From Jeju Island to Kathmandu: from "J" to "K" on my alphabetical ordered world tour

Oh, what a journey it was! From the pristine beaches of Jeju Island to the colorful chaos of Kathmandu, my senses were in for a wild ride.

After saying goodbye to the crystal clear waters and endless green tea fields of Jeju, I hopped on a plane and braced myself for the long haul to Nepal. As the plane descended into Kathmandu, I could already smell the incense and hear the bustling streets below.

Stepping out of the airport, I was greeted by a sea of colorful saris, turbans, and dreadlocks. I couldn't help but feel a little out of place in my sneakers and backpack, but hey, I was ready to embrace the hippie vibes of Kathmandu.

Navigating the narrow streets was like playing a game of Tetris with people, motorbikes, and cows. The honking horns and spicy smells were overwhelming at first, but I quickly adapted and joined in on the chaos.

Kathmandu

I'm currently sitting in a cozy café, surrounded by billboards covered in yoga course advertisements. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mixed with the incense burning on the altar is making my mouth water. The walls are adorned with colorful mandalas and photographs of Himalayan peaks, adding to the hippie vibe of the place.

As I sip my latte, I can't help but people-watch. The café is filled with travelers from all over the world, chatting about their latest treks and cultural experiences. In the corner, a group of backpackers is planning their next adventure over a game of Jenga. I can hear the giggles of a couple sharing a slice of carrot cake, and the sound of fingers tapping on laptops from the digital nomads scattered around the room.

But it's not just the cafes that make Kathmandu a haven for travelers. The city is bursting with temples and other typical tourist attractions, each with its own unique flavor. The Pashupatinath Temple, with its intricate carvings and chanting sadhus, is a must-visit for anyone interested in Hindu culture.

Boudhanath Stupa

The Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in the world, is a peaceful escape from the chaos of the city. The Swayambhunath Stupa, or the Monkey Temple as the locals call it, is a feast for the senses with its colorful prayer flags and mischievous monkeys.

Kathmandu

As I walk through the streets, the sights and smells are overwhelming. The vibrant colors of the saris and prayer flags stand out against the dusty roads and gray buildings. The sound of temple bells mixes with the honking horns of the motorbikes, creating a symphony of chaos. The smell of spicy street food competes with the aroma of incense and burning trash. It's a sensory overload, but somehow it all works together to create the unique charm of Kathmandu.

Despite the chaos, the city has a calming energy that draws you in. The people are friendly and welcoming, always ready to share a cup of chai or a smile. It's a city of contradictions, where ancient traditions meet modern trends and spiritual seekers mingle with thrill-seekers. It's a place where you can find inner peace on a rooftop yoga class or get your adrenaline pumping on a bungee jump.

As I finish my latte and step out of the café, I take a deep breath and soak in the energy of the city. Kathmandu may be hectic, but it's also a place of beauty and wonder, where every corner holds a new adventure.