Tihar was so beautiful. There were so many homes and businesses lit up and such a festive spirit. We took our 360 camera with us and took a walk through Thamel. I hope you enjoy the video, but there's always more to say. Please do subscribe to our channel if you haven't already. More subscribers will give us more exposure so we'll be able to help many more tourists to have a great time in Nepal. 

 

 Check out our walk through Thamel during this 'Festival of Lights in 360.

I often write about when to come to Nepal, but I’ve actually been suggesting people come after Tihar, the final big festival. The reason isn’t because it’s not enjoyable, but because so many people are totally distracted by it. People won’t work much between 2 week before Dasain and until Tihar is over. That’s about a 6 week time period. But Dasain is in October and Tihar is usually in November. This causes issues in the food industry more then anything. There is often no one to serve the food in restaurants in Kathmandu, so there are fewer items on the menu and longer wait times. But if you can eat the local food you should be fine. Just remember everyone is short staffed.

The lights were beautiful and the people were so happy during the celebration. But what is it? The celebration comes from Lord Ram returning from war and destroying a demon. As he returned people put candles out to welcome him and now people continue to do that. But there is a lot more to it than that. Many of the customs are carried out with families, so it’s difficult to get a clear picture of it.

The main date, which everything led up to, the festival is celebrated in the home and just about everyone welcomes Goddess Laxmi to come into the home to bring prosperity for the year. People actually leave the door open all night for her and keep the lights on. Next year we hope to do more to explore the festival a bit deeper. We also have another video coming up to help you understand some of the traditions that accompany the Laxmi Puja that is celebrated the day before the final evening. You’ll be able to see that on our new channel, It’s About Nepal: https://bit.ly/39iVJSp

I looked at some stores along the way, so here is the contact information for each of them that I got a business card for.

There is little in customer service and your only recourse would be the Tourist Police, but why bother them? Educate yourself well and be sure to get a receipt with the tax shown as paid. Keep the receipt for when you leave. If you show the receipt that has no store name you could get into trouble because it wouldn’t have the tax shown.

Another video you may like:

Our Kathmandu Guest House affiliate Booking.com link: Our Kathmandu Guest House Affiliate Link

Our goal for this channel is to save you time, money and frustration. I think these three affiliate links will help with these issues. We appreciate your support by ‘liking’ and subscribing and clicking on our affiliate links.

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Nepal is open. The government of Nepal has done away with mandatory quarantine for the travelers who are vaccinated. We have a library of helpful videos just for Nepal. Here’s one you’ll enjoy if you liked this one: Check out another of our videos to help you get the most out of Nepal.

 

GRK Traders

Satghumi, Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal 977-1-4700003

Outdoorgearnepal@gmail.com

Manufacturer/wholesaler of outdoor clothing and rental service of trekking clothing and equipment

Ultimate Jewels (next to Kathmandu Guest House)

Mosen Khan, Proprietor

Thamel, Kathmandu, 5977-014701485

Blaze2extreme@hotmail.com

Om Shanti Handicraftg and Cold Store for trekking items

Shayam Dev Rajak

+977 9841612859

Omshantihandicraft@yahoo.com

Near Tibet Guest Hous, Nirvana Garden, Thamel

Royal Pashmina

Sanjeev Chapagain

9843210594Kathmandu-16, Satghumti, Thamel

royalpashmina27@gmail.com

MON-Museum of Nepali Art

Jenisha Maharjan (museum manager)

manager@mona.com.np

www.mona.com.np

977 9802020484

 

Getting the Most Out of Nepal-Exploring the Postal Service

 After struggling for about 3 years to get 1,000 subscribers on our Youtube channel, What About Nepal, I realized that it surely must be shadow banned by the algorithm. So, I made a new channel and this is our first video on the channel. 

Please check out our new video, as well as the one we made in 2019. A lot has changed but for an extra 10 minutes I think you’ll find a tip or two that you can use in that video. There are tips on how to address the package and such in that video. 

Our new channel, Its about Nepal, our other channel, What About Nepal, and this blog have these advantages:
1. Positive, truthful tips.
2. Tips to keep you safe and help you to keep from wasting money.
3. Help to understand the culture and laws to help keep you out of trouble.
4. Help you to fall in love with Nepal so you’ll come back again and again.

As always, the underlying theme of the new channel, Its About Nepal, is to help you get the most out of Nepal. We’ll be updating videos from the old channel, as well as uploading weekly to the new channel. We use this blog to add things that cannot be illustrated so well in the video. 

For example, here’s the brochure from the Post Office that will help you to know what you can send, as well as the current, 2021 prices. I think this is all I needed to add to the video.

