The Swotah Journal
Route guides, permits, packing lists and dispatches from the trail.
255 articles
Top Buddhist Destinations to Visit in Nepal
There are literally hundreds of Buddhist gompas (monasteries), shrines, stupas and sacred caves in Nepal. Despite this being a Hindu country. In add...
Why NepalPashupatinath Temple: Where Life, Death, and Devotion Meet
Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu is Nepal's most sacred Hindu site. Discover the Aarti ceremony, ghats, visiting rules, entry fees, and what to expect as a traveller.
Nepal AdventuresThe 1996 Mount Everest Disaster
The 1996 Mount Everest disaster remains one of the deadliest events in climbing history. Learn what happened, the causes of the tragedy.
Nepal AdventuresHillary Step on Mount Everest: Where It Is and Why It Matters
Learn about the Hillary Step, Everest’s famous final obstacle at 8,790 m. Explore its history, technical difficulty, and changes after the 2015 earthquake.
Nepal ExperienceEverest Base Camp Trek During Winter
Everest Base Camp trek in winter brings empty trails and crystal-clear views, but serious cold. Weather, teahouses, and safety tips for Dec-Feb.
Nepal ExperienceHow Difficult Is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra? A Complete Guide
Learn how difficult the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra really is. Understand altitude, fitness level, age limits, risks, and preparation tips before you go.
Nepal ExperienceIs Nepal Safe to Travel Right Now? What Travellers Need to Know
Is Nepal safe to travel now? Updated guide to the September 2025 protests, the recovery since, official advisories, and practical safety tips.
Nepal ExperienceGreen Boots Mount Everest: Who Was He & Why He's Still There?
The story of Green Boots, the climber whose body became a landmark in Everest's death zone: who he was, how he died in 1996, and why he remains on the mountain.
Nepal AdventuresNepal Opens 97 Himalayan Peaks for Free Climbing
Nepal has opened 97 Himalayan peaks in Karnali and Sudurpaschim for free climbing permits over the next two years.
Nepal AdventuresWhy Has No One Still Climbed Mount Kailash?
Why Mount Kailash remains unclimbed: sacred status for four faiths, no climbing permits, and mountaineering ethics. Myths debunked, plus the kora.
Nepal AdventuresSurviving Annapurna: The Story of Maurice Herzog
Explore the inspiring story of Maurice Herzog, the first man to summit an 8000-meter peak during the 1950 Annapurna expedition
Nepal AdventuresMt Everest Dead Bodies: How Many Are There & Why Can't They Be Removed?
More than 200 bodies remain on Mount Everest. Why recovery is nearly impossible, the ethics involved, and the stories behind the mountain's famous landmarks.
Nepal ExperienceBest Mountain Captions and Quotes for Instagram
Looking for the perfect captions and quotes to pair with your mountain photos? Discover 200+ inspiring, adventurous, and Instagram-worthy mountain caption.