Why Nepal is absolutely perfect for amateur solo backpackers
Nepal, the Himalayan capital is a country like none other to travel solo in. The country from the time you get onto a flight is all about the adrenaline rush, no matter if you are trekking to the Everest base camp or just going to wander through the streets of Thamel or Pokhara.
The whole country has a vibe to it. Be it the open cafe serving pizzas and pastas or the kati roll and momos on the road. Nepal is a country I would recommend to anyone who wants to travel solo internationally in search of something beyond the materialistic wants of the settled world.
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Visa on arrival
We all have heard it and we know about it, but when it comes to travelling to Nepal, we don’t end up doing so for various reasons. Don’t bother about what the country seems like in the news. Travelling solo to Nepal will be one of the most fruitful experiences in your life. The place might not seem like much but when it comes to solo backpacking the experience it out of this planet.
Currency is lower than India
It’s indeed one of the few places in the world where we as Indians can have a feel good factor while we are exchanging money. Indian currency is widely accepted in the Himalayan country and its easier to pay in Indian rupees. The exchange rate is usually 1 INR = 1.50-1.80 NR.
Nepal is Backpacker friendly
Since Nepal is home to Mount Everest and the other greater Himalayan peaks, the whole country is pro backpacker. No matter where you go, if you are backpacking, you will never have any issues finding accommodation or even hitch hiking along the road.
Budget stays
You’ll find accommodation anywhere you go along the backpacker circuit. From home stays and hostels to guest houses, Nepal is well equipped in terms of budget accommodation. Expect to spend for a room anywhere between 500 to 1000 INR and 250 to 800 INR for a bunk bed.
Good public transportation
Again along the backpacker circuit, you’ll get very good public transport which will take you in a very low budget from one place to another. You can literally see all of Nepal in a public bus.
Locals speak Hindi
When you are travelling solo, the biggest concern for one comes down to the language barrier. But this is not an issue at all in Nepal. Everyone in the country can speak and understand Hindi. So getting around is very easy.
It is +15 IST
Yup the country is just 15 minutes ahead of India in terms of time. So there isn’t much in terms of your schedule that you will have to change. Just make sure to change your watch and you are good to go, nothing apart from that.
Extremely safe
The people of Nepal are very warm and kind and everyone is just trying to be friendly. It’s such a warm and welcoming country that ‘very very safe at any time of the hour. Nepalis are very welcoming to travellers and will go out of their way to make you comfortable.
Great food options
If you are a foodie then Nepal is a treat for you. It’s literally heaven for a meat eater, from the local and international options that are available in Nepal. Since the country is a major global attractions because of its 8000 m peaks the locals have mastered the global cuisine.
Finding peace in the Himalayas
This should actually be the first reason why you need to pick Nepal as your next solo travel destination. When you go to the Himalayas, it’s a spiritual journey and nothing can compare to a solo backpacking trip to the Himalayas. If you have travelled solo to the Indian Himalayas then it’s time you take a week off and head to Nepal to spread your wings as a solo backpacker.