Every time I think of Nepal, I know why I love it so much. Do you?
Plenty of questions float around when it comes to Nepal. Is it truly worth visiting unless you are climbing Mt Everest?
For long, these questions kept tourists away from this stunning mountainous country in the Himalayas. However, that perspective has changed and there is a positive shift in attitude and outlook as more and more people are seeking more than just museums and beaches.
In the 60s and 70s, Nepal did have its place in the sun when the hippie trail was at its peak. But when the laws changed, the trail died and Nepal went back to being a mountaineering destination and to a large extent, a religious centre.
Today, it is a hot bed of adventure and culture tourism.
Did you know
Kathmandu sits at an altitude of 1,350m (4,430 ft) and is surrounded by the foothills of Himalayas. Nepal’s holiest river, the Bagmati, flows through the city.
Welcome to Nepal
1. The Mountains, the Hills and the Plains
The Himalayas is a feeling. First, it begins in your mind then settles in your heart. Slowly, as you approach the mountains, or stand at its base, that feeling flows down your eyes. It sure did for me. Standing at EBC and looking up at Mt Everest was the best feeling I had. It was at once wholesome, joyous, spiritual and soul satisfying.
I digress.
Coming back to the landscape.
Nepal is among the most beautiful places on earth – and it is not without reason that people flock to this tiny country. The snowy mountains, the green valleys, the gushing rivers, endless plains, beautiful rolling hills and vibrant forests. Every direction you see is a sea of green.
There is, of course, also the aura of Everest. From childhood, I have dreamed of seeing Everest (and maybe climbing it someday) – I know there are so many challenges to overcome but standing at the base of mt Everest was nothing short of a dream come true.
2. Food and coffee
I will write a separate post on Nepali food (esp the thali), but Nepali coffee deserves its own space. When I say Nepali coffee, I refer to Himalayan Java, the new entrant in the market that can give many international chains a run for their money.
3. Culture and tradition
Nepalis known for its many traditional festivals and rituals for ages. Interestingly, these traditional rituals continue till date. Experiencing some of them was like going back in time, but given the modern life we live, it is indeed a breath of fresh air to experience real life.
What I found most fascinating was the worship of Kumari, the living Goddess.
4. Religious centre
Majority of Nepalis are Hindus (80%) and until Nepal became Republic, it was the only Hindu Kingdom in the world. Hinduism can be seen throughout society, from big, grand temples like Pashupatinath to small family shrines in a courtyard. Many of Nepal’s annual festivals are Hindu which gives visitors the chance to learn about Hinduism.
Despite Nepal being a predominantly Hindu country, Buddhists form a visible minority and make up around 9% of the population. The two religions overlap in Nepal, though, and elements of Hinduism and Buddhism enter the beliefs and practices of people from both groups. High up in the mountains you will encounter Tibetan Buddhism, especially among the Sherpa people.
Lord Buddha was born in Lumbini but Kathmandu hosts Nepal’s three most important religious monuments – Pashupatinath (dedicated to Pashupati), Boudhnath Temple and Swayambhunath Temple.
5. Kathmandu alone is a huge draw
Spending a day or two in the capital city alone makes for a great holiday. A day spent in Thamel, the vibrant heartbeat of Kathmandu will bring you in touch with colours, culture and great vibe. Have a riffle through the many bookstores in Thamel, shop for Northface jacket, bargain over a pashmina or simple ride the tricycle. Weaving through the traffic near Durbar Square or learning to use the singing bowl or try your hand a thangka painting.
6. It is budget friendly
Nepal is generally considered to be a budget friendly country to travel – however that depends on the type of traveller you are. Here I will give you an idea how much it cost you (estimate) to travel, stay and eat.
Food is considerably cheap in Nepal. A modest dal-bhat can be had at NPR 180-200.
Getting around is cheap, especially if you use the Pathao, inDrive or Yango apps. These are available in bigger cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Most accommodation will cost you between 15-20 USD a night (and upwards depending on your budget). Dorms, guesthouses and star hotels are easily available. If you are on a trek, your tea-house accommodation is easily affordable, even at higher altitudes.
7. Stunning landscapes
8. Meaningful connections
The people of Nepal are warm and welcoming. The country has a multicultural society, with several different dialects spoken in Nepal. However, a large portion of the younger generation, influenced by the internet and globalisation, are fluent in both Nepali and English. You will be greeted with a Namaste everywhere you go. People will stop and ask you about your country and very often will end up showing you pictures of their family!
9. Adventure destination
Nepal is not just about Mt Everest – it is also about the national parks, rapids and the mysterious Mustang Region.
10. Raw and real
Step off the tourist trail to find untouched nature, picturesque and centuries old villages (like Ghandruk) and simple life in the mountain villages. There is an old sating about Nepal – Heaven is a myth but Nepal is real.
Conclusion
The reasons to visit Nepal are many. My journey through Nepal though multiple trips has transformed the way I see the world. I have learnt that less is more. Religious tolerance is possible and encouraged. Persistence is key. Simplicity is fashionable.
And that momos are best eaten with timur chutney and dal-bhat is the best food on earth.
From a country that offers a wide range of experiences such as trekking in the Himalayas, rafting, bungee jumping to gastronomical delights that tantalize the taste buds, the country’s rich cultural landscape and the warm hospitality of the locals leave a deep impression on visitors.
