Nepal Uncovered: Travel Podcast
Join two engaging hosts and renowned guidebook author David Ways for an insider's look at Nepal. Each Monday episode unpacks essential travel topics through three unique perspectives, blending expert knowledge with real experiences. From arrival logistics to trekking tips, packing essentials to hidden gems, discover Nepal's secrets through practical advice and engaging stories. Whether planning your first visit or seeking deeper insights, Nepal Uncovered delivers the knowledge and inspiration you need.
Episodes
Beyond Thamel: Kathmandu’s New Backpacker Neighborhoods
For decades, Thamel has been the undisputed epicenter for travelers arriving in Nepal. But with rising room prices, noisy main streets, and traffic congestion, the traditional traveler scene is rapidly shifting outward. 🗺️ In this episode, we explore the rise of Kathmandu's new backpacker hubs, including Paknajol and Kaldera, that are quietly capturing the modern budget travel market. We break dow
Tenzing Movie Review: Does Apple TV's Everest Biopic Do Justice to Tenzing Norgay?
🏔️ The 1953 Everest expedition is one of the most retold stories in mountaineering history, but Jennifer Peedom's new feature film, Tenzing, promises a long-overdue historical course correction. Starring Genden Phuntsok as Tenzing Norgay, Tom Hiddleston as Sir Edmund Hillary, and Willem Dafoe as John Hunt, this biographical drama shifts the focus away from British empire-building to spotlight
Gokyo Ri Trek Guide: The Best Turquoise Lakes & Everest Views in Nepal
🏔️ Looking for the ultimate high-altitude Himalayan view without the commercial crowds of Everest Base Camp? In this episode, we take a deep dive into the stunning Gokyo Lakes trek and the legendary climb up Gokyo Ri at 5,357 meters. 🌊 We break down the complete route past six vibrant turquoise glacial lakes, examine the logistics of staying in Gokyo village, and share essential safety tips for cr
Another Flood Hits Nepal: Manaslu & Tsum Valley Closed
Flash floods have struck Nepal’s Budhi Gandaki river corridor once again 🌊. Following a sudden landslide dam breach on October 11th, raging floodwaters swept through local settlements, destroying over 35 homes, hydropower infrastructure, and crucial suspension bridges connecting the lower Manaslu trail.Manaslu and Tsum Valley treks are closed.Guidebook author David Ways cuts through official PR sp
Boudhanath: Beyond the Eyes of Boudha - The Complete Guide
Description: ☸ Step inside the beating heart of culture in Kathmandu. Rising from a giant 3D mandala, the massive white dome and all-seeing gilded spire of Boudhanath Stupa form one of the most powerful sacred spaces on Earth. In this episode, we take you on a complete audio walk-through of the kora, the sacred clockwise pilgrimage circuit around the base, so you can experience the site like a loc
Ongoing Nepal Trekking Safety Alerts: Is It Safe to Trek Right Now? Mixed Messages
Nepal is open. That does not mean every trek is safe. In the weeks after the Bhotekoshi flood late monsoon rains, snow and floods have hit Nepal. Official bodies opened, closed and reopened treks in the Annapurna and Manaslu regions, sometimes within hours of each other. Then came a late September monsoon alert, a flood at Chame and an avalanche at Himlung base camp.In this episode: why mixed offi
ABANDONED Part 2: Hillary Dawa Sherpa tells his side of the story about being left on Everest
🏔️ The conclusion to one of the most unbelievable survival stories in mountaineering history. 🧊 After being presumed dead above 24,000 feet and left off the rescue manifest, 52-year-old Hillary Dawa Sherpa did the impossible: he crawled off Mount Everest entirely on his own. In Part 2, Dawa speaks out about what really happened during those six agonizing days alone in the Death Zone. 🧗♂️Inside th
Where to Eat Dinner in Kathmandu After Conquering Your Trek
🍕 Descending from the high mountain passes back into the Kathmandu Valley triggers two immediate post-trail cravings: pure carb-loaded comfort food or a desperate need for fresh greens. 🥗 In this bonus episode, we break down the absolute best spots in Thamel to celebrate your successful trek. 🍕 From iconic wood-fired pizzas at Fire and Ice and massive smash burgers to safe, UV-filtered organic sal
A Technical Look At How The Flood Happened: Can Science Stop Nepal’s Next Flood?
