The Swotah Journal
Route guides, permits, packing lists and dispatches from the trail.
268 articles
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.
Nepal Adventures10 Best 2 week treks in Nepal
The best ~14-19 day treks in Nepal: Everest Base Camp, Three Passes, Annapurna Circuit with Tilicho, Nar Phu, Manaslu with Tsum Valley, and the far west.
Nepal AdventuresBest Treks to do in Nepal in Less than 14 Days
The best Nepal treks for 8-13 days: Annapurna Base Camp, Mardi Himal, EBC with a heli return, Langtang, and more, grouped by region with realistic durations.
Nepal Adventures10 Best One Week or Less Treks in Nepal
Short on time? The best 1-7 day treks in Nepal: Poon Hill, Mardi Himal, Royal Trek, and day hikes around Kathmandu and Pokhara, with days needed for each.
.webp)
Why NepalWhich Trek Should I do in Nepal?
How to pick your Nepal trek: matching routes to fitness and time, private vs group, and what to expect from an agency, with links to treks by duration.
Why NepalVolunteering in Nepal: Is it Something You Should Do?
Volunteering vs voluntourism in Nepal: what genuinely helps, the orphanage problem, what to avoid, and the honest alternatives that do more good than a stint.
Why NepalAutumn in Nepal: Your Guide to the Best Season
Autumn (September-November) is Nepal's peak season: the clearest skies, the big festivals, and the busiest trails. Month-by-month conditions and how to plan it.
Nepal ExperienceTrekking in Nepal with Children
Trekking Nepal with kids: the routes that work (Shivapuri-Nagarkot, Poon Hill, Royal Trek), what ages manage what, porters for little legs, and city add-ons.
Nepal ExperienceIs Nepal Safe for Female Travellers? A First-Hand Guide
Is Nepal safe for women travelling solo? A first-hand guide to trekking, transport, towns, dress norms, and the habits that keep trips smooth, from years on the trail.