I needed a little rest from sightseeing so booked some classes in the hope to meet some travellers.

Good old trip advisor sited a wonderful organisation called Backstreet Academy (see http://www.backstreetacademy.com). They employ local students who facilitate workshops with local craftsmen from Nepal. The students get part time hours and they help translate during the session.

I chose a mask making course. Loved it. It took about 3 hours and I sat in the smallest shop I’d ever seen. The craftsman cut the wood, showed me how he shaped it (certain more technical terms could be used here) then guided me to have a go. It was really satisfying and something I would to do again.
I asked why I made long face carving, perhaps it was traditional in Nepalese culture? He said no, it was just easier for beginners to make!

Half of my experience was talking to the facilitator, Kanti. She was wonderful. We talked about everything, comparing our cultures in all manner of subjects. It was so insightful and we’ve swapped details.

I’m doing another course today making Momo’s (Nepalese dumplings) and she is facilitating again.

Kanti lives in a small town where I’m staying in a few weeks and she’s invited me to go and meet her family, especially her mum. She said it would make her mums year. I think I would really like to do it so I’ll bring it up again today.

I didn’t meet any travellers but I’m not bothered in the slightest, that will happen on the various tours I’m booked on. An opportunity to talk to someone who I felt comfortable with and who I could relate to has been priceless. Feeling extremely lucky, and I made a mask.

Much love, C.xxx