As always, please check out our travel insurance affiliate link to shop for the best prices from many major, international travel insurance companies. If you take a look at the platform and don’t like it, please let me know in the comments so I can find a better affiliate partner, but I liked the simplicity of the site and that they promise an advocate if you need to put in a claim. That way they can deal with some of the details if you are too ill to deal with it. Seriously, when does an insurance company willingly pay the full claim? Insure My Trip isn’t an insurance company, but a marketing partner, so they are on your side if you have to put in a claim. 

https://www.insuremytrip.com/?linkId=8517


I’d like to give a special thank you to all our subscribers. I know you might not want to follow us after your trip to Nepal is finished, but I hope that isn’t the case. If you’re finding this blog and our videos helpful please hit the like button and subscribe.

 

 

Getting the Most Out of Shivaratri in Nepal

Shivaratri is a unique festival in Nepal, first because it isn't held on the full moon. It's held on the no moon or new moon phase. It's an exciting festival in that people all gather at the Shiva temples, particularly Pashupatinath. Typically, marijuana is smoked or eaten in the form of candy balls during this festival.

 

We took our 360 camera with us to enjoy this celebration and did a live shoot. Check it out to get the feel of what the festival is all about. Be sure to adjust the quality to the highest so you can get that 'being there' feeling. If you have 3d goggles it's really nice. Spin the screen to see what's behind the camera. 

Please do not let these warnings below stop you from enjoying this festival. I really wanted to use this as a way to educate our readers and viewers about drug use in Nepal. It isn't dangerous; just don't let it get you into trouble.

Tip #1. Do not eat the balls. There is a treat that's readily available at this festival made from ganja. Many hands were working on these and there may not be running water anywhere in the area. You can easily become ill if you eat them.

Tip #2. Although the Nepali police are polite and helpful for tourists, please obey the laws. If you do want to smoke ganja it's best to not have much on you at any time. Just pack a few cigarettes. The police have enough to do without dealing with problems from this.

Tip #3. Drug Warning: Be very careful about partaking of anything stronger than marijuana or organically made hashish. Sometimes they make hashish with things like petrol, so smell it to make sure there isn’t petrol or something worse. Generally, hashish is made by a process of shaking and rubbing to get the THC out of the plant; I’m not sure of the exact methods used here.

 

Tip #4. Be sure to leave your valuables, passport, etc. in the guesthouse. I accompanied a tourist one time to a festival and she got pick-pocketed within minutes of paying her ticket.

Tip #5. It's best to stay near the airport and walk to Pashupatinath for Shivartri. They often close the road so taxis and buses are unable to get you close enough. But when it's time to go back you can walk a ways and find a taxi. It isn't so far but you'll be walking the entire day. Here's a guesthouse by the airport that we stayed at that was nice and moderately priced.

Tip #6. Understand what is expected of you, what to do and what not to do. You are welcome to join in just about anywhere. You'll find Nepalese are so welcoming you will have a great time.

Tip #7. Be careful about dealing with sadhus. These are the people walking around with painted faces and dressed in orange. Many are con men, so always negotiate the money issue before you allow them to put a tika on your forehead, get a picture with them or let them tell your future. Then, after you think you are finished, they ask you for money to help them get back to India. Keep in mind that a local bus to India costs less than $25.

If you ever think you are being taken advantage of just look for a police officer or call the tourist police. You should have that phone number logged into your cell phone. 014247041

What not to do: If you take a picture with a sadu, street beggar or vendor please give them a bit of money. Usually 50-100 rupee is fine. Otherwise, ask before taking a picture or video where a person may be uncomfortable. 

Do not take pictures of burning bodies or mourners close up. If it's a picture of the grounds and there are bodies burning, that's fine, but don't feature that in the picture without asking permission. 

If you have a tip for travelers who want to enjoy this festival please leave it in the comments.

Patan’s Lovely Durbar Square, Exploring Local Life in the Kathmandu Valley

The Kathmandu Valley had three kings during its long history in the Malla Dynasty and each of these kingdoms had a palace and lovely square that surrounded it. Each of these historical sites are worth spending a few days to explore, depending on your time constraints. On this particular day we visited the Patan Durbar Square. 

Tips on getting the most out of interactive 360 5K videos: 

1. Use the mouse, screen or rotate a mobile to see in any direction.
2. Use VR goggles to actually get a 3D feel.
3. Adjust the setting to the highest possible video quality.
Let us know in the comments how you enjoy this format and if you had any trouble navigating.

Although there are still several temples under construction from the earthquakes of 2015, there is still so much history and beauty to explore. We took our new 360 camera with us and filmed a post for our Youtube channel, ‘What About Nepal?’  I hope you click on the link above to watch the video. Remember, it's 360 interactive, so be sure to scroll around.