🌊 On August 26, a 50-million-ton wall of rock and ice collapsed off a Himalayan peak, melting from friction as it fell at 120 mph and wiping out border posts, bridges, and entire towns in minutes. It was called a "glacial lake flood," but there was no lake! In this episode, we unpack the terrifying real physics behind Nepal's recent catastrophic surge.We unpack the science behind the drama with st
Should you still visit Nepal after the floods?
It's been a really difficult year in Nepal for tourism. The election, the catastrophic flash flood, and recently extended monsoon damage. Nepal tourism promotion because soon after the flood, but was it too soon? They said Nepal was open, but the reality was the national highway was impassable, and yet another trek was closed. Add to this, tourist guilt about visiting a country after such a di
Floods in Nepal: Manaslu Circuit closed, how to get around Nepal, updates
Breaking news on September 6th a landslide near Namrung on the Manaslu trek caused a flash flood wiping away bridges. Authorities have asked that trekkers do not trek the Manaslu or Tsum Valley treks until further notice. With the catastrophic Bhote Koshi-Trishuli flash flood last month, Nepal is now season late monsoon damage causing more disruption. We look at the latest updates, plus David Ways
Nepal Flood Rescues Underway: Closed Treks, bad drones, & real news
We bring you ongoing coverage of the 2026 Nepal Glacial Flood. We look at how this occurredThe areas affected, including areas not mentioned in mainstream mediaLangtang Treks are not accessible - do not goLangtang trekkers currently missingWe look at how some in social media are trying to profit on the disasterPublic use of drones causing problems with helicopter rescuesWe also look at where to ge
The Deadly Flood in Nepal: Disaster, media ethics & how to help
The current events surrounding the catastrophic flood in Nepal are unfolding as we recorded this. Events, data, and confirmations will change. We focus on the current knowledge in how and where this flood started. What happened during it. And, the media frenzy that followed. We acknowledge the Nepal Red Cross for supplying immediate aid to the areas along with the Nepali Army and supporting depart
Nar Phu Trek Day 9: Final Day! Kathmandu or Annapurna Circuit?
It's the final day on our 9 day trek on the Nar Phu Trek. It's time to decide, had to Pokhara or Kathmandu ... or trek on to the Annapurna Circuit for a an epic 13-15 day road free trek. We look at the last day on the Nar Phu trek, how to reach Kathmandu or Pokhara. And, how to trek on!Read more about day 9 on the Nar Phu Trek.Discover the road free Annapurna CircuitGet the best trekking i
Nar Phu Trek Day 8: Nar to Ngawal | Crossing the Nar Phu Kang La Pass
🏔️ The ultimate physical crux of the entire Nar Phu loop. Day 8: We walk you through a grueling 4:00 AM start, with headlamps slicing through the freezing darkness to conquer the breathtaking 5,320-meter Kang La Pass. ❄️ From the wind-blasted summit views of the entire Annapurna range, we tackle the knee-crunching, steep scree descent that drops us directly back into the classic village of Ngawal
Nar Phu Trek Day 7: Nar Acclimatization | Prepping the Nar Phu Pass
📋 The critical safety lock that most rushed commercial itineraries completely miss. Day 7: Before tackling a 5,300m pass, an extra day at 4,110m is non-negotiable for independent trekkers. ❄️ We spend the day resting our legs, exploring the hidden alleyways of Nar, and mapping out the crucial safety checks needed for the upcoming pass—including vetting gear, timing the morning freeze, and planning
Nar Phu Trek Day 6: Nar Phedi to Nar Village | High Nar Phu Valley
🌾 A short but intensely steep morning climb out of the Nar Phedi canyon brings us into the sweeping, high alpine pastures of Nar Village at 4,110 meters. Day 6: Nar is entirely different from Phu: it is larger, vibrant with traditional farming, and framed by jaw-dropping views of Pisang Peak. 🏔️ We take a close look at the distinct local culture of the Nar-Pa people, their traditional high-altitud
