As we unpack our bags from the Fall season in Nepal, it seems all too quickly that we will be packing again for our Spring trips.
Whilst every expedition is sent a full kit list we are often asked for more info. Below you will find our suggested gear for Nepal both Spring/Fall seasons, although we are always open to questions.
Most days are hot and the rivers have warm water. Mornings can be cool as the sun may not break the mountain peaks until after 9am. Typical camp gear is shorts, shirt and a small micro fleece. For self support packages please be aware that you will have to carry gear in your kayaks. For Raft Support we are able to carry more gear and equipment.
WATER GEAR
Kayak, (Although we do hire- see below for 2011 range and prices)
PFD, we suggest one with a pocket
Paddle
Spare paddle/take apart paddle? (if on self support trip)
Paddle Jacket (although the weather is hot many may wish to use this as a barrier long or short sleeve suitable) although a hybrid style seems to work well.
Thermal top/s
Throw line / Rescue gear (please only pack this gear if you understand its use)
Spray Skirt
Helmet
Wetsuit/Board shorts/Thermal bottoms?
Dry bags one 30-60ltr to put your sleeping bag etc in whilst on the raft and/or smaller dry bags for all self support expeditions.
River shoes or similar.
CAMP, GROUP AND TRAVEL GEAR
Personal Medication/First Aid
Knife (letterman/swiss)
Duct Tape
Rope/Kayak Straps
Wash Kit inc wet wipes/cutica solution, Paclite Towel
Sun glasses and strap, Sun Block, Sun Hat
Wool Hat?
Flash light
Pen, Book/Note Book?
Spare Clothes, inc warm top (such as a fleece or sweat top), trousers/skirt, socks, shirt(s), thermal bottoms? Underwear, Rain jacket? Sport sandals/trainers? Flip-flops? (these are only a guide line).
Sleeping mat, Sleeping bag, 2/3 season, Bivvy bag/Tarp? Camera
mp3?
batteries?
Money/ATM card
Passport, visa info, copy of passport and air ticket info
Day pack/dry pack/bum bag for city use?
Water bottle/bladder system,** note all group water is filtered with iodine or via a Katadyn filter**.
PURE LAND EXPEDITIONS-Tested Products
Throughout years of use in the Himalaya we have come to trust the products we use, from solo descents to large all inclusive trips. Below is a list of the products that have been proven in the field not just by Daz but also by all our guides.
FEET
For the last 10 years Daz has been wearing Teva footwear on all the rivers in both Nepal and India. Raft guides on both the Sun Kosi and Zanskar wear Chaco out of choice. They work well for both treks and river days. At the moment our choice is the Terra Fi or Sun Kosi product, although we are aware other products are on the market. The Chaco version is also praised around the globe and works well as one shoe to do it all.
PFD
Due to the nature of the rivers in Asia a PFD does not need to have a rescue harness since its use is of minimal use. Pockets are important for storage of snack food etc. We suggest the Astral Tempo or Peak Guide due to none restrictive design although some of our guides wear the Langer AKC due to its large 'passport' pocket.
DRY BAGS
Dry bags need to be both strong and light, they need to fit well in the stern of the kayak and be able to hold your gear. All PURE LAND EXPEDITIONS staff use HF, Watershed and Alpkit products when possible. The Watershed products with the padded liner are great for fragile items like cameras, we use one for our laptop whilst in transit! Alpkit do drybags that pack small and are suitable as day packs but also for putting in the stern of the kayak if needed. The 20ltr Goudon is used daily. For stern kayak gear we use Watershed.
PADDLES
Paddles that break in the wilderness can cause major problems. It is also suggested that the spare/take apart paddles are of the same standard as your regular paddles. We use Werner take apart paddles and can also hire high quality take apart paddles to the group including Tywarp, Robson and Rough Stuff. It is suggested that the group has a spare set of paddles between every three members. Although your guide will also carry a set.
CAMP GEAR
A self inflating mattress is a great way to settle for the night, we use the THERMAREST, ALPKIT or EXPED range depending upon trip length. We are very wary of down filled sleeping bags as they are damaged when wet, (Grangers do a product to wash wet down) we use synthetic products with Gore-Tex or Pertex outer when possible. Our down bags are only used in Alaska and North India. During the spring Nepal season one of our guides sleeps in his thermals and no sleeping bag! Tarps make nice shelters but take up a lot of space. They can be nice and cheap or expensive with all bells and whistles.
~~~
KAYAK HIRE
If you are uncertain about flying with kayaks why not take advantage of our hire fleet.
New kayaks to our fleet include.
