Everest Base Camp Trek Recovery in Kathmandu and Pokhara

After the Everest Base Camp trek both of us developed some sort of lung congestion and a terrible cough. It seemed like many people on the trek had something similar. (We joked that it was due to yak dust.) We had about a week before our Hands in Outreach sponsor’s trip, so after a couple days in Kathmandu we flew to Pokhara for some rest, relaxation, and recovery. (No way were we going to take an 8+ hour car ride, we had had enough of the terrible Nepali road conditions.)

Tihar in Kathmandu

The Tihar Festival concluded while we were still in Kathmandu and there were many lights strung on buildings and celebrations in the streets. Walking through Thamal (the main shopping district) we saw a motorcycle parade intersect a street dance party. It was pure chaos but everyone was having a great time!

We also found a fun restaurant with a great table for watching life go by in Thamal. It became a favorite spot that we frequented.

Relaxing in Pokhara

We decided at the last minute to go to Pokhara and get out of the noise and congestion of Kathmandu. We flew on Yeti Airlines, notice the big footprint on the tail.

We stayed at our favorite resort Bar Peepal and really didn’t do too much. It was still warm enough to enjoy the pool in the afternoons and watch the sunsets over Lake Phewa.

Dave got a haircut that included a relaxing, shoulders and up massage; all for about $5! No razors at all, only scissors. Dave used to go to Barber Jon’s in El Dorado Hills, so he had to go to John Barber in Pokhara!

We did go to the top of Sarangkot View Point near Pokhara on a clear day for a great view of the Himalaya. There are also various temples scattered around the area.

As a reminder that Christmas is coming, we saw many huge poinsettias that were blooming around town.

We also did a bit of planning for our 2024 adventures, but we have a lot more to do to finalize the plans when we get home.

Back to Kathmandu

We got healthy while we were in Pokhara and were rested and ready for the main reason we came to Nepal: the Hands in Outreach Sponsor’s Tour. We were excited to get back to Kathmandu, see the great work of the organization, and meet the girl we sponsor!