• By: RIYANKA
• May 25, 2023
• (1) Comments

What Made Me Fall In Love With Nepal?

Being Indians, we barely think of Nepal as a foreign country (more so because we don’t need a Visa to hop in there!) and quite often, ignore it for our aspirations to see those countries which are more polished by the effects of globalization.

For me, the story was a little different. Ever since my love for the mountains grew into something much deeper, I’d dreamt of seeing Mount Everest up close. That dream is what drew me to Nepal—and it’s also the reason I know I’ll keep going back.

A small, landlocked country nestled between India and China, Nepal feels like a slice of heaven on Earth. Home to the mighty Himalayas, emerald valleys, centuries-old temples, and a culture that’s as warm as it is vibrant, it’s a destination that has long held a special place on every backpacker’s bucket list.

In just about a week, here’s what made me fall in love with Nepal.

The People in Nepal

From the immigration officer at the airport and the cab driver waiting outside to the shopkeepers in the streets of Kathmandu and the attendants at my hostel, there wasn’t a single person who didn’t greet me with a warm smile and a heartfelt “Namaste.” There was an unmistakable sense of generosity and kindness everywhere I went—a warmth that made me feel at home almost instantly.

Nepal has endured immense hardship over the past decade, from devastating earthquakes to other natural calamities, and many communities are still rebuilding their lives. Yet, what struck me most was the resilience of its people. Despite everything, they carried an infectious optimism and a quiet contentment that was deeply inspiring.

Conversations came easily, too. Nepalis are incredibly warm and approachable, often striking up a chat without hesitation. During a taxi ride from Thamel to the Swayambhunath, my driver—a middle-aged man—shared the story of his life. He spoke about years of working long hours, saving every penny, and making countless sacrifices so his two children could pursue their education abroad. There was no trace of self-pity in his voice, only pride and hope.

One of the most meaningful parts of my journey was volunteering at an orphanage. I spent my days playing, learning, and laughing with children who had so little in terms of material possessions, yet radiated an incredible zest for life. It was impossible not to grow attached to them. Even now, I find myself wanting to return—not just to Nepal’s mountains or temples, but to spend more time with those children who left such a lasting imprint on my heart.

The Old World Charm in Nepal

Walking through the narrow lanes of Bhaktapur’s temple complex felt like stepping back in time—to an era when life moved at a gentler pace. Potters lined both sides of the streets, completely immersed in their craft, their hands shaping clay with the kind of patience that only comes from generations of tradition. As I wandered deeper into the old town, my guide pointed out the beautifully preserved Newari homes, their intricately carved wooden windows and brick facades looking as though they had been lifted straight from the pages of a storybook.

While Nepal’s iconic landmarks deserve every bit of their fame, it’s these quieter corners that truly capture the country’s soul. Hidden away from the crowds, they continue to preserve an old-world charm that feels increasingly rare in today’s fast-paced world.

From the grand Durbar Square in Patan to the towering Nyatapola Temple in Bhaktapur and the sacred Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, Nepal’s centuries-old architecture left me in awe at every turn. Although much of this remarkable heritage was damaged during the devastating 2015 earthquake, restoration efforts are steadily bringing these monuments back to life. With support from the government, local artisans, and international partners, Nepal is carefully preserving its history—one brick, one carving, and one temple at a time.

The Food in Nepal

Being a foodie, I’m always on the lookout for authentic local flavours wherever I travel. And if there’s one thing Nepal didn’t disappoint me with, it was the food. Every meal felt comforting, wholesome, and packed with flavour—leaving me wanting just one more bite.

From piping hot momos and hearty bowls of thukpa to spicy dum aloo and succulent Gorkhali lamb, Nepali cuisine is a treat for anyone who loves good food. But if there’s one meal you absolutely shouldn’t miss, it’s the traditional Nepali Thali—a generous spread of daal, bhaat (rice), seasonal vegetables, pickles, and curries that perfectly reflects the country’s simple yet soulful culinary traditions. Served at countless local eateries, especially around Thamel in Kathmandu, it’s the kind of meal that stays with you long after your trip is over. Sometimes, the simplest dishes end up becoming the most memorable.

And while you’re exploring Nepal’s culinary landscape, don’t stop at the classics—make it a point to try authentic Newari cuisine. Rich in flavour and deeply rooted in tradition, it features an array of distinctive dishes, many of them prepared with meat, aromatic spices, and age-old recipes passed down through generations.

I was fortunate to have a local friend who took it upon himself to introduce me to the very best of Newari food. Instead of restaurants catering to tourists, he led me through narrow, unassuming lanes in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur to tiny eateries that I would have never discovered on my own. Every meal was a revelation, and not a single dish disappointed.

The one I’ll never forget, though, was Bara Wo—a savoury lentil pancake that I enjoyed with buffalo meat at a local family’s home in Bhaktapur. Sitting on the floor of a traditional Newari house, sharing homemade food and conversations with people I’d only just met, was one of those travel experiences that no guidebook can ever promise.

The Himalayas