Everest, Karnali (m), Burn (m) and playboats Varun (m) and Loki.
These new additions compliment the other rentals available.
Rental rates start at 10 Dollar (USA) for older boats and we charge 25 per day for new designs. For example a new BURN or EVEREST is 25 , an old burn is 20 and an old H2 is 10.
Liquid Logic
Gus, x3 (10,20)
Grande Jefe, (25)
Jefe (25)
Eskimo
Salto (15)
Evo (25)
Pyranha
H2 (255) x2 (10)
Old style Burn s,m,l (20)
Everest x4 (25)
Burn (m) (25)
Karnali (m) (25)
Loki (m) (25)
Varun (m) (25)
Dagger
Nomad (8.1, 8.5) (25)
Mamba (8) (25)
We are also able to hire helmets, pfds, skirts and paddles.
Thursday, 9 December 2010
Thursday, 7 October 2010
Nepal
Not too many days left in the UK and then its off to Nepal.....Sun Kosi time.
Along with our schedule trips we have also got some great bespoke packages, just like the one below.
ARUN GORGES KAYAK EXPEDITION
START AND FINISH- KATHMANDU
GRADE- UP TO CLASS 4/5 (PORTAGE OPTION)
REGION- HIMALAYA
STYLE-FULLY SELF SUPPORTED, ADVENTURE EXPEDITION KAYAKING
DURATION- 16 DAY
GROUP SIZE - MIN 2, MAX 4
GUIDING UNDERTAKEN BY EXPERT GUIDES
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (optional)
Up on arrival in Kathmandu, met by representative of PURE LAND EXPEDITIONS and transfer to hotel in Kathmandu. Time to explore the chaotic capital. Overnight Kathmandu.
Day 2: Arrival in Kathmandu (second arrival)
This is our shake down day, we will leave Kathmandu following an early breakfast and head to the lower section of the Upper Bhote Kosi, we will leave our sleeping gear at our riverside resort before paddling the river from the marker at km95 down to the dam at Lamasangu. This section has some classic class 4/4+ sections. We will spend the night at our resort.
Day 3: Kathmandu to Bhote Kosi
After breakfast we will set off up the valley towards Tibet. We will launch our kayaks below the ‘Jonah’ rapid and enjoy the style of this steep technical river. After our descent we will enjoy cool beers at our resort before heading back to our Kathmandu hotel.
Day 4: Upper Bhote Kosi
After breakfast we will load our private plane and set off on our scenic flight toward Tumlingtar and our Airstrip in the sky. We will stay the night at a local lodge and enjoy the last taste of civilisation, how ever minor.
Day 5: Journey to Tumlingtar
At Tumlingtar we will hire porters for our 4 day walk to Headanga bridge just outside Num.
Our trek takes us deep into the Himalayan foothills. This is truly an expedition and we will be immersed in the local communities. We will settle for the night at a local lodge
Day 6: Day One, Trek
After our rested night we will continue walking along the trail. With each step we will be going deeper into the Bhotie people and will see how they still practice the ancient Bon religion.
Day 7: Day Two, Trek
The trail climbs steep and at time we will be breathless. We will take our time to settle into the trek enjoying local communities and engaging vistas. Tonight we will rest in a local tea house and eat our fill of local curry.
Day 8: Day Three, Trek
This is our last day of the trek and we will look over to Kanchenjunga and Makalau. Our cameras will be in constant use as we look on in awe at the majestic mountains. We will rest for the night in Num and rest.
Day 9: Day Four, Trek
Following breakfast we will take a short trek an hour so to the bride near the border with Nepal and Tibet. We will surrounded by Bhotie hill people. Fully aware that this is a real expedition. We will paddle a short section today under 10 miles and camp for the night on the river near the Ipsuwa Khola.
Day 10: Day One, Kayak
Following our breakfast we will launch again into the challenging water, taking our time to portage the most dangerous rapids. We will paddle around 14 miles today again settling for the night at the side of the river.
Day 11: Day Two, Kayak
Waking slowly we will enjoy a breakfast of substance and make our way down this mighty river. We will portage the most sections of the day. Sleeping bags and a cozy night on the beach will be welcome we will descend around 8 miles today stopping near Tumlingtar for the night. We will walk for around 20 minutes from the river to sample the delights of this hill station. At Tumlingtar we will re-supply with food.
Day 12: Day Three, Kayak
After a hearty breakfast we will set off. The river loosing some of its ‘fire in the belly’ with spacious rapids it will be a delight. Again we will settle the night on the beach and dreams will come easy.
Day 13: Day Four, Kayak
A wide expansive beach will be our aim today, full of joy at having made the descent we will cruise the class 4 rapids.