We began our time by checking out a local restaurant, The Cafe Du Temple. Due to my ‘granny’ stomach, I had pizza, but Sujit chose better; he had a delicious dumpling noodle dish. Both meals were prepared well and came in a timely manner-something that doesn’t always happen.

There is a lot to see at this UNESCO site with temples of various styles. We strolled through the square just to give you an idea about what’s there to see. The people are friendly and the shopping prices are incredible bargains that you can easily have shipped back home. Spending time here will allow you to explore this community on a variety of levels. There are many interesting things that go on here that you just won’t see anywhere else. The customs in Nepal are localized, so even if it’s a festival to celebrate a particular deity it’s done in a unique way.

Travel Tip: Be sure to check the calendar to see if there is a full moon during the time you’ll be in Kathmandu. Most festivals are done during the full moons from February-March to October, but the last one is more for family like Christmas is done in the west. If you come during this festival time it can be difficult to find businesses open in Kathmandu due to everyone going home for the holiday. It’s not as much of a problem as it used to be, but it can become a scheduling issue. Additionally, it would be good to ask your guesthouse managers if they will be fully staffed during Dashain (pronounced ‘Dos-I’). I’ve heard plenty of stories of health problems due to restaurants being under-staffed.

How to overcome the food service issue in Nepal?
1. Make sure the food is thoroughly hot when it’s served. I don’t suggest sending food back; just be gracious and order something else if it isn’t to your liking.
2. Be gracious and patient; don’t complain in a harsh way.
3. Order local foods instead of western foods.
4. Be very careful about street food and local eateries.

Enjoying the local culture ends up being at the top of most travelers’ list of most memorable memories. You do not need to leave the Kathmandu Valley to find amazing, local experiences. Just explore one of Nepal’s ancient Darbur Squares. Patan’s Durbar Square will leave you with a deep appreciation for the local people, history and their customs.

Our business contacts in this video:

Roshan Handicraft Center, Manufacture, Wholesaler & Exporter of Nepalese, Tibetan & all kinds of Goods
Roshan Kumar Shakya, Proprietor

Showroom:

Mahapal, Patako-16
Lalitpur, Nepal
+977 9841220216

Healing Bowl Center Showroom:

Amogha Handicraft and Healing Bowl Center
Amogha Bajracharya, 9860569934
Haseena Shakya, 9869726819
AmoghaHandicraft@gmail.com
Illanai, Patan-Backside of Golden Temple

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Exploring Gokarna Forest-Day Nature Hike

Exploring Nepal is always full of surprises, sometimes in a good way and sometimes not so good. When we moved into our new home near Lazimpat I could look out the window and see the lovely hilltop where the famous, Kopan monastery sits. I wanted to go explore the area since March,  but shortly after we moved in we were in and out of Covid lockdown for 5 months or so.

We just got out of lockdown, so I decided we’d check it out right away.  After being turned away at the Kopan monastery we made our way to the other side of the area to  a lovely part of the Gokarna Forest. We were quite surprised to find the Peace and Martyrs’ Park and quiet nature trail.

The best part of the day was that we brought our 360 camera so we could share the day with our viewers. This camera features high speed, 5K videos that can be seen in 3D if you have VR goggles. But even if you don’t have the goggles, just turn the prospective of the screen to see the sky, behind the camera or look to the side as we walk. If you don’t see an incredibly clear video you will need to adjust your Youtube settings using the button on the bottom of the video. Bring it up to the highest setting.

Although the park isn’t quite open yet, I think it will be completed within the next year or so. That means you can see it as a work in progress and enjoy its familiarity when you come to Nepal and spend that all-important day on your warm-up trek.

This area, Gokarna Forest, is huge and holds some relaxing resorts and and a trekking route that surrounds the Kathmandu Valley. We are planning to do more exploration in this area so I hope you subscribe to our channel. Beyond the Gokarna Forest, the Kathmandu Valley is surrounded by forest, either rural villages or government conservation areas of undeveloped regions.

What I’d like for you to consider is to take a few days at the beginning of your time in Nepal doing a few practical things to get the most out of your time here. In this video we explored the warm-up trek, but in the upcoming videos I’m going to focus on some ways you can benefit from your trip in some surprising, financial ways.

Let us know in the comments how you enjoy this format and if you had any trouble navigating. Thanks so much for subscribing whether you’re subscribing today or you’ve been watching our videos for a while, we really appreciate it. Check out our merch. in the description, if you plan to do any traveling. See you next time. Our Links: Our travel insurance link will take you to the best values for your money on travel insurance. This is a shopping platform similar to Booking.com or Tripadvisor.com. They are suppliers of the highest-rated policies from international travel insurance companies. Not only are the policies the same prices as offered by the travel insurance companies directly, but if you do need to put in a claim Insure My Trip will provide you with an advocate who will help you get everything you can out of your policy. You really do not want to go through it alone. 

