The Swotah Journal
Route guides, permits, packing lists and dispatches from the trail.
264 articles
Nepal AdventuresTop 10 Highest Mountains in the World
The 10 highest mountains on Earth ranked, from Everest (8,848.86 m) to Annapurna (8,091 m), with locations, first ascents, and which ones rise in Nepal.
Nepal AdventuresHow To Reach Makalu Barun National Park?
Reach Makalu Barun National Park by flying to Tumlingtar or driving to Khandbari, then trekking in via Num. Routes, costs, permits, and best seasons.
Nepal ExperienceWhat's The Worst Time To Visit Nepal?
The worst time to visit Nepal is typically during the monsoon season between June and September, when heavy rain and landslides can make travel difficult.
Nepal AdventuresList of Trekking Gears and Equipment
A complete trekking gear and equipment checklist covering clothing, backpacks, sleeping kit, safety items, and what to buy or rent in Kathmandu.
Nepal AdventuresBest Peak Climbing Season In Nepal
The optimal time to climb in Nepal is during the months of September to November and March to May, when the weather is clear and temperatures are pleasant.
Nepal AdventuresClimbing Lobuche Peak: Difficulty And Best Time
Lobuche East is a demanding peak, boasting a complicated technical path to the summit, soaring to an impressive 6,119 meters (20,075 feet) above sea level.
Nepal ExperienceRainbow Valley on Mount Everest: What It Is and Why It Exists
Rainbow Valley is the slope below Everest's summit where the bright suits of fallen climbers remain. What it is, where it is, how it differs from the death zone.
Nepal ExperienceNepal Sherpas, History, Culture, Festivals and Cuisine
Nepal Sherpas are an ethnic group of people native to the mountainous regions of Nepal. Sherpas are known for their mountaineering skills and hospitality.
Nepal ExperienceUpcoming Festivals in Nepal: 2026/2027 Dates
Verified Nepal festival dates: Teej Sept 14, Indra Jatra Sept 25, Dashain Oct 11-21, Tihar Nov 6-11, 2026; Shivaratri Mar 6 and Holi Mar 22-23, 2027. Plan around them.
Nepal ExperienceTengboche Monastery: The Spiritual Heart of the Khumbu
Tengboche monastery sits at an altitude of 3,867 meters (12,687 ft) from sea level and is regarded as the largest Gompa in the Khumbu region.
NepalHimalayan languages: Lingual Diversity of the Himalayas
Himalayas speak several languages including Sherpa, Tamang, Gurung, and Thakali - they are mostly related to the Tibetan language.
Nepal AdventuresHow Difficult Is Mt Nuptse Climb?
Climbing Mt. Nuptse can be a challenging experience, depending on the climber's level of experience and physical abilities.