Lake at Pokhara

We had an early start this morning and walked through Thamel to the tourist bus stop for our 7am bus to Pokhara. A bit different to Vietnam where you get picked up by minibus at your hotel. On arrival there are about 20 buses parked along the side of the road and we have to wander up and down to find the correct one - most of them are going to the same destination. We've heard this journey can be pretty hairy and our bus is far from modern but we climb onboard.

Just after 7am the bus pulls out with all of six passengers and three staff - all the other buses seem to be at least half empty too. Very odd. In Vietnam all the bus companies would all get together and squash you on as few buses as possible but not here it seems - surely they can't even be covering their costs.

During the journey we realise Freddie has left her phone in Kathmandu but, that aside, the journey is pretty uneventful and not nearly as bumpy or scary as we had imagined. We arrive in Pokhara around 2pm. We have no money as we still haven't managed to use the ATM so we begin to walk to our destination after asking directions. Luckily it isn't too far and less than half an hour later we arrive at the Shanti Guest house, having been to the ATM en route and managed to get some cash ... phew!

We drop our bags off and go explore. Pokhara is incredibly touristy but much calmer than Kathmandu with a beautiful lake. We wander down to the lake for a beer and snack before heading for dinner elsewhere followed by some live music and dancing in a bar. Nice to be out of Kathmandu again.