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Insects of Nepal

Wherever you go, the local people know what to avoid and what’s not a problem. Insects are one of those things. They are life forms and fellow earthlings, so please be gentle with them. Just like humans, they just want to live their lives in peace.

If you come to Nepal you may have some reservations due to the insects and other natural critters. Here in the Kathmandu Valley there really aren’t any insects you need to really worry about, although there is a yellow caterpillar that can cause quite an irritation, which I haven’t heard of any tourists to be effected.

There is little to worry about here in the Kathmandu Valley, but I have to disclose a neighbor in the village where I lived got bit by a spider on his big toe and it caused pain and swelling all the way up to his groin. He was in a village home without a good floor or even glass in the windows.

Insects can be pretty scary, but they are so important for life on our planet. Scientists say that if just the bees die we will also; that’s how important they are for life on our planet.

No, I don’t like them to crawl on me or anything, but I sure do admire them from afar.

To understand just how the insects will affect you, you’ll need to realize that Nepal has 3 very different climates. First, Chitwan is in the flat elevation like people think of as India. You really can’t tell just where Nepal ends and India begins and it’s full of all kinds of problematic critters-from the very small insects to the occasional wild bull elephant. If you go to Chitwan be sure to bring a pair of binoculars. The birds and wildlife are amazing there.

Then, there is a more temperate climate like in the Kathmandu Valley. It’s great for farming. Although there have been reports of Dengue fever even in the higher elevations, there isn’t a big likelihood that you’ll be affected by it unless you are volunteering and living where people have it, usually by the river or at the hospitals.

Then there is the higher country where there really isn’t a need to worry at all about insects, but be sure to keep your distance from the larger animals, such as cows and mountain cats.

If you go to Chitwan you will need to take a few precautions or at least heighten your awareness about insects. Here are a few tips for you to consider.

1. If you have an aversion to insects or an outright fear you’ll want to stay in a bit better guesthouse and stay as high up as you can-3-4th floor will make a big difference.

2. You can have your guesthouse staff check your room with you in the evening. You will need to lift the bed up to check for spiders and snakes. Yes, if you are staying in a resort with the thatch roof you will need to check under your bed nightly.

3. Use a sleeping bag liner to help keep insects and spiders away from you in bed. You can find them in Thamel or just about anywhere they sell trekking supplies.

Ants: Interestingly, we are not bothered by fire ants here in the Kathmandu Valley. Although originally from Africa, these aggressive ants are difficult to avoid in many parts of the US.

3:27 in the video: Unfortunately, this blue bee got lost in our apartment and I was unable to get a good video of him. These are rare and beautiful, so I’m including her.

2:47 in the video: This beetle was about 4 inches long. We also have some smaller ones that buzz around the lights and bang into walls. They are fun to watch and completely harmless.

5:55 on the video: If you do hiking during the monsoon season you may get one of these leeches on you. Don’t worry if you do. They are gross but perfectly harmless.

Mosquito: If you are concerned about Malaria or Dengue Fever check out the video on that subject for more information. 

Our travel insurance link will take you to the best value for your money on travel insurance. This is a shopping platform similar to Booking.com or Tripadvisor.com They are suppliers of the highest-rated policies from international travel insurance companies. Not only are the policies the same prices as offered by the travel insurance companies directly, but if you do need to put in a claim Insure My Trip will provide you with an advocate who will help you get everything you can out of your policy. You really do not want to go through it alone.

Travel Insurance link: https://www.insuremytrip.com/?linkId=8507

Learn more about Ama’s work in Nepal. (http://KayGarnay.org) 

We have an e-Book to help you have a great time in Nepal with even more tips. Our eBook, Nepal: A Tourist’s Manual. http://Payhip.com/Nepal Save 50% by using coupon code WhatAboutNepal

Website: https://WhatAboutNepal.org

Coming to Nepal in January-February? Come for Losar, Tibetan New Year

One of the most enjoyable things you’ll find in Nepal are the random festivals you’ll stumble into. They say there are more festivals in Nepal than days of the year, but few are celebrated throughout entire Nepal.

I often find myself mesmerized by the sudden crowd coming down the street wearing amazing traditional dress, playing unique musical instruments and carrying chariots with one or more gods. It’s usually quite lively with dancing and often a rather long parade of devotees following behind.

But how, when and where to get the most out of such an experience? Our recent guests wondered how they should proceed from the Star View Guest House for some short-term valley trekking. I suggested the Valley Rim trek whereby they continued from Changunarayan to Nagarkot and then up through Dhulikhil to Namo Buddha.

