When people get inspired, they’ll be going places. That saying is definitely true for Wita Adelina (@witaadelina) who decided to take on Nepal after watching one of her favorite movies, Doctor Strange. Luckily she shared her journey to the home of the Himalayas, a magical place where people can find peace and adventure all at once.
Text & Photograph by Wita Adelina.
First of all, tell us a bit about yourself?
Halo, I’m Wita Adelina. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in Communication Management. I love travelling! The excitement of it all- to explore somewhere new, to face all the little challenges that go along with it. Also, I love to take lots of photographs, then write it down on my blog when I’m back.
How did you end up in Nepal?
I love the movie Doctor Strange so much! After watching it, all I wanted to do was to go to Kathmandu and visit the filming locations there, haha. I stayed there for 5 days.
What was the weather like?
I went there in May, so the days were mixed up between warm and rain (and mostly rain), so I didn’t had the chance to see the snow-topped mountains. But do visit Nepal within June ‘till September, if you want to do some trekking.
Clothing wise, what do you think fellow travelers should wear while being in Nepal?
The temperature in Nepal, if you’re not trekking/hiking is warm, so you can wear something thin and ethnic. I favored loose, comfortable, bright outfits with a local jewelry for accessories. But for temple visits and other holy places, you should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless tops to respect the customs.
What were the people like?
Nepali people are the friendliest! They love to share and make you feel welcomed. Along the way I met people who doesn’t speak any word other than their native language, but they kept trying to communicate with people and help them no matter what.
Tell us about the places you visited in Nepal!
I explored several cities there; Kathmandu, Nagarkot, Patan, Pasupatinanth, and Bhaktapur. I stayed in Thamel (Kathmandu) and it was the best place to shop souvenirs or trekking gears with a very good price (so put on your bargaining hats). But, instead of trekking, I decided to follow the footsteps of Dr. Strange in Nepal! So, I went to the ancient Pashupatinath Temple and the Patan Durbar Square, but my favorite hands down is Patan Durbar Square. There were traditional Nepalese arts and handicrafts on display everywhere (on walls, stairs and steps, building facades, rooftops, pavement, and benches, even in downspouts!). Walking through Patan was like walking through an outdoor museum. It was very beautiful.
What kind of activities did you do there?
Of course, I visited filming locations of Doctor Strange, and took some photos with the same pose as Benedict Cumberbatch did on the film. In Patan Durbar Square, my friend and I spent almost 2 hours just for searching the same window that Doctor Strange is overlooking Kathmandu from, which was one of the museum windows. I also went to Pasupatinanth Temple for a photo in the bridge that Doctor Strange walked on.
How was your culinary experience in Nepal?
In the tourist destinations like Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Pathan, you can easily find Western restaurants. But, for traditional cuisine, I suggest, Yangling Tibetan Restaurant in Thamel. You have to try Momo (Nepalese dumplings) and Nepal’s milky tea/masala tea, a drink with a little bit of spicy taste!
The thing you love most about your trip?
I fell for the place. It is a country that is deeply mystical and religious in all parts, and in the most peaceful, beautiful, and colorful way.
What’s the thing you wished people knew more about Nepal?
Everything in Nepal is very affordable. It’s the perfect destination for travelers longing for a different destination while on a tight budget. Also, Visa-on-Arrival is available for Indonesians. It makes flying into Nepal an easy travel option.
Last question, what did you bring back home with you?
Yak shawls and pashmina, colorful statement earrings and necklaces, ethnic bracelets, and a prayer flag.
Read more articles at 247 COTTONINK Magazine.
