to the avalanche-prone zone between Deurali and MBC—a stark reminder of nature’s raw power in these mountains.

We paused at a teahouse for some hot drinks and much-needed rest, admiring an impressive statue of Gautam Buddha overlooking Deurali. Continuing through the Annapurna Valley, the snowy peaks framed our path, creating picture-perfect moments at every turn.

As we approached MBC, the views became even more magical. We were surrounded by towering giants—Fishtail Mountain, Hiunchuli, Annapurna South, Annapurna I, Annapurna III, and Gagapurna, among others. Lunch at the Fishtail Guest House & Restaurant was a welcome break before settling into the Machhapuchhre Guest House & Restaurant, our coziest and coldest accommodation yet.

After cleaning up, we ventured outside to capture the golden hues of sunset reflecting on the snowy peaks, with Annapurna South glowing brilliantly. Later, we warmed up indoors, spending the evening playing card games before dinner. Alvin, always prepared, brought out his trusty sardine cans for an extra protein boost.

It was a day filled with awe, accomplishment, and gratitude—another unforgettable chapter of this incredible journey.

Day 12 of My 19-Day Nepal Trip

Highlight of My 2024: Reaching Annapurna Base Camp!

Today is, without a doubt, the most memorable day of this journey—and of my year!

The adventure began at 4:30 am when I woke up buzzing with excitement, knowing we were heading to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC). By 5 am, we were bundled up and ready to tackle the final ascent. The freezing air and pitch-black surroundings were challenging, but the promise of reaching ABC kept our spirits high.

As dawn broke, the sky began to glow, gradually unveiling the majestic snowy peaks that surrounded us. The trek from MBC to ABC took about two hours, and every step brought us closer to this incredible destination. Reaching ABC was surreal. Standing there amidst the towering peaks felt like stepping into a dream—a culmination of all the effort and determination we had poured into this journey.

The moment became even more special when my friends surprised me with a birthday celebration! Since the trek was rescheduled, I hadn’t anticipated being at ABC on my birthday. But there I was, standing at 4,130 meters, with everyone singing for me at the base camp. It was a heartfelt and unforgettable surprise, making this milestone even more meaningful.

We spent time at the base camp exploring its breathtaking surroundings, tying prayer flags, and soaking in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas. Peaks like Hiunchuli (6,441 m), Annapurna South (7,219 m), Annapurna III (7,555 m), Machhapuchhre (6,993 m), and many others formed an epic panorama that made us feel both humbled and elated. We also ventured to the nearby glacier—a vast expanse of icy terrain marked by cracks and jagged formations. Even in autumn, the glacier exuded an almost mystical allure.

After marveling at the wonders of ABC, we hiked back to Snow Land Lodge & Restaurant for a hearty breakfast. The meal was made extra special when my friends surprised me with a birthday cake made entirely of pizza! It was such a creative and touching gesture. I felt incredibly blessed and deeply grateful for the thoughtfulness and love shown by my companions.

By 9:30 am, we began our descent, embarking on what would become the longest trekking day of this trip. The trek downhill to Dovan was far less strenuous than the uphill climbs, allowing us to make good time. After an hour, we reached MBC, packed our bags, and continued the descent.

We stopped for lunch at a cozy teahouse around 1 pm, where we refueled before pressing on. Along the way, we caught glimpses of local life—villagers playing games and gambling, a simple yet fascinating reminder of the community and culture thriving in these remote areas.

By the time we arrived at Dovan Guest House & Restaurant, we were ready for a well-deserved break. A hot shower never felt so heavenly! As a post-trek treat, we indulged in cinnamon cake and brownies before dinner. The meal—a delicious egg curry with rice—was exactly what we needed to cap off such an extraordinary day.

This was truly a day I’ll never forget—a celebration of achievements, friendships, and the beauty of life in the mountains.

Day 13 of My 19-Day Nepal Trip

The Final Trek: From Dovan to Pokhara

Day 13 marked the conclusion of an unforgettable trekking adventure! We set off at 7:30 am from Dovan, trekking down to Jhinu Bridge, a picturesque wooden bridge spanning the Modi River, with its tranquil views and the soothing sound of rushing water. The day’s journey was a 7-hour trek, broken by a lunch stop, before transitioning to a bumpy jeep ride back to Pokhara.

The morning in Dovan began with serene forest views and crisp mountain air. As I waited for breakfast, I had my oats, reflecting on the hardworking kitchen team bustling to prepare our meals. After warming up, we started the descent, taking in every last glimpse of the mountains and lush surroundings.

It was surreal knowing this was our final day on the trail. Passing hikers greeted us with “Namaste,” their energy reminding me of our own early days. Along the way, the iconic Fish Tail Mountain kept us company, a constant source of inspiration.

