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9 must-visit destinations in Nepal

Best budget international trips to do from India

South Asia is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes, cultures, and histories. Here, we’ll explore the beautiful countries that share borders with India: <keyword id="12266" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="nepal" source="Orion">Nepal</keyword>, <keyword id="6356598" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Bhutan" source="Orion">Bhutan</keyword>, <keyword id="3001" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Pakistan" source="Orion">Pakistan</keyword>, <keyword id="1334" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="China" source="Orion">China</keyword>, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, as well as the maritime border with Sri Lanka. Each of these nations offers unique experiences and breathtaking beauty. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Nepal: The Himalayan Jewel" comment="subhead" text="Nepal: The Himalayan Jewel">Nepal: The Himalayan Jewel</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="Nepal" msid="110382276" hostid="261" sizebytes="187574" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Majestic peaks of the Himalayas await adventurous souls in Nepal.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Located in the lap of the majestic Himalayas, Nepal is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike. The towering peaks, including Mount Everest, the highest point on earth, draw trekkers from around the globe. Beyond the mountains, Nepal is rich in cultural heritage with ancient temples, monasteries, and vibrant festivals. Highlights: Trekking in the Annapurna and Everest regions Exploring the historic Kathmandu Valley Visiting the birthplace of Buddha in Lumbini <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Bhutan: The Land of the Thunder Dragon" comment="subhead" text="Bhutan: The Land of the Thunder Dragon">Bhutan: The Land of the Thunder Dragon</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="Bhutan" msid="110382305" hostid="261" sizebytes="132570" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Bhutan&amp;#39;s spiritual serenity&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Bhutan, known for its serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is a country that measures success by Gross National Happiness rather than GDP. The country's lush valleys, towering cliffs, and pristine forests make it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Highlights: Witnessing the breathtaking architecture of Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery) Experiencing vibrant festivals like Tshechu Exploring the capital city, Thimphu, and its impressive Dzongs <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Pakistan: The Land of Ancient Civilizations" comment="subhead" text="Pakistan: The Land of Ancient Civilizations">Pakistan: The Land of Ancient Civilizations</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="Pakistan" msid="110382361" hostid="261" sizebytes="63724" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Step back in time amidst the ancient ruins of Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Pakistan is a country of stunning landscapes, from the peaks of the Karakoram Range to the arid expanses of the Thar Desert. It's also home to ancient archaeological sites, bustling cities, and a rich tapestry of cultures. Highlights: Visiting the ancient ruins of Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa Trekking through the beautiful valleys of Hunza and Swat Exploring the vibrant city of Lahore with its Mughal-era landmarks <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="China: The Middle Kingdom" comment="subhead" text="China: The Middle Kingdom">China: The Middle Kingdom</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="China" msid="110382391" hostid="261" sizebytes="160816" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;The Great Wall stands as a testament to China&amp;#39;s enduring history and grandeur.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>China, one of the world's oldest civilisations, shares a long and complex history with India. It offers a vast array of landscapes, from the Great Wall stretching across arid deserts to the serene beauty of its countryside. Highlights: Walking along the Great Wall Exploring the Terracotta Army in Xi’an Experiencing the vibrant culture and modern marvels of Beijing and Shanghai <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Bangladesh: The Land of Rivers" comment="subhead" text="Bangladesh: The Land of Rivers">Bangladesh: The Land of Rivers</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="Bangladesh" msid="110382434" hostid="261" sizebytes="77384" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;The Sundarbans, where the mystical allure of the Bengal tiger awaits.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Bangladesh is characterised by its lush greenery, numerous rivers, and rich cultural heritage. It’s a country where the simple, rural life offers a stark contrast to its bustling cities. Highlights: Exploring the Sundarbans, home to the Bengal tiger Visiting the ancient city of Paharpur Experiencing the lively capital, Dhaka, with its vibrant markets and historical sites <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Myanmar: The Golden Land" comment="subhead" text="Myanmar: The Golden Land">Myanmar: The Golden Land</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="Myanmar" msid="110382468" hostid="261" sizebytes="94416" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Bagan&amp;#39;s golden spires paint a mesmerizing skyline across ancient plains.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Myanmar, with its golden pagodas, rich history, and diverse ethnic cultures, is a country that captivates travellers. From the serene shores of Inle Lake to the bustling streets of Yangon, there's much to discover. Highlights: Marvelling at the thousands of temples in Bagan Cruising on the Irrawaddy River Visiting the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Sri Lanka: The Pearl of the Indian Ocean" comment="subhead" text="Sri Lanka: The Pearl of the Indian Ocean">Sri Lanka: The Pearl of the Indian Ocean</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="Sri Lanka" msid="110382497" hostid="261" sizebytes="193556" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Serene beaches and lush tea plantations define Sri Lanka&amp;#39;s tropical paradise.&amp;lt;br&amp;gt;&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>While Sri Lanka doesn’t share a land border with India, it lies close by in the Indian Ocean. This island nation is known for its beautiful beaches, lush tea plantations, and rich cultural heritage. Highlights: Relaxing on the pristine beaches of Bentota and Mirissa Exploring the ancient city of Sigiriya and its rock fortress Taking a scenic train ride through the tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya The countries bordering India each offer unique experiences and landscapes, making South Asia a rich and diverse region to explore. Whether you’re seeking the serenity of the Himalayas, the cultural richness of ancient civilisations, or the natural beauty of lush landscapes, these neighbouring countries have something special to offer every traveller.

