The Swotah Journal
Route guides, permits, packing lists and dispatches from the trail.
268 articles
NepalWhy You Should Take a Guide While Travelling in Nepal
Hiring a guide in Nepal transforms your trip. Discover 8 key benefits - from navigating culture and language barriers to safety on high-altitude treks.
NepalThe Best Lakes of Nepal: A Complete Guide
Explore Nepal's most stunning lakes - from Shey Phoksundo's turquoise depths to sacred Gosaikunda and vast Rara. A complete guide to 7 major Nepali lakes.
Nepal Adventures10 Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Treks in Nepal
Discover Nepal's 10 best off-the-beaten-path treks - from Rara Lake to Saipal Himal. Remote routes, fewer crowds, and authentic cultural encounters.
Nepal ExperienceBisket Jatra in Bhaktapur Nepal
Everything you need to know about Bisket Jatra — Nepal's most spectacular nine-day festival. History, main events, tongue-piercing ceremony, and visitor tips.
NepalThe Newar People: Old Inhabitants of Kathmandu
Discover the Newar people, the original inhabitants of Kathmandu Valley: their culture, art, architecture, festivals, and food, and how to experience it.
Nepal ExperienceHow to Pack Light Under 10 kg for Trekking: Women's Guide to Backpacking
A practical packing guide for women trekking Nepal — clothing layers, toiletries, trekking gear, and weight tips to stay under 10 kg.
Why NepalTop 5 Cycling Routes in and around Kathmandu Valley
Discover the top 5 cycling routes in Kathmandu Valley — from the Nagarkot Himalaya viewpoint to the Panauti circuit. Route stats, difficulty ratings, and local tips.
Why NepalTraditional Nepali Food and Drinks: A Complete Guide
Traditional Nepali food and drinks: dal bhat, momo, juju dhau, plus Newari, Thakali, Gurung, Rai, Limbu, and Tharu dishes, with raksi, tongba, chyang, and aila.
Why NepalTop 10 Attractions of Kathmandu
The 10 best things to see in Kathmandu: Durbar Square, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath, Garden of Dreams, and more, with 2026 entry fees and tips.
Why NepalNepal: A Country of Benevolence
Nepal is a country of benevolence, joy and warm hospitality. Discover why the warmth of Nepal's people makes it one of the world's most welcoming destinations.
Nepal ExperienceWhy Visit Nepal in 2027: 10 Reasons Nepal Will Change You Forever
Planning to visit Nepal in 2027? Discover 10 powerful reasons why Nepal will transform you — from the Himalayas to genuine hospitality and extraordinary culture.
Why Nepal18 Reasons to Visit Nepal in 2026
Not sure whether to visit Nepal this year? Here are 18 compelling reasons why Nepal should be your next travel destination in 2026.