Living in Nepal: A Practical Guide for Everyday Life

Thinking about packing your bags for Nepal? You’re not alone. From the towering Himalayas to bustling Kathmandu streets, the country offers a mix of adventure and simple living. But before you trade your current routine for yak rides, let’s break down what day‑to‑day life actually looks like. Grab a cup of tea and read on – the info below will save you a lot of guesswork.

Cost of Living and Housing

First thing on most people’s list: how much does it cost to live here? In Kathmandu, a one‑bedroom apartment in a decent neighbourhood runs about 15,000–25,000 INR per month. Smaller towns like Pokhara or Biratnagar are cheaper – you can find similar spaces for 10,000–18,000 INR. Utilities (electricity, water, internet) add another 3,000–5,000 INR depending on usage. If you’re on a tight budget, sharing a flat or staying in a guesthouse can cut costs dramatically.

Food is where you’ll feel the biggest savings. Street‑food stalls serve momos, dal‑bhat and tea for under 200 INR per meal. Groceries are affordable too; a kilogram of rice costs about 70 INR and fresh vegetables are widely available at local markets. Eating out at mid‑range restaurants will set you back 500–800 INR for two people, still far less than many Western cities.

Culture, Work and Leisure

Nepal’s culture is warm and welcoming, but it does have its quirks. Respect for elders, communal celebrations, and a slower pace of life are the norm. If you’re an expat, learning a few Nepali phrases goes a long way – “Namaste” and “Thank you” (dhanyabaad) are always appreciated. Festivals like Dashain and Tihar light up the streets with fireworks, music and family gatherings – a perfect chance to join the locals.

Finding work can be a mixed bag. Teaching English, tourism, and NGOs are the most common sectors hiring foreigners. Salaries vary: an English teacher in Kathmandu might earn 30,000–50,000 INR per month, while NGO project managers can see 70,000–1,00,000 INR. If you’re in media, keep in mind that even Indian news anchors earn around 4–6 lakhs INR monthly, so local media jobs will usually pay less, but the experience of covering stories in a unique landscape can be priceless.

Transportation is straightforward. Public buses are cheap but crowded; a city ride costs 20–30 INR. Ride‑hailing apps like Pathao and Tootle let you book scooters or cars for about 150–300 INR per trip. For weekend getaways, cheap domestic flights connect Kathmandu with Pokhara, Biratnagar and other tourist hubs.

When you’re not working, the country offers endless ways to unwind. Hiking trails range from easy village walks to challenging mountain treks. If you prefer a quieter vibe, lakeside cafés in Pokhara or tea gardens in Ilam provide perfect chill spots. And don’t forget the locals – chatting with a tea‑seller at a market can teach you more about daily life than any guidebook.

Safety is generally good, especially in tourist areas. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and follow standard travel precautions. Health care in major cities is decent; private hospitals in Kathmandu have English‑speaking staff and modern equipment. It’s wise to carry a basic medical kit and, if you have specific health needs, a short supply of medication.

All in all, living in Nepal blends affordability with cultural richness. Whether you’re staying for a few months or planning a long‑term move, understanding the cost, local customs and work landscape will make your transition smoother. Ready to give the Himalayas a home? The adventure starts with a single step, and the country’s friendly faces are waiting to welcome you.