 Namo Buddha has a lovely Buddhist monastery, as well as some amazing views. Even on an ordinary day it’s quite nice, especially for those here for just a short time. But they happened to find themselves there on Tibetan New Year, that easily became the high point of their time in Nepal.

The mild spring-like weather made the trek quite enjoyable and then at the end they found this lovely celebration. There was a huge amount of food, which was free to everyone.

Another treat was seeing so many children in the red robes. In the Buddhist tradition, the second child is often given to the local Buddhists to raise. This provides some economic assistance for the family and provides a better life for the child. The families live in abject poverty, so having one child taken care of can be real help. And yes, the children are happy, really, really happy.

Many people celebrate Losar in Boudhanath, but if you are someone who likes to do things a bit different you might want to celebrate it in Namo Buddha or another Buddhist center. If you plan to go trekking you could easily incorporate such a festival by researching some of the monasteries in the Himalaya. However, it’s still a bit cold in the higher elevations. This is the best time to see Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, but since it’s at the opposite side of Nepal, I don’t know how big this celebration would be there.

Festivals are only one of the many reasons to come to Nepal. There are actually 6 different New Years’ Celebrations in Nepal, so be sure to check with your travel agent to see which festivals will be celebrated during your time here.

To illustrate what I'm referring to here, please check out this festival. It's the last 'tourist-friendly' big festival of the year.

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Nepal, A Retiree Winter Retreat

After 9/11/2001 my eyes opened and I started educating myself as to the political landscape of my country, USA. Yes, we all went through this, I know. Although I always wanted to travel the world and go to Africa, that wake-up call made me commit to that goal at a deeper level. My kids were young and my husband was in heart failure and not a likely travel companion to start with.

It wasn't until 2010 that I was able to get out, but it was life changing. I highly recommend a solo travel abroad-preferably one way. When I landed in Nepal I just fell in love with the place-everything!

Don't wait for 2020. You can come this winter.

Being as I'm looking at the world through a widow's lens, I see Nepal a bit differently than many of my more financially substantial counterparts. I see Nepal as a way to go from rags to riches without having to get more income.

But it isn't for everyone. First, the roads are not great and some of the potholes are big enough to get a car stuck. When you go to Kathmandu you have to use a mask to keep the pollution from bothering you too much. No one seems to follow through on their promises, but I'm expected to-even when they don't, and the list goes on. It's a big adjustment and it's not because the people are bad. They are really wonderful to tourists; it's just culture.

What's my point? My point is that for Americans who stuggle in the winter time to stay warm, get enough help to not have to shovel snow and have such high deductibles on insurance they cannot afford to take care of their dental issues or want to explore alternative medicine or get testing. No, I'm not saying to come here to get open heart surgery or anything like that done. There are many issues regarding infections and such that make it a foolish choice if there is another option. But putting up a crowdfunding project for medical help isn't always the only solution.

My badly sprained ankle

That being said, a person can get a root canal fixed for less than $200, usually a lot less. If you want to pay $30 you can, but it won't likely be very good. But you can go to a modern hospital with state-of-the-art equipment in Nepal and get care that is almost the same as in developed nations. Yes, almost; think 1995. As I've written about elsewhere, during one dental visit, the radiologist came to take me to get x-rays and I noticed he was wearing gloves. Wonderful! But as I followed him to the x-ray room he met a friend and actually shook hands with him! Did he change his gloves? No, although I'm sure he would have if I'd have asked.


Another issue was due to my going during the winter time to get my teeth cleaned. Good news: it was only $6. Bad news: they had no heating of the water they squirted into my mouth for 30 minutes. It was so cold it hurt! You see what I mean?

I've been pleasently surprised on a number of occassions and my teeth are in better shape than when I'd neglect them for so long back home due to the cost. There are MRI slice equipment where you can do an entire body scan for around $100. Although I tried to get a doctor to let me take one, if there is a medical need they will easily provide a prescription. If aneurysms run in your family you'd do well to have such a scan-and other reasons. What I like about Nepal's medical testing is the fact that no one asks for ID; it's completely anonymous.

So, what are you supposed to do? Show up and ask for a dental clinic? Well, you could probably do that, but I have a better idea.

I love caring for people and if you read the reviews on our guesthouse, Star View in Changunarayan, you will see the reviews I get on the way I personally care about our guests. My suggestion, recommendation is to come for the winter and stay with us or elsewhere and get such things taken care of.

The weather and view from our guesthouse on Oct. 30, 2017

I put out an offer of $800 a month all inclusive of private room, meals and transportation, even airfare. This would be on a 5-month agreement, but if it didn't work out a person could just pay back for the flight and be on their way. I would help them to find another place to stay. The only commitment would be on my part. If you pay for airfare we can give you a private room with private bath and all the food prepared for you from just $500 a month.