The trail led us through charming villages where donkeys carried loads, friendly dogs followed along, and locals went about their day. After a brief stop at Himalaya to retrieve our bags, refill water, and take a quick restroom break, we faced the infamous steep staircase down to Chhomrong. This seemingly endless stretch of stone steps, bathed in midday heat, tested my endurance. Slowing down, taking water breaks, and using an energy gel helped me push through. Alvin greeted me at a café with a warm smile, a much-needed boost after the climb.

We celebrated with cold drinks and enjoyed our last mountain meal. I had momo, a type of dumpling filled with flavorful ingredients (vegetarian or meat, spiced to perfection), steamed and served with a tangy dipping sauce—a comforting treat to cap off our trek.

The final leg brought us to Jhinu Bridge, the longest we’d crossed, offering breathtaking valley views. Waiting for horses to pass before we stepped on added a touch of mountain charm. Crossing that final bridge was bittersweet—it marked the end of an epic journey.

From Jhinu, we hopped into a jeep for a bumpy but cheerful ride back to Pokhara. Arriving in the city felt both exciting and emotional. We unpacked, said heartfelt goodbyes to our guides and porters, and shared our deep gratitude for their unwavering support.

Dinner was a celebration in itself—a delicious Chinese hot pot, accompanied by toasts and laughter. Alvin proposed we celebrate four milestones. Can you guess what they are? Comment below!

As I edit and compile the videos of this incredible trip, I can’t help but feel nostalgic. This experience has been life-changing, and I’ll carry the memories in my heart forever.

Day 14 & 15 of My 19-Day Nepal Trip

Day 14: Exploring Pokhara

Despite just completing the Annapurna Base Camp trek, I woke up early, feeling refreshed and happy. After enjoying a delicious breakfast at the hotel, our group hopped into a van to explore Pokhara, one of Nepal’s most scenic and vibrant cities.

Our first stop was the Pumdikot Shiva Statue, a towering statue of Lord Shiva perched atop a hill overlooking Pokhara. Standing at 108 feet tall, it’s one of the largest Shiva statues in Nepal and symbolizes peace, strength, and spirituality. The surrounding area offers panoramic views of the Pokhara Valley and the Himalayas, making it a serene and picturesque location. Locals were selling unique handicrafts and snacks, adding to the charm.

Next, we headed to the World Peace Pagoda, a striking white stupa that sits high on a hill, offering sweeping views of Pokhara, Phewa Lake, and the Annapurna range. Built by Buddhist monks to promote peace and harmony, the pagoda is an architectural marvel with golden Buddha statues and a peaceful ambiance. We weren’t allowed to record videos here, but we captured stunning photos and took time to reflect in its tranquil surroundings. Before leaving, Krishnan treated us to fresh bananas—a perfect energy boost!

Our final stop of the day was Devi’s Fall (also known as Patale Chhango), a unique and powerful waterfall where water from the Phewa Lake flows into a narrow, rocky gorge and disappears underground. Legend has it that the name comes from a tragic incident in which a Swiss woman named Mrs. Davis was swept away by the waterfall while swimming—hence the name “Devi’s Fall.” Krishnan mentioned that during the monsoon season, the waterfall becomes even more intense, with water splashing up to the viewing platforms. We explored the area and visited the wishing pond, where we tossed coins, hoping to land them in the middle—a tradition believed to make wishes come true.

For lunch, we indulged in a delightful Mediterranean spread, which was both satisfying and refreshing. 

Back at the hotel, we packed up, sent our clothes for laundry, and treated ourselves to a relaxing massage. 

Dinner was a cozy affair with Chinese food, rounding off a fulfilling day.

Day 15: A Relaxing Day in Pokhara

The morning began with breakfast shared with friends who were leaving early for Kathmandu. 

After heartfelt goodbyes, we decided to explore Phewa Lake, the second-largest lake in Nepal and the crown jewel of Pokhara. Surrounded by lush hills and snow-capped peaks, the lake reflects the serene beauty of the region. We rented a boat with a guide who paddled us across the calm waters, allowing us to enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

We stopped at the Tal Barahi Temple, a two-story pagoda situated on a small island in the middle of the lake. This temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, is a spiritual landmark for locals and visitors alike. The area was bustling with pigeons, adding a lively charm to the sacred site.

Afterward, we strolled along the lakeside, savoring the fresh air and a refreshing coconut drink. The relaxed pace of the day felt perfect after our trek.

For lunch, Alvin and I visited Roadhouse Café, a popular restaurant in Pokhara known for its wood-fired pizzas and cozy atmosphere. The pizza truly lived up to its reputation—crispy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying! 

Following lunch, we discovered a nearby bakery with an enticing display of croissants and pastries. They sold out quickly, so we were lucky to grab a few. We enjoyed our coffee and pastries while reading, soaking in the laid-back vibe of Pokhara.

As the evening approached, we wandered through the vibrant streets of Pokhara, exploring its shops and soaking up the lively atmosphere. For dinner, we chose Med5, a restaurant celebrated for its fusion of Mediterranean and Asian flavors. I savored their pizza and biryani chicken rice, each bite a burst of flavor.