Day 14: Day Five, Kayak
We will be paddling the section from the village of Raighat towards Chatra on the Sapta Kosi. Relaxing we will be amazed as the hills fade away and we head towards India and our private transport. Our private transport will take us back to Kathmandu and our Hotel. The journey will take around 16 hrs, although a flight back is also an option.
Day 15: Day Six, Kayak
After breakfast it is time to relax and think about the experiences and the river living life. Kathmandu is a maze of Hindu and Buddhist temples and those that wish to experience this are welcome to guided tour. This is our last time to laugh with our new friends as departures to host country take place tomorrow.
Day 16:
Shopping and sights and afternoon departure to ‘Host country‘.
Along with our schedule trips we have also got some great bespoke packages, just like the one below.
KAYAKING AND EVEREST
ARUN GORGES KAYAK EXPEDITION
START AND FINISH- KATHMANDU
GRADE- UP TO CLASS 4/5 (PORTAGE OPTION)
REGION- HIMALAYA
STYLE-FULLY SELF SUPPORTED, ADVENTURE EXPEDITION KAYAKING
DURATION- 16 DAY
GROUP SIZE - MIN 2, MAX 4
GUIDING UNDERTAKEN BY EXPERT GUIDES
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (optional)
Up on arrival in Kathmandu, met by representative of PURE LAND EXPEDITIONS and transfer to hotel in Kathmandu. Time to explore the chaotic capital. Overnight Kathmandu.
Day 2: Arrival in Kathmandu (second arrival)
This is our shake down day, we will leave Kathmandu following an early breakfast and head to the lower section of the Upper Bhote Kosi, we will leave our sleeping gear at our riverside resort before paddling the river from the marker at km95 down to the dam at Lamasangu. This section has some classic class 4/4+ sections. We will spend the night at our resort.
Day 3: Kathmandu to Bhote Kosi
After breakfast we will set off up the valley towards Tibet. We will launch our kayaks below the ‘Jonah’ rapid and enjoy the style of this steep technical river. After our descent we will enjoy cool beers at our resort before heading back to our Kathmandu hotel.
Day 4: Upper Bhote Kosi
After breakfast we will load our private plane and set off on our scenic flight toward Tumlingtar and our Airstrip in the sky. We will stay the night at a local lodge and enjoy the last taste of civilisation, how ever minor.
Day 5: Journey to Tumlingtar
At Tumlingtar we will hire porters for our 4 day walk to Headanga bridge just outside Num.
Our trek takes us deep into the Himalayan foothills. This is truly an expedition and we will be immersed in the local communities. We will settle for the night at a local lodge
Day 6: Day One, Trek
After our rested night we will continue walking along the trail. With each step we will be going deeper into the Bhotie people and will see how they still practice the ancient Bon religion.
Day 7: Day Two, Trek
The trail climbs steep and at time we will be breathless. We will take our time to settle into the trek enjoying local communities and engaging vistas. Tonight we will rest in a local tea house and eat our fill of local curry.
Day 8: Day Three, Trek
This is our last day of the trek and we will look over to Kanchenjunga and Makalau. Our cameras will be in constant use as we look on in awe at the majestic mountains. We will rest for the night in Num and rest.
Day 9: Day Four, Trek
Following breakfast we will take a short trek an hour so to the bride near the border with Nepal and Tibet. We will surrounded by Bhotie hill people. Fully aware that this is a real expedition. We will paddle a short section today under 10 miles and camp for the night on the river near the Ipsuwa Khola.
Day 10: Day One, Kayak
Following our breakfast we will launch again into the challenging water, taking our time to portage the most dangerous rapids. We will paddle around 14 miles today again settling for the night at the side of the river.
Day 11: Day Two, Kayak
Waking slowly we will enjoy a breakfast of substance and make our way down this mighty river. We will portage the most sections of the day. Sleeping bags and a cozy night on the beach will be welcome we will descend around 8 miles today stopping near Tumlingtar for the night. We will walk for around 20 minutes from the river to sample the delights of this hill station. At Tumlingtar we will re-supply with food.
Day 12: Day Three, Kayak
After a hearty breakfast we will set off. The river loosing some of its ‘fire in the belly’ with spacious rapids it will be a delight. Again we will settle the night on the beach and dreams will come easy.
Day 13: Day Four, Kayak
A wide expansive beach will be our aim today, full of joy at having made the descent we will cruise the class 4 rapids.
Day 14: Day Five, Kayak
We will be paddling the section from the village of Raighat towards Chatra on the Sapta Kosi. Relaxing we will be amazed as the hills fade away and we head towards India and our private transport. Our private transport will take us back to Kathmandu and our Hotel. The journey will take around 16 hrs, although a flight back is also an option.
