Naturally Nepal...

Naturally Nepal is their tourism slogan...


Indeed, the feeling of being close to nature gave me a sense of calm and peace that I wish I could prolong that experience. The insignificance I felt in front of the mountains, the valleys, the rivers, the rapids, the sun and the cold elements (coldest was 2 deg C)... reminded me of my frailties but some of them also gave me hope and strength to push on..

The initial plan of trekking to Poon Hill for four turned out to be a solo trek due to unforeseen circumstances... My 3 travel mates went back to Pokhara after the first day of trek....but I just had to go through it...I felt bad not accompanying them back and they were worried for my safety.. But what the heck.. it was a journey I set out to experience. And so, I ignored the risk of going on a trek in the wilderness alone with two strangers.. my guide and my porter.. and made my loved ones at home worry. But never did I regret this trek.. In fact, I was in a way, glad I did it alone..


While I thought the highlight was the sunrise at Poon Hill.. the actual experiences I enjoyed most were the interactions with the Nepalis during the trek. Each day, without any Singaporean/tourist, I had the chance to really mingle with the villagers.. I had to learn basic Nepali language.. They really taught me about Nepal and the struggles of its people. Despite it all, the warmth and humility of the villagers really touched me. They really made me consider retiring there.. but I know it's just a fleeting thought..


This journey also taught me the value of education. Seeing my porter, Sayaman, an 18 yr old school drop-out (due to poverty), being so earnest in learning Maths and English, really warmed my heart.. a teacher's heart. On some nights, with no electricity but just candles, we'll do maths. He found it hard but was so keen on trying.. In the mornings, we'll do a bit of reading and conversational English. At the end of the trek, I was glad that he'll be going back to school to continue with his education. All he needed was about 10 000 rupees.. about only S$230.. which he'll take forever to earn.. But despite his state, his willingness to learn is the kind of spirit and passion that I've not seen for quite some time. I really hope to see it again in the padawans back here...

My days in Nepal without any handphone, internet, television, electricity... taught me about a world that's beyong my comfort zone and yet it is not one of the poorest countries in the world..it taught me that simplicity is perhaps the best.... it taught me a lot of myself as well, my limitations, my passion and hopes... The trek was a much anticipated one which I ended up embarking on my own... I saw a sunrise which led me to tears... I met people who made me not want to leave the villages.... I fell in love with Nepal.. but I know I must come home.. I must embrace what is to come..

And so, I'll hold the moments close to my heart... and leave with memories which I'll cherish forever....



Dhanya wad Nepal.... See you in 10 yrs time....