India's stunning neighbouring countries that you must visit

Going on a road trip is often synonymous with adventure, freedom, and discovery. While India offers a plethora of scenic routes and diverse landscapes, sometimes the wanderlust extends beyond borders. <keyword id="15530433" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="International-road-trips-from-India" source="Orion">International road trips from India</keyword> open up a world of possibilities, allowing travellers to witness different cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. From neighbouring countries reachable by road to far-flung destinations accessible via overland routes, here's a detailed guide to <keyword id="21293965" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="international-road-trips" source="keywords">international road trips</keyword> you can take from India. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Nepal: The Himalayan Odyssey" comment="subhead" text="Nepal: The Himalayan Odyssey">Nepal: The Himalayan Odyssey</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="1" msid="110247304" hostid="261" sizebytes="1754543" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Traverse the winding roads of the Himalayas on a road trip from India to Nepal.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Distance from India: Varies depending on the starting point. Visa Requirement: Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal. Nepal, home to the majestic Himalayas, offers an exhilarating road trip experience. From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the serene lakes of Pokhara, every mile is a revelation. The journey typically begins from the bordering Indian states of Uttar Pradesh or Bihar. The scenic drive through the Terai plains gradually ascends into the foothills of the Himalayas, providing breathtaking views of terraced fields, lush forests, and snow-capped peaks. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Bhutan: The Land of the Thunder Dragon" comment="subhead" text="Bhutan: The Land of the Thunder Dragon">Bhutan: The Land of the Thunder Dragon</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="2" msid="110247310" hostid="261" sizebytes="2128757" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Discover the mystical charm of Bhutan on an unforgettable road journey from India.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Distance from India: Approx. 500-700 km from bordering Indian states. Visa Requirement: Indian citizens require a permit to enter Bhutan. A kingdom situated in the Eastern Himalayas. The journey offers a blend of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty. Starting from Indian states like West Bengal or Assam, travellers cross the border into Bhutan, where pristine landscapes, ancient monasteries, and traditional Bhutanese architecture await. The winding roads offer panoramic views of verdant valleys, cascading waterfalls, and Himalayan peaks, providing a soul-stirring experience. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Myanmar: The Road Less Travelled" comment="subhead" text="Myanmar: The Road Less Travelled">Myanmar: The Road Less Travelled</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="3" msid="110247330" hostid="261" sizebytes="1615519" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Go on an offbeat adventure to Myanmar from India&amp;#39;s northeastern states.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Distance from India: Approx. 1,400-1,800 km from northeastern Indian states. Visa Requirement: Indian citizens require a visa to enter Myanmar. Embarking on a road trip to Myanmar from northeastern India is an offbeat yet rewarding journey. Travellers can start from states like Manipur or Mizoram, traversing through lush landscapes and remote villages. The route passes through the Moreh-Tamu border crossing, offering a glimpse into Myanmar's rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and bustling markets. From the ancient city of Mandalay to the serene shores of Inle Lake, each stop along the way unveils a new facet of Myanmar's beauty. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Thailand: Land of Smiles" comment="subhead" text="Thailand: Land of Smiles">Thailand: Land of Smiles</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="4" msid="110247345" hostid="261" sizebytes="1953038" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Experience the Land of Smiles on a road trip from India to Thailand&amp;#39;s vibrant landscapes.&amp;quot;&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Distance from India: Approx. 3,000-3,500 km from northeastern Indian states. Visa Requirement: Indian citizens require a visa to enter Thailand. Take on an epic road trip from India to Thailand, traversing through diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures. The journey begins from northeastern states like Assam or Manipur, with travellers crossing into Myanmar before entering Thailand. The route passes through scenic regions of northern Thailand, including the cultural hub of Chiang Mai and the historic city of Ayutthaya. From bustling markets to tranquil beaches, Thailand offers a sensory overload of experiences for road trippers. Also read - <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="The Silk Route: A Historic Expedition" comment="subhead" text="The Silk Route: A Historic Expedition">The Silk Route: A Historic Expedition</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="5" msid="110247353" hostid="261" sizebytes="1773243" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Explore the historic Silk Route, connecting civilizations from India to Europe.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Distance from India: Varies depending on the route taken. Visa Requirement: Multiple visas are required depending on the countries traversed. For the adventurous at heart, the Silk Route presents an opportunity to go on a historic expedition spanning multiple countries. Starting from India's northeastern states, travellers can follow the ancient trade route that once connected Asia to Europe. The journey passes through countries like Myanmar, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and beyond, offering a glimpse into diverse cultures, landscapes, and civilisations along the way. From the rugged terrain of the Pamir Mountains to the ancient cities of Samarkand and Bukhara, the Silk Route road trip is a voyage through time. