Canyoning

I went canyoning for the first time ever this weekend. It involves rappeling down slippery rock faces while waterfalls are falling all over your body. It was really wonderful, we went down 7 waterfalls and I think mid way I was rappelling pretty much on my own! It's a beautiful area near the Tibetan border and you can just see the steep hills on either side of you and the roaring river beneath you. The same day, we went rafting in the Bhote Kosi river, I had expected non stop paddling but it wasn't so. Regardless, it was loads of fun and the views of the valley and rapids during sunset were gorgeous. The only thing that was kinda icky was the fact that we rafted near small towns and there was sewage coming down into the river when we rafted pass, it was not very pleasant smelling.
I've finally finished my placement and I'm free! I have 6-7 weeks of vacation and next week I leave for my 3 week trek on the Annapurna circuit. After that, my trekking friends want to bike from Lhasa to Kathmandu. I'm not sure how fit I am and whether I can make it. I would like to think I'm a superathlete though so I am currently in on that plan. However, the main problem is still the visa. It is proving to be a huge headache.

Marathon superstars!

My trekking group are superstars! Today, they took part in Nepal's biggest marathon without proper training and basically on a whim! They had a great finish although the race was poorly organized (they got lost) and they were so dehydrated because there weren't enough water stations. In addition, one of the guys got hit by a motorbike as he was asking for directions to get to the finish! The girl in the group, Nina received a 350 USD prize for her finish! All in all, it was a great day for them although their bodies are showing the effects of the day. I am slightly ashamed to be in their trekking team because I am in really poor shape since I don't go to the gym and I don't walk to work everyday. Basically I'm a sedentary slob. Not good since I'll be going on a 3 week trek to the Annapurna circuit which requires uphill climbs over 1000 m possibly on some days. However, I'm going to get my butt into gear and start doing more active things, starting with hiking back from work, doing more stairs, walking faster, maybe eating less... maybe.
Had plans to go to Nagarkot to see beautiful sunrise/sunset but plans are now postponed. Seems to be the case lately. I am very glad I'm travelling for so long so that I have the luxury of postponing trips.