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Thamel

The re-discovery of Nepal: Driving across the country

Bhaktapur in Kathmandu

Bhaktapur in Kathmandu

Ever since Nepal made front page news for its political troubles, it has been struck off as a holiday destination by most Indians. But surely Nepal’s charms must still be holding good? Ajay Jain hit the road in his SUV to re-discover Nepal he last visited in the 1980s as a school boy. And came back giving a thumbs up to the country. [continue reading…]

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Great Himalayan Drive Day 14: Sex and drugs for sale on eve of Shivratri in Kathmandu in Nepal

Even when sin is for sale, there are no taboos in invoking the Gods to close a deal.

Here is the not so surprising part: Walking around in Thamel in Kathmandu after sunset, I had a few boys come up to me and whispering if I would like to smoke hash. No thank you I said. And then one came up asking if I would like ‘some enjoyment’ with beautiful women. I smiled at the guy with a shake of my head to say, “Thanks, but no thanks.” And then came the surprise. [continue reading…]

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Great Himalayan Drive Day 12: Impressions of Thamel in capital Kathmandu in Nepal

The many faces of Thamel in Kathmandu in Nepal

The many faces of Thamel in Kathmandu in Nepal

I set out from Gorkha for Chitwan National Park on a rainy morning – only to realize jungle safaris may not be possible in such weather. I decided to turn towards Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, a place I have been waiting 24 years to go back to. My previous trip was a family visit during school days.

And my destination was Thamel, the backpacker’s hub with its famed eateries, shopping and nightlife. It is/was known as the most ‘happening’ part of Nepal. Of course, I had been warned that things are no longer the same like they were in the 1990s. Here are some impressions I came back with: [continue reading…]

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