Nepal Day 4: Chitwan To Pokhara

<<Previous Post: Nepal Day 3 - Canoeing & Elephant Riding In Chitwan National Park<<

If you ask me whichever city I like in Nepal, my answer would be Pokhara - a city we will be heading to from Chitwan National Park on our 4th day of our trip. Going to endure another 3 hours of bumpy ride before reaching the city I enjoyed the most. But of course in between the ride, we're rewarded with fascinating scenery


#1: After three hours ride from Chitwan National Park, finally we arrived in Pokhara.


#2: First thing first, check-in into Hotel Family Home where we are going to settle for two comfortable nights.

It's kinda free and easy day and because we don't have any proper plan of what to do and see, hence we ventured around the city ourselves and let our private driver cum tour guide to has his good rest. In addition, the location of our hotel is pretty convenient for us to explore the city without little legs having to walk too far.


#3: Let's fill up our hungry tummy before start to explore the city.

One of the reasons that make me fall for Pokhara I think mainly because of the beauty, tranquil and peaceful of Phewa Lake with Himalayas mountain as backdrop. This is the main highlight and key attraction of the city that draw thousands of visitors to come here. With the brightly painted wooden boats docking on the shore, it adds vibrant colour to the greenery.


#4: Brightly painted wooden boats docking on the shore adds vibrant colour to the greenery.


#5

#6: Overwhelm with the beauty and tranquil of Phewa Lake with Himalayas mountain as backdrop.

It will be a waste if we just leave the lake without doing nothing. And with that, we decided to book an hour guided paddle boat from the lakeside to a small and tiny island on the south east section of Phewa Lake. And within the island, there is a two-story pagoda temple by the name of Tal Barahi Temple devoted to the deity Tal Barahi. It is a hindu temple of the Goddess Durga, the protector of gods. An hour guided boat ride costs us 600 rupee with additional charge of 10 rupee per person for compulsory life jacket.


#7: We hired an hour guided paddle boat to a small and tiny island within the Phewa Lake.


#8: Tal Barahi Temple, a hindu temple of the Goddess Durga, the protector of gods.


#9

Right after we done with the boat paddling activity, we continue our day by endlessly roaming around the city. There are rows of souvenirs shops in the market section of the city. Whenever I visit a certain city especially those I never been before, I will spare some time (even for few minutes) to hunt for postcards, stamps and not forgetting fridge magnets from these souvenir shops to add into my personal collection.

#10: Souvenir shops in Pokhara - time for shopping.

Pokhara is well-known as the starting point for numerous trekking trails and expeditions in the Annapurna. Most trekkers heading for the Annapurna region will select Pokhara as their first pit stop, or as a relaxing station before heading out for some serious hiking. Hence, no surprise to see various shops selling abundance of hiking gears here. We noticed that brand like North Face, an activewear and outdoor sports gear from US seem to be pretty cheap here but we're unsure about the authenticity. 

#11: North Face activewear and outdoor sports gear are everywhere in the city. 

#12: Food in Nepal isn't that bad afterall. Almost everyday we have Asian fusion food with Western inspired cuisine.

>>Next Post: Nepal Day 5 - Sunrise Viewing & Tandem Paragliding in Sarangkot>>

Nepal Day 3: Canoeing & Elephant Riding In Chitwan National Park

<< Previous Post: Nepal Day 2 - From Kathmandu to Chitwan & Tharu Village<<

Birds chirping is what we heard and this means another brand new day of our adventure in Nepal. 

Our activities for today are canoeing and elephant riding. 

We walked to the river bank, which not far away from our stay to embark on a canoe ride. The experience of the canoeing along the calm river in early morning can be both a peaceful and a thrilling experience at the same time. I can't deny the ride on the wooden boat was indeed very relaxing, especially passing through the green picturesque surroundings but then deep down inside my heart, I was so scared and frightened when they said we might bump into crocodile. Crocodile is one of my biggest fear, after snake, spider and shark. 

#1: Early morning we went for canoeing along the river

Luckily for me but no luck for my friends, we didn't get the chance to spot any crocodiles. I can't imagine if we spot one, wondering will I faint on the boat? Hahaha... Right after we done with the canoeing, we were brought to the elephant breeding center. In Nepal, the elephant is fast becoming one of the endangered animals and this center was established to increase its number. 

#2: Elephant breeding center in Chitwan

#3: Feeling emotional when seeing those elephants being chained up but the reason behind is to avoid those elephants from roaming freely and crash into the village. 

Because I assign my friend to plan everything for this trip, I didn't know that we are going for an elephant ride, which I was strongly against it. Even I've been to Thailand several times but never have I plan for any elephant riding activities as I felt it's so cruel to sit on top of this innocent creature. But since my friend has arranged almost everything, I have no choice but to join along. Anyhow, I promise and told myself that this will be my first and last elephant ride. 

