It was heartbreaking to see the devastation caused by the 7.8 magnitude earthquake in April 2015.
The disaster claimed over 8,000 lives, injured more than 21,000 people, and destroyed hundreds of years of historical buildings, temples, and cultural landmarks. The city’s streets, usually full of life and colour, bore the scars of the catastrophe, with collapsed structures and rubble serving as a stark reminder of its impact.
Thankfully, our guide, Puspa, who is based in Kathmandu and had led us across the Himalayas on our Annapurna Base Camp trek was safe. Knowing he and his family and the porters who carried our backpacks were unharmed was a huge relief amidst the widespread destruction.
Seeing Kathmandu after the earthquake was sobering, a reminder of both the fragility of life and the resilience of the people who call this historic city home.
Trip date
May 2011
Where we stayed
Hotel Ganesh Himal, 728, Chhetrapati, Thamel, Kathmandu
Where and what we ate
We visited the famous ‘Everest Steak House Restaurant‘ in Kathmandu and had a massive plate of steak, potatoes, and gravy just before we headed off to Pokhara prior to embarking on our trek to Anna Purna Base Camp.
I remember the food being excellent and just what we needed before walking many miles through the Himalayas.
It cost about £4 each to eat such a hearty meal.
I was looking a lot hairier than usual (those were the days). I’ve still got hair; it’s just not evenly distributed 🙂
