Travel: Holiday in the Himalayas
Two CSA, Ltd. employees do Nepal

The small nation of Nepal straddles the heartland of the Himalayan Mountains. Rich in ancient culture and mountainous beauty, Nepal has long been a destination for travelers seeking adventure.

The Nepalese are descendants of three major migrations from India, Tibet, and North Burma. Hinduism is the predominant religion of the Nepalese people, but the country also has a strong Buddhist tradition.

Kathmandu has been popular with Western tourists since the 1960s when it became a key stop on the hippie trail. With a population tipping 800,000, Nepal’s capital buzzes with cars and people in a rhythm that is both modern and uniquely Nepalese.

In April, CSA, Ltd. employees Nancy and Dianne trekked the city streets and Himalayan foothills of Nepal.
Q: What were your favorite aspects of the trip?

A: Dianne: “Without a doubt, washing the elephants in the river was a major highlight of our tour. Watching a four-year-old baby elephant roll around and play in the water was especially fun. We also enjoyed the colorful houses and clothing; the landscape was completely beautiful.”

Q. What were your impressions and reflections on the Nepalese and Buddhist cultures?

A: Nancy: “It was very interesting to see how much of their art is influenced by Nepal’s two major religions, Hinduism and Buddhism. It seems to me that both religions co-exist in peace. The country is currently going through some political changes, but this didn’t affect us.”

Dianne: “The Nepalese are very friendly people. One of our guides took us to his home for tea and we spent some time with his family. It was a lot of fun.”
Q. Do you have any other recommendations for our readers?

A. Nancy and Dianne: “We would recommend the Royal Chitwan State Park and the Pokhara Valley to everyone who goes to Nepal. The state park was remote and rustic; it was reminiscent of summer camp. The scenery in Pokhara was absolutely beautiful, even though we were told the best time of year to visit is autumn.”
 
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