13th September 2007 - Bargains, Baggage and Bhaktapur

After the long periods of silence in the mountains, today was a stark contrast with noise, polution and the bustling city. Some of the team went bargain hunting in Thamel, some went chasing the airline about our return leg excess baggage and the rest went on a very educational trip to Bhaktapur.

Bhaktapur is a cultural site of importance within Nepalese heritage. The group travelled on an express bus with surprisingly comfy seats and open windows, a joy not to be experienced on the return journey (a crowded two hour bus ride on the local bus). While in Bhaktapur we experienced the wonders of Banana Lassi, a frothy yoghurty drink, and Newari food. This consisted of chapatti pizza, beaten rice, soya beans, curried ginger, and fried egg and potatoes. All agreed this was delicious and to finish off the meal we were served a cool set yoghurt.

After lunch we visited Bhaktapur's cultural sites including the Five Tiered Pagoda, the tallest in Nepal, and the Pottery Square where no kilns are needed due to the baking sun. During our wanderings a number of the group took the opportunity to stock up on local clothing and other bargains!

Alice had lived in Bhaktapur and worked in a special needs school previously and we took the opportunity to renew contacts with the school and spend time with the children, a most rewarding experience for all. Although we could not speak the same language, a simple smile said all that was needed.

And then it started to rain. It would seem the monsoon remains ever present

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