Join us as we break down the most controversial trekking update in the Himalayas!

The "Forbidden Kingdom" of Upper Mustang just got a major policy shake-up. Nepal's government has scrapped the mandatory $500 minimum fee for its Restricted Area Permit (RAP), switching to a flexible $50 per day structure.

Is this the tourism relief local entrepreneurs are cheering for, or does it open the door to unwanted mass tourism in a culturally fragile region?

In this episode, we dive into the new details from guidebook author David Ways, debate the local calls for permit fees to fund cultural subsidies directly, and discuss the complex reality on the ground: from the growing road network to the non-negotiable requirements like the two-person group minimum and mandatory guide.

What We Cover:

• 💥 Fee Flip-Flop: The breakdown of the $500 lump sum vs. the new $50 daily rate.

• 💰 The Local Fight: Why community leaders welcome the change, and yet no push for cultural funding.

• 🚧 Mandatory Hurdles: The non-negotiable rules that haven't changed (Guide, 2-person minimum, and ACAP).

• 🛣️ Roads & Regulation: How Mustang's new infrastructure is forcing the government to re-think its "restricted" status.

  👮 A Better Permit Alternative: Finally we look at a suggestion from David Ways on a new proactive "restricted" status for Eastern Upper Mustang.

Perfect for: Anyone planning a trip to Nepal, trekking industry professionals, or listeners interested in how economic policy impacts remote Himalayan cultures.

Read more about the Upper Mustang Trek and more about Upper Mustang Permits

Read the information in this podcast in Upper Mustang Permit drops to $50

Learn Essential Nepali Phrases for Your Trek 🏔️

Join us as we bumble through our first attempts!

Master the basics of Nepali language before your adventure! This short fun guide teaches you the most important phrases and words you'll need when visiting Nepal. From greeting locals in tea houses to ordering dal bhat and negotiating porter services, these essential Nepali phrases will enhance your travel experience and help you connect with the warm-hearted Nepalese people. 🙏

What You'll Learn:

✨ Greetings & Basic Courtesy - Namaste, thank you, and polite expressions🗣️ Essential Travel Phrases - Asking for directions, prices, and accommodation💰 Numbers & Bargaining - Counting and handling money situations

Learn Newari we take a look at basic Newari phrases for those traveling around the Kathmandu Valley

Why Learn Nepali or Newari?

Speaking even basic Nepali Newari shows respect for local culture and creates meaningful connections with Sherpa communities, tea house owners, and fellow trekkers. Locals truly appreciate when foreigners make the effort to speak their language, often responding with extra warmth and helpfulness! 😊

Perfect for: First-time trekkers, independent travelers, and anyone wanting to experience authentic Nepal beyond the tourist trail. No prior language experience needed! 🎒

Again, this is just a fun introduction and our first time!

Far better than our attempts, David Ways has supplied a more detailed guide to learning Nepali.

In this episode, we dive deep into the recent controversy surrounding Nepal's trekking trails. The Ministry of Tourism just introduced a brand new three-category classification system: Hiking, Easy, and Adventure, but its definitions would cause chaos, instantly labeling the accessible Ghorepani Poon Hill trek as 'Adventure' alongside the extreme Three High Passes. 🤦

Is this a sincere push for modernization, or a classic case of bureaucratic fantasy?🚧

We break down the absurd details: the impractical 3,000-meter altitude cut-off, the jaw-dropping requirement for perfectly measured 16-centimeter steps on remote mountain trails, and the ridiculous rule demanding a 5-kilometer separation between tea houses, which threatens to destroy the entire foundation of Nepal's trekking economy. ⛰️

Plus, we examine the renewed push for mandatory TIMS cards and guides by TAAN. Where does the money actually go? And why are mandatory fees being imposed primarily on foreign trekkers when Nepali citizens make up the majority of victims in many incidents?

Tune in to understand:

• Why the new classifications fail to reflect the reality on the ground.

• How bureaucratic gridlock and revenue focus trump practical safety improvements.

• What actually would help improve trekking safety in Nepal (clue: it's not helipads or paperwork).

🔗 The New Trekking Grading System Debacle in Nepal

Conquer Nepal’s iconic trails with confidence and safety!