Nar Phu Trek Day 5: Phu to Nar Phedi | Hidden Nar Phu Monastery
🛕 Tracing our steps back down the dramatic Phu valley before breaking away toward the lower Nar Phu basin. Day 5: This episode highlights the incredible overnight stay at the deeply peaceful Nar Phedi Monastery. ⛩️ This is a pristine cultural sanctuary hidden away from the mainstream tourist trails, where the monks welcome independent trekkers to share meals, watch evening prayer rituals, and lear
Nar Phu Trek Day 4: Phu Acclimatization | Ancient Nar Phu Gompas
🩺 Why rushing through the Nar Phu Valley is a dangerous mistake for your altitude safety. Day 4: Never skip an acclimatization day when surrounded by centuries of living history. 📜 We spend an essential rest day letting our bodies adjust to the thin air at 4,080m, hiking up to the spectacular, centuries-old Tashi Lhakhang Gompa, and assessing how the basic teahouse infrastructure holds up against
Nar Phu Trek Day 3: Meta to Phu Village | The Nar Phu Desert Canyon
🏜️ Leaving Meta, the forest completely vanishes as the Nar Phu wilderness transitions into a stark, windswept, high-altitude desert canyon reminiscent of old Tibet. Day 3: We navigate the dramatic trail junction where the paths to Nar and Phu split, pressing north toward the ancient, fortified stone monolith village of Phu at 4,080 meters. 🏰 Walk beneath towering eroded cliffs, pass unique ancient
Nar Phu Trek Day 2: Koto to Meta | Entering the Nar Phu Wilderness
🌲 The official entry into the Nar Phu restricted area begins the moment you cross the suspension bridge at Koto and plunge into the deep, uninhabited forest gorges of the Nar Khola. 🏞️ Day 2: Today, the road completely disappears. We trail-test the relentless vertical gain to Meta, explore the ancient history of these hidden Tibetan salt trading routes, and share crucial teahouse updates for survi
Nar Phu Trek Day 1: Besisahar to Koto | Nar Phu Permit Checkpost
🥾 Kickstarting the Nar Phu Valley Trek means leaving the classic Annapurna Circuit crowds behind at the Koto gateway. In this episode, we break down the reality of the grueling 11-hour local transport journey from Besisahar to Koto. 🗺️ We explain how the massive new permit regulations update finally allows solo trekkers to secure a Restricted Area Permit with a licensed guide, and detail the criti
The Rainy Season Secret: How to Smartly Travel Nepal During Monsoon
Is traveling to Nepal during the monsoon season madness or a masterstroke? 🌧️🤔 Between June and September, the skies open up over the Himalayas, and standard tourist itineraries quickly collapse under the weight of muddy roads and canceled flights. But if you know how to navigate the weather, the rewards are spectacular. In this episode, we unpack the realistic survival guide for visiting Nepal du
1-week itinerary in Nepal? Yes, you can do it!
Think you can’t experience the magic of the Himalayas in under a week? 🏔️⏱️ Think again! While most guidebooks try to cram a month-long trip into seven days, we are breaking down the realistic, high-impact blueprints for a short stay . With highway delays and shifting flight hubs, a bad itinerary will leave you stranded at a bus station instead of exploring ancient temples or mountain ridges. 🚌❌ I
ABANDONED: The Six-Day Survival of Hillary Dawa Sherpa on Everest
Imagine being left behind at 24,600 feet on the final day of Mount Everest’s busiest climbing season. Your headlamp is dead. You have no food, no water, and no supplemental oxygen.And then, the safety infrastructure beneath you vanishes.In this gripping episode, we deconstruct one of the most miraculous self-rescues in mountaineering history: and the shocking systemic collapse that allowed it to h
The Death of the Modern Guidebook and its Rebirth: Why I Completely Rewrote The Nepal Guidebook
