There are those who love to travel in packs, and then there are those who love the allure of traveling by them. In recent years, there has been an increasing trend towards women travelers traveling by themselves. There are many who don’t share the view that women should travel alone, but again another school of thought argues that women empowerment is necessary for the proper growth and development of the society as well as nation.

Nepal is considered as a relatively safer country to travel in comparison to its other Asian neighbors. This is mostly due to the fact that there still prevails a certain conservative nature of people who believe that women should not be treated badly. The culture and religion of the locals here are also set in such a way that the woman traveler feels more welcomed than any other country. Although traveling in Nepal alone as a woman is not an issue, there are some points that need to be taken into consideration in order to make the journey much more fruitful.

Trekking alone as a woman in Nepal

If you have never been trekking before, then we don’t advise you to go alone. Even if you have done a trek before, it is not advisable that you carry on a trek alone. Although there are no cases of thefts, murders, and attacks, there is no guarantee as to what could happen in the wilderness. Choosing the correct trekking guide is essential for your trek in Nepal. We advise that you travel with travel agencies, which you feel most comfortable with. Most national parks do not allow solo travelers to enter their premises. Before heading out with a travel agency, don’t be afraid to ask about their backgrounds, references, and itinerary.

A good reminder is that you can click a photograph of your guide, his license, itinerary, and send it to your close ones. You can ask them directly about this fact, and there is no need to think about what the client may think as it is quite common. As with all the treks, be sure to have travel insurance.

How are women treated in Nepal?

Like any other culture, women are an integral part of the Nepalese society. It is important for travelers to understand that Nepal is composed of people of many ethnic groups and religions. The majority of the population are Hindus, and the remaining belong to Buddhists, Islam, and Christianity. The caste system is also pretty strong, and it also determines how families treat women.

In the context of women travelers, they are much respected and protected. This stems from the fact that Nepal is greatly involved in the tourism business, and also from the fact that the Hindu religion prohibits the harming of women. Like other cases, there are certain exceptions, but for the majority, there isn’t any sort of negativity associated while traveling solo for a woman in Nepal.

There won’t be any sort of eve-teasing, catcalling, or whistling in the public. These sorts of acts are punishable by law. As long as you comply with the countries’ rules, then there is no problem. Nepali women tend to be quite suspicious of solo female travelers. This may stem from the fact that their cultures are contrary to one another.

What kind of clothes will be appropriate to wear while traveling in Nepal?

The country is still on the road to becoming liberal. However, that does not mean that you can wear whatever you prefer. Many female travelers are left with the dilemma of what to wear during the stay in Nepal. Except in the city and tourist areas like Kathmandu and Pokhara, we advise that you do not wear any sort of provocative and revealing dresses. Wearing such dresses may receive all types of unwanted attention. There might even be hassles and fights too.

During the stay in Nepal, we advise that you respect the culture and norms of the country, and if possible, wear the clothing of the country. When you wear such clothing, chances are that people may even praise you. Although considered helpful, there is often no need to spend extra bucks just to ‘fit in’. You can simply blend in the normal commute by wearing jeans and T-shirts.

Transportation in Nepal

The majority of the Nepali population speaks English. There are tourist buses and local buses available. If you are lost or stuck somewhere, just ask any individual, and they will lead you the way. Nepali people are very friendly, and some of them will even go out of their way to help you. Men will give up your seat for you on the bus and even help you. There is quite a bit of a problem in the transit areas, but after talking for a while, they can be solved. There are taxis too, but they can be a bit expensive. Use your bargaining skills to gain the maximum benefit.

Accommodation for solo travelers in Nepal

The accommodation facilities in Nepal are mostly centered on tourist districts and transport areas. But, it does not mean that there is no availability of accommodation in other regions! In Nepal, you may feel safer to book a mid-range hotel. Before selecting a hotel, you need to check out all the reviews and price comparisons.

• Don’t stay in isolated places. Sit in the one which makes you comfortable.
• Do carry a flashlight in case of an emergency.
• Use your work address on luggage.
• Be sure to tell people that you are meeting with a group of friends and not traveling alone.
• Check that your door locks work.
• If you feel that your room has been breached, ask for another room or change your hotel.

Communication in Nepal

In major parts of Nepal, people speak English, so you don’t have to worry about your voice not reaching others.

Meeting Nepali women

Nepali women are quite skeptical of solo female travelers but after you get to know them, they will pour your heart out to you. If you decide to stay in a teahouse, then you can see a woman cook there. If possible, talk with her, and she shall give you an inside look about life in Nepal.

Sexual harassment of women in Nepal

The other reason is that the Hindu religion dictates that guests are to be treated as gods. However, it is necessary for you to remember that there is a long history of women falling for their trekking guides. Be sure to stay away from such feelings and emotions.

Menstruation

Menstruation in Nepal has frowned upon the topic. With exception to the urban areas, the women in villages still hide their menstruation, and many Nepali people are not comfortable talking about this topic. In the city areas, tampons are easily available in markets. In the villages, you might find trouble finding them. If you are going to trek, then we advise that you carry sufficient sanitary pads/tampons,or shop eco-friendly menstrual cups that you can re-use. They might not be available there.

In general, Nepal is a very safe place for a solo female to do any trekking and adventure aspect like an Everest Base Camp trek, Annapurna base camp trek, Langtang Valley Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek and any of the adventure activities in Nepal. If you’re a new solo trekker and thinking of trekking in Nepal? Then no problems, Book your any trekking and tours with us preserving a more conventional and popular trekking region with full-on support by familiars and well-experienced local team.