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="London: The Transcontinental Adventure" comment="subhead" text="London: The Transcontinental Adventure">London: The Transcontinental Adventure</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="6" msid="110247373" hostid="261" sizebytes="1717988" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Dream of distant horizons as you plan a transcontinental road trip from India to London.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Visa Requirements: Travellers going on a road trip to London from India will require a Schengen visa or a UK visa, depending on the route chosen and the countries traversed. Distance from India: Approx.11,000 to 12,000 kilometres Taking on a road trip from India to London is a transcontinental odyssey that captivates the imagination of intrepid explorers. While the allure of traversing diverse landscapes is undeniable, it necessitates meticulous planning, including obtaining visas and permits. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="China: Exploring the Middle Kingdom" comment="subhead" text="China: Exploring the Middle Kingdom">China: Exploring the Middle Kingdom</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="7" msid="110247380" hostid="261" sizebytes="1813636" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Unravel the mysteries of the Middle Kingdom on a road journey to China from India.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Visa Requirements: Travellers embarking on a road trip to China from India will require a Chinese tourist visa. Distance from India: The distance from India to China via road varies depending on the chosen route and starting point. While direct road access between India and China is not feasible due to geographical and political constraints, overland routes through neighbouring countries offer adventurous travellers a glimpse into China's diverse landscapes and ancient civilisations. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Preparation and Tips:" comment="subhead" text="Preparation and Tips:">Preparation and Tips:</cmsannotation> <ul><li>Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped for long-distance travel.</li><li>Obtain necessary permits and visas well in advance.</li><li>Research border crossing procedures and entry requirements for each country.</li><li>Pack essentials such as navigation devices, spare tyres, first-aid kits, and sufficient supplies.</li><li>Familiarise yourself with local traffic rules, customs, and driving conditions.</li><li>Embrace spontaneity but plan your route and accommodations in advance.</li><li>Respect local cultures, traditions, and environments along the way.</li></ul>Going on an international road trip from India is not just about reaching a destination; it's about immersing yourself in the journey, forging connections, and creating memories that last a lifetime. So, fuel up your adventurous spirit, buckle up, and hit the road to explore the world beyond borders. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Frequently asked questions" comment="subhead" text="Frequently asked questions">Frequently asked questions</cmsannotation> 1. Is it safe to go on an international road trip from India? While international <keyword id="1600077" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Road-trips" source="Orion">road trips</keyword> offer incredible experiences, safety should always be a priority. Research your route thoroughly, including potential risks, road conditions, and travel advisories. Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped with necessary safety features. Additionally, carry essential documents, emergency supplies, and travel insurance for added security. 2. What documents do I need for an international road trip from India? The required documents vary depending on the destination(s) you plan to visit. Typically, you'll need a valid passport, appropriate visas or permits for each country you'll be crossing, vehicle registration, international driving permit (IDP), and vehicle insurance. Research and obtain all necessary paperwork well in advance to avoid any last-minute complications. 3. How do I plan accommodations for an international road trip? Planning accommodations for an international road trip involves researching and booking hotels, guesthouses, or campsites along your route. Utilise online booking platforms or travel apps to find accommodations that suit your preferences and budget. Consider factors such as location, amenities, and availability, especially during peak travel seasons. 4. What should I pack for an international road trip from India? Packing essentials for an international road trip includes clothing suitable for varied climates, travel documents, personal hygiene items, medications, first-aid kit, navigation devices (maps or GPS), roadside emergency kit (spare tyre, jumper cables, flashlight, etc.), snacks, water, and entertainment (books, music, etc.). Tailor your packing list based on the duration of your trip and the destinations you'll be visiting. 5. How do I navigate border crossings during an international road trip? Navigating border crossings requires careful planning and adherence to the immigration and customs regulations of each country you'll be entering. Research border crossing procedures, opening hours, required documents, and any applicable fees or permits. Arrive prepared with all necessary paperwork, maintain patience during border formalities, and be respectful of local authorities. Stay informed about any recent changes or restrictions that may affect your journey. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/article/10-ultimate-road-trip-routes-in-india/articleshow/109620234.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">10 Ultimate road trip routes in India for 2024</a>

