About Nepal

The population of Nepal consists of numerous racial, cultural, and linguistic groups that often are divided into three broad categories: Indo-Nepalese, Tibeto-Nepalese, and indigenous Nepalese. The Indo-Nepalese migrated from India over several centuries; they practice Hinduism, have Caucasian features, and speak Indo-Aryan languages. They have settled primarily in the lower hills and river valleys and the Terai. The Tibeto-Nepalese have distinctively Mongolian features and speak Tibeto-Burmese languages; these groups occupy the higher hills and mountainous areas. Different groups within this category practice Buddhism, animism, or Hinduism. There are scattered tribes of indigenous Nepalis, whose origins probably predate the arrival of Indo- and Tibeto-Nepalese peoples.

Nepalese people are kind and welcoming. They are gifted with the art of welcoming their visitors and making them feel comfortable and cozy. Rich in different dialects, Nepali is the mother tongue of Nepalese people. Apart from Nepali, Newari, Tamang, Magar, Limbu, Bhojpuri, Mathili, etc. are other languages spoken in Nepal. English language is widely spoken and understood in various parts of the country.

Most recommended seasons for trekking are autumn (Sept, Oct, Nov) and spring (March, April, May). In these seasons you will be rewarded by good weather, sunny and warm with clear sky and outstanding views. During monsoon (June, July, Aug) although there will be no problem for trekking, the issue could be of less visibility and rain. But, for a keen botanist, monsoon is blessing as the higher valleys, mountains and meadows blossom with flowers and abundant vegetation. You can trek in winter (Dec, Jan, Feb) also, only the issue is cold weather with snow-fall at higher elevations. The trekking routes are crowded during spring and autumn but during monsoon and winter the routes are not packed and you could enjoy rather best of nature.

Nepal is a country where festivals are celebrated in the grand way. People belonging to different religions celebrate different festivals. Some of the most prominent festivals of Nepal are Dashain, Tihar, Shivratri, Lhosar etc. to name a few. Talking about religion majority of people are Hindus, followed by Buddhists, Islam, Christians, Sikhsand so on.

The average service worker in Nepal may not expect a tip, partly to be polite and partly due to the desire to save face. That being said, wages can be very low and many employees work seven long days a week to make ends meet. If service was excellent, you can tip 10% just to show gratitude. The tipping in Nepal is still not entirely customary and may even cause embarrassment in some instances, tips should be given in a discreet manner. Don’t showboat your generosity; instead, put your gift into an envelope or discreetly take the recipient aside. You may find that they simply stuff the envelope or gratuity into a pocket without counting or acknowledging it in front of you.

Tipping for meals: In Nepal, some hotels/restaurants already include service charges in the final bill. Therefore, it is not necessary to tip. If a service charge is not included in the total, 10% of the bill is perfectly acceptable for a tip. If a tipping box is available, it is best to use this so tips can be divided between all members of the hotel staff.