My wife Nicole and I travelled to Nepal a couple of years ago with the intention of enjoying the wonders of that amazing country. We were fortunate, and forever grateful to meet our Nepalese guide from Sherpa Holidays, Passang Geljen Sherpa, who took us on one of our most memorable adventures ever. As well as being a truly nice guy, Passang was ever helpful, from showing us around Kathmandu, to introducing us to some of his amazing friends,prior to heading off by bus to Pokhara, on our multi-faceted holiday. This part of our Nepa- lese trip included trekking in the Annapurna region, White water rafting and a visit to the Chitwan Wildlife reserve.
We spent four days trekking to Landruk, Ghandruk, then on to Dhampus, spending our nights recover- ing from the day’s exertions in quaint local Tea houses, before heading back to Pokhara. Following the trek we embarked on a bare knuckle white- water rafting adventure down the Seti River before heading to the Chtiwan Wildlife reserve.
I still have vivid memories of one particular night sitting by the Seti River. Our limbs were sore but our bellies were full, from an amazing feast that was prepared by Passang’s assistants using only fresh local produce. Following dinner Passang picked up his guitar, and along with our porters and new friends we spent the evening swapping stories and singing along to Nepalese Folk songs, as well as some of the more mainstream classics. (I recall one of my favourites Hotel California by the Eagles seemed to be played more than once, not only that night but the rest of the trip too!)
Nothing was too much to ask, with any request under- taken with a smile. I would have no hesitation recom- mending Passang and Sherpa Holidays to anybody who wants to experience true Nepalese hospitality and the beauty and wonders of this magnificent corner of the world. My only regret is taking so long to get back there to see more of this wonderful country and catch up with my friend Passang.
