First taste of Nepali hospitality
After I booked online from Asiaroom website, a few hours later Laxman has already emailed me offering me free pick up from the airport. He wasted no time in finding out what was my tour plan as well. Arrival at the airport was a breeze but no thanks for the erratic monsoon weather it was pouring. There are some touts trying to get you into their paid taxi especially if they sense that you are a first timer in Nepal. Just have to tell them politely that you have a pick up arranged. Drive from the airport to Madhuban Guest house is only about 20 mins. Its located quite centrally within walking distance to the shopping belt in Thamel. However, the rain does not make the road like walking in the park. I would imagine it would be better if not for the monsoon. One of the most worthwhile place to visit would be the Palace Museum which is just 15 mins walk away from Madhuban that is provided one is already familiar with the intricacies of the road network. The room here is fair for a single traveller, with hot shower and fresh towel. There was a bit of dampness in the room but this could be attributed to the rainy season. I got Laxman to arrange a local tour from Kathmandu-Pokhara-Lumbini-Kathmandu-Nagarkot via a combination of tour bus, local bus and flight. Its one of the best I experienced in a new country by viewing it from different perspective. Excellent service from Laxman and his team.