Exploring the world on wheels: International road trips from India

After Singapore and Hong Kong, Nepal has also banned the sale and import of certain spice-mix products manufactured by Indian brands over alleged quality concerns. Four spice-mix products by <keyword id="21333385" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="MDH" source="keywords">MDH</keyword> and <keyword id="19997009" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Everest" source="keywords">Everest</keyword> were banned in the Himalayan nation from Friday due to suspected ethylene oxide or EtO contamination, according to the Department of Food Technology and Quality Control here. Under this, Madras Curry Powder, Sambhar Mixed Masala Powder; Mixed Masala Curry Powder of MDH and Fish Curry Masala of Everest have been banned in Nepal. "As residue contents of ethylene oxide are found to be exceeding the prescribed limit in these four products, the import and sale of these products are banned within the country as per Article 19 of the Food Regulation 2027 B.S.," the department said in a notice issued on Friday. "Our serious attention has been drawn towards media reports about the sale of these sub-standard products in the market, and they are harmful for consumption," it said. The food quality control watchdog has also urged importers and traders to recall these products from the market. Last month, Singapore and Hong Kong halted sales of some spices produced by MDH and Everest over suspected elevated levels of ETO linked with some cancers. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has since initiated steps to examine the quality of powdered spices from various brands in the country. On Friday, the Federation of Indian Spice Stakeholders (FISS) said India's spice export may decline nearly 40 per cent in FY25 if the issue of <keyword id="21673555" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ethylene-oxide-contamination" source="keywords">ethylene oxide contamination</keyword> in spices meant for exports is not addressed at the earliest. India is among the world's leading spice producers, exporting over 200 spices and value-added products to some 180 countries worth USD 4 billion in 2021-22, according to the Spices Board of India. SEE ALSO:<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/webstories/motorola-edge-50-fusion-vs-oneplus-nord-ce-4-price-specs-and-features-compared/slidelist/110197390.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/webstories/motorola-edge-50-fusion-vs-oneplus-nord-ce-4-price-specs-and-features-compared/slidelist/110197390.cms" target="_blank">Motorola Edge 50 Fusion vs OnePlus Nord CE 4 – price, specs and features compared</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/webstories/iqoo-z9x-5g-with-120hz-display-6000mah-launched-starting-at-12999/slidelist/110176453.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/webstories/iqoo-z9x-5g-with-120hz-display-6000mah-launched-starting-at-12999/slidelist/110176453.cms" target="_blank">iQOO Z9x 5G with 120Hz display, 6000mAh launched starting at ₹12,999</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/woman-loses-54-lakh-in-work-from-home-scam-heres-what-it-is-and-how-to-protect-yourself/articleshow/110166963.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/woman-loses-54-lakh-in-work-from-home-scam-heres-what-it-is-and-how-to-protect-yourself/articleshow/110166963.cms" target="_blank">Woman loses ₹54 lakh in work-from-home scam! Here's what it is and how to protect yourself</a>

