Nepal is a country full of vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, and one of the most exciting times to visit is during the great festival of Dashain, also known as Bijaya Dashami. This festival is widely celebrated across the country, and it brings together family, friends, and communities to celebrate the victory of good over evil. Dashain is a time of year when most Nepalese have an extended vacation, and many take the opportunity to explore the breathtaking Himalayan Mountains or other parts of Mother Nepal.

During a recent trip to Rara and Karnali in the mid-western region of Nepal, I had the chance to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of this extraordinary country. I traveled with a close friend, Gunjan, and we embarked on a challenging journey that would take us through some of the most stunning landscapes I have ever seen.

We started our adventure by walking all the way from Dailekh to Kalikot, Manma, before continuing on to a small village where we could catch a bus to Khalanga, Jumla. Khalanga is a wonderful valley that is situated on the banks of the Tila river, and the landscape is simply breathtaking. We walked all the way up to Danfe Lek, a beautiful pass where the weather changed every five to ten minutes, creating a mystical atmosphere that added to the allure of the journey. The route followed a trail that went down to the river and then up to the hills, and although I don't recall all the names of the small villages and streams along the way, they left a lasting impression on me.

After a week of travel from Kathmandu, we finally reached Rara Lake, which was the highlight of our trip. We carried everything we needed with us, including dalmoth, chiura, a tent, a mattress, a teapot, glasses, sugar, and chocolates. The dalmoth and chiura were a special treat, and they added a bit of comfort to our journey. Unfortunately, we ate all of it on the same day we reached Rara Lake, but the experience of being there was unforgettable.

The lake was surrounded by majestic mountains that were shrouded in mist, and the water was a deep blue-green that reflected the beauty of the surrounding landscape. We spent several days exploring the area and enjoying the natural beauty that surrounded us. We also had the opportunity to interact with the local people and learn more about their way of life, which was a truly enriching experience.

Looking back on the trip, I can say without hesitation that it was one of the most awesome 17 days of my life, from the first day to the last day in Kathmandu. The journey was challenging and rewarding, and it gave me a greater appreciation for the natural beauty and cultural richness of Nepal. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone who is looking for an adventure of a lifetime in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.