I normally look for scenic beauty, but in Nepal I was struck by the ever-present terraces and the houses with million dollar views.
The rhododendron is the national flower of NepalThe rising sun shines through dusty air over the mountains and past scraggly treesThis small Hindu temple is the only one I sawWe descend to the river, cross the bridge and begin the steep climb on the other side.Houses were often located at one end of a terrace, making them essential a part of the field.A cluster of houses overlooks the mountains and a river valley. Every house in this part of Nepal has a million dollar view.Goats were common. Electrical lines were only present in a few areas, and I bet they didn’t reach all of the houses in those areas.A primary school commands the attention here. Note also the terraced fields on the mountainside. Each terrace is about 8 feet above or below the adjoining terrace. How much labor did it take to build them?The Nepali have seemingly built terraces in every place possible.A tree marks a perfect place to pause along your journey.Even in the relatively flat ground by the river there are terracesThis woman and her (young-ish) children climbed this steep trail as if it were normal for them. You can’t see from this angle, but she carries a baby on her back.Trekkers press onA rare stretch of flat land awaits usEverything seems to come together here: River, mountains, trail, terraces, houses, trees, skyWe crossed the river many timesThis tree affords some shade an a perfect place to pause as we near the end of our journey
Adventure After 60 