Day 15: Day Six, Kayak
After breakfast it is time to relax and think about the experiences and the river living life. Kathmandu is a maze of Hindu and Buddhist temples and those that wish to experience this are welcome to guided tour. This is our last time to laugh with our new friends as departures to host country take place tomorrow.
Day 16:
Shopping and sights and afternoon departure to ‘Host country‘.
Monday, 27 September 2010
STIKINE
Haunted shadows awake me, a serpent cuts the land. Burning with each beat of my heart. Cold sweats and startled sleep once more. Wounded, I had ached to dance to its song since I first had unstable beginnings in kayaking. As challenges came and went the Stikine sat proud, a giant into my pantomime of exploration.
11 Sept, a sleepless flight to Vancouver and a drive to the North Country, the magnet pulled faster and faster. 12th Sept as darkness fell-tired. The night offered promises in the morning light.
Confused conversations, like the drunkards plea, had drawn six together. We had one common thread, the morning light brought a clear cloudless sky. Packed and loaded we paddled down to the closing wall. Gray vaulted doors with shimmering threads, the Grand Canyon Of The Stikine.
Rapids came and went, with each wave friendships grew. The pull to put on had sacrificed my body clock. Portages were difficult and eddies missed. My body hampered with fatigue. But this band of brothers became solid.
Three days the canyon, all housed in isolated grandeur let us pass. Emotions the mental landscapes were pushed and pulled then set free in a world of boundless possibilities.
Framed in the walls, no hike out, no portage you stare-heart beating into the gut. All snarl and barks. All the demons of the heart. Your blades try to power through the water, slithers of chance form and disappear. Head down, you commit. Roll the dice, load the gun, dance with the reaper - but it means more than this.
Small but critical a 5ft crack ejects you from the canyon, the worst is behind but you know more is to come.
Gravel beaches and First Nation fishermen salute its passing. But the flame is still alight, its a place of magic and spells. Of silence and noise. Of the passion and grace. Of trust and chance. The majesty and honour envelopes you. I was numb both physically and mentally at the take out, no one tells you about this.
Without the unwritten bond, without the band of brothers,
The serpent could coil and crash at any moment. So its with respect that I take these memories and remember the path of the heart.
Its not about commercial gain, or funding. Its not about what kayak you ride or what paddle you have. Its not even about the moves you make. Its about more-much more. Its about the words that cannot be said, the truth that shines in the darkest hours and the salute to the river.
For this I thank you all, my friends. For the river, a thank you is not enough- a lotus to you- my teacher.
11 Sept, a sleepless flight to Vancouver and a drive to the North Country, the magnet pulled faster and faster. 12th Sept as darkness fell-tired. The night offered promises in the morning light.
Confused conversations, like the drunkards plea, had drawn six together. We had one common thread, the morning light brought a clear cloudless sky. Packed and loaded we paddled down to the closing wall. Gray vaulted doors with shimmering threads, the Grand Canyon Of The Stikine.
Rapids came and went, with each wave friendships grew. The pull to put on had sacrificed my body clock. Portages were difficult and eddies missed. My body hampered with fatigue. But this band of brothers became solid.
Three days the canyon, all housed in isolated grandeur let us pass. Emotions the mental landscapes were pushed and pulled then set free in a world of boundless possibilities.
Framed in the walls, no hike out, no portage you stare-heart beating into the gut. All snarl and barks. All the demons of the heart. Your blades try to power through the water, slithers of chance form and disappear. Head down, you commit. Roll the dice, load the gun, dance with the reaper - but it means more than this.
Small but critical a 5ft crack ejects you from the canyon, the worst is behind but you know more is to come.
Gravel beaches and First Nation fishermen salute its passing. But the flame is still alight, its a place of magic and spells. Of silence and noise. Of the passion and grace. Of trust and chance. The majesty and honour envelopes you. I was numb both physically and mentally at the take out, no one tells you about this.
Without the unwritten bond, without the band of brothers,
The serpent could coil and crash at any moment. So its with respect that I take these memories and remember the path of the heart.
Its not about commercial gain, or funding. Its not about what kayak you ride or what paddle you have. Its not even about the moves you make. Its about more-much more. Its about the words that cannot be said, the truth that shines in the darkest hours and the salute to the river.
For this I thank you all, my friends. For the river, a thank you is not enough- a lotus to you- my teacher.
Friday, 6 August 2010
Flood
Leh has been hit by floods. Our friends in India have posted this message which reminds us how fragile things are. Our thoughts go to those in the area, to family and friends.