The traditional travel guidebook is officially dead. 📉💀 Slashed budgets from massive corporate publishers have turned legendary guidebooks into soul-less, ad-filled brochures packed with generic stock photography and stripped of real editorial depth. Even worse, Amazon is being flooded by "ghost guides" written by people who have never set foot in Kathmandu, relying entirely on outdated
Where to Buy the Best Tea Leaves in Nepal with the Tea Connoisseur of Kathmandu
Did you know that some of the world’s most prized "Ilam" tea comes Nepal? 🍃🤫 In this episode, we sit down with a true Tea Connoisseur of Kathmandu to unravel the incredible, hidden world of Himalayan Orthodox tea.For generations, Nepal's premium high-altitude leaves were quietly bought cheap, crossed the border to India, and got rebranded under famous luxury labels like Darjeeling. 🌍
MissingTrekker.com: Inside the Internet's First Database for Missing Trekkers
What happens when a traveler stops responding to messages from the mountains of Nepal? 🏔️📱 For decades, the terrifying truth was that no central authority kept a public record of missing tourists. Enter MissingTrekker.com, a completely free, privately run portal that acts as a digital notice board and safety lifeline for desperate families worldwide. 🌍📋 In this episode, we look at the origin of th
Giants of the Jungle: The Ethics of Elephant Tourism in Chitwan
To ride or not to ride? 🐘🤔 In this episode, we step into the tall grass of Chitwan National Park to tackle the elephant in the room. As travelers in 2026 become more conscious of animal welfare, the traditional safari is being challenged by new, ethical alternatives. We look at the pros and cons of elephant tourism, from the vital role these animals play in anti-poaching patrols to the controversi
Everest Climbing Season 2026 News
The deadlock on Everest is over, but at a heartbreaking cost. 🏔️💔 After two weeks of being stalled by a "skyscraper-sized" ice block hanging over the Khumbu Icefall, the route to Camp 1 has finally been opened. 🧗♂️🚧 In this urgent update, we look at the reality of the 2026 climbing season and the high-altitude workers who risked and lost their lives to clear the path for commercial expe
Kathmandu’s Best Lunch: Momos, noodles, and the "Secret" Spots
Finding a great lunch in Kathmandu is harder than it looks. Between the 11 AM local rush and with so many tourists out and about many travelers settle for mediocre food. In this episode, we use 18 years of "boots on the ground" research to identify the best lunch spots in Thamel, Paknajol, and beyond for the best places to find lunch in Kathmandu.Best places for lunch in Kathmandu🌐The Bu
Patan Durbar Square: A Masterpiece in Brick and Stone
Patan is more than just a collection of temples; it is a vibrant, breathing community. We take you through the narrow alleys and hidden courtyards of the square to find the authentic pulse of the city. Join us for a journey of the senses as we explore the "Golden City." 🇳🇵Highlights of this episode:Royal Baths & Hidden Buildings: The incredible Tusha Hiti in Sundari Chowk, where Malla kings on
The Dirty Truth Tackling Nepal’s Mountain Waste Crisis
What happens when thousands of people relieve themselves in a landscape where nothing decomposes? In this episode, we tackle the "grossest" secret in the Himalayas: the human waste crisis. For decades, the solution was to "dig a hole and forget it," but in 2026, the melting glaciers are revealing the consequences. We discuss the biological reality of trekking at 5,000 meters.Wh
Coffee Countdown: Nepal’s Top 5 Roasters and beans!
Why does a cup of of Nepali Arabica sell for a premium in a "Reserve" shop in Tokyo, yet taste like burnt rubber in a Thamel cafe? ☕️🤔 In this episode, we solve the great Nepali Coffee Paradox via a 10 year coffee research project by Nepal guidebook author David Ways. We explore the "Dirty Truth" behind why the best beans are often exported immediately, leaving locals and tourists with "Grade C" l
Solo Trekkers Finally Allowed in Restricted Areas!