#4: Elephant ride in the oldest national park in Nepal

While riding on the elephant, I have this thought of "why don't just they drive jeep safari into the national park rather than riding on a elephant?". You can't see how heartbroken we were when the elephant rider keep hitting the elephant's forehead by using a bullhook spiked with nails in order to make the elephant keep on moving. I really felt so sorry for the elephant and guilty for riding it. So if possible, try to avoid from riding an elephant the next time you come to Chitwan for a visit. Do you know that Cambodia has finally bans elephant rides at Angkor Wat park? Read here for more. I wish those countries like Thailand, Myanmar, India, Sri Lanka and Nepal can do the same thing as well which is to ban the elephant riding activities. 

#5: We spotted few deers during the ride.

#6: The highlight of this trip - not one but two endangered Indian one-horned rhinos we saw. Feeling lucky but also guilty at the same time. 

#7: This will be my first and final elephant ride.

>>Next Post: Nepal Day 4 - Chitwan To Pokhara>>

Nepal Day 2: From Kathmandu To Chitwan National Park

<< Previous Post: Nepal Day 1 - Kathmandu <<

Woke up to another day in Kathmandu, the largest and capital city of Nepal.

Probably due to the long hour of flights we had a day earlier, hence we had a very good night rest. We slept pretty early without we realised. 

And the best part once you got out from the bed, there's a hearty breakfast awaiting for you. Such a heartwarming and attentive services served by the host of the guest house we stayed.

#1: The breakfast might seems pretty simple but we're truly appreciated the heartwarming services.

It's going to be one long and winding journey on our second day in Nepal as we're heading to Chitwan National Park, the first national park in Nepal. The ride is estimated to be around 5-6 hours and luckily, my friend has booked a private car with air-conditioned and the jeep they got for us, it is perfectly to fit in 6 of us along with our bags. 

#2: Our private car with air-conditioned and it can fit 6 of us.

As for our driver who drove and accompanied us throughout the trip, though his English is quite limited (he could only understand few words), at least he did try his best to accommodate with whatever our need and request. Oh well, after we left we're indeed kinda miss him. A young man but very funny and thoughtful.

#3: We stop here for photo opportunity but I not sure what's the name of this place. It's really stunning. 


#4: Can you spot what we saw on the top of the bus? Oh my goat!

After went through a number of bumpy roads with few stops for toilet break, glad that finally we have arrived our destination with safe and sound. We went and checked-in at Jungle Wildlife Camp where we are going to stay for two nights here.
   

#3: Jungle Wildlife Camp, this is where we stayed in Chitwan.

#4: This is how our room looks like. There's no air-conditioning within the room but you don't need it anywhere cause it will get cold during the night time. 

#5: Our lunch served by our lodging.


#6: The map of the national park.

Right after lunch and adequate of rest, it's time to check out what Chitwan has to offer. The first place our driver cum our tour guide brought us to was Tharu Tribal Village which not far away from our lodging.

The Tharu are an ethnic group indigenous to the Terai region of Nepal and have lived in Chitwan for hundreds of years. They called themselves as "The People of The Forest". They farm rice, corn lentil and hunt for animals such as wild boar, deer and rabbit along with river fish for their living. The village people might have a very simple and basic life but they are rich in cultural heritage.  

#7: Tharu Tribal Traditional Village

#8

While walking through the village, we saw the village people were busy with daily life activities but still, we were pleasantly greeted by them, especially the young little kids. We greeted back by saying "Namaste" which means Hello. After all, that's the only Nepalese word we know. Haha.. And to our surprise, the Tharu are still rely on elephants to transport their goods. 

#9


#10: What a beautiful sunset in Chitwan?

To end our night, we were bought to watch Tharu Cultural Show. The show starts at 8pm and last for almost an hour. Most of the students and some adults are involved in performing the local dance, including their signature Peacock dance. By the end of the show, visitors are invited to dance along. We're indeed having tons of fun that night. 

#11: Tharu Cultural Show to showcase their culture through dance and performances.

And with that, goodnight to Chitwan! Looking forward for our next day adventure in this national park.

>>Next Post: Nepal Day 3 - Canoeing & Elephant Riding in Chitwan National Park>>

Nepal Day 1: Kathmandu

Namaste Nepal! I know I know. This is again, another super long backdated travelogue of mine - a trip I went 5 years ago. But like they said, "It's better late than never".

FLYING IN
Kathmandu is the gateway to tourism in Nepal. In order to get there, you can take either Malaysia Airlines or Malindo Air from Kuala Lumpur to Kathmandu. As for time difference, Malaysia is 2 hours and 15 minutes ahead of Nepal.