Things have worsened in Leh since last night, the Trans Himalaya has indeed come down. There has been massive cloudbursts last night at 9:30pm. Even telephone exchanges, hospitals and airports are hit. This morning, Leh airport was full of water, there are several people dead, the Manali - Leh and Leh-Srinagar highways have several bridges and sections of road washed away.
We have 3 vehicles including two trucks with guides and staff that are missing, we do not know their location or whether they are safe. News is not coming in as most phone lines are out. Indian TV has just begun reporting on this news. Watch for updates. Several trekkers are reportd missing.
Weather forecast for the next full week is not encouraging.
There are reports of several people buried under house collapses, Leh town is out of electricity, has several dead strewn about its bus stand. I am trying to find out more about the situation but it is difficult. There are people stuck on trails, rivers that have risen rapidly, and some are missing.
Air traffic to Leh is suspended, till further notice. The army has taken over and restricted movement to get things in order. Traffic into Leh has been brought to a complete standstill and evacuation is the priority right now.
There is no news yet of our guides, staff and vehicles. You can look up news coming in, at ::
http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/leh-f ... sing-42357
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/indi ... 264165.cms
http://ibnlive.in.com/news/dozens-kille ... 287-3.html
Please do NOT travel out to Ladakh and put all plans of hold.
Vaibhav Kala
We have also been given this news info from some friends in India.
Things have worsened in Leh since last night, the Trans Himalaya has indeed come down. There has been massive cloudbursts last night at 9:30pm. Even telephone exchanges, hospitals and airports are hit. This morning, Leh airport was full of water, there are several people dead, the Manali - Leh and Leh-Srinagar highways have several bridges and sections of road washed away.
We have 3 vehicles including two trucks with guides and staff that are missing, we do not know their location or whether they are safe. News is not coming in as most phone lines are out. Indian TV has just begun reporting on this news. Watch for updates. Several trekkers are reportd missing.
Weather forecast for the next full week is not encouraging.
There are reports of several people buried under house collapses, Leh town is out of electricity, has several dead strewn about its bus stand. I am trying to find out more about the situation but it is difficult. There are people stuck on trails, rivers that have risen rapidly, and some are missing.
Air traffic to Leh is suspended, till further notice. The army has taken over and restricted movement to get things in order. Traffic into Leh has been brought to a complete standstill and evacuation is the priority right now.
There is no news yet of our guides, staff and vehicles. You can look up news coming in, at ::
http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/leh-f ... sing-42357
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/indi ... 264165.cms
http://ibnlive.in.com/news/dozens-kille ... 287-3.html
Please do NOT travel out to Ladakh and put all plans of hold.
Vaibhav Kala
We have also been given this news info from some friends in India.
Leh flash floods: 103 dead, 25 army jawans missing
With at least 103 people confirmed dead in flash floods near Leh on Thursday night, news has also come in that 25 Army jawans in the area are missing after their posts and houses were washed away, Army sources said.
A series of cloudbursts in this Himalayan pocket prompted the floods that have caused heavy damage to life, infrastructure and property in the area. The cloudbursts hit Choglumsar area, 13 kilometres from Leh and 424 kilometres from Srinagar. Fifty bodies have been recovered from this small town, officials said.
The injured have been shifted to the local Army base hospital.
While 85 people have died, many are still missing. Sources in the Defence Ministry said the numbers are likely to go up over 100.
Major roads to Leh have been cut off and the Kargil-Leh highway has been partially damaged. The runway of the civil airport has been cut off from the rest of the country as a thick carpet of slush has settled over it.
The IAF also conducted repeated aerial sorties throughout the day to assess damage while helicopters were on standby in Kargil, Thoise and Chandigarh.
There was heavy Army presence in the area as special teams were pushed into action to conduct and help with relief operations with the limited resources available as the area remains cut off from the rest of India.
Video grab of people sitting on an elevated place after flash flood triggered by a series of cloudbursts in Leh on Friday. PTI Photo
Meanwhile, a Defence Ministry spokesperson said: "25 Army jawans are reported missing. The Defence Institute of High Altitude Research of DRDO has also been damaged. Civilian areas like the bus stand, BSNL towers, hospitals, the runway of the Leh airport and the ATC towers have been affected."
The Army hospital treated close to 400 injured people and was the only centre of medical attention as the local hospital has been washed away. The ministry said: "Nearly 400 critically injured people have already been evacuated from the makeshift hospitals by the Army. All civilian doctors in the Leh District Hospital have been operating from the Army hospital, Leh as the Civil Hospital is filled with mud."