What would a person do here? Actually, there are a lot of things people spend their time doing, such as volunteering in the government school or helping our farmers start organic farming. Others write their memoirs or do internet projects; it's a great place for digital nomads. We have broadband internet, filtered water, refrigerator, back-up electric, room heaters, room servicing, solar water heating and just about whatever you need. We even have a HAM radio and antenae for your use.

"But what about all my bills and obligations back home while I'm away," you ask? If you understand that Facebook is not 'the internet' you are lightyears ahead of most of the population in Nepal. Therefore, you can get creative about how you can travel while producing some value along the way to help supplement your income. Here is a rather long list of ways a person can travel while earning a bit. Based Bachelor is a blogger and online worker who's explored many an online money-making scheme and such. The life of a digital nomad isn't for everyone, but it might help supliment your travels or use one of these ideas to help you save up to travel: https://www.basedbachelor.com/entrepreneurship/how-to-make-money-while-traveling/

Tourists are able to stay here for 5 months per calendar year, so coming in November and staying until the end of March can get you out of the worst part of winter for most people. Such a schedule could easily be a way to save a bit of money and give you a special time of not having to worry about things.

I'm 65 years old and have been blogging about the virtues of Nepal for 7 years now. I'm from the US and lived a fairly middle class lifestyle throughout my life and know the importance of handwashing, etc. Having someone on your side to help you through all the cultural nuances will make your stay a real retreat with mild weather, sunshine everyday and activities that will enrich your life.

My goal is to have our guesthouse be like stepping back to the West when you are inside. However, that would be a gross exaggeration if I were to claim that. However, in a country where almost 20% of tourists get stomach issues, we haven't gotten anyone sick due to food preparation in over 3 years. Yes, it happens, but I eat the same food as my guests, so it's a major problem for our staff if that happens. Three years is major in Nepal!

As more and more benefits are taken away from us in America, I think it's time to rethink our later years and think outside the box. When you go back in the spring you will have done all the needed medical testing and maybe a few visits to some unconventional healers. You'll have a whole new smile and new reasons for smiling. You'll have prescription meds to take home and we can send you more when you run out. Then you can show your doctor the test results and save a lot of money.

I have many connections on Twitter with people in the #Resist movement. For anyone serious about the US elections and political climate, book your flight for right after the election as a reward for your hard work. If the Dems win it will take a while to get whatever we lost back, if at all. So, you deserve a break and Nepal is calling (If you are a trumpster I apologize in advance. I can be pretty annoying, so I'm happy to help you find somewhere).

I know there are millions who would benefit from this offer, but I only have room for 4, at the most. Any inquiries are welcome to contact me at FrugalTravelsNepal@gmail.com
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Coming to Nepal During Monsoon-A Good Idea?

Changunarayan Travel Blog

August 12th, 2017 – by: frugaltravelsnepal

Buffalo grazing in our nearby forest
in Kathmandu Valley from hilltop below the temple

Formerly published at travelbuddy.com which has closed.

Is coming to Nepal during monsoon season a good idea? People suggest coming to a country during the off-season. Nepal's off-season is from June to September and December to the middle of February. Can a person enjoy this country during those time periods? We know it’s going to be cold in the winter, but what about monsoon? What should a traveler know about Nepal during this time?

First of all, you need to consider why you are traveling at that time. Is it to save money? Surprisingly, many Nepali merchants do not easily discount during slow times as we do in the US. Instead, it is typical to see the merchant expect you to pay more because he is not getting any sales. Western tourists are often happy to comply, which brings the prices up for everyone. Don’t let your Western guilt or ego lead you into over-spending.

Along one of our local trekking trails.

Always book for one day if you book online. After the first morning you can talk with the manager and get a discount if you stay longer. I don’t recommend booking online for more than a day because booking sites usually don’t allow prices under $10, which means walk in traffic might pay less. If you are afraid you’ll have to sleep on a park bench because the guest houses are all full, don’t worry. Unless you are out on the trekking trail in a very remote place you are 99% sure to find a place. Yes, the 5 star hotels book up in advance, but the normal, independent, little guesthouses are seldom full. I know this because I have a guesthouse; there are way too many guesthouses in the Kathmandu Valley and Pokhara.

A traditional Newari home with garlic drying outside

How much does it rain during monsoon? Of course it depends on where you are in Nepal; Nepal has several different climates. Here in the Kathmandu Valley it might rain for the night or morning, but it usually clears enough to do what needs to get done during the day. It seldom rains all day or all night. It’s more likely 3-4 rain showers throughout the day.

If you come during monsoon, you will need to watch for slippery rocks as you walk. Many roads are paved with lovely, but slippery rocks. So, check your shoes to make sure they have enough traction. Plastic soles, as on cheap shoes tend to be quite slippery.

