KOLKATA: MARCH 26
I will take a train north to Siliguri, the transport hub for Darjeeling and Sikkim. 800 Rupees for a 2nd class a/c sleeper, 800 Rupees for the bike. A porter wraps the bike in straw and sacking, a further 300. The gas tank must be emptied.

WOW!

First day with internet in over a week. Where am I? Just returned from North Sikkim to the capitol, Gantok. Neither phones nor Internet in the North. Here in Gantok heavy storms every day wiped out Internet connection. Now, finally, brilliant sunshine and clear skies. Sat on my balcony at the hotel at 4.45 this morning to admire the snow peaks - fabulous. And the Internet working. Wow!