Nepal Top Destinations

Home to majestic Mt. Everest, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, and one of few countries in the world never to have been colonized, this breathtaking country covers diverse landscapes from the Himalayan Mountains in the north to the flat expansive plains in the south. Deep gorges, towering mountains, vibrant culture and charismatic people - Nepal is the ideal destination for adventurers and culture vultures.
Our friend Prem Khatri from Ace the Himalaya shares five things you should know before you go.
1. Social Etiquette in Nepal
First and foremost, you will want to know how to greet the locals. The traditional manner of greeting in Nepal involves placing your palms together in a prayer style and saying "namaste" or "namaskar". Address anyone older than you with respect using the terms "dai" for men and "didi" for women. And avoid stepping over someone's outstretched legs or touching anyone with your feet as these are considered impolite.
Once you have mastered this, you will want to be sure to obey local culture so as not to offend. Note that it is never acceptable to wear revealing clothing (including shorts), particularly for women. While swimming, stick to a one-piece and leave the bikini at home. Public displays of affection are also frowned upon in Nepal.
If you are lucky enough to be invited into a Nepali home, remember to remove your shoes before entering. At dinner time, you must always wash your hands and mouth before eating. Always wait for the host to serve you and avoid "polluting" food by letting it come into contact with a used plate or utensil. Whatever you do, do not use your spoon or fork to serve food. Bon appetit!
Want to know more about Nepal? Head to our Stories section to delve a little deeper.
2. Adventure Experiences in Nepal
Given Nepal's incredible terrain, it's no surprise that it is one of the world's most popular destinations for adventure tourism. When you are grabbing your gear, make sure you grab a buddy too. Trekking or hiking alone is dangerous for several reasons. You may also want to hire a guide, as the woods and mountain areas can be tricky and getting lost or injured is a real risk. If mountain climbing is on your itinerary, be aware of and prepared for the possibility of altitude sickness and frostbite. Dress accordingly and do not take on more than you can handle.
In addition to trekking and hiking, Nepal offers a huge variety of outdoor adventures sure to satisfy even the most daring traveller. Whitewater rafting in the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli, canyoning, rock climbing, mountain biking, mountaineering, and paragliding are just a few of the many exhilarating options. If you are particularly brave, you can experience the second-highest bungee jump in the world, which happens to take place over the mighty Bhote Koshi River. Whatever your pleasure, be aware of the risks and use caution during your adventures.