Safe and sound in Kathmandu

10/26/25

It’s hard to believe 8.5 years have flown by since my last visit to this massive and bustling city. I’m amazed by the positive changes, with more cleanliness and just a little less chaos. Somehow, cyclists, motorbikes, cars, and pedestrians all weave through the narrow streets without stop signs, guided only by horns and quick reflexes. It’s a kind of organized madness that somehow works.

Our time here in Nepal’s capital turned out to be shorter than expected. With a storm moving in, we’re heading to Lukla tomorrow and starting our acclimatization process a day early. As often happens in the mountains, plans shift quickly. Instead of flying in on a small plane that has to tackle the famously short runway at the base of the mountain, we’ll be taking a helicopter directly into Lukla. That takes the edge off the usual adrenaline rush of sticking the landing, but it will still be an incredible way to start the journey.

More from Lukla soon. The dance will continue from higher ground!