The Swotah Journal
Route guides, permits, packing lists and dispatches from the trail.
264 articles
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.
Nepal AdventuresHelicopter Tour Costs in Nepal
Explore the awe-inspiring beauty of Nepal with exciting helicopter tours and gain insights into the trip cost and the factors that impact it.
Nepal AdventuresMera Peak Climbing: Preparation, Routes, and Safety Tips
Mera Peak (6,476 m) is Nepal's highest trekking peak. Routes via Mera La and Khare, permits and costs, the best seasons, and safety tips for first-timers.
Nepal ExperienceBest Newari Restaurants In Pokhara
Explore authentic Newari cuisine in Pokhara! From Samay Baji to Yomari to Choila to Bara, find the best restaurants and must-try dishes.
Nepal ExperienceBest Newari Restaurants in Kathmandu
Explore authentic Newari cuisine in Kathmandu! From Samay Baji to Yomari to Choila to Bara, find the best restaurants and must-try dishes.