Kathmandu - Last Day

It is our last day in Kathmandu and we have the usual mixed feelings about the city. It is a wonderful haven from the treks. We have clean clothes (I was embarrassed to put mine into the laundry they were so filthy), we have endless hot water for showers (but I still can't get my feet clean - the dirt is so ingrained) and the usual rich variety of cheap food with great service. The people are friendly and there is a general sense of safety and security. On the other hand the piles of rubbish, smog and touts, to say nothing of emaciated dogs and cows are a constant reminder of the poorer side of this city of several million people.

We said goodbye to our guides, Nim and Tshering two days ago over dinner at Pokhara. We have greatly enjoyed their company and I hope we remain in contact and meet them again. Tshering has climbed Everest 10 times and many of the other peaks, but never talks about the climbs unless asked. He travelled each day at the back of the group, occassionally carrying one of our packs as well as his own. He had a constant smile and almost limitless energy. Nim normally took responsibility for securing the next nights accommodation. He would leave early and was like a wire hare to the greyhounds of the group who would leave an hour later and try to catch him over the course of the day (I think they succeeded twice). He also had an infectious grin and a personality that worked well with the group.

Most of the group are out shopping - spending their last rupees before we head for the airport in an hour. Bangkok - here we come (in my case to sleep).

Ross