This ultimate guide covers everything: preventing altitude sickness, navigating unpredictable weather, choosing the right gear, securing permits, and building emergency plans.

Whether you’re heading to Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, or hidden gems like Langtang, learn practical risk mitigation strategies from seasoned trekkers.

Stay safe, trek smart, and turn your Himalayan dream into reality. Essential listening for beginners and pros alike!

#NepalTrekking #TrekkingSafety #HimalayanAdventure

Read the full guide Trekking Safety in Nepal

Join us for an engaging episode as travel writer and historian David Ways takes you through the rich history of trekking in Nepal. From Salt laden Yaks, to a Russian ballarino, and the digital divide.

We'll take you to the ancient trade and pilgrimage routes along the Kali Gandaki Gorge to the groundbreaking 1950 Annapurna and 1953 Everest ascents, discover how Nepal transformed into a global trekking hub.

Explore the commercial boom of the 1960s, the teahouse revolution of the 1970s-1980s, and today’s sustainability challenges. Plus, peek into the future with insights on digital tracking and climate resilience.

Tune in for an inspiring journey through Nepal’s Himalayan trails!

Read about the history of trekking in Nepal

In this episode, we dive into the unwritten trekking rules in Nepal, crafted by seasoned travel writer David Ways from The Longest Way Home.

Discover everything you need to know about navigating Nepal’s complex regulations, from securing visas and National Park permits to understanding TIMS cards and mandatory guides.

We’ll break down the 2023 solo trekking ban, restricted area requirements, and even the unwritten ‘eat where you sleep’ rule that could save you money. Packed with practical tips, like how to comply in Kathmandu or Pokhara and why travel insurance is non-negotiable, this guide ensures your adventure is safe, sustainable, and hassle-free.

Check out the full articles:

• Offical Rules for Trekking in Nepal
• Unwritten Rules Code of Conduct for Trekking in Nepal

Join us for an exciting episode of Nepal on a Budget: A Backpacker's Travel Guide!

With deep insights by guidebook author David Ways, discover how to explore the breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and spiritual heart of Nepal without breaking the bank. From affordable treks in the Himalayas to budget-friendly stays in Kathmandu and Pokhara, we share insider tips on cheap eats, local transportation, and hidden gems for backpackers.

Learn how to navigate Nepal’s bustling markets, find low-cost accommodations, and experience its rich traditions while keeping your wallet happy. Perfect for adventure seekers and budget travelers looking to make unforgettable memories in Nepal.

A backpacker and budget travel guide to Nepal

Dive into the vibrant heart of Nepal’s Tihar festival, a dazzling 5-day celebration kicking off on October 19, 2025!

Join us as we explore the Festival of Lights, where twinkling oil lamps, colorful rangolis, and heartfelt rituals honor crows, dogs, cows, and the goddess Laxmi. It's one of guidebook author David Ways favourite festivals to experience in Nepal. From the joyous worship of loyal pups to the triumphant celebration of sibling bonds on Bhai Tika, this episode unravels the traditions, stories, and spiritual depth of Tihar.

Will you be in Nepal in October this year? It's perfect for culture enthusiasts and festival lovers, tune in to discover why Nepal’s Tihar is a must-experience spectacle of light, love, and divinity!

Prefer to read? Check out these Tihar Festival posts and photographs by David Ways.The Crow festival: Day one of Tihar Festival in NepalThe Dog festival: Day two of Tihar in NepalThe Cow festival: Day three of Tihar in NepalMha Puja: Day four of Tihar in NepalBhai Tika: Day five of Tihar in Nepal

Join us for a special episode on the day of Dashain, the longest and most anticipated festival in Nepal. For many, this 10-day celebration is the most important time of the year, bringing families together from near and far.

But, for tourists it's the best of festivals to experience with booked out buses, and closed offices.

. Tune in to understand why this festival holds such a special place in the hearts of Nepalis everywhere, and how to navigate it as a tourist!

More on the Dashain festival in Nepal

Nepal's Peak Trekking Season has kicked off this September, leading into October, November, and indeed parts of December.

We take a look at if the protests earlier this month will affect tourist arrivals, what's new in the world of "do I need a TIMS card"?! New permits for popular treks. David Ways has a warning to solo trekkers in restricted trekking areas that nobody else covers, and much much more!

#Nepal #Trekking