Travel to Nepal
Nepal became my 50th country - a nice milestone for a destination that absolutely lived up to its reputation. Three weeks here, and I can confidently say it's one of the most lovely countries I've visited. The combination of dramatic landscapes, warm people, and spiritual atmosphere is genuinely unique.
Nepal is a landlocked country of 30 million people wedged between China and India, containing eight of the world's ten highest peaks including Everest. It's one of the poorest countries in Asia by GDP, but rich in ways that don't show up in economic statistics. The Hindu and Buddhist traditions create a distinctive cultural atmosphere that pervades daily life.
What I Experienced
Kathmandu is sensory overload in the best way. Ancient temples and stupas around every corner, prayer flags fluttering from rooftops, the smell of incense mixing with traffic fumes. Durbar Square, despite earthquake damage, remains spectacular. Boudhanath Stupa, with its giant Buddha eyes watching over the city, became my favorite spot to watch sunset.
Pokhara offered a complete contrast - peaceful lakeside cafes with views of the Annapurna range. This is the base for most trekking expeditions, and even without hiking, the mountain panoramas are breathtaking. I spent hours just staring at the peaks.
The food surprised me. Nepali cuisine is often overshadowed by Indian, but dal bhat (the national dish of lentils, rice, and vegetables) is genuinely delicious and incredibly filling. Momos (Tibetan-influenced dumplings) became an addiction.
Practical Notes
- Nepali Rupee is the currency - roughly 130 NPR to 1 USD
- Altitude in Kathmandu (1,400m) is noticeable - stay hydrated
- Visa on arrival available at Tribhuvan Airport
- Trekking permits required for most trails - agencies can arrange
- The spiritual sites are genuinely moving, even if you're not religious
Nepal should be on everyone's list. It's affordable, beautiful, culturally rich, and the Nepali people are some of the friendliest I've encountered anywhere.
Aerial photography from Nepal is available for purchase with commercial license - ideal for Himalayan adventure marketing, trekking destination content, or dramatic mountain landscape wall art.