Nepal should be on top of your bucket list because it is not only an affordable destination but, also offers amazing views that include mountains, hills, lakes, rivers, trails, historical places, and many more. Nepal can offer a variety of climates in the same season and cultural diversity in the different regions which make Nepal unique and more beautiful.
You get to experience so much at a very low price. Nepal has many world heritage sites that you can visit. If you are an avid adventurer then, Nepal has you covered. You can go rafting, climb the highest peak in the world, or go on a retreat.
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This article will give you an insight into What is it like to live as a foreigner in Nepal. There are so many reasons why you should come visit but there are some things you need to be aware of when you’re here.
Affordable cost of living
If you’re a foreigner, especially from the West, you will find that the cost of living is fairly cheap. This does depend on where and how you live. Staying at a nice place and eating out in high-end restaurants will be a little expensive but, not the same level of expensive you’d experience back home. But there are so many options for cheap and filling food in Nepal, so introduce your palette to new cuisine. Additionally, there are high tax rates in Nepal on imported and luxury items such as cars, motorcycles, and various other goods.
Hospitable people
Nepalese people are very hospital. They are very welcoming and are more than glad to share their culture with you. People are kinder and more hospitable the more you leave the city areas. People here believe in ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ which translates to guests are our God. This may be because they understand the impact of tourism or simply because they are brought up that way.
Rich culture
Nepal is a diverse country and very rich in culture. There are 125 different ethnic communities in Nepal. You will get to experience so much, learn about new traditions, and taste different cuisines here.
Some parts of Nepal do not have access to the necessities of living but, they are rich in culture and tradition. You can visit them instead of the urban areas, it can be very memorable and interesting to see how people have different ways of living. Seeing their rich culture will be a breath of fresh air.
Health problems because of bad sanitation.
Water distribution is also not regular in Nepal. Nepal is rich in water resources but, unfortunately, not all sources are for human consumption. This is become of unplanned and improper disposal of wastes. It is getting better in the urban areas but, sadly people in rural areas still dump waste in the waters.
You should carry a water purifier and a mask just to be safe but that should be your choice when you have no options left. You should always buy water in jars or bottled water. It’s worth getting health insurance, even if you’re healthy while living in Nepal. As a foreigner, you may encounter health issues due to unfamiliarity with the climate and living conditions in the country.
Irregular electricity
You may want to carry power banks because of improper electricity distribution. The problem of ‘load-shedding’ has gotten better but there are frequent power outages so, have your alternative source of power so you are not in a helpless position.
Racism
Depending on what part of Nepal you visit and what race you are, you may experience blatant racism. Let me break it down for you; if you are white, you will probably have a pleasant experience other than people trying to charge you extra because you are a foreigner. If you are Asian or Black you may not receive or receive limited special treatment and you may even be subjected to name-calling.
Unstable government and politics
Nepal’s government is pretty unstable and as safe as Nepal is for foreigners, it is still dangerous because of the internal conflict in Nepal between politicians. It is particularly scary when riots break out and you could be caught up in it.
Culture shock
They slaughter and sacrifice animals as a part of their culture and in Hindu culture, people burn the dead body of their loved ones as a final auspicious memory. They may seem horrifying to you, but it is their culture, and pointing it out may seem insensitive to them.
Be respectful of their culture and remove yourself from anything that you find disturbing instead of being vocal about it with the locals.
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Living as a foreigner in Nepal provides a distinct set of challenges and beneficial experiences. From managing cultural differences to reveling in the warmth of Nepali hospitality, the experience promotes personal growth and understanding. What is it like to live as a foreigner in Nepal? It’s a journey in a dynamic cultural tapestry, with each meeting revealing new insights and connections, ultimately enriching one’s life with unique viewpoints and lasting experiences.