What a delightful day it was—filled with delicious food, scenic beauty, and cherished moments of rest and relaxation.

Day 16 & 17 of My 19-Day Nepal Trip

Day 16: First White Water Rafting Experience 

I woke up early to enjoy a warm breakfast and coffee, savoring the chilly weather in Pokhara. Today was extra exciting as I prepared to attempt white water rafting for the first time!

White Water Rafting in Pokhara: Pokhara offers thrilling rafting experiences, particularly along the Seti River, known for its crystal-clear waters and exciting rapids. The sport combines adrenaline-pumping action with breathtaking views of lush forests, quaint villages, and dramatic gorges. Suitable for both beginners and seasoned rafters, the journey typically includes Class II to III rapids, making it adventurous yet manageable. Professional guides ensure safety, providing instructions and demonstrations before the trip begins.

The experience was exhilarating! The water was icy cold, but I felt proud to overcome the chill. It helped that it was drizzling and raining lightly, preparing my body for the cold. Before starting, our guide gave us a detailed briefing. At one point, we even stopped mid-journey to practice falling and climbing back into the raft.

After the rafting adventure, we returned to the hotel to clean up before heading out for lunch. We dined at Rice Garden Restaurant & Bar, where I savored their delicious biryani. Fun fact: throughout this trip, I’ve fallen in love with Nepal’s refreshing lime/lemon soda—it’s the perfect drink for any meal!

In the afternoon, Alvin and I relaxed over coffee and ice cream, continuing our books. The evening brought a comforting dinner at Med5. The heavy rain made it the ideal place to unwind. I enjoyed a warm bowl of mushroom soup, a crisp salad, and a hearty chicken chop before heading back to the hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Day 17: Farewell to Pokhara 

I woke up with mixed emotions, knowing it was my last morning in Pokhara. After a satisfying breakfast and coffee, I took one last moment to appreciate the crisp mountain air before we packed up to leave for Kathmandu.

At the airport, our flight was delayed for hours due to bad weather. While waiting, I had some snacks and coffee, while Alvin kept busy with his studies. Finally, it was our turn to board. As we flew, I caught glimpses of snowy peaks through the clouds, marveling at their majesty and wondering which ones they were.

Upon landing safely in Kathmandu, we checked into the historic Kathmandu Guest House.

Kathmandu Guest House: This iconic hotel, located in the heart of Thamel, is a haven for travelers. Its serene garden, spacious rooms, and fascinating history make it a favorite among trekkers. The property is also home to the world’s largest vajra (a symbolic thunderbolt), a significant spiritual artifact. Strolling through the premises feels like exploring a mix of cultural heritage and modern hospitality.

After settling in, we headed out to a special dinner at our guide Krishna’s home. His warm hospitality and delicious home-cooked meal made the evening unforgettable. I even tried the best banana lassi I’ve ever had!

Thank you, Krishna, for sharing your home and kindness with us—it was the perfect way to wrap up this day.

Day 18 & 19 of My 19-Day Nepal Trip

Day 18: Exploring Kathmandu

My first morning in Kathmandu started beautifully, with coffee and breakfast to fuel the day. Our tour began with a visit to Boudhanath Stupa, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest spherical stupas in the world. Walking around the stupa, spinning prayer wheels, and taking in its spiritual energy felt truly special. We also ventured into the temple to admire its intricate artwork and vibrant ambiance.

Next, we experienced the Kumari—the Living Goddess of Nepal. Witnessing this extraordinary cultural tradition was awe-inspiring. The story of Kumari, a young girl worshipped as a living deity, left me feeling both curious and empowered. What an honor to witness this unique cultural heritage.

We then explored Hanumandhoka Durbar Square, a historic site filled with beautiful temples, courtyards, and museums. Among the highlights were Nasal Chowk, Golghar Exhibition, and Dhukuti. Walking through the square’s rich history was a delightful and relaxing way to spend the day.

For lunch, we stopped at Jasper Restaurant, where I enjoyed a salty lassi and butter chicken. We continued to stroll around Kathmandu, shopping and savoring coffee at a cozy café.

In the evening, we returned to the hotel, where I tried some delicious tea before heading out to Roadhouse Kathmandu for dinner. The experience was warm and nostalgic, wrapping up the evening with lovely food and ambiance.

Day 19: Farewell Nepal

My last day in Nepal felt surreal. I woke up feeling incredibly content and blessed. Breakfast was a treat, featuring crispy bacon, which I thoroughly enjoyed.

A wonderful surprise awaited us as Krishnan organized a certificate ceremony, gifting us with personalized singing bowls—a beautiful and thoughtful gesture that made the farewell even more special.

After heartfelt goodbyes, Alvin and I headed to the airport, where we relaxed at the lounge before our flight back to Malaysia.

This trip has truly been one of the most enriching and unforgettable experiences of my life. Thank you, Nepal, for the memories!