I’ve just stood out in the grass feeling the ants tickling my feet while I enjoyed the sun setting over the hills. And then I realised how lucky I am who have taken the possibility to come here to Nepal, and while doing some form of thesis-work, enjoying this amazing country.

  I got a question a while ago if I would recommend Nepal as a destination for a visit. My answer is parted in two. No, I would not recommend to go here. Why? The situation is too unstable in the country right now because of the political mess. Yes, I would recommend it. Why? To meet the people and experience a wonderful nature and culture. But do go leave the tourists areas behind. Visit the local people in the small villages. That’s where the true and geniune Nepali culture is.

  We tourists who have visited this country for so many years, and in that way have helped it, has also destroyed parts of it. And now I’m not only thinking of the plastic bottles in trekking areas. No, our demands of service is good for some people here, who earns money and livelyhood on us. But we also destroy so much for so many. If going to Nepal, be strong and say no to the first best person who wants to offer you a trekking tour or guide. Sit down and think of what you want to do and who you would like to hire for assistance. The people living out in the rural areas you will visit or the person who has left the rural areas to try to survive in the city? There are no easy answers. I personally prefer to support the people still living out in the rural areas.

  There are possibilities here where you can make the local indigenous people gain nothing, or gain everything. Use local guides from the areas you’re going to visit. Do not stay in the fancy tourist districts, but go out to the people. Then the people in most need of money earn some money, while you get the best experience of nature, culture, and local traditions.