The White Breasted Fantail Fly Catcher

October 10, 2007

Since Pokhara we travelled to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha. This is a sacred site much as Bethlehem is to Christians. Very ancient back to the 3rd century BC. There was a huge number of pilgrims from Sri Lanka. They were very interested in us and very friendly. Visited all the temples recently constructed by each country with Buddist followings. ie China, Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Germany, ....... We toured around on a bicycle rickshaw for @ 12 km. The buildings are sensational especially the Peace Pagoda built by Japan.

From there we motored to Chitwan National Park staying on an island in a Jungle Resort. Taken across the river in a dugout canoe. Spotting crocodiles and rhinos. Later in the day we took a bath with 4 elephants in the river. Took a picture of Alan climbing up an elephant's trunk. (Have some terrific pics at a later date). These animals are very gentle and responsive to people. Next a jungle safari on the back of one of the elephants (Diamond) we were the only tourist in over a month to see the elusive Bengal Tiger. Huge beautiful beast. He was lying in the bushes about 40 feet from our elephant but we felt very safe on the elephant's platform (saddle). Impressed by the heavy breathing of the tiger and his regal face.
The next day went on a walking tour of a local village. Again had to cross the river in the dugouts. Also had to wade through deep pools as there was a thunderstorm the previous evening. Hot and humid, ( drip drip drip). all day long.
AT the Jungle Resort we Connected with alot of people from different countries. WE instantly became the King and Queen from Canada as we saw the Bengal Tiger. It is a big deal here. We had to fill out forms for statics on sightings of the Bengal Tiger.
Prior to our departure this morning from the Jungle. Alan went on a bird watching tour and spotted A WHITE BREASTED FANTAIL FLY CATCHER.......... so there..
Motored back to Kathmandu, traffic here was a little bit trying. Took 2 and half hours to travel 25km. TRuck overturned with a load of bananas it just missed sliding into the river below.
Refreshed at the hotel. We will be flying tomorrow afternoon to Calcutta. Another stage of our trip. Bye for now.