In a historic shift, Nepal has officially revised its trekking permit policy for restricted areas. As of March 2026, the long-standing requirement for a "minimum of two" foreigners has been abolished (though not implemented yet!). This episode breaks down what this means for solo adventurers wanting to explore Upper Mustang, Manaslu, and Dolpa, and the specific 2026 conditions that still
Everest Trekking Safety: Avoiding Bad Advice & Real Risks 🏔️⚠️
What we cover in this episode:01 | Common Risks in the Everest Region: We identify the 2026 trail hazards, including shifting terrain near Everest Base Camp and the specific dangers of the Cho La Pass. 🧊📉02 | The No Mandatory Guide Problem: A breakdown of the current local vs. national regulations. We explain the legal grey areas for solo trekkers in the Khumbu and why "mandatory" doesn&
Complete Everest Base Camp Trekking guide🏔️
The . Standing at the foot of the world’s highest peak is still the ultimate Himalayan dream, but in 2026, the way you get there has changed! 🏔️🥾 From the 2:00 AM drives to Ramechhap to the new "Guide Mandatory" enforcement that doesn't exist, the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek requires a new level of planning. 🗺️🚁 In this comprehensive guide, we strip away the outdated advice and give
🏔️ Nepal Election Results 2026: The Balen Landslide & A Tourism Revolution
The "Ghanti" (Bell) has rung, and Nepal’s political landscape has been permanently altered. In this episode, we break down the historic 2026 General Election results, where Balen Shah’s RSP secured a historic majority, effectively ending the decades-long dominance of the "Old Guard."But beyond the politics, we’re asking the big question: What does this mean for the future of Ne
The Night Bus Tragedy, Fake News & Election Rumor Mills: An Important Nepal Safety Briefing for Tourists
Happy Holi!! They tried to ban the Holi festival today, but, everyone went out and celebrated! We focus on avoiding fake news about Nepal, and where to pay attention this week. However, first we focus on February 23, 2026, when a night bus plunged into the Trishuli River bank on the Pokhara to Kathmandu route, claiming 19 lives, including tourists, and reminding the world of the "Dirty Truth&
The Holi Festival and the 2026 Election Next Week in Nepal
Get ready for some of the most intense seven days in recent Nepali history. Between the explosion of color for Holi on March 2nd and the high-stakes General Election on March 5th, travelers in Nepal are facing a week of extreme contrasts. In this episode, we provide the ultimate tactical guide enjoying Holi and avoiding the election!What we cover in this episode:Holi Strategy (March 2): How to joi
Escape Thamel: The Best Day Trips from Kathmandu
Is the "electric energy" of Kathmandu starting to wear you down? Before you flee to the mountains, there is a hidden side of the valley that most travelers miss. In this episode, we break down the best day trips from Kathmandu. We move beyond the standard "seven UNESCO sites" to show you how to find genuine peace in ancient Newari townships and quiet riverside temples. Whether
2026 Trekking Updates for Nepal
The trekking landscape in Nepal has shifted dramatically for the 2026 season. From the political "Ghost Season" and nationwide elections to the total overhaul of the digital permit system, what worked in 2024 will likely get you stranded today. This episode breaks down the logistical "minefield" of 2026 and provides the tactical updates you need to actually reach the trailhead.
2026 Trekking Rescue Scam Arrests This Week and the End of the Heli-Mafia
For years, it was a "well-known secret" in the Himalayas. Now, the law has finally caught up. On January 26, 2026, the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) arrested six senior directors from three major rescue companies: Mountain Rescue Service, Nepal Charter Service, and Everest Experience and Assistance, charging them with massive insurance fraud.In this episode, we break down how these
Digital Ghost Trails: The Deadly Cost of Free Map Apps
In an era of instant navigation, we often trust the blue dot on our screens more than our own eyes. But in the high-stakes environment of the Himalayas, that trust can be fatal. This episode examines the tragic death of 37-year-old German trekker Astrid Weisser on the Khopra Danda trek in late 2025, a tragedy sparked by a "digital ghost trail".We dive deep into why free navigation apps a
The Thamel Breakfast Club: Kathmandu’s Best International Morning Spots
Before you head into the Himalayas, or immediately after you step off the bus from Kathmandu, there is one thing every traveler craves: a perfect breakfast. In this episode, we move away from local street food to explore the high-quality tourist restaurants that have mastered the art of the morning meal. We look at the evolution of Kathmandu’s dining scene and review the legendary spots where the
Trekking The Annapurna Circuit 101: Everything You Need to Know
Thinking about taking on the "Annapurna Circuit" trek? This episode is your comprehensive audio guide to navigating this legendary route. We break down the logistics so you can focus on the views! 📸We dive deep into:Route Logistics: Where to start, where to end, and the best side trips (like the stunning Tilicho Lake). 💧Acclimatization Tips: How to stay healthy while ascending into the t
Nepal 2026: The Ghost Season | How to Bag a Himalayan Deal 🏔️
The crowds are gone, the cafes are quiet, and the 2026 "Ghost Season" has arrived in Nepal. 🇳🇵 While headlines scream about political unrest and insurance blacklists, savvy travelers are finding a rare window of opportunity.In this first episode of Season 2, we go behind the scenes of the current slump to explain why the trails are empty and how you can take advantage of it. From the &qu
Episode 52: A Wrap On The Ultimate Nepal Trip Planning Guide for 2026!
