The Swotah Journal

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

264 articles

Romantic Things to Do in Kathmandu for CouplesNepal Experience

Romantic Things to Do in Kathmandu for Couples

From outdoor activities and cultural experiences to spa treatments and romantic dinners, there are plenty of romantic things to do in Kathmandu for couples

Mar 15, 20237 min read
Best Short Treks from PokharaNepal Adventures

Best Short Treks from Pokhara

Explore the stunning views, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage that Nepal has to offer on five short treks around Pokhara.

Mar 14, 20238 min read
Navigating the Renjo La Pass: An Insider's GuideNepal Adventures

Navigating the Renjo La Pass: An Insider's Guide

Renjo La Pass in the Everest region takes you through a diverse terrain of traditional Sherpa villages, offering stunning panoramas of snow-capped peaks.

Mar 14, 20239 min read
Conquer Cho La Pass - A Guide to Trekking this Himalayan PassNepal Adventures

Conquer Cho La Pass - A Guide to Trekking this Himalayan Pass

Experience an unforgettable journey through the Himalayas and conquer Cho La Pass, the 5,420 m crossing that links Everest Base Camp with the Gokyo Lakes.

Mar 14, 20238 min read
Jugal Himal Trek - Itinerary, Price and LocationNepal Adventures

Jugal Himal Trek - Itinerary, Price and Location

Explore the pristine trails of the Jugal Himal Trek and marvel at the snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and ancient Buddhist monasteries.

Mar 14, 20238 min read
Is Solo Trekking Banned in Nepal? The Guide Rule ExplainedNepal Adventures

Is Solo Trekking Banned in Nepal? The Guide Rule Explained

Since April 2023, foreign trekkers need a licensed guide in most of Nepal. What the rule covers, TIMS costs, the Everest exception, and the pros and cons.

Mar 10, 20239 min read
Things to Know Before Going to NepalNepal Experience

Things to Know Before Going to Nepal

A guide to learning more about Nepal before visiting, including facts about the people, culture, and customs.

Mar 7, 20239 min read
Best Nepal and Bhutan Tours 2025Nepal

Best Nepal and Bhutan Tours 2025

Combine Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Poon Hill with Bhutan's Tiger's Nest on one Himalayan trip. Two sample Nepal-Bhutan itineraries, costs, and the best seasons.

Mar 7, 20236 min read
8 Breathtaking National Parks and Conservation Areas to Visit in NepalNepal Adventures

8 Breathtaking National Parks and Conservation Areas to Visit in Nepal

Explore Nepal's stunning national parks: Chitwan, Bardiya, Sagarmatha, Langtang, Rara, Shey Phoksundo, and more incredible natural sites to discover.

Mar 5, 20235 min read
Annapurna Circuit Trek in AprilNepal Adventures

Annapurna Circuit Trek in April

April is the perfect time to take the Annapurna Circuit trek. Trails are dry and clear, the weather is pleasant, and the views are uninterrupted.

Mar 2, 20238 min read
Canoeing In Nepal: An Adventurer’s GuideNepal Experience

Canoeing In Nepal: An Adventurer’s Guide

Canoeing in Nepal: paddle Phewa Lake, ride a dugout canoe past crocodiles in Chitwan, and find the best rivers, seasons, gear, and costs.

Feb 28, 20238 min read
Best Time for the Mardi Himal TrekNepal Adventures

Best Time for the Mardi Himal Trek

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for the Mardi Himal trek. Here is what to expect month by month, from rhododendron blooms to winter snow.

Feb 27, 20238 min read