The Swotah Journal

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

268 articles

How do I get to Pokhara from Kathmandu?Nepal Experience

How do I get to Pokhara from Kathmandu?

Travelers leaving Kathmandu for Pokhara have two primary transportation options: taking a flight or embarking on a road journey.

Nov 8, 20237 min read
7 Best Short Treks from KathmanduNepal Adventures

7 Best Short Treks from Kathmandu

Looking for a quick trekking escape from Kathmandu? Our guide to the 7 best short treks, perfect for beginners and experienced trekkers alike.

Nov 5, 20238 min read
Stargazing in Nepal: Why Nepal Is the Best Stargazing Destination?Nepal Experience

Stargazing in Nepal: Why Nepal Is the Best Stargazing Destination?

Nepal's clear skies, high altitudes, and minimal light pollution: Unveiling the best stargazing experience. Dive into the cosmic wonders of Nepal.

Oct 18, 202310 min read
13 Reasons to Visit Nepal for BirdwatchingNepal Experience

13 Reasons to Visit Nepal for Birdwatching

Nepal's diverse ecosystems make it a hotspot for birdwatching. Find out the top 13 reasons to grab your binoculars and head there!

Oct 17, 20238 min read
Lukla Flight Delays and Cancellations: What Trekkers Should KnowNepal Adventures

Lukla Flight Delays and Cancellations: What Trekkers Should Know

Lukla flights stop whenever Khumbu weather closes in. Why delays happen, the Manthali shuffle, Phaplu and road alternatives, and how to build buffer days.

Oct 11, 20235 min read
Manaslu Circuit Trek in AprilNepal Adventures

Manaslu Circuit Trek in April

Experience the mesmerizing beauty of Manaslu Circuit Trek in April, the prime season for awe-inspiring Himalayan views and vibrant local culture.

Oct 5, 20237 min read
How Much Does the Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost?Nepal Adventures

How Much Does the Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost?

The average cost for the Manaslu Circuit Trek is approximately $1500 to $2500, but total may vary and can be reduced depending on individual preference.

Sep 26, 20237 min read
Simba Waterfall: Nearest Waterfall to KathmanduNepal Experience

Simba Waterfall: Nearest Waterfall to Kathmandu

Simba Waterfall, the closest waterfall to Kathmandu, hides five cascades in Lalitpur's hills. How to get there, costs, the best time, and what to pack.

Sep 26, 20238 min read
Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return: Complete GuideNepal Adventures

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return: Complete Guide

Explore the iconic Everest Base Camp on foot and enjoy a breathtaking helicopter return. Dive into our comprehensive guide for detailed Itinerary and cost!

Sep 25, 20238 min read
Snow Leopard in Nepal: The Guardian Spirits of the HimalayasNepal Adventures

Snow Leopard in Nepal: The Guardian Spirits of the Himalayas

Nepal counted 397 snow leopards in its first national survey. Where and when to spot them, from Dolpo to Kanchenjunga, and how Nepal protects them.

Sep 15, 20239 min read
Top 5 Budget-Friendly Treks in NepalNepal Experience

Top 5 Budget-Friendly Treks in Nepal

Top 5 budget-friendly treks in Nepal with 2026 cost breakdowns: transport, permits, food, lodging and guide rates, plus the new mandatory-guide rule.

Sep 3, 20238 min read
When to Explore Bardiya National Park: The Best Time to VisitNepal Experience

When to Explore Bardiya National Park: The Best Time to Visit

Dry, warm months from February to June give the best tiger-spotting odds in Bardiya. What each season offers, how to get there, and what to do.

Aug 24, 20238 min read