Patty films while Nepalese schoolchildren look on
While Traveling in… Nepal
There are a couple of things you should know:
1. If you are white, you will be stared at. The people of Nepal are curious about you, so simply put your hands together and offer “Namaste” and a smile.
2. Any time you pull out a camera, others (especially children) will crowd around you to see your display screen. It’s a rare treat for them, share your images!
3. If you are approached by a child and asked to take their photo, note that they will probably follow up by asking you to give them a few rupees. They learn this at a very young age.
4. If a child asks you to buy them a book, say no. Unfortunately, they’ve struck up an agreement with the bookstore to sell it back and split the profits after you walk away. The same is true with mothers asking you to purchase evaporated milk.
5. Nepalese people take great pride in their language and will enjoy trying to teach you new words. Do your best to learn key phrases and you’ll make many a friend.
A disheveled transit vehicle in Nepal
6. As in most third world countries, it is important to drink only bottled water, eat only fruits with skin (i.e. an orange or banana), and make sure that milk is thoroughly boiled before you drink it.
7. Bartering is a very common practice. Assume that whatever price they offer you is twice what it should be. The best thing to do is verbalize that you know this is a bad price and to immediately walk way. They’ll call after you with a much lower price. Practice this skill- it’s worth all the money you’ll save!
8. At the airport, men will offer to help you with your bags. If you want the help, be prepared to pay for it. Make sure that you only let one man help you as multiple will try to get in on the action and get paid for it. If you can do it on your own, I recommend politely telling the men that you don’t need help.
Eating on the floor in Nepal
9. Ask your hostel or hotel staff how much a taxi ride should cost to get to a destination. When you find a taxi, pre-determine your price. They will ask you for much higher than what it should cost- here is where bartering comes in (see #7). Driving at night or during high traffic will cost you more.
10. Common dishes are comprised of lentils (dal) and rice (bhat). It is appropriate to eat with your right hand and no utensils. If you need one, ask for a fork. If eating at a restaurant, you’ll probably be provided one.
11. Nepali people are very calm and don’t rush like Westerners. It is common to hear them say “Bistari” (slow) and to encourage you to do the same. Embrace this ideology while traveling in Nepal and the experience will be well worth it.
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Janelle K. Eagle is infamous for always having her hands tied up in multiple projects simultaneously. She's directed a lot of theater, worked on some films, and raised lots of money for non-profits. She travels all the time and loves to share her videos, photography and writing via this blog. 