Happy New Year! And welcome to Episode 52 (we couldn't resist) We're wrapping up the year with a mega-compilation of everything you need to know before stepping foot in the Himalayas in 2026. Forget the guesswork: this episode is your essential checklist for an unforgettable adventure.We answer all your critical planning questions, including:When to Go 🗓️: We break down the seasons—from th
Our 2025 Top Three Treks in Nepal
We've compiled our definitive 2025 round-up of the Top Three Treks in Nepal, perfect for any adventurer, from beginner to seasoned veteran!Join us as we break down the routes, highlights, and hidden gems of three essential journeys:1️⃣ Langtang Valley Trek (The Classic Valley): Known as the "Valley of Glaciers," this moderate trek offers stunning mountain views of peaks like Langtang
The 2025 GenZ protests in Nepal compilation
In this three-part deep dive re-cap , we bring you the pivotal moments of Nepal's historic September 2025 uprising, recorded as they happened. This series captures the leaderless, youth-driven movement that started as a rally against a sweeping social media ban 🚫, but quickly became a furious outcry against systemic corruption 💸, "Nepo Kid" elitism, and deep-seated economic frustration (like 20%+
Taking a holiday break!
We are taking a short holiday break!Can you believe this is Episode 49 of what was originally meant to be a 10-episode limited series? Thank you so much for the support that has brought us this far.We are taking a brief pause until January to reflect on the past year and plan some exciting improvements for the future.Note: If major news breaks in Nepal during the holidays, we will drop a new episo
Nepal’s Top Festivals 2025-2026: Plus - the top 3 for tourists!
Nepal’s Top 3 Festivals 2025-2026: Dashain, Tihar & Holi | Essential Cultural Travel GuideReady to swap your trekking boots for a traditional Daura Suruwal?🎧 Nepal isn't just a land of mountains; it's a living calendar of world-class festivals. In this episode, we guide you through the absolute must-see cultural celebrations for 2025 and 2026, giving you the dates and destinations you need to
FINALLY the Upper Mustang $500 permit is DEAD! But, is Upper Mustang dead on the road too?
Join us as we break down the most controversial trekking update in the Himalayas!The "Forbidden Kingdom" of Upper Mustang just got a major policy shake-up. Nepal's government has scrapped the mandatory $500 minimum fee for its Restricted Area Permit (RAP), switching to a flexible $50 per day structure.Is this the tourism relief local entrepreneurs are cheering for, or does it open th
Nepali & Newari Language for Travellers
Learn Essential Nepali Phrases for Your Trek 🏔️Join us as we bumble through our first attempts!Master the basics of Nepali language before your adventure! This short fun guide teaches you the most important phrases and words you'll need when visiting Nepal. From greeting locals in tea houses to ordering dal bhat and negotiating porter services, these essential Nepali phrases will enhance your trav
A New Trekking Classification System For Nepal: Why It Won't Work
In this episode, we dive deep into the recent controversy surrounding Nepal's trekking trails. The Ministry of Tourism just introduced a brand new three-category classification system: Hiking, Easy, and Adventure, but its definitions would cause chaos, instantly labeling the accessible Ghorepani Poon Hill trek as 'Adventure' alongside the extreme Three High Passes. 🤦Is this a sincere p
Ultimate Guide to Nepal Trekking Safety and Risk Mitigation
Conquer Nepal’s iconic trails with confidence and safety! This ultimate guide covers everything: preventing altitude sickness, navigating unpredictable weather, choosing the right gear, securing permits, and building emergency plans. Whether you’re heading to Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, or hidden gems like Langtang, learn practical risk mitigation strategies from seasoned trekkers. Stay
The History of Trekking in Nepal: From Salt routes to GPS tracking
Join us for an engaging episode as travel writer and historian David Ways takes you through the rich history of trekking in Nepal. From Salt laden Yaks, to a Russian ballarino, and the digital divide.We'll take you to the ancient trade and pilgrimage routes along the Kali Gandaki Gorge to the groundbreaking 1950 Annapurna and 1953 Everest ascents, discover how Nepal transformed into a global t
Code of Conduct: Unwritten Rules for Trekking & Visiting Nepal
In this episode, we dive into the unwritten trekking rules in Nepal, crafted by seasoned travel writer David Ways from The Longest Way Home. Discover everything you need to know about navigating Nepal’s complex regulations, from securing visas and National Park permits to understanding TIMS cards and mandatory guides. We’ll break down the 2023 solo trekking ban, restricted area requirements, and e
Nepal on a budget - a backpackers travel guide
Join us for an exciting episode of Nepal on a Budget: A Backpacker's Travel Guide! With deep insights by guidebook author David Ways, discover how to explore the breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and spiritual heart of Nepal without breaking the bank. From affordable treks in the Himalayas to budget-friendly stays in Kathmandu and Pokhara, we share insider tips on cheap eats, local tra
October’s Tihar Festival: Nepal’s 5-Day Celebration of Light & Life!
