Booze Traveler Season 1 Episode 7 Nepal: A Higher State

In Booze Traveler season 1 episode 7, entitled "Nepal: A Higher State," host Jack Maxwell embarks on a journey to the landlocked country of Nepal, known for its mountainous terrain and vibrant culture. Nepal is a spiritual place where Hinduism and Buddhism live in harmony, and at the heart of that is the local alcohol.

In Kathmandu, the bustling capital city, Jack joins in the celebration of the annual Holi Festival. As he makes his way through the lively streets, he learns about chhang, a traditional Nepalese rice beer that is a staple at the festival. Jack meets with a family who makes their own chhang at home and shares in the joyous occasion while experiencing the unique flavors of the homemade brew.

Next, Jack ventures outside of Kathmandu to the serene countryside of Pokhara, where he encounters the unique beverage of tongba, a popular Nepalese drink made from fermented millet. Jack participates in the traditional method of preparing tongba by pouring hot water into a wooden container filled with the fermented millet and using a bamboo straw - or dhoko - to sip the drink. Jack shares a meal and the tongba beverage with a local Gurung family while learning about their way of life and the history of the drink.

The adventure continues as Jack sets out to the Himalayan foothills where he visits the Tseringma Brewery, an establishment that prides itself on being the highest altitude brewery in the world. Jack gets a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process and meets with the brewmaster, a woman who is breaking down barriers in a male-dominated industry. He also samples their unique brews, including a special beer brewed with Himalayan wildflowers.

Finally, Jack concludes his journey in the sacred city of Bhaktapur, where he learns about the ceremonial drink of raksi, a distilled alcohol made from millet or rice. Jack visits a local distillery where he witnesses the intricate process of creating raksi and becomes immersed in the local culture and traditions.

Throughout "Nepal: A Higher State," Jack's enthusiasm for the drinks and the people he meets is infectious. His willingness to immerse himself in Nepalese culture and try new things makes for an entertaining and educational viewing experience.