Tiji Festival Lo-manthang

Graham Lonsdale from New Zealand

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Recently returned from a fantastic four week trek combining Annapurna Base Camp and the Upper Mustang valley, taking in the Buddhist Tiji Festival Lomanthang. My very first venture on to the Asian continent and expertly managed by GB. His calm relaxed manner, attention to detail, endless patience and commitment our welfare and comfort made this holiday a joy. I felt in good safe hands all the time. His local knowledge made sure we were never far from rest, shelter, food or a good hot mug of black tea when we needed it. He handled the few departures from the original plan creatively and ensured we got to the festival on time when things were running late. On the couple of occasions I succumbed to a tummy bug, he carried my backpack to make it easier for me. Nothing was too much trouble.

I have to mention our ever cheerful porter Bhim as well, who achieved a Herculean feat from my Western viewpoint as a tramper who has vowed never to load anything more than 15kgs on his back – and that’s really too much! Bhim was pretty handy in the culinary department as well – five star chips and a pretty fine fried egg.

I’m going to explore more of Nepal before too long and GB’s the guide for me.