The Swotah Journal
Route guides, permits, packing lists and dispatches from the trail.
269 articles
NepalWho Are the Sherpas? Facts About Nepal's Sherpa People
Who are the Sherpas of Nepal? Their Tibetan origin, language, faith, weekday names, altitude physiology, and the 2026 Everest records of Kami Rita and Lhakpa.
NepalWhy Take a Guide in Nepal? 8 Real Benefits, the 2023 Guide Rule and What It Costs (2026)
Why take a guide in Nepal: the 2023 guide rule, safety and altitude on treks, culture and language in the cities, heritage entry fees and what a guide costs.
NepalBest Lakes in Nepal: 7 Lakes, Altitudes, Treks and When to Visit (2026)
Nepal's 7 best lakes compared: Rara, the largest, Tilicho at 4,919 m, deep Shey Phoksundo, Phewa, Begnas, sacred Gosaikunda and Gokyo, with treks and seasons.
Nepal AdventuresOff-the-Beaten-Path Treks in Nepal: 10 Quiet Routes for 2026
Ten quiet treks in Nepal, from Rara Lake, Khaptad and Api Base Camp to Milke Danda and village homestays, with days, altitude, permits and the best season for each.
Nepal ExperienceBisket Jatra in Bhaktapur: 2027 Dates, Chariots, Pole and Tongue Piercing
Bisket Jatra 2027 runs about 10 to 18 April in Bhaktapur. The chariot tug-of-war, the yosin pole, the Bode tongue piercing, the entry fee and visitor tips.
NepalThe Newar People: Old Inhabitants of Kathmandu Valley, Culture, Festivals and Food
Who the Newars of the Kathmandu Valley are: 2021 census figures, Nepal Bhasa, Hindu and Buddhist life, art, the 2026-27 festival calendar and Newari food.
Nepal ExperienceHow to Pack Light Under 10 kg for Trekking: Women's Guide to Backpacking in Nepal
A women's packing list for Nepal teahouse treks under 10 kg: layers, sports bras, menstrual cup, sleeping bag, a sample weight budget and the 15 kg Lukla limit.
Why NepalTop 5 Cycling Routes in and around Kathmandu Valley: Distances, Climbs and Tips
Five classic Kathmandu Valley bike rides: Nagarkot, Kakani, Champadevi, Lakuri Bhanjyang and the 65 km Panauti loop, with climbs, seasons and bike hire costs.
Why NepalTraditional Nepali Food and Drinks: Dal Bhat, Momo, Regional Dishes and Local Drinks
Nepali food beyond dal bhat: Newari, Thakali, Gurung, Rai, Limbu and Tharu dishes, raksi, tongba and aila, plus food and water safety tips for visitors.
Why NepalTop 10 Attractions of Kathmandu: What to See, Entry Fees and a Two-Day Plan
The 10 best sights in Kathmandu, from Durbar Square, Swayambhunath and Boudhanath to the Garden of Dreams, with 2026 entry fees, timings and a 2-day plan.
Why NepalNepal, a Country of Benevolence: Nepali Hospitality, Namaste and How to Return It
Why Nepal feels so welcoming: the guest-is-a-god tradition, namaste, giving in Hindu and Buddhist life, where to experience it, and how to return the kindness.
Nepal ExperienceWhy Visit Nepal in 2027: 10 Reasons, 2027 Festival Dates and What's New
10 reasons to visit Nepal in 2027: eight of the ten highest peaks, living festivals with 2027 dates, wildlife, low costs, plus visas, seasons and new rules.