Template:Nepal 2009
From Psychedelic-Traveller
[2009] New Destination NEPAL
- written by Robin Sitoula
There are several open air events held around Katmandu and Pokhara and the best times to explore Nepal are October and April. Of the many parties that take place, Shanti Jatra is currently the most popular. Organised by Shiva's Crew aka Aseem and Robin, it usually takes place in October and hosts many international artists as well as attracting the psy-travellers. The team are part of Freak Street Productions - a label created by Aseem. Nepa Music is another label which is actively producing and distributing music as well as organising events. Other event oranisers include Zion's Underground, Funky Buddha and Ap Production.
There is at least one party at the weekend during the off-season (monsoon season and winter). However during the peak season (September, October & November and March, April & May) there are parties almost every day as well as the full moon parties. Most of the people like to stay in Pokhara for longer time because of its scenic beauty and many of the parties here are organised by the travellers themselves.
At the Tantra bar in Thamel, Shiva's Crew organises a Psy party every Saturday all year round with residents and international artists. Electric Pagoda and Funky Buddha have parties during the season time. In Pokhara, you can go to any restaurants or bar and they allow anybody to organize a party, if they bring people. Most of the parties in Nepal have no entry or cover charges.
As a rule, do not buy charas on the streets of Thamel. Ask the guest house manager where you are staying to get you some smoke. If they are not able to get it or supply you with bad quality charas, do not hesitate to change the guest house. You are advised to stay on the north side of the lake where you'll find cheaper accommodation, food and something to smoke. Kathamndu's infamous Freak Street is a better option for accommodation since the locals have been used to freaks visiting since the 60s. Here you can meet up with other fellow freaks in cafes and restaurants.