Dive into the vibrant heart of Nepal’s Tihar festival, a dazzling 5-day celebration kicking off on October 19, 2025! Join us as we explore the Festival of Lights, where twinkling oil lamps, colorful rangolis, and heartfelt rituals honor crows, dogs, cows, and the goddess Laxmi. It's one of guidebook author David Ways favourite festivals to experience in Nepal. From the joyous worship of loyal
Dashain Festival is happening now! How tourists can manage it
Join us for a special episode on the day of Dashain, the longest and most anticipated festival in Nepal. For many, this 10-day celebration is the most important time of the year, bringing families together from near and far.But, for tourists it's the best of festivals to experience with booked out buses, and closed offices.. Tune in to understand why this festival holds such a special place in the
2025 Nepal Peak Trekking Season Starts: What's New, What's Next
Nepal's Peak Trekking Season has kicked off this September, leading into October, November, and indeed parts of December. We take a look at if the protests earlier this month will affect tourist arrivals, what's new in the world of "do I need a TIMS card"?! New permits for popular treks. David Ways has a warning to solo trekkers in restricted trekking areas that nobody else cover
Nepal's Rebirth 1 Week Later: a New PM - but is it safe to visit?
What a week in Nepal! From a planned protest, to a social media ban, to the shooting of students, a government collapse and the rise of Nepal's first female prime minister. We look to see if Nepal is now safe for tourists? We take a look at the overall situation in Nepal today. What's open? And we take a look at the new Prime Minister Sushila KarkiFull aricle on Nepal in 2025: safe to visit?
72 Hours Later: Nepal Government Falls, GenZ rises & Tourisim
Only 72 hours after our podcast about the Social Media Ban in #Nepal - the Government fell. We jump right in with an easy to follow listen on the who, how and whys of what happend. Anti-corruption #GenZ protests and what happens next? The 2025 Nepal Protests
Nepal's: 2025 Social Media Ban and Tourist Survival
Join us as we unpack Nepal’s sudden 2025 social media ban, blocking 26 platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp. Explore its impact on tourists in trekking or traveling around Nepal, local businesses, and digital freedom. Hear about the #GenZ and #NepoBabies protest in Kathmandu, and learn how VPNs and DNS changes can keep you connected. David Ways Nepal travel author expands on this with real-time in
Navigating Nepal: Your Guide to Staying Connected on the Go
Join us as we explore the ins and outs of internet access, Wi-Fi, mobile data, and SIM cards for travelers in Nepal. From bustling Kathmandu to remote Himalayan trails, discover the best ways to stay connected, including top SIM providers, e-sims, data plans, and tips for reliable Wi-Fi in the mountains. Tune in for practical advice to keep you online during your Nepali adventure!Read about the in
A Guide to the Poon Hill Trek
Join us for a truely immersive guide to one of Nepals most popular easy treks Poon Hill. We cover everything from what you'll see, prices, accommodation, meals, trekking guides or more. Going to Poon Hill, listen here first! For the very latest, inlcuding if you need a trekking guide read the full Poon Hill Trekking Guide *Audio fixed.
Why you shouldn't visit Nuwakot this year
It's rare that a travel writer says "don't go there!". But that's just what Nepal travel author David Ways recommends about Nuwakot this year ... and next year. Why? It's being torn down and rebuilt. The whole area is covered in scaffolding. Only those with a connection to Nuwakot, historians, or those who like ruins would have an interest in Nuwakot during this period. It's a difficult enough pla
How much should you tip your trekking guide?