If you intend on doing trekking in the high country I don’t suggest coming during monsoon. You could slip on a piece of ice, but the main reason is you won’t have many beautiful views.

Monsoon view from Star View Guest House

It’s often a great disappointment. However, if you would like to do volunteering, an internship or work on your thesis monsoon may not be a problem, at all. The Kathmandu Valley is mild and downpours are usually of short duration. Kathmandu being so polluted, the frequent rains keep the air quality at permissible levels. Do not plan to see Chitwan, Bardia National Park or other areas along the Indian border; it is just too hot. During the winter off season you will enjoy Lumbini and these other places, but remember it gets chilly and damp at night. You will not need malaria tablets for these places unless you go there during monsoon.

Here in Changunarayan Village, at the eastern edge of the valley, we have gentle breezes and it often doesn’t rain badly enough for guests to come down from our rooftop terrace at the Star View Guest House.

Two goats playing in the forest
along one of our trekking trails

Unlike many places with a dependency on tourism, Nepali love to meet and get to know tourists. I am always amazed to hear a Nepali greet a tourist in their own language or invite them home for tea or a meal. If you come during either off season you will feel like a super star. Yes, there is some sense of being able to dip into a deeper pocket, but once you get out of Thamel or Kathmandu City you will find many Nepali who just genuinely want to get to know you.

Come to Nepal during our lovely spring or fall tourist seasons, during the monsoon or even in the winter, but please put Nepal on your bucket list and come see this amazing country. It has something for young and old alike and more festivals than days of the year.

6 Facts You Need To Know When You Travel in Nepal.

Photo credit : Noé - turtletramp.com

Nepal is so much fun : each day is a surprise, a new adventure, a learning. You will have to make your own mistakes to get to know the culture, but here are some little tips that might help you during your first days on this sacred land :

1- Your black coffee will be filled with sugar.

You crave for a black coffee. A big, tasty, strong black coffee. No milk, no sugar; you like it 100% black.
Here you are at a local restaurant, ordering your holy Grail. It arrives, in its beautiful dark robe, and all your senses are arising. You take the warm cup between your hands, smell this delicious aroma, and prepare your lips to kiss the exquisite beverage. All the sudden, the divine moment collapses : the taste of your succulent coffee is masked by the sweetness of a ounce of white sugar. Urgh. You go to ask for another coffee without sugar, and you end up with a black-coloured water slightly tasting like coffee.
You do the mistake once, and twice, and trice. Then you remember : coffee isn't great in small local places, and if you decide to order it anyway, beg the waiter to forget the sugar.

Photo credit : Noé - turtletramp.com

2- You'll never get the fair price.

If you are accustomed to travel in Asia, you probably know that negotiate a price is a must-to-do. It might be easy in South East Asia, but Nepali are especially sharp in business.
The way you look like is important. The more touristy you are, the more likely a seller is to confound you with a huge dollars bill. Dress local, avoid western brands, huge money belt and socks with sandals, then you might be ready for the negotiation part.
Don't be afraid to ask 50%, even 60% of the price. They usually won't go that low, but keep trying. Fix a price in your head and stick to it. It is easier to do so before shops are closing : if the day wasn't good, they will be more likely to sell for a cheaper price. If you are still not satisfy and have the opportunity to come back to the shop, try again the day after. And remember : keep smiling and kidding, negotiation has to be fun.

4- If you need clean toilets, go to a bank.

Where the money is kept, the cleanest are the toilets. As bizarre as it might sound, toilets in banks are relatively clean and, the most important, furnished with toilet paper ! Banks are pretty much everywhere; it shouldn't be hard for you to find one on your way, before it becomes to urgent. Otherwise, always carry some tissues or toilet paper with you.

Photo credit : Noé - turtletramp.com

5- The three people rule.

People in Nepal are nice and willing to help you. However, if you are lost in one of those narrow and messy street in Kathmandu, looking for your guesthouse, you better ask three time your way. Indeed; instead of disappointing you by saying they have no idea of where is the place you want to go, Nepali people would rather show you the wrong direction.
The more times you ask, the more likely you are to find your way. And don't be afraid : locals speak perfectly English.

6- Maybe means no.

As mentioned previously, Nepali people are polite and won't make you feel uncomfortable. They will always find other ways to say no. Take a "maybe" as a no, and if one day you crave for tofu and the restaurant you go tells you they'll only have tofu tomorrow, don't bother to come back : they won't have tofu before a long, long time.

Photo credit : Noé - turtletramp.com

Did you experience funny or unusual facts about Nepal ? Tell us more about it !