VISA REQUIRED FOR MALAYSIAN
Malaysian citizens required a tourist visa in order to visit Nepal. Nepal issue multiple-entry visa with 15 days, 30 days and 90 days with different fee rates.

• 15 Days Multiple Entry Visa RM130
• 30 Days Multiple Entry Visa RM210
• 90 Days Multiple Entry Visa RM525

Normally it takes 1 working day for issuance of visa. For more info about Nepal visa, you can check out here. You can also apply visa upon arrival at the international airport, but for me I would not dare to take the risk. I would prefer to apply prior to my departure to Nepal. 

CURRENCY EXCHANGE

The official currency for Nepal is Nepalese Rupee. However not many money exchange shops in KK offer this currency, therefore I exchanged to US dollar beforehand. And exchanged dollar to Nepalese Rupee with the owner of the guest house I stayed.

US$1 = 97 Rupee as at November 2014

Currently, US$1 = 115 Rupee 

I hope that these brief and basic info able to give you some rough idea of what you should do before travelling to Nepal. 

FIRST DAY TO KATHMANDU

We booked our flight with AirAsia to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. Why AirAsia? One simple reason - cheap! We got a round-trip for RM678 (not including luggage and meals). My friends and I are those type willing to travel with budget. Unfortunately AirAsia has completely suspended its flight to Kathmandu October last year. Too bad! Not more cheap flight anymore. 

For this trip and for the very first time, I specially assigned my friend to become the tour leader and also tour organiser as I was completely occupied with work and family commitments at that period. Thanks to my friend for the well-organised throughout the trip and we're indeed enjoying it. 

#1: The flight duration from Kuala Lumpur to Kathmandu takes about 4 hour and 45 minutes. All foreign visitors are required to fill in arrival form upon arrival. 

#2: This is the main reason why I prefer window seat. Can you see what I see? Look closer.


#3: It's not a scud of clouds. It's Himalayan mountain by the way.


#4: Namaste Nepal! This is my official first trip to South Asia.

By the way, if you check-in any luggage, do keep the tag which printed by the airlines with you. Please don't throw it away cause once you claim your luggage from the conveyor belt, there will be few officers will check and verify whether the tag is same as the luggage you claim. Without the tag, you might get yourself in trouble. 

Once we got out from the arrival hall, the first thing we do is to get the local sim card. I can't deny that getting one in the airport would be costly than in the city but I don't want wasting my time from keep searching shops that selling sim card in town. Since there are few telcos just outside the arrival hall, immediately my friends and I signed up for it. Oh, they do accept US dollar cause we didn't plan to exchange money to Rupee in airport as there are service charges and lower rate offered.

UPDATE:
Now you can get your sim card prior to your trip from Hello1010. This is currently my favourite site which I will always check it out first before planing for my trip. 

Earlier I mentioned that my friend in charge of planning the whole trip, he pre-arranged for airport pick-up from the guest house we're about to stay. Thamel is the name of the area in Kathmandu we're staying for a night. Situated on the north region of Kathmandu, Thamel is one stop solution for all the travellers looking forward for; the shopper's hub, the place to buy hiking gears, clothing, supermarkets and even eateries. A crowded and busy streets lined up with hundred of shops and hotels on all the end. 

#5: Wandered around Thamel, tourists' mecca in Kathmandu. This is the best place to stay, dining and hunting for souvenirs.

#6: These colourful Tibetan prayer flags can be seen anywhere. These flags used to promote compassion, peace, strenght and wisdom.

Since it's our first day, what we do is just walking around and buying nothing - you know, a window shopping only cause we don't want to add more weight on our bag and carry through the rest of the days of our trip. But almost all of us are eyeing on Pashmina shawls which we intend to get by end of the trip. Only two things we bought on our first day - postcards and stamps. 

#7: We'll be back for these. 


#8: We settled our dinner at a restaurant serve both Western and Asian cuisines. 4 dishes to feast 6 of us.


#9: Shree Tibet Family Guest House - this is where we overnight on our first day in Kathmandu.

That's pretty sum up our first day in Nepal. Quite laid-back and relaxed type of travelling, nothing much we do cause we want to save more energy for the following days.

NOTE: Regarding our group tour expenses, I will share more by end of this travelogue.

>>Next Post: Nepal Day 2 - From Kathmandu To Chitwan National Park>>

The American Dream

Don't let you dreams be dreams. Make it happen. And this is my dream, "The American Dream".

I still vividly remember when I was travelled to Europe and one of the travellers I met in the hostel asked me, "Have you ever thought of going US since you've been to Europe couple times?" I was stunned, paused for a moment - the kind of question which never cross my mind. I keep planning my future trips to Europe but never once planning to go US. Why? Two simple reasons; due to airfares and the visa application.