It's one of those last minute question that catches many people out. How much should you tip your trekking guide in Nepal? Should you tip at all? Should you tip your porter? What's the best practice? Full article on how much to tip your trekking guide in Nepal?
Unpacking Nepal’s Tourism Crisis: Costs and Controversies
Join us as we dive into Nepal’s 2025 tourism challenges, where skyrocketing costs, USD-pegged $500 Upper Mustang permits, and NTB’s elitist push for high-end tourists are sidelining backpackers who sustain local economies. We explore the collapse of Chinese tourism, with revenue leaking to China, and Nepal’s bizarre obsession with controversial airports like Lumbini and Pokhara, which fail to attr
Trekking in Nepal: A Cost Breakdown
How much does it cost to go on a trek in Nepal ... an uncomplicated look! We have a complete breakdown on the cost of trekking in Nepal no matter your budget. From high-end luxury, to mid-range packages to budget and a rock bottom look at what things cost. Full guide on how much it costs to trek in Nepal.
Get Fit for Your Nepal Trek
Join us in getting fit for a trek in Nepal. This episode covers a 8 week training plan, gear testing tips, nutrition hacks, mental prep, and injury prevention. We look at the practical side of getting fit for a trek that's been created by David Ways. Perfect for Everest Base Camp or Annapurna trekkers.Full guide: How to get fit for trekking in Nepal.
Where to See Mount Everest: Best Nepal Viewpoints Revealed
Dreaming of witnessing Mount Everest’s majesty? 🏔️ In this episode, we uncover every spot in Nepal where you can see the world’s highest peak! Brought to you by guidebook author David Ways.From iconic treks like Everest Base Camp and Gokyo Lakes to lesser-known gems like Nagarkot and Pikey Peak, we reveal the best viewpoints for breathtaking Everest vistas. 🧳 Not going trekking? It's okay, we&
What souvenirs are available in Nepal?
This week, we take a deep dive into what souvenirs are available to buy in Nepal! 🇳🇵 Not sure what's real or fake? 🧐 What can you expect to pay? 💸 Or simply wondering what unique gift to buy a loved one from your trip to Nepal? We have it all right here in a short, enjoyable episode. Learn to shop smart and bring home authentic treasures! ✨ For more in-depth guides: Nepali Souvenirs in Kathman
Linking Treks in Nepal (exclusive)
Ready to go beyond the standard routes? 🚶♂️ Listen in as guidebook author David Ways unveils his exclusive method for linking treks in Nepal, empowering you to build truly personalized, great adventures! 🗺️🎧Read more here
EBC 2025: Luxury Rip-Offs vs. Real Trek Deals
More off-season debunking this week! Unpack 2025 Everest Base Camp trek costs! Is a $15K group tour a rip-off? Get the scoop on private luxury ($6,657) & budget treks ($1,513). Full article here: Everest Base Camp costs - luxury private treks
Thimi (Hidden Historical Town) near Kathmandu
Listen to our great guide on the historical townshop of Thimi. Just minutes from Kathmandu or Bhaktapur it's off the beaten path good! Get the full guide right here - Guide to Thimi in Kathmandu
2025 Mid Year News Round up for Tourism in Nepal
Join us for a 2025 mid-year news round up for tourists who have visited Nepal this year already, or for those planning to visit.We cover everything from trekking, this years big Everest climbs, the 10 year Earthquake anniversary, conservation efforts, and mountain views. You can read more from thgis news round-up highlights articles from: https://bgr.com/science/theres-a-place-where-humans-are-evo
Mandatory vs. Compulsory: Unraveling Nepal's Trekking Guide Rules
Join us as we dive into the often-confusing world of trekking regulations in Nepal! In this episode, we break down the key differences between mandatory and compulsory trekking guides for Nepal’s iconic trails. Are you required to hire a guide for every trek, or is it just recommended? We explore the legal nuances, practical implications, and what these rules mean for solo trekkers, groups, and b
Exploring Nepal’s Panchase Trek: A Short 2 day Himalayan Adventure
In this episode, we explore the stunning vistas, serene forests, and vibrant local culture of this 4-5 day trek. From panoramic Annapurna views to the tranquil Panchase Lake, learn why this trek is perfect for beginners and seasoned hikers alike. Packed with practical tips on routes, permits, and highlights, this episode will inspire your next adventure. Inspired by insights from The Longest Way H
