Every story is a mosaic of moments. Our lives are filled with these moments – slices of time when a story comes alive.

They can be captured effortlessly. All we need to do is take a moment to see what’s in front of us, and let it touch us. That’s how we move through the world creatively – that’s how we transform our lives into works of art.

Friends, we invite you to join us in capturing the chaotic, crackling beauty of Nepal this coming February-March. This will be our first Nepal writing adventure post-Covid, as Nepal is again a safe and welcoming place to visit! During our 10-day exploration of Kathmandu and environs we will write intimate, 200-600 word sketches which encapsulate our experience amid the beauty and energy of this Himalayan realm.

Nepal is a country of vivid colors and unforgettable faces; a place where the sacred and profane blend in an ever-changing mosaic. We’ll begin our mornings with meditation, led by our Nepal host James Hopkins, followed by two hours of “wild writing,” a loose and liberating writing technique. Afterwards we’ll explore the temples and alleyways of the Kathmandu Valley; meet with artists and spiritual leaders; shop for beads and buddhas in the amazing bazaars of the old city. We have also timed the trip to coincide with Losar, the Tibetan New Year, as celebrated at the sacred Boudha stupa.

It’s going to be quite a journey. Please join us!

Our Schedule will look something like this.

You’ll spend a total of 3 nights at the Hotel Vajra, an authentic, Newari-style hotel with some Tibetan touches. You’ll have everything you need for a very comfortable stay. Rooms have parquet floors and the attached bathrooms all have shower and running hot water. There is a old-style Library with several writing tables at the Vajra, which will be used for our workshops. Rooms are also equipped with chairs and writing desk and there are quiet corners to work in the gardens. Some rooms have a coffee table and private balcony. Internet services are located on the ground floor.

The resort is surrounded by forest and has its own organic farm where vegetables, grains, flowers and many fruits are grown. They collect milk from their own cows and honey from their bees. They also makes their own jams, breads, and other bakery items. Namo Buddha Resort also features wireless internet and a wood sauna.

On our final evening together we’ll not only have time to relax and indulge a bit before heading back home, but we’ll also host a final reading event, open to the public. The featured writers from the Himalayan Writers Workshop’s will read from their own work and, if you feel inspired, you are welcome to add your voice to a final celebration of travel & creativity.

We always seek accommodation that strikes the balance between modern comfort and local flavor.

A non-refundable deposit of $600 is required at the time of registration to hold your space.

Late registration: After January 17th, 2023, we can accommodate late registration only in the event that a space remains available. If a late registration is possible after January 17th, 2023, full payment is required at the time of registration to hold your space and the entire payment is non-refundable.

Fee includes: 10 nights accommodations, 3 vegetarian meals per day on most days, bottled water and tea/coffee at meal times, scheduled excursions to pilgrimage sites, knowledgeable guides and teachers, all entrance fees, land transportation within Nepal, and airport transfers.

Fee does not include: air fare to and from Kathmandu, airport or departure taxes not included in your air ticket, visa fees ($50), additional hotel nights before or after scheduled program dates, unscheduled activities and excursions, soft drinks, alcohol and espresso drinks, phone calls, massage services, shopping, laundry or other personal expenses, additional meals, drinks and snacks, travel insurance, trekking extensions, or single supplements ($500 depending upon availability).

The program begins Friday afternoon (around 1pm) on February 17th and ends after breakfast on Monday, February 27th. If you’re pressed for time, you may arrive on February 17th and depart on February 27th. You’re also welcome to arrive a few days early, or stay for awhile after the workshop has concluded. Please inform us if you require an extra night or two on either end of the trip and we’ll make a reservation on your behalf. (A cost for extra hotel nights would apply).