The Swotah Journal

Route guides, permits, packing lists and dispatches from the trail.

268 articles

Upcoming Festivals in Nepal: 2026/2027 DatesNepal Experience

Upcoming 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.

Dec 25, 20226 min read
Tengboche Monastery: The Spiritual Heart of the KhumbuNepal Experience

Tengboche 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.

Dec 25, 20227 min read
Himalayan languages: Lingual Diversity of the HimalayasNepal

Himalayan languages: Lingual Diversity of the Himalayas

Himalayas speak several languages including Sherpa, Tamang, Gurung, and Thakali - they are mostly related to the Tibetan language.

Dec 23, 20226 min read
How Difficult Is Mt Nuptse Climb?Nepal Adventures

How Difficult Is Mt Nuptse Climb?

Climbing Mt. Nuptse can be a challenging experience, depending on the climber's level of experience and physical abilities.

Dec 20, 20227 min read
Trekking Nepal In January: Complete GuideNepal Adventures

Trekking Nepal In January: Complete Guide

This guide covers everything you need to know about trekking in Nepal in January, including weather, the best routes, and more.

Dec 19, 20228 min read
Tips For Buying And Renting Trekking Gears in KathmanduNepal Adventures

Tips For Buying And Renting Trekking Gears in Kathmandu

This guide provides tips on how to buy and rent trekking gear in Kathmandu, Nepal, including where to find the best deals, and what to look for.

Dec 15, 20227 min read
How To Have The Best Luxury Vacation In Nepal?Nepal Adventures

How To Have The Best Luxury Vacation In Nepal?

Experience the best of Nepal's hospitality, majestic mountain scenery, and unique cultural experiences on your luxury vacation!

Dec 12, 20227 min read
Kyanjin Ri: The Viewpoint of LangtangNepal Adventures

Kyanjin Ri: The Viewpoint of Langtang

Kyanjin Ri is a mountaintop viewpoint in Langtang, Nepal, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

Dec 8, 20227 min read
Gay Travel Nepal: Guide for LGBT TravelersNepal Experience

Gay Travel Nepal: Guide for LGBT Travelers

Nepal is a beautiful destination for LGBT travelers. Explore the overview of safety, legalities, and culture for gay travelers.

Dec 7, 20227 min read
How To Get To Lukla Without Flying?Nepal Adventures

How To Get To Lukla Without Flying?

Find out how to get to Lukla in Nepal without flying, including information on taking a bus from Kathmandu, hiring a private vehicle, or trekking.

Dec 6, 20227 min read
Insurance for the Everest Base Camp Trek: What You Need and WhyNepal Experience

Insurance for the Everest Base Camp Trek: What You Need and Why

Learn about the various types of health insurance and their coverage, how to choose the best policy that will keep you safe on your Everest base camp trek.

Dec 5, 20228 min read
Lukla Airport: A Passenger's NightmareNepal Experience

Lukla Airport: A Passenger's Nightmare

At 2,846 metres, Lukla Airport has a 527-metre (1,729 ft) sloping runway, making it one of the most dangerous airports in the world. Here is why.

Dec 4, 20227 min read