Video Grab of rescue work after flash flood triggered by a series of cloudbursts in Leh on Friday. PTI Photo
Initial reports indicate extensive damage due because of the sudden floods. Approaches by road to Leh from Srinagar through Zozilla and through the Rohtang Pass have been choked by mud. Bridges have also been washed away on these stretches.
Several columns of Army personnel from the 14 Corps helped in relief and rescue operations.
Video Grab of a damaged house after a flash flood triggered by a series of cloudbursts in Leh on Friday. PTI Photo
Defence Minister A K Antony, who is personally monitoring the operation, took a series of meetings of senior officials of the ministry, the Services and the DRDO this morning. A medical team along with essential supplies has been kept on standby to be flown to Leh once the runway is operational.
Communication with the area is also badly hit because of the cloudbursts which was accompanied by heavy rains.
Other areas along the Sindhu river are yet to be accessed and it is feared the human loss would be very heavy.
Source: The Indian Express
Sunday, 4 July 2010
FROM THE CHRONICLES OF AN ANCIENT MARINER-MAY 08
It was a cold day at the start of the year, I was giving a slide presentation at the Burrs Country Park. may old friends came and went and then from the cool water 'Pete' came. I had taken him on some river in Nepal 2 years previous and he had a poem for me.
It is not the experience of everyone but he seems to have a love hate relationship with Daal Bhat, The classic food of Nepal. It made me smile when I read it, hope it will make you smile also.
Daal Bhat is a Nepali dish
Its made from rice and lentil
And if your stomachs not too strong
Its effect is truly mental
Daal makes its way in deadly skill
Your inner organs start to spill
You hope this feeling just won't last
And hold tight-and then a blast
Of all the meals that went before
Some much longer-some of yore
First a ripple, then a flood
The feeling really is not good
A moral then- a tale to tell
Avoid Dall Bhat-avoid like hell.
This tale drags on-it just get worse
I cant escape the dreadful curse
In Kathmandu-the orchard caff
Has service poor, indifferent, naff
The food arrived at varied space
Without much sequence-rndom pace
Tibetan stir fry was my choice
Well tasty said an Aussie voice
In no time flat, spices sublime
Attacked my stomach-head-my spine
Back to the hotel then I sped
Collapsed fermenting on the bed
Teh hours that followed were a pin
Ill not try stir-fry, not again
The walls-the ceiling and the floor
and spots of yak met on the door
That toilet was a sorry state
I sat in there to contemplate
I sat for long in quiet station
And almost wished for constipation
the journey home was a great strain
With several moments on the plane
When distant rumblings were heard
Was it the engine-was it a bird?
For forty hours I had no food
Weary, weak-the general mood
upon the scales, surprised I found
In body weight I lost 9 pound
Kayaks and water-high hills above
In Nepal these things I'd loved
The people stoic, smiling, strong
they work so hard to get along
I'd go back soon, good times to find
But always-always on my mind
The fears that linger in my head
I'll leave spiced food and stick to bread
Forget your Daal Bhat, stiry fry and roast
For my good health-I'll stick to toast.
It is not the experience of everyone but he seems to have a love hate relationship with Daal Bhat, The classic food of Nepal. It made me smile when I read it, hope it will make you smile also.
Daal Bhat is a Nepali dish
Its made from rice and lentil
And if your stomachs not too strong
Its effect is truly mental
Daal makes its way in deadly skill
Your inner organs start to spill
You hope this feeling just won't last
And hold tight-and then a blast
Of all the meals that went before
Some much longer-some of yore
First a ripple, then a flood
The feeling really is not good
A moral then- a tale to tell
Avoid Dall Bhat-avoid like hell.
This tale drags on-it just get worse
I cant escape the dreadful curse
In Kathmandu-the orchard caff
Has service poor, indifferent, naff
The food arrived at varied space
Without much sequence-rndom pace
Tibetan stir fry was my choice
Well tasty said an Aussie voice
In no time flat, spices sublime
Attacked my stomach-head-my spine
Back to the hotel then I sped
Collapsed fermenting on the bed
Teh hours that followed were a pin
Ill not try stir-fry, not again
The walls-the ceiling and the floor
and spots of yak met on the door
That toilet was a sorry state
I sat in there to contemplate
I sat for long in quiet station
And almost wished for constipation
the journey home was a great strain
With several moments on the plane
When distant rumblings were heard
Was it the engine-was it a bird?
