Nepal 2023 Blog

These boots were made for walking

By Jenna McCarthy

March 15, 2023

After being woken up at 4 AM by a rooster, we arose to another beautiful view. Waking up to clear skies after another night of rain is jarring here because you realize that the rain clouds hide the majestic snowy peaks of Annapurna. 

Personally, I felt like today was less challenging than yesterday. It was less hot outside, and we were walking through forests that provided shade. It was also flatter terrain than yesterday. 

In addition to the terrain, Lena Schneck ‘23 comments, “I’m feeling more acclimated, and I also really enjoyed my conversation with our guide that made the time pass quickly. He taught me a lot about what it’s like to lead trips in Nepal!” 

We hiked over a suspensions bridge and learned that they were donated by Gurkas - fierce Nepali warriors who graduated from a competitive military program. We also learned that Nepal has never been colonized, only subject to colonial influence. While stopped by the bridge, we saw a flock of green parrots fly by which made us all feel like we were in Planet Earth. We also saw a very cute toddler with small hoop earrings blowing a red balloon. 

Other things we saw include white orchids that hang upside down and other bright red flowers that bloom in multiples on the trees. We also saw two waterfalls. Sadly, Raco has left us :( 

All in all today was a good day with only some brief rain at lunch. 

That’s all for now, 

Jenna (“short & sweet blog post”) McCarthy ‘23