drawn in by the charm by the mostly women selling their trinkets . It ’ s a game that pulls and one you ’ ll rarely win . I walked away with a ‘ traditional ’ bracelet ; no doubt produced in China .
On the east bank of the Bagmati , it ’ s easy to be drawn into the freakiest show , a world of street level commerce , the seedier side of Kathmandu daily life , to be lured away from what the Pashupatinath temple and it ’ s procession of life , in death , has to offer . Through western eyes , with little understanding , it ’ s inevitable that early judgement will form a basis of opinion that is far from the truth . A voyeuristic experience that is far from . Witness to life , through death , a continuing cycle that reincarnates , offering love of the being and sharing the experience with all . Are we merely watching with morbid curiosity a body being burnt and discarded into an already heavily polluted water , or are we guests at a deeply personal affair ? To the family members on the opposing side of the Bagmati we are the latter , not only guests , but an integral member of the process . Our viewing plays witness to the importance of the event and the individual , and the more people that view , the greater the importance . For that moment we are all members of an extended family , one of humanity .
The ride back to our accommodation is one of quiet contemplation as we realise that we ’ ve been witness to a cultural treat so vastly different to our norm , one that started with astonishment and ended with an education no textbook could offer . The freakiest show perhaps offered a glimpse into ourselves , asking the question , are we the real freaks ? LW
TRAVERSE was invited to Nepal by Altitude Riders , one of Nepal ' s leading companies specialising in unique adventures where many struggle to venture , offering an experience that encompasses the Nepali and local cultures unique to this part of the world .
Kathmandu book ended five weeks of exploration taking in the Upper Mustang and the central-west .
Altitude Riders offer an experience that is far from the norm , removed from the gloss of regular tourist destinations . If you ' re serious about adventure motorcycle travel , Altitude
Riders has something that will whet your appetite .
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