For forty hours I had no food
Weary, weak-the general mood
upon the scales, surprised I found
In body weight I lost 9 pound
Kayaks and water-high hills above
In Nepal these things I'd loved
The people stoic, smiling, strong
they work so hard to get along
I'd go back soon, good times to find
But always-always on my mind
The fears that linger in my head
I'll leave spiced food and stick to bread
Forget your Daal Bhat, stiry fry and roast
For my good health-I'll stick to toast.
Friday, 11 June 2010
FOCUS
Just some things that I believe to be true about kayaking.
Calm before the storm, clichéd mind games for sure. Lifting the kayaks onto the shoulder; portage on the side of reason without looking, without turning back to look at the fall so often portaged.
A glance is all that is needed, a line, fine and delicate. No definition of thought. The process is far from clinical. It cannot be broken into aspects, into reason without end.
The mind witnesses the window and the glimpse of a chance and the grasp of the elusive. It is a hit to the heart that is searched for, a hit willing to be taken. Pulling all that is pure into the single moment of time. A capsule of stillness, a perfect moment.
The rapid is run, no dreams lay to rest. In that moment it is all open to the elements; the driven form of this illusion. It is open to what we represent in our thoughts as adrenalin. A thought form, a feeling that we cling to. Within the clinging the damage is done. Bravado diverts us from our true goal from the 'pure' form we search.
Only seekers understand the processes. The seeker in search of the truth who abandons all thoughts, feelings, mental illusions and perceptions for the perfect 'pure' moment in time. A moment when time slips from the realms of the rational thought. Where the mind once filled with images of reason and doubt is cast still. This is the reason to run rapids to go inside the disillusion of the masses to witness a 'pure' understanding of the moment between reality and the truth of the real.
The heart now still resting after the rapid run. The chatter has subsided through the stories told.
It is a river run so, so many times each time a new experience. Each time a fresh page. On this occasion I am guiding two friends who have spend the night hours dreaming of this river. Dreaming for an age. In the mind they have built the river into a mystical place. Having never seen it, they expect the worse. Perhaps, without knowing, placing the rapids on a golden platform they look on in humble glory. Does this attach too much to the perceived experience? Does it divert too greatly from the here and now?
At the end after the dust had settled, after the run out rapid away from the walls that have caged in the experience, only then that a conclusion can be drawn. My friends solid boaters and great companions were pushed in this landscape, the mind map perhaps not understood. Here visions of a tossed and torn windswept plateau seemed to embrace them.
Questions are always asked; conversations for whatever reason always resonate with the 'what grade is this' mantra. Those that seek the discharged 'one up manship' charge the grades. They say 'I am a class 5 boater'. They think the world owes them the next big hit, it is this bravado this boasting of pushing the limits that lead to destruction - the praise of peers means the 'truth' of the 'real' experience will forever be out of reach.
We can all have the same fix for thrills if we push our limits. Although this seems not to sit with the 'be all and end all'. For me, like many others the river, sea, still lakes of the earth offer more. Sure, even now I run hard white water but it is not the heart pounding thrill and adrenalin that I chase. It is the battle within to find the 'pure' aspect of the event. This 'pure' is the magic of stillness- of a perfect moment in time. This is all that matters and it can happen any time and any place.
Personally, it is this must make canyon or the lip of a drop, perhaps the ocean swell or the gentle caress of the paddle against the smooth silk water that is only and forever a precursor. A required event in time. It is not the 'pure' 'truth' as the end game.
No matter what you paddle, be it flat calm lazy days or the heart thumping and raging rapids the truth of the pure-real experience is forever available to you.
Calm before the storm, clichéd mind games for sure. Lifting the kayaks onto the shoulder; portage on the side of reason without looking, without turning back to look at the fall so often portaged.
A glance is all that is needed, a line, fine and delicate. No definition of thought. The process is far from clinical. It cannot be broken into aspects, into reason without end.
The mind witnesses the window and the glimpse of a chance and the grasp of the elusive. It is a hit to the heart that is searched for, a hit willing to be taken. Pulling all that is pure into the single moment of time. A capsule of stillness, a perfect moment.
The rapid is run, no dreams lay to rest. In that moment it is all open to the elements; the driven form of this illusion. It is open to what we represent in our thoughts as adrenalin. A thought form, a feeling that we cling to. Within the clinging the damage is done. Bravado diverts us from our true goal from the 'pure' form we search.
Only seekers understand the processes. The seeker in search of the truth who abandons all thoughts, feelings, mental illusions and perceptions for the perfect 'pure' moment in time. A moment when time slips from the realms of the rational thought. Where the mind once filled with images of reason and doubt is cast still. This is the reason to run rapids to go inside the disillusion of the masses to witness a 'pure' understanding of the moment between reality and the truth of the real.
