10 things you need to know before coming to Nepal

Sole Sisters is a travel blog initiated by 5 women who travel to different parts of the world and share their experiences through blogging.

Sole Sister Emma has volunteered in remote Nepal and started her own non-profit movement to help build a school for Nepalese children. She has shared some very useful travel advice before you fly out to Nepal. Emma has listed down 10 things you need to know before going to Nepal.

1. You can feel safe in Nepal

Emma writes: “Because Nepal’s tourism industry is the largest source of revenue for the country, Nepalis are very welcoming, accommodating, and respectful to tourists.” According to Emma, Nepali people are friendly and welcoming and would cause no harm to you.”Learn to trust the intention of the locals and keep in mind that not everyone is out to get you,”writes Emma.

2. Nepali People are very curious

We are quite sure that most of you will agree to this one. Nepali people are extremely curious and will never stop asking you questions. They are kind and welcoming and will try their best to be a friend in need. “I once stumbled inside a shop and the lady behind the counter was so inviting that I ended up visiting her for 3 days in a row. A small friendship grew and to this day, we keep in touch on Facebook,” writes Emma.

3. Use the prayer gesture for everything

Nepali people will hold their palms together in a praying position to greet you welcome by saying “Namaste” and “Hello”. “Even to say thank you, you’re welcome, or goodbye, you can hold up the gesture. You can use it as much as you like. It’s quite addictive actually”

4. They are ambitious people

During her stay in Nepal, Emma realized that Nepali people are ambitious and will share their dreams with you. They are equally compassionate and generous at the same time. She thinks that the effort and initiative shown by Nepali community to recover from earthquake is commendable.

5. Don’t confuse the term “Sherpa”

Emma writes: “Most people use this term to describe a mountain guide or porter, but “Sherpa” is actually a Nepali ethnic group from the high mountains in the Himalayas. Mountain guides or porters could actually be Tamang, or Gurung, or any other ethnic group.”

6. Nepalese are minimalists

Nepali people are happy and content with the most minimal possessions. Despite of going through the worst nightmare, they are resilient and content. They appreciate the little things in life.

7. They have simple, old school way of living

Despite of being aware about modern method of doing things, Nepali people always prefer their traditional method. “Though it might look a little complicated to us, it is their way of living and they are comfortable with that,” writes Emma.

8. They take their time

In terms of punctuality, Nepali are not quite an example setter. They have a slower pace of life and are flexible. “If they tell you a bus ride will take 6 hours, expect it to take 10. It is all part of their culture so embrace it and go with the flow,” writes Emma.

9. They are thoughtful people

Once they get to learn about you and will get a good feeling about you, they will shower you with unconditional love and attention. They will leave no stones unturned to make your stay memorable for a lifetime.

10. The Himalayas will blow you away

“Nepal is home to the majestic Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world. Hundreds of climbers summit Mount Everest each year, and thousands travel there to simply experience the magical adventure. The exploration possibilities are endless and wherever you look, a mountain range appears in the distance,” writes Emma.

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