In April of 2001 I embarked on a journey to Nepal with a group called Choice Humanitarian. Our first stop was the mystical city of Kathmandu. At first glance Kathmandu seems to be a city of ciaos. Different looking people, strange sights and sounds, cows roaming the streets along with cars, trucks, motorcycles, rickshaws. Once used to the way things work it becomes a city full of interesting sights and warm people. Among the sights to see are Boudhanath and Swayambhunath Buddhist stupas, Pashupatinath a large Hindu shrine and Bhaktapur an ancient city. Another recomended trip is the scenic flight near Mt Everest. After a few days in Kathmandu we loaded a bus and set out on a nerve wracking drive west. Four hours later the bus could go no further and we set out on a three hour hike on dirt trails to the village of Ohklepani in the Lamjung District. We spent our next five days there doing humanitarian work such as digging latrines, building adobe stoves, educating the local midwifes and distributing supplies to local schools. We lived in the locals houses and had the joy of eating their food.

   One night I was blessed with the opportunity to help deliver a baby! No electricity, water or medicine...not even a doctor. At the end of the five days we left with tears in our eyes hugging our new friends goodbye. The hike down the trail was beautiful but sad.

   From there we continued to the wonderful town of Pokhara which is situated on Lake Phewa Tal with the Anapurna mountains looming in the background. Pokhara is a popular spot for many treks through the Anapurnas. It is also home to many Tibetans who sell their wares along the streets. For an enjoyable afternoon rent a boat and explore the lake.

   Our time was coming to end and it was time to return to Kathmandu. But, we couldnt leave the country without a trip to Kopan Buddhist Monestary near Kathmandu. The monestary is set on a hill overlooking the valley. It is a great place to go for a few hours, or for a few days. The monks offer religion lessons and meditation retreats.

   It was a perfect way to end our trip. I will never forget the feeling of peace I felt in this country!