Discovering Nepals Sustainable Agriculture

Discovering Nepal's Sustainable Agriculture
written by guest blogger Annie McLaughlin, Canada

Always wanting to explore the Himalayas and having just finished my formal education I was finally able to explore the country I dreamed about. I was even more eager to leave after putting my beds to sleep and getting a 3 foot snowfall after an incredible year of farming in Canada. It was amazing being able to come to a country where in a few hours time you can be in every kind of climate possible. From subtropical jungle to glacier ridges you can easily find everything here.

Guest Blog: A Deadly Trek in Nepal

My name is Evan and I've volunteered to add a post here about trekking in Nepal.  I can't be considered an expert since I've only done two treks here but this October I was involved in the worst (deadliest) trekking disaster in Nepal in 45 years.

My wife, Lisa, and I spent 10 days trekking the Annapurna circuit from Besi Sahar to the High Camp just below the 5400 meter Thurong La pass.  The evening before we planned to cross, it began to snow. Unbeknownst to us, there was the terrible storm, Hudhud, that had recently ravaged part of the Indian coastline and we were experiencing a bit of it as it moved inland and north.  Without any phones or internet for over a week, we didn't know that what began as a light snowfall would turn into a devastating blizzard with deadly consequences.

Historical, Hand Carved Wooden Masks, a Great Value at Changu Narayan Temple Village

There are many beautiful and quite unique items to purchase in Nepal. Musical instruments, pasmina scarves, thangkas, pottery, etc., and so many people who are in your face with them, it is difficult to know what to buy or who to buy from. After two years I still can’t get a good deal on a pashmina scarf and had to just shake my head in amazement yesterday when my British guest showed me a beautiful scarf she got for only 1,000 NRs. 

 

One of my favorite places in the area is the ancient Changu Narayan Temple site. It makes a nice side trip when you come to Bhaktapur, a must see in Nepal. The bus isn't much slower than a taxi would be so I recommend catching a local bus from Bhaktapur for 25 NRs. When a bus stops and is obviously too full just wait for another one. I've seen people hanging out the sides so often and it really makes me nervous. My eBook, Nepal: On a Budget, or whatever I begin calling it, gives more detail to safely riding buses in Nepal. Often, if you let the crowded bus pass the next one will have sitting room.  

One great value I would like to tell about is the historical masks. My friend, Furba, from Changu Narayan has been so kind as to explain some interesting things about these masks and has even given me two beautiful masks that I am very proud of. I would not have had an idea that they are more than decorative if I had not been living here and enjoying the festivals. I would not have known the power they have if I had not experienced it myself. 

 First of all, I’d like to assure my readers that these masks are made from wood that is readily available in Nepal from the holi or elder trees. Either of these trees come to full maturity in less than 5 years and can be found all over the area.

Tree for making masks

Because these masks are made from this soft wood, they are lighter than you would expect and easy to take home. Each of these masks are hand carved and hand painted, yet are one of the most affordable items to take back home, even when Westerners send them by post.  

When I got my first Bhirub mask I didn’t expect anything out of the ordinary, but the energy changed in my apartment and I found myself unable to contain anger anymore. My Hindu friends who know Bhirub well explain that Bhirub is the god of anger and if you let him he will take that anger you have in and around you and will take it as a sacrifice. I just can’t get worked up about those little annoyances and I realize now that they were all so small and petty I’ve decided to give all my anger to Bhirub (just by intend-no elaborate formality). If I were going back to the West, I would be sure to bring one of these masks home for someone I love in spite of his temper problem. It would also be great for anyone in customer service.

 The Historical Mask Shop has masks in a variety of themes, from the traditional Nepali, clown, African masks, om plaques, and even some contemporary style. For those who enjoy expanding their spiritual constructs these masks will allow you to bring home a bit of Nepali spirituality. Otherwise you might fall back into that ‘our invisible friend is better than yours.’ 

One interesting thing Furba helped me to understand is that Buddhists have gods like the Hindus. These masks are used when someone dies because the recently departed can get confused and not want to leave the earthly realm. In Buddhism, the lama wears the mask, chants and dances to help them to understand. This belief is similar to souls in the West that get lost in transition and stay behind to haunt homes. 

If you come to Changu Narayan Temple Village you can find Furba’s Historical Mask shop as you go up the steps. You will come to the museum on the right with Sunapati Thanka Shop on the left. The mask shop is just beyond these and on the left. They can make custom masks and can export at wholesale prices if you are looking for a Nepali project.

Manufacturer, wholesaler, exporter and retailer of custom, hand carved wooden masks. Historical Mask Work Shop, Changunarayan-1, Bhaktapur, Nepal. Furba Lama, +977 9841 620726, Email: lama_ff@yahoo.com

This is at the top of the stairs, a beautiful, ancient temple.

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