The Swotah Journal
Route guides, permits, packing lists and dispatches from the trail.
264 articles
Nepal AdventuresAnnapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp? Where to trek first?
The Annapurna Base Camp trek is shorter and less challenging, while the Everest Base Camp trek is longer, more demanding, and more expensive.
Nepal AdventuresKanchenjunga Trek: Complete Guide
The complete Kanchenjunga trek guide: north vs south base camp routes, the 2026 solo-permit change, costs, seasons, food, and what to pack for the far east.
Nepal Adventures7 Easiest Trekking Peaks in the Himalayas for New Climbers
The seven best trekking peaks for first-time climbers: Island, Mera, Lobuche, Yala, Pisang, Chulu, and Pokalde, with heights, skills needed, and packing notes.
Nepal ExperienceWhy One Must Travel Nepal Before it Explodes with Tourists?
Nepal still sees barely a million visitors a year across eight 8,000m peaks. Why the quiet window is real, where it is widest, and how to use it before it closes.
Nepal ExperienceThe Living Goddess of Nepal
Nepal's living goddess explained: how the Kumari is chosen, her life inside Kumari Ghar, what happens when she retires, and how to see her in Kathmandu.
Nepal AdventuresIs Luxury Tourism Available in Nepal?
Luxury travel in Nepal, honestly assessed: which hotels deliver, where five-star claims thin out, heli access, service culture, and what is genuinely worth it.
Nepal ExperienceSix of the Most Popular Festivals in Nepal
Nepal's six biggest festivals explained: Dashain, Tihar, Holi, Maha Shivaratri, Teej, and Gai Jatra, what each celebrates and what visitors actually see.
Nepal AdventuresNepal Visa & Entry Requirements: What Every Traveller Needs to Know
Nepal visa guide: visa on arrival fees, the e-visa system, extensions, land border crossings, and what documents to carry when you land in Kathmandu.
Nepal ExperienceWhy Choose Homestay Trekking over Tea House Trekking
Homestay vs teahouse trekking: what each is actually like, facilities, etiquette, where homestay routes exist, and why sleeping in family homes changes a trek.
Nepal AdventuresTop Heli Destinations in Nepal and Why One Must Try it at Least Once
Nepal's best heli tours: Everest Base Camp, Annapurna, Muktinath, Gosaikunda, and Langtang, with charter costs (USD 2,000-3,500), weather rules, and tips.
Nepal ExperienceWhat to Pack for Trekking in Nepal And What Not to Bring
The complete Nepal trekking packing list: layers, boots, sleep system, first aid, and electronics, plus what NOT to bring and what to simply rent in Thamel.
Nepal AdventuresBest Treks to Do in Nepal in 3 Weeks or More
Nepal's great long treks: Upper Dolpo, Dhaulagiri Circuit, Kanchenjunga Base Camp, Arun Valley to Everest, and other 18-29 day routes for committed walkers.