©
David Debrincat
Nepal Travel Guide
©
David Debrincat
The country is slowly rebuilding itself after the strong earthquakes which hit Nepal in April and May 2015. This article was written before the catastrophe struck.
If you're visiting Nepal and suddenly sense the urge to discover the country in its more authentic form, far from the tourist trails, or simply want to find some calm in the Nepalese countryside, here is the best location for you.
Heading west out of the capital Kathmandu, most tourists will stop at, or at least near, the well-known city of Pokhara. Although this is right at the centre of the country's tourist area, you can still find calm by simply exploring the local villages in the vicinity. But if that's not enough for you, here's a tip: you can discover more traditional and authentic surroundings in the even deeper countryside during your trip to Nepal.
All you need to do is continue your journey further west. The route to this region was already pretty chaotic, however since the devastating earthquake which hit the country a few months ago, it has become quite the experience. This is why it is recommended to travel by air.
Here, in places such as Simikot, just a stone's throw from the Himalayas, Galwa, Talkot or notably at the country's westernmost point Baitadi, you will find the true Nepal, with its authentic countryside life and peaceful atmosphere.
What is there to do once you've arrived? How should you spend your time? The most basic itinerary would be to do nothing at all. You could simply relax and take in life as it happens in the region. You could get to know the local population and learn about how life is structured in the far-western region of Nepal.
If you are itching for something to do though, try walking in the countryside, perhaps in Khaptad National Park or Shukla Phanta Wilderness Reserve where you can even see pandas!
Seasoned mountaineers could even take on the 7,000 metre high summits of Saipal or Api.