Nepal bans sale of Indian spice-mix products over quality concerns

<ul class="summary-list"><li>18 people have died after a small passenger plane crashed during takeoff in Kathmandu, Nepal.</li><li>Nepal has a poor aviation safety record and all of its airlines are banned from European airspace.</li></ul>18 people have died after a small passenger airplane crashed during takeoff in Nepal's capital city, Kathmandu.The plane's captain is the only remaining survivor of the 19 onboard, including two crew members and 17 technicians of the airline, who were traveling to Pokhara, reportedly for aircraft maintenance.The Saurya Airlines flight skidded off the runway at approximately 11.15 a.m. local time, <a target="_blank" href="https://kathmandupost.com/province-no-3/2024/07/24/caan-confirms-18-aboard-saurya-airlines-dead-one-rescued">according to The Kathmandu Post</a>.All 18 bodies have been recovered from the crash site at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Nepal. The pilot, Captain Manish Ratna Shkya, was rescued and is being treated for injuries at Kathmandu Medical College and Teaching Hospital.Videos and photos posted online showed billows of black smoke emerging from the wreckage of the plane, then on fire but since put out by firefighters.The search and rescue coordination of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal said in a recently released statement that the plane "veered off to the right and crashed on the east side of the runway.""Rescue operations were initiated immediately," it said. "The fire was brought under control," the statement added.<a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/why-nepal-has-so-many-fatal-plane-crashes-2023-1">Nepal has a poor aviation safety record</a> and is often regarded as one of the most dangerous countries for air travel. All Nepali air carriers are banned from entering the airspace of any European Union country, <a target="_blank" href="https://transport.ec.europa.eu/document/download/3195fabb-7575-4db9-85b9-ec5a77b481aa_en?filename=air-safety-list-2024-05-30_en.pdf">per the EU Air Safety List</a>.The European Union Aviation Safety Agency bans airlines from operating in the EU for "failure to adhere to the applicable international safety standards."Professor Ron Bartch, chairman and founding director of aviation consultancy firm AvLaw, told Business Insider that one reason for its poor safety record is that the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal is "not a terribly well-resourced safety regulator."The CAAN did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.Nepal's mountainous terrain, unpredictable weather, and remote runways have contributed to the country's reputation as one of the most difficult places to fly.Kathmandu's high altitude makes for a "challenging operating environment," Bartch added, noting that this means a greater distance and an accelerated approach speed are required for takeoff and landing as the air is less dense than at sea level.He also said Nepal's monsoonal conditions affect the country's aviation safety.The deadliest plane crash in Nepal in three decades occurred in January 2023, when at least <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/folk-singer-hotelier-travel-blogger-among-victims-nepal-plane-crash-2023-1">72 people were killed</a> after a <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/video-nepal-plane-was-spinning-sharply-before-crash-40-reported-killed-2023-1">Yeti Airlines flight went down near Pokhara</a>, which government investigators later attributed to the aircraft's pilots accidentally cutting off the power.In 1992, all 167 passengers on board a Pakistan International Airlines flight to Kathmandu died when the Airbus crashed on approach to the airport.Since 2000, more than 350 people have died in Nepal in 19 air crashes.

Nepal just suffered another fatal plane crash. Its aviation safety record is so poor that all its airlines are banned from flying to most of Europe.

