Here’s why you should head to Nepal!
Bet you didn’t know that in Nepal, there are more Gods than people, more temples than houses. If you’ve been thinking about making this epic trip for awhile but are still contemplating, here are just a few reasons to veer you toward the right direction.
1. Brew that zen mode.
Kathmandu is known for having more temples than houses. Tibetan, Hinduism, Buddhism…they may leave you confused and overwhelmed at first. But after a few hours, inhale the incense, converse with traveling lamas and you’ll begin to sink into the so-called Nepalese zen mode. Ommm…
2. Tibet + India + Bhutan.
If you’ve been to any of these three countries, then you’ll love Nepal which has elements of all three destinations but combined into one. It has the spirituality of Tibet, foods infused with Indian spices and people just as friendly as those in Bhutan.
3. It’s cleaner than you think.
Most people travel to Nepal with the mental preparation that it won’t be hygienic. The truth is, public restrooms and tiny alleys won’t be as developed as those in the U.S. or in Western Europe. But the hygiene issue isn’t as bad as you’d think. Be prepared for “squatties” (squat toilets), don’t drink water from the faucet, and be careful with street food. Other than that, wash your hands often and you’re set.
4. Feed your wanderlust through World Heritage Sites.
Nepal has a large number of UNESCO’S World Heritage Sites with more than five just in Kathmandu alone. If you’re a traveler who loves to check off a World Heritage Sites bucket list, you’re in luck in Nepal. From Chitwan National Park to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, each landmark will feast your eyes with wonder and amazement.
5. Fulfill your trekking fantasy.
Hikers or not, many travelers dream of conquering the Annapurna and spending weeks at Mount Everest base camp. Nepal’s Himalayas is magnificent and incredibly powerful. It fulfills as well as challenges brave adventurists’ fantasy for an unforgettable expedition.
6. Bang for the buck!
For a country attracting more tourists each year, Nepal remains relatively affordable, especially for backpackers and budget travelers. You can easily reserve a luxury hotel in Kathmandu for less than $100/night, and live off of $10 a day, including meals. The most expensive splurge will be adventurous activities such as: hot air balloons, ultralights or paragliding which can start from $60/person.
7. High as a kite
Marijuana is typically banned in Nepal, except for during Maha Shivaratri Festival (mid-Feb) allowing “Marijuana Day” when police cannot punish anyone from smoking pot. The scene is most prevalent in Kathmandu’s Pashupatinath Temple, where thousands of worshippers sit at the temple, smoking while praying as marijuana is considered as holy food blessed by the Gods.
8. Veg out with a view.
If you want a meal with the most incredible view of nature, surrounded by serenity of the Himalayas, then Nepal can do just that. Since Nepal holds a large location of the Himalayan range, many hotels have balconies or terraces encircled by the gorgeous high mountains. If you’re traveling with a guide, it’s easy to set up a picnic table anywhere and pig out with Annapurna as your breathtaking backdrop.
9. The sweetest people you’ll ever meet.
Nepalese are simply some of the world’s nicest people. You’ll see that locals don’t have much but they always have bright smiles on their faces. Travelers can take photos of them or with them, and they will never ask for anything in return (except for in touristic areas). Nepalese are welcoming and open to share their life stories with you. Because the country is deeply religious, pickpockets are not as common as in south European countries. Nepalese are here to remind us that genuine kindness still exist between strangers, which the material world has conditioned us to often forget.
