The Swotah Journal
Route guides, permits, packing lists and dispatches from the trail.
268 articles
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Nepal AdventuresRuby Valley Trek in Nepal: The Complete Guide
The Ruby Valley Trek situated in the Ganesh Himal region of Nepal offers a unique off-the-beaten-path adventure. Read the Complete guide here.
NepalTraditional Musical Instruments of Nepal
From the sarangi and madal to the panche baja ensemble, explore Nepal's traditional musical instruments, who plays them, and where to hear them live.
Nepal ExperienceMugu Nepal : Geography, Attractions and Lifestyle
Mugu is Nepal's off-the-beaten-track far west: Rara Lake, the Murma viewpoint, yarsagumba meadows, and centuries-old village life, seen first-hand.
Nepal ExperienceBest Time for the Everest Base Camp Trek and Helicopter Tour
When should you go to Everest Base Camp? Season-by-season guide for both the classic trek and the helicopter tour, from autumn clarity to monsoon risks.
Nepal ExperienceKongde Ri Climbing: Itinerary, Difficulty, Cost, and Route
Kongde Ri (6,187 m) is one of the Khumbu's toughest trekking peaks. Full itinerary, real permit costs, difficulty by season, and money-saving tips.
Nepal ExperienceA Complete Guide to Chepang Hill Trek
Explore remote villages of Central Nepal on the 5-day Chepang Hill Trek. Enjoy picturesque Hugdi and traditional Chepang homestays.
Nepal Experience10 Easy Treks in Nepal for Beginners
Looking for easy treks in Nepal? Check out our list of 10 beginner-friendly treks that offer stunning views and cultural experiences.
Nepal Adventures10 Best Things to do in Dingboche
Dingboche (4,410 m) is the Khumbu's acclimatization hub. The 10 best things to do there, from the Nangkartshang hike to bakeries, mani walls, and gompas.
Nepal Adventures10 permit-free trekking destinations for solo trekkers in Nepal
Discover 10 permit-free trekking destinations in Nepal ideal for solo adventurers, from Pikey Peak to Sailung, plus the rules to know before you go.
Nepal AdventuresHow to hire a guide in Nepal?
How to hire a licensed trekking guide in Nepal: daily rates (USD 25-30), where to find one, licence checks, tipping etiquette, and the 2023 guide requirement.
Nepal ExperienceSolo Trekkers Can Still Trek to the Everest Region Without a Guide, Despite New Rule
The Everest region is exempt from Nepal's guide rule: solo trekkers pay the NPR 3,000 Khumbu fee and NPR 3,000 park permit instead of TIMS. How it works.
Nepal ExperienceTrekking in Nepal Without a TIMS Card? Heavy Fines Ahead
TIMS card rules in Nepal: NPR 2,000 cost, fines for trekking without one, the 44 guide-mandatory routes, and where TIMS is not required at all.