🇳🇵 Nepal

Nepal is a landlocked Himalayan nation where ancient Buddhism and Hinduism blend seamlessly with mountain culture. Nepali culture centers on 'Namaste' philosophy (the divine in me honors the divine in you), family solidarity, and deep spiritual connections. Despite economic challenges, Nepali people are renowned for their warmth, resilience, and genuine hospitality toward visitors.

Namaste Greeting: Join palms at chest level with slight bow - universally respectful. Temple Etiquette: Remove shoes, don't touch religious objects, photography may be restricted. Trekking Permits: Required for most hiking areas, arrange through licensed agencies. Power Cuts: Load shedding common, carry power banks and flashlights. Altitude Awareness: Acclimatize properly in mountains, ascend gradually.

Nepali society is deeply spiritual with Hindu-Buddhist syncretism. Caste system exists but is less rigid than in India. Family and community bonds are incredibly strong - decisions made collectively. 'Daal-bhaat' (rice and lentils) is eaten twice daily by most families. Mountain communities have distinct cultures - Sherpa, Gurung, and Tamang peoples have unique languages and traditions separate from lowland culture.

Autumn (October-November): Clear mountain views, perfect trekking weather, festivals, temperatures 10-25°C. Winter (December-February): Cold but clear, lower altitude comfortable, mountains visible, 5-20°C. Spring (March-May): Rhododendrons bloom, good trekking season, pre-monsoon clarity, 15-28°C. Monsoon (June-September): Heavy rains, lush landscapes, leeches on trails, limited mountain views, 20-30°C.

Tourist Buses: Comfortable for Pokhara-Kathmandu route, book through hotels. Local Buses: Crowded but authentic, very cheap for local routes. Taxis: Negotiate price beforehand, ride-sharing limited to Kathmandu. Domestic Flights: Essential for remote areas, weather-dependent cancellations common. Walking/Trekking: Primary transport in mountains, porters available for long treks.

Budget Travel (€8-20/day): Guesthouses €3-8, local dal bhat €1-3, local buses €1-5, free temples and hiking. Mid-Range (€20-40/day): Hotels €10-25, tourist restaurants €3-8, trekking permits €10-30, guide services. Luxury (€40+/day): Luxury lodges €30-150+, fine dining €8-25+, helicopter tours, premium trekking services. Incredible value, especially for mountain experiences.

Nepali is the official language with many ethnic languages in different regions. Essential phrases: 'Namaste' (hello/goodbye), 'Dhanyabaad' (thank you), 'Maaf garnuhos' (excuse me), 'Tapai English bolnuhunchha?' (Do you speak English?). English common in tourist areas and among younger people. Hindi also understood by many Nepalis.

Nepal is generally safe with friendly people. Altitude sickness is serious - ascend slowly, recognize symptoms. Trekking alone not recommended - hire guides for remote areas. Political strikes (bandhs) can close transport. Don't drink tap water. Emergency numbers: 100 (police), 102 (ambulance). Carry copies of passport/visa. Medical facilities limited outside Kathmandu/Pokhara.

Nepali Rupee (NPR) is the currency. Indian Rupees also accepted. Cash essential - ATMs limited outside main cities. Cards accepted in upscale hotels/restaurants only. Typical costs: Dal bhat 150-300 NPR, Tea 20-50 NPR, Guesthouse 300-800 NPR/night, Bus ticket 200-800 NPR. Tipping expected for guides/porters - 10-15% of service cost.