Return Date: June 15

Friends, I am wrapping up my time in Nepal and getting excited to return to the States and see you all! My map in the corner says I return June 2 but I wanted to let you know that has been extended to June 15. I will be home that evening.

See you soon!

Trekking in the Himalayas

One of the things I really wanted to do before returning home was trek in the Himalayas—and I got to do that last week! I trekked with 3 friends from my organization through a mountain range about 7 hours drive from Kathmandu. The mountain peaks were beautiful and trekking through terraced farmlands seemed to be a classic way to spend my time before leaving Nepal.

 We trekked for 4 days and stayed in lodges (called teahouses) along the way. In total we trekked about 32 miles with an 8,000 feet elevation gain. The elevation gain was, well, tough! I have to say it was the most physically demanding thing I've ever done. But when we reached the views at Poon Hill for a 5:30 a.m. sunrise, it was worth it all. (-:

Here are a few snapshots from the trek.

I almost jumped on the back of one of these donkeys halfway through the trek.

I guess we didn't consult each other before taking this pic!

Finally... classic Nepal.