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Hayden Rue, an American traveler, shares what it's like to live in Nepal.</li><li>Rue says electrical and infrastructure issues are commonplace in the country.</li></ul>This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Hayden Rue, a 32-year-old expat who's lived in Nepal since 2016. This essay has been edited for length and clarity.I was born and raised in Salem, Oregon. Growing up, my family and I didn't venture far from the West Coast.In 2016, I worked as a gardener for several older couples. One of my clients recommended that I consider joining the Peace Corps, a US government agency that assists developing countries. I was in my early 20s and didn't have a set plan for a career at the time, so I decided to give it a shot.A month and a half later, I got an email informing me that I had been chosen for a deployment to Nepal, and would be spending 27 months there.In the last seven years, I've worked as a project coordinator for the World Bank, international NGOs, and charities in Nepal. I also run a <a target="_blank" href="http://haydenrue.com">travel blog</a>.<div type="image" title="a man reading to children in nepal." height="3024" width="4032" msid="107835160" hostid="261" sizebytes="874694"></div><h2>Organized chaos</h2>There is an organized chaos to Nepal. As soon as I stepped out of the airport when I first arrived, car horns were blaring. Dozens of taxi drivers approached me, each promising to offer the lowest price for a ride.I felt a mixture of fear and amazement as I drove down the narrow streets flanked by seemingly never-ending buildings that were connected by countless telephone wires. Large crowds of people — and their animals — crossed the street in every direction while dodging traffic.<div type="image" title="a man overlooking patan durbar in nepal." height="2213" width="2950" msid="107835161" hostid="261" sizebytes="627836"></div><h2>Steep learning curve</h2>Nepal is a challenging country to live in if you are not ready for constant uncertainty. There is a steep learning curve when visiting Nepal for the first time.I spent over a year living in Kathmandu, the capital, where it was difficult to get any sort of peace and quiet. Even though it's a big city, it felt suffocating at times as I had barely any personal space.At the time, I was renting a flat where the owners lived downstairs. The owners saw me as a son and treated me like I was a part of their family. While this was initially a good thing, it eventually went overboard. She would come into my flat unannounced. I also had to do jobs around the house, including climbing into a 1,000-liter water tank and cleaning the inside by hand with steel wool and sponges.<div type="image" title="a man overlooking the valleys in kathmandu." height="3024" width="4032" msid="107835162" hostid="261" sizebytes="762426"></div>Even crossing the road can be challenging for the uninitiated in Nepal. Car crashes are common. There are usually no crosswalks, so cars and scooters do not stop for pedestrians.A few years ago, several of my friends from the US visited Kathmandu and were glued to the sidewalk in fear, terrified to cross the road. I had to quickly zig-zag through traffic and lead them to the other side.Infrastructure isn't well developed in Nepal. Taking bus rides from Pokhara to Kathmandu, which are about 200 kilometers apart, could take 15 hours due to accidents on the two-lane highway. When I lived in the small village of Syangja, there wasn't any electricity for two weeks. The single power pole connecting all the houses was damaged. This meant dinners in the dark, no TV, no way to charge anything, and nothing to do but talk after sunset.<h2>The cost of living is much cheaper than in the US</h2>My monthly rent for the flat in Syangja was around 8,000 Nepalese Rupees, or $60. In Kathmandu, I paid around double the price. In Pokhara — the second-largest city in Nepal — I paid around $210 in monthly rent.On average, I spend around $600 a month and live a comfortable life here.One thing that's surprisingly costly in Nepal is groceries. I usually spend between $225 and $300 on groceries a month as processed foods — like chocolate, dairy products, and soda — have to be imported and are more expensive.<div type="image" title="a man on a swing overlooking the himalayas in nepal" height="1228" width="1637" msid="107835164" hostid="261" sizebytes="84912"></div><h2>A slower pace of life</h2>The most rewarding part about living in Nepal is the connections you make with people. Time is slower.While I'm currently traveling in Sri Lanka, I plan to return to Nepal in August, where I hope to open a small cafe in Pokhara someday.Even though friends and family continue to tell me to come home, I don't see myself moving back anytime soon. In Nepal, you can connect with others, no matter where they are from, or what they have planned for the day. I could sit for hours drinking tea and talking to people about their lives, experiences, and dreams.

I'm an American who's lived in Nepal for 7 years. Adjusting to life here came with a steep learning curve.

Nepal men's cricket team made history at the ongoing <keyword id="17814560" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Asian-Games" source="Denny">Asian Games</keyword> cricket tournament in <keyword id="232713" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="hangzhou" source="Orion">Hangzhou</keyword>, China as they smashed the highest-ever total in T20I cricket history, the fastest fifty and fastest century by a player in format's history on Wednesday. They accomplished this during their match against <keyword id="18892173" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Mongolia" source="Denny" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Mongolia" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="Mongolia">Mongolia</keyword>. This match also kickstarts the men's cricket competition at the continental meet. In the match, Nepal smashed 314/3 in their 20 overs. It is the highest-ever total in T20Is, overtaking Afghanistan's 278/3 against Ireland in 2019. They also smashed a total of 26 sixes in their innings, the highest by a team in the format's history in a single inning. They went past Afghanistan's record of 22 sixes that helped them make 278/3 back in 2019. But two of the most interesting records are them smashing the fastest fifty and century in T20I cricket. <keyword id="13343669" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="dipendra-singh-airee" source="Orion">Dipendra Singh Airee</keyword>, the Nepal all-rounder reached his half-century in just nine balls, going past Indian legend Yuvraj Singh's record of a 12-ball fifty against England in the ICC T20 World Cup 2007, a match which saw him smash Stuart Broad for six sixes in an over. Airee ended with 52* in just 10 balls, with eight of them smashed out of the park for a six. His strike rate of 520 is also the best in a T20I innings. Kushal Malla also went past T20I giants like India's Rohit Sharma and South Africa's <keyword id="118827" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="david-miller" source="Orion">David Miller</keyword> to hit the fastest T20I century ever, in just 34 balls. Malla ended with 137 in 50 balls, with eight fours and 12 sixes. Notably, Rohit and Miller have 35-ball centuries to their names, but Malla has now shattered these records by smashing a helpless Mongolia bowling attack all over the park. Notably, Mongolia needs 315 to win. India's men's cricket campaign will start on October 3 in the quarterfinals. The title clash will be played on October 7.

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