The heart now still resting after the rapid run. The chatter has subsided through the stories told.
It is a river run so, so many times each time a new experience. Each time a fresh page. On this occasion I am guiding two friends who have spend the night hours dreaming of this river. Dreaming for an age. In the mind they have built the river into a mystical place. Having never seen it, they expect the worse. Perhaps, without knowing, placing the rapids on a golden platform they look on in humble glory. Does this attach too much to the perceived experience? Does it divert too greatly from the here and now?
At the end after the dust had settled, after the run out rapid away from the walls that have caged in the experience, only then that a conclusion can be drawn. My friends solid boaters and great companions were pushed in this landscape, the mind map perhaps not understood. Here visions of a tossed and torn windswept plateau seemed to embrace them.
Questions are always asked; conversations for whatever reason always resonate with the 'what grade is this' mantra. Those that seek the discharged 'one up manship' charge the grades. They say 'I am a class 5 boater'. They think the world owes them the next big hit, it is this bravado this boasting of pushing the limits that lead to destruction - the praise of peers means the 'truth' of the 'real' experience will forever be out of reach.
We can all have the same fix for thrills if we push our limits. Although this seems not to sit with the 'be all and end all'. For me, like many others the river, sea, still lakes of the earth offer more. Sure, even now I run hard white water but it is not the heart pounding thrill and adrenalin that I chase. It is the battle within to find the 'pure' aspect of the event. This 'pure' is the magic of stillness- of a perfect moment in time. This is all that matters and it can happen any time and any place.
Personally, it is this must make canyon or the lip of a drop, perhaps the ocean swell or the gentle caress of the paddle against the smooth silk water that is only and forever a precursor. A required event in time. It is not the 'pure' 'truth' as the end game.
No matter what you paddle, be it flat calm lazy days or the heart thumping and raging rapids the truth of the pure-real experience is forever available to you.
Monday, 17 May 2010
FREESTYLE & DOWN RIVER
Well well, the sun is out and the birds sing...Its the season for gaining new skills and playing on waves and holes. If you fancy a bash, check this event out.
This May the BCU launch their Freestyle league aiming to encourage more people back to the dark art of rodeo boating. The first event will be hosted by Pyranha at the mighty Tryweryn and results from the day will form the basis of one of the scored that will determine the GB freestyle team this year.
The best 2 out of 4 league event results will be combined to form a league ranking and the winners of the league ranking will be crowned British Champions 2010.
Categories will include Expert/Open in Ladies/Mens and Juniors/Seniors.
Pyranha will also be running fun sessions, coaching all weekend and an all in Boater x on the Sunday. Ranking, scoring and format of events are yet to be confirmed but rest assure this will be a FUN event, for people who just want to get on the water and have a go!
Where: Canolfan Tryweryn , Bala (BCU freestyle will take place on the top wave above the Chipper)
When: 22nd -23rd May
Cost: Entry to Freestyle event £5 Entry to Boater X and Freestyle £10 (Registration on the day)
For more info see http://www.ukfreestyle.com and http://www.pyranha.com
Hopefully see you there!
Also we have river running sessions....
Guided River Trips (Saturday and Sunday) - Great if your coming on your own, Daz Clarkson will guide you on the river at your level.
All trips are half day sessions and £20 per person, which is a great offer just for this event.
Book your place at registration on Saturday morning
See you on the water.
This May the BCU launch their Freestyle league aiming to encourage more people back to the dark art of rodeo boating. The first event will be hosted by Pyranha at the mighty Tryweryn and results from the day will form the basis of one of the scored that will determine the GB freestyle team this year.
The best 2 out of 4 league event results will be combined to form a league ranking and the winners of the league ranking will be crowned British Champions 2010.
Categories will include Expert/Open in Ladies/Mens and Juniors/Seniors.
Pyranha will also be running fun sessions, coaching all weekend and an all in Boater x on the Sunday. Ranking, scoring and format of events are yet to be confirmed but rest assure this will be a FUN event, for people who just want to get on the water and have a go!
Where: Canolfan Tryweryn , Bala (BCU freestyle will take place on the top wave above the Chipper)
When: 22nd -23rd May
Cost: Entry to Freestyle event £5 Entry to Boater X and Freestyle £10 (Registration on the day)
For more info see http://www.ukfreestyle.com and http://www.pyranha.com
Hopefully see you there!
Also we have river running sessions....
Guided River Trips (Saturday and Sunday) - Great if your coming on your own, Daz Clarkson will guide you on the river at your level.
All trips are half day sessions and £20 per person, which is a great offer just for this event.
Book your place at registration on Saturday morning
See you on the water.
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