Nepal > First impressions of Kathmandu

It’s only half past five in the morning, but it’s already 28 degrees in Doha. Fortunately, the terminal has air conditioning (where wouldn’t it in this oil-rich little state?). At half past seven, we can board again for today’s final flight to Kathmandu. At the airport, there’s no sign of any food restrictions due to Ramadan (at least for non-Muslims). The restaurant is selling coffee, and we quickly grab a cup. At quarter to eight, we take off for the third time today on a nearly five-hour flight. The clock moves forward again — this time by three hours and fifteen minutes. It’s the first time I’ve been in a country with a time zone offset that isn’t a whole hour. I try to think of a reason for this, but can’t come up with one. As we approach Nepal, it’s cloudy. Kathmandu lies in the Kathmandu Valley against the backdrop of the Himalayas. By now, I’m getting pretty tired of traveling, and I’m relieved to see the first houses of Kathmandu sliding past under the airplane window.

Nepal - View over Kathmandu Nepal

Soon after, the wheels touch the runway. At customs, a visa must be obtained. Since we’re only staying for two nights, a free 72-hour visa is sufficient. Just as it’s my turn, I’m told I need an additional form. The people ahead of me didn’t need it, and no one behind me has it either. Everyone quickly fills out the form, and the second attempt goes more smoothly. I hand in both forms at the same time; only the visa form is used, and the visa is stamped into my passport. After all the formalities, we meet our tour leader, Jozalien, outside the terminal. I had already met her last year in Paramaribo; she had guided the group after us through Suriname. It takes a long time for the group to gather — one suitcase hasn’t arrived. With one less bag, we board the bus and drive to our hotel in central Kathmandu. It’s rush hour, and the traffic is extremely busy. The bus squeezes through the crowded, horn-blaring streets. Along the way, the Nepalese guide talks about Kathmandu, but due to the intensive travel and all the impressions outside on the street, I barely catch any of the explanations. What a hectic city Kathmandu is! Even Bangkok seems calm in comparison. We arrive at our hotel at half past five and freshen up a bit. In the evening, we meet the entire group on the rooftop terrace, where Jozalien explains the itinerary. Afterwards, we walk into the Thamel district to have dinner.