mcdanielism

Hi,

I was all set to take a chance and go to Nepal with just the aftershocks and knowledge that some things would be damaged.

Was planning on going Mid Oct for 5 days in a few weeks. Simple quick visit - Kathmandu, couple nights, then try to get out for a quick trek and stay in mountain lodge or 2 (see the mountains, see some interesting little villages...) Pokhara area perhaps.

I just found out that there is a lot of unrest and protests because of the constitutional changes, which I guess were signed yesterday! 9/21/15. Reading newspapers and looking around I just can't really figure out if I should skip it. US dept of state recommendations and warnings are not very specific so not a ton of help in this case.

Anyone over there that can give me a clue if I should skip or go? I already will be near there in India so I can't change this to a later date for this trip.

If I can't go, any other ideas of how to get that mountain experience in India (Darjeeling?).

Thanks.

Chris

Kathie

In general, I want to encourage people to go to Nepal as their economy is so dependent on tourism and took such a huge hit with the quake.

But 5 days isn't really enough to do what you have listed. It's a full day just to get to/from Pokhara.

We weren't enchanted with Darjeeling, but we loved Sikkim. Closest airport is Bagdogra, and it's about a 4-5 hour drive to Gangtok, the capital. If this sounds at all interesting to you, take a look at our photos: http://www.marlandc.com/Sikkim-2010

mcdanielism

Hi,

Thanks for the info. I understand 5 days is not enough but it is what I have to work with. I'm more concerned as to whether visiting the country is a bad idea due to political unrest.

I would love 10 or 20 days but 5 days would give me a chance to at least get a taste, but if it's unsafe, or i can't travel because of strikes.... then I probably would not want to go.

Thanks.

Kathie

Personally, I wouldn't worry abut the political unrest. Nepal has had political unrest for decades and I've been there during times of unrest. But you are the only person who can decide whether the current unrest is too concerning for you. If you go, you should avoid demonstrations and large gatherings in the streets. Visitors have never been targeted in the protests. At times, transport (such as buses to Pokhara) may be stopped by a strike.

Do you have the flexibility to wait and see?

mcdanielism

I have a little flexibility (like a few days) to wait and see, but I would like to get some plan together and buy flights from Delhi for whatever adventure.

Still would love to hear from someone who is over there who can tell me what they think of the unrest around Kathmandu, in the Kathmandu Valley, and around.

Thanks.

AskOksena

Warm and rather early Friday morning greetings to the OP; hope you eventually travel to a place I've cherished since the 1980s, Nepal.

Not in Nepal at the moment (am presently in Myanmar for work), but did have the privilege of some special reunions in Nepal this recent July. My profile page review of Dwarika's Hotel in Kathmandu briefly touches on a lovely time with some wondrous climbing Sherpas and friends. We didn't venture out of Kathmandu which was by design, as had already done my share of fine climbing and exploring with mountaineering friends in Nepal and Tibet. Also, we got our mountain fix (and so much more) in Bhutan, upon leaving Nepal.

As for unrest, many times a fluid situation in Nepal; will say, it was quite calm during our Kathmandu stay. And, my long-time, Kathmandu-based friend, 'Mr. Depak' (a rather well-connected gentleman), believes the foreseeable future is fortuitous for Nepal holiday. He (and yours truly) would love to see more Nepal tourism.

Whatever you decide, savour your planning. More later, as a business flight back home to Singapore beckons today from Yangon, Myanmar, a place that continues to fascinate as a business travel destination. (And more in future on the Peninsula hotel group's plans, not just for Yangon, but also our city-state of SIN. Most interesting meetings and presentations these past few days.) Early and warm weekend wishes to you and all,

macintosh (robert)


... Singapore Airlines, You're a Great Way to Fly ...

mcdanielism

Hi all, thank you so much for your replies.

I think I'm going to just go and wish for the best. Sounds like you never know what is around the corner in Nepal but that is part of the excitement.

Wish me luck!

Kathie

Have a great trip!

crellston

"I think I'm going to just go and wish for the best." By far the best way to travel. Have a great time

LancasterLad

If you are only on a short trip to Nepal, with must not miss time deadlines, then a strike [Bandh] could completely mess up your itinerary. Practically all movement stops during a Bandh, which ie really inconvenient especially for travelling around.

AskOksena

Early and warm Seoul morning to you, mcdanielism; so glad Nepal is in your near future. So cherish that country and her people.

Will suggest a potential island of Kathmandu serenity during your visit: the serene "back lawn" area at the Yak and Yeti hotel. As of ~ three months back, lovely as ever. Back in those mountaineering days of the 80s and early 90s, the Yak and Yeti was our home, pre and post climbing. Particularly the post-mountaineering, where it was so pleasant to finally relax, quietly celebrate and savour cup after cup of tea on the lawn. Some afternoons, tea simply segued into cocktail hour. This recent visit I treated the aforementioned Mr. Depak, his wife and the mrs. to a couple of bottles of sunset Champagne and hors d'oeuvres out on the lawn. Special memories at that place.

As noted in my review of Dwarika's Hotel, the primary purpose of our visit was to assist in post-earthquake relief efforts. In addition to some large duffles we flew in from Singapore, I also arranged for some wire transfers from our primary bank in SIN to Mr. Depak, for the purpose of distributing to some wondrous climbing Sherpas, Nepalese friends, and their families. (I (we) initially sent wire transfers to Mr. Depak back in the 80s for our climbing expeditions; that gentleman is the epitome of integrity.) Should you decide to donate, there are some reputable organizations to be found; honoured to assist.

Normally close with a subtle promotion of our sensational Singapore Airlines; this Friday morning in S. Korea, will give the highest praise to the Four Seasons, Seoul. Yes, she is now open to the general public; reservations gladly accepted. Was privileged to be a part of various opening celebrations these past few days; so happy for some FS Seoul managers, one I've known since his days at the (former) FS property in Bangkok.

Enjoy Nepal; Friday fly day for me, so early and warm weekend wishes to you and all from Seoul,

robert

LancasterLad

There are quite a few recent threads on the TA Nepal forum about the current fuel shortage [crisis].

The following is one such thread...

http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowTop...KTM-Nepal.html

So it's worth keeping a close eye on the situation, especially if you only have a short visit...