Most of the times I saw the airtickets are between RM3,000 or even more, which I found quite costly, considering I still need to book additional ticket for my domestic round-trip from my hometown (Kota Kinabalu) to Kuala Lumpur (KL). Secondly, in order to apply US visa, I need to fly to KL prior to the trip (again, I have to bear another additional cost myself). Just with these two reasons, they dampen my dreams of going to US - costly and troublesome.

Not until one fine day, the boyfriend told me about trip to US from Kota Kinabalu which cost roughly around RM2,300 with China Southern Airlines. Plus, we don't have to fork out any additional costs, except flying to KL for visa application. But when I found out I can claim my round-trip tickets to KL as well as hotel stay for free (claim using my MAS Enrich points, AirAsia Big points and Agoda points I managed to accumulate), I think I have no excuse of not buying this ticket to US. 

I went KL alone at end of July cause the boyfriend had applied US visa last year. You can't imagine how stress, nervous and tension I was as I have Iran stamp on my passport. But turn out, my US visa application process was actually pretty fast and smooth - the interview was done less than 2 minutes. And that concludes - US, here I come! 

Since we're flying with China Southern Airlines, we need to transit in Guangzhou first before continue with our flight to US. For transit more than 8 hours, we're given hotel stay for free. Just that we need to apply China visa. Oh well, applying China visa in Kota Kinabalu is actually more convenient, easier and cheaper too (Single entry for RM30 and Double entry for RM50).

After 3 hours flight to Guangzhou, almost 24 hours of transit in Guangzhou plus 14 hours flight to US, finally I arrived in US. Let me kiss you, US Soil! 

The duration of our trip was about two weeks and we only focusing on the West Coast, covering cites and places like:

Los Angeles - We spent three days here and these are the things we do and see in the "City of Angels"

Hike up for the world famous Hollywood sign

Got out Go LA 3 Days Pass from Klook and we can enter numerous attractions such as Universal Studios, Warner Brothers Studios and more with breeze and easy. We even saved a lot for buying this pass.

From Los Angeles, we took overnight bus to Las Vegas. Once we arrived there, we rented a car and drove to Arizona. It's time for nature and landscape! 

Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona

It's exceptionally huge that we only manage to cover the West Rim.

Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona

This is one of my favourite spots for this trip. Apparently, Antelope Canyon is separated into two scenic slot canyon sections, referred to as Upper and Lower. We signed for the Lower tour with Ken's Tour. Bear in mind that you are not allow to enter Antelope Canyon without a native Navajo guide.

Horseshoe Bend (not far away from Antelope Canyon)

No entrance fee being charged but those with cars need to pay for the parking fee. And because of that, we went here twice - before the sunrise and during noon time for the sake of the Gram!

Las Vegas - They won't call this place "Sin City" for nothing. I never thought I will fall in love with this place cause initially I kept thinking this city is all about gambling, not until I was there myself.


There are plenty of things to do and see if you are not into gambling, like me. Who will ever thought my friends and I ended up buying a last minute ticket to watch Gwen Stefani performing live in Vegas. Now I know why this city is known as The Entertainment Capital of the World.

San Jose - Known as Capital of Silicon Valley, it is home of most tech industries like Facebook, Google and Apple. We took flight with Frontier Air from Las Vegas. 

San Francisco - Golden Gate Bridge is #1 on every visitor's list. Do you know that this iconic of San Francisco has been listed as one of the Seven Wonder of the Modern World? 

Don't miss out visiting Pier 39 and Fisherman's Wharf too when comes to San Francisco

Anaheim for Disneyland - There are two Disney Parks in California; Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. And guess what, we went both of them in two separate days. We played from 9am until 10pm. I definitely need a recharge battery for my body. 

Thanks to Klook once again for the Disneyland tickets. We don't have to bother about the long queue at the ticket booth and by just showing our mobile voucher at the entrance, the next thing we are in. These passes are hassle-free. Tickets sold by Klook is indeed more cheaper than the official website. 

After spending two weeks in US, finally back to reality again. Before reaching back home, once again we transit at Guangzhou and because our transit time more than 8 hours again, we're got hotel stay for free.


Well, the hotel room might not looking so grand and luxurious but at least I'm enjoying staying here for its excellent location - abundance of shops and eateries just outside the hotel (there are 7-Eleven, KFC, Pizza Hut, McD) and not forgetting, metro station just in front of the hotel.

And because metro station is just nearby, I took this opportunity to visit Guangzhou Tower (known as Canton Tower by the local). Now I can ticked off Guangzhou from my China list.

Since I have 10-year multiple entry visa now, I'm looking forward to venture more cities of US like New York and Florida (especially for Disney World) in future. My one and only consideration - cheap airticket. Keep my fingers crossed that I will spot another cheap fares again.

"All our dreams can come true, 

if we have the courage to pursue them." - Walt Disney