My First International Trip – Nepal Travel Experience

A heartfelt first international trip to Nepal, covering Kathmandu and Pokhara. A personal Nepal travel experience with trekking, temples, local life, food, costs, tips, and FAQs for first-time travelers.

Coming from a small town and just stepping into my corporate journey, international travel was never something I imagined would happen so soon. I was still learning how office life worked, understanding responsibilities, and adjusting to a completely new phase of life.

One day, out of nowhere, our organization announced an offsite trip. The destination was Nepal. I remember sitting quietly, processing the information, and feeling a mix of excitement and fear. This was going to be my first international trip ever.

The excitement quickly turned into worry. I did not have a passport. I had never even applied for one. For a moment, it felt like this opportunity might slip away. Later, I learned something that changed everything. Indian citizens can travel to Nepal without a passport using a valid voter ID.

That one piece of information made my first international journey possible. Soon, I found myself preparing to travel to Nepal with ten colleagues, carrying not just luggage but a heart full of curiosity.

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Nepal Travel Experience

Day 1: Delhi to Kathmandu to Pokhara

We boarded our flight from Delhi to Kathmandu early in the morning. The flight was smooth and took around two hours. As the plane descended, I caught my first glimpse of Nepal from above. The mountains, the greenery, and the calmness felt different from anything I had seen before.

After landing at Kathmandu airport, our taxi was already waiting to take us to Pokhara, one of Nepal’s most beautiful hill towns. The road journey was long, taking around six to seven hours, but it was far from boring.

The roads passed through hills, rivers, small villages, and open landscapes. Life outside the window felt slower and simpler. That was my first realization that Nepal moved at its own peaceful pace.

We checked into our hotel, Trek-o-Tel, which was located very close to Phewa Lake. When I opened the window of my room and saw the lake, I felt instant calm. The water was still, reflecting the surrounding hills, and the air felt fresh.

After a long day of travel, we had dinner and retired early. That night, I slept deeply, excited about the days ahead.

First Impressions of Nepal: Simple Living and Warm People

Nepal is a small country, but its heart feels large. The people live simple lives, and there is a sense of contentment that is hard to miss.

Coming from India, I found Nepal to be less developed in terms of infrastructure, but richer in calmness. Language was never a barrier. Nepali sounded familiar, and communication was easy.

Living in Nepal felt economical. Food, local transport, and shopping were all affordable. The food was simple and comforting. Dal Bhat, rice, vegetables, momos, and fish dishes were common.

As a vegetarian, food options were limited, but manageable. Even with fewer choices, I never felt deprived. The warmth of the people and the beauty of the surroundings made up for everything.

Day 2: Sarangkot Trek and Pokhara Sightseeing

Sunrise at Sarangkot, Pokhra

We woke up very early for trekking to Sarangkot. The trek was not extremely difficult, but it required effort, especially in the early morning hours.

Reaching the top of Sarangkot was worth every step. Standing there at around five in the morning, I witnessed one of the most beautiful sunrises of my life. The sun slowly emerged from behind snow-covered mountains, painting the sky in soft shades of orange and gold.

It was quiet. No rush. Just nature doing its magic.

Later that day, we visited Devi’s Fall, caves, and nearby temples. In the evening, we went boating on Phewa Lake. Sitting in the boat, watching the reflection of the sky and mountains on the water, felt surreal.

Pokhara has a way of slowing you down. Time feels gentle there.

Day 3: Moving to Kathmandu

After spending two peaceful days in Pokhara, we moved to Kathmandu. We stayed at Hotel Menang, located near Thamel.

Thamel is lively, colorful, and perfect for shopping. Streets are filled with shops selling handicrafts, clothes, souvenirs, and trekking gear. Compared to Pokhara, Kathmandu felt busier and louder.

This contrast showed me how diverse Nepal truly is. From calm lakes to bustling streets, everything exists side by side.

Day 4: Visiting the Volunteer House and Cultural Exchange

One of the most meaningful experiences of the trip was visiting a volunteer house where international volunteers were working with orphan children.

We met volunteers from Italy who had come to Nepal to serve selflessly. Watching them interact with the children was heart-warming. The children were cheerful, curious, and full of life despite their circumstances.

That visit taught me gratitude. It reminded me how little we need to be happy and how powerful kindness can be.

Day 5: Exploring Temples and Heritage Sites of Kathmandu

Kathmandu is deeply spiritual. On the following day, we visited Pashupatinath Temple, Kumari Temple, and Hanuman Temple.

Pashupatinath Temple left a deep impression on me. Witnessing life, death, and faith coexisting at one place was overwhelming yet grounding.

We also visited museums that showcased Nepal’s history and culture. Each place told a story of tradition, belief, and resilience.

Day 6: Last Day in Nepal: Monkey Temple, Patan, and Local Markets

On the final day, we visited Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple. From the top, the panoramic view of Kathmandu was stunning.

We then explored Patan and the local Kathmandu bazaars. Walking through narrow lanes, observing daily life, and shopping for souvenirs felt like a fitting end to the journey.

In the evening, we headed to the airport for our return flight. As the plane took off, I looked down one last time, carrying memories I knew would stay with me forever.

What This Nepal Trip Taught Me

This trip taught me many things.

• Your first international trip does not need to be complicated.
• Simple places often leave the deepest impact.
• Travel changes your perspective more than you expect.
• You do not need luxury to feel fulfilled.

Nepal was not just a destination. It was a gentle introduction to the world beyond borders.

Patan Nepal

Frequently Asked Questions about Nepal Trip (FAQs)

Can Indians travel to Nepal without a passport?

Yes, Indian citizens can travel to Nepal using a valid voter ID without a passport.

Is Nepal safe for first-time international travelers?

Yes, Nepal is considered safe and friendly for first-time international travelers.

How many days are enough for Kathmandu and Pokhara?

A 5 to 7 day trip is ideal to explore both Kathmandu and Pokhara comfortably.

Is Nepal expensive to travel?

No, Nepal is budget-friendly, especially for Indian travelers.

Is vegetarian food available in Nepal?

Vegetarian options are limited but available, especially in tourist areas.

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