Rainstorm Blocks Land Route: Transfers to Chengdu Keep Nepal & Bhutan Trip Alive

In October 2024, I welcomed six travelers from various countries, including the United States, Canada, and the Philippines. They were starting an in-depth journey across China, Tibet, Nepal, and Bhutan, driven by their longing for ancient Eastern civilizations.

This nearly 30-day Asian continental tour, stretching from north to south, was meticulously planned. I gave their long journey a final check, but little did I know that weather never follows a "meticulous plan."

The first four stops, "Shanghai-Beijing-Xi'an-Tibet," went exceptionally smoothly. I received numerous photos from them daily. In Shanghai, they stood on the Bund's observation deck, where the historic buildings appeared especially majestic in the sunset, while the classical gardens of Yu Garden transported them to another era.

In Beijing, the Forbidden City's red walls and yellow tiles shimmered under the blue sky. Standing atop the Great Wall, an American tourist captured dozens of photos of the distant mountains with handsome gestures. In Xi'an, they strolled among the Terracotta Warriors and sampled local noodles in the bustling Muslim Quarter.

The six travelers successfully met in Xi'an and then set off for Tibet together. The Tibet leg of the trip was a highlight, and the travelers were filled with anticipation for this mysterious plateau. In Tibet, they overcame altitude sickness and proudly shared photos from Everest Base Camp.

However, just as their Tibet trip was about to end, on the way from EBC to Kathmandu, an unexpected event occurred!

Rainstorm Stops Tibet to Kathmandu Land Route

Just as their Tibet tour was about to conclude, we encountered an unexpected challenge. A rare rainstorm in Nepal temporarily closed the land route from Tibet to Nepal. The relentless "under control" status forced us to cancel the original plan to travel from the Gyirong Port in Nepal to Kathmandu.

I immediately communicated with the travelers, calmly explaining the potential dangers of landslides due to the heavy rain, and proposed several feasible solutions. The final adjusted itinerary was to return to Lhasa, fly to Chengdu, and then transfer to Kathmandu.

Although this adjustment required a stop in Chengdu, the travelers could continue their Nepal and Bhutan itinerary without missing any planned attractions, and they supported this plan that didn't disrupt the overall trip.

During their layover in Chengdu, I arranged a relaxing city tour for them, considering the sudden itinerary change might cause some tension. The group sat around, savoring the numbing spiciness of Sichuan hot pot. The tender, spicy beef and the warmth of the hot pot helped them forget their travel fatigue. A Canadian tourist joked, "Chengdu's spicy hot pot gave me a real kick."

Finally, their flight from Chengdu to Kathmandu arrived smoothly. The unique charm of Nepal quickly helped them forget these minor incidents. The ancient architecture of Durbar Square, the sacred atmosphere of Swayambhunath, and the solemnity of the Boudhanath Stupa helped them regain their travel rhythm. They then traveled to Bhutan, experiencing the peaceful rural life and magnificent Himalayan views in this "happiness country."

Composure in the Face of the Unexpected, Gratitude Received

At the end of their journey, the six travelers expressed their sincere gratitude for my quick response and flexible adjustments, which ensured their travel experience was not negatively affected. A Filipino tourist wrote in their review, "This trip made me deeply realize that true travel is not just about seeing the scenery, but also about composure and trust when facing unexpected events."

This journey across the Asian continent earned me the trust of the travelers and reinforced my belief that no matter the challenges, we must promptly adjust and help our guests complete their trip. The rainstorm in Nepal has long since passed, but it can no longer hinder the footsteps of travelers.