Traveling Tips: Going Nomadic In Nepal

When travelling to the other side of the globe, it’s easy to make mistakes.  Luckily, Nepalis understand; they’re an extremely forgiving people.  That said, do your best to recognize (in an indirect culture, this can be easier said than done) and learn from mistakes.  Here’s some advice to make your first days in Nepal as shock-free as possible.

Cultural Pointers

Clothing:  Dress conservatively.  This is especially true for women: wear pants—don’t expose your shoulders, scarves and shawls will become your best friends.  Guys, you aren’t exempt.  Although it’s acceptable for men to wear shorts on a trek, pants are preferred. In the Kathmandu Valley, however, you’ll see young women wearing revealing clothing, but that doesn’t mean it’s okay for tourists.  If it offends anyone (in this case, the older generation more than the younger generation) it’s a bad idea. 

Kissy-Kissy: Why are there so many young Nepali couples at temples and other tourist locations?  They are avoiding the stern eyes of their parents.  Although Nepalis generally enjoy boyfriend/girlfriend gossip, public displays of affection are a “no-no” in Nepal.  Nepal’s hospitality is legendary, but it’s not unheard of for overly affectionate tourist lovebirds to be literally run out of a village.

Beggars: To give or not to give?  This is a personal decision, and an emotionally tough one at that.  Signs that preach “Do As Nepalis Do” in tourist areas say simply: don’t do it.  However, many Nepalis actually do give small amounts to physically disabled beggars in particular.  Our recommendation: if you want to try to make a long-term difference, find a Nepali NGO that you agree with, and find a more sustainable way to help.

Logistics

Katmandhu Valley Transportation: Nepal’s high-energy, fast-paced transportation system can turn even the cushiest, most high-priced travel options into nerve-wracking, adrenaline-infused adventures.  It ain’t easy, but try to relax.

Those staying for an extended period of time in the Kathmandhu Valley should learn to navigate the constant rush of bus/micro-bus system as soon as possible.  Have a local show you the ropes.  People who are passing through should save the stress and pay a few extra bucks for a cab.

Long Distance: Two options—bus or jeep.  Jeeps, the pricier and more comfortable option, are available through tourism agencies.  DIY travellers looking to save money should buy tourist bus tickets from the bus park as opposed to pricey agencies.  Avoid taking local buses long distances, as they are cramped and make frequent stops to pick up and drop off short-distance travellers.

The only way to avoid death-defying roads and hurried drivers is to take a chopper or plane—both legitimate options, though far pricier.

Food: It’s simple: pay extra money and eat food prepared sanitarily.  Nepalis have stomachs that can handle a bit of bacteria, and most tourists don’t.  Only eat cooked food.  Make sure that all cups and plates are dry before using them.  You’ll thank yourself for being extra-cautious.

More Myths and Tips:

-Although now a term used in the tourist industry, “Sherpa” does not mean “porter.”  Sherpas are an ethnic group, some of whom happen to be porters. 

-Yoga exists in Nepal, but most of it is for tourists.  If you are staying in a homestay, don’t get your hopes up for hours of yoga and meditation every day.  Nepalis are busy people.

- Learn some Nepali. Although most people in Kathmandu and almost all trekking agencies speak English, making the effort to learn and speak a few words of their language is much appreciated by (and entertaining for) the locals.  Greet with “namaste,” everyday.

-Pay the price. Overpaying inflates prices and creates difficulties for locals.  Only certain items (mainly in Thamel) are available for tourist bargains.

-Don’t sit with the bottoms of your feet pointed at someone. Don’t step over people or food.  Both are considered rude.

-When in doubt, do as Nepalis do.

*The Bottom Line: Plan at least one day that’s plan-free.  Get out of the tourist areas.  Indulge your curiosities.  Your most memorable moments will catch you off-guard, but only if you’re open to letting them.