How Safe is Nepal for Solo Female Trekkers?

Nepal is considered a safe destination for solo female trekkers. Most travel websites say that Nepal is much safer than other South Asian Countries.  The country has its own authentic culture along with an openness to all cultures helps this come true. However, one should not rest easy just to hear this. The first question that pops up in your mind 'is Nepal safe to travel solo as a female trekker?' Well, the answer is ‘Yes’, Nepal is safe for solo female travelers. Recent data shows on Global Peace Index 2019, that Nepal ranks on 76th out of 163 countries and 3rd safest South Asian country to travel after Bhutan and Sri Lanka. Find some issues and precautions to be aware of as follows:

1) How women are treated in the country

Women are believed as an important part of Nepalese society. You should know that Nepal is made up of many different local cultures. From a majority Hindu population, there are also Buddhists and ethnic groups. They are still practicing the Caste system strongly in most societies of Nepal and this definitely performs an essential role in certain families and not just women are treated. As a women trekker you are likely to be respected whether you are traveling alone, couple or in a group. Men in Nepal are mostly respectful and protective of women. So, you could expect the same as a solo female trekker.  There might be some exceptions of course but for the most part, there is no negativity associated with traveling alone as a woman in Nepal. There will be very little possibility to have to misbehave towards you in public. You are recommended not to dress up provocatively as Nepal is a conservative country. Hot pants, tight shorts, very short shorts, leggings, sleeveless tops etc, are not unusual and are regularly considered as disrespectful (this applies to guys as well). Wearing such clothing is possible to appeal to snide comments. Most of Nepali women will prefer to have a friendship with solo female trekkers once they know each other closely. Some Nepali ladies will be suspicious of a solo female traveler they don't know at first but generally, this is an exception. For the most part, women travelers are welcomed into Nepali families more than men.

2) Sexual Harassment

There are very rare cases of physical sexual harassment that have been turned out for a solo female trekker in Nepal.  However, one should remember that Nepal has a long history of solo women trekkers falling for the charms of their trekking guides or local guides. While it is the choice of a woman should she want to initiate such a relationship one should keep in mind that things may not be what they seem. Unemployment is high in Nepal and many Nepali men are looking to get out of the country. A relationship is often the easiest way out. Likewise, a quick relationship with many Nepali guides can often mean a longer trek to get more work and free meals. If an older man is showing interest in you, there's a very good chance he is still married because some people get married at an early age.

3) How to Dress-up?

Nepal is one of the safe countries for women trekkers. However, one should still be cautious. Some Nepali guys may have odd thoughts about the morality of Western women, given their exposure to Western movies portraying women wearing ‘immodest’ clothing. Dress modestly, which means wearing clothes that cover the shoulders and thighs – take your cue from the locals to gauge what’s acceptable in the area. Many solo female travelers say that a long skirt is very useful for impromptu toilet trips, especially while trekking in the mountain.

4) Trekking as a solo woman

If you are not an experienced trekker, it is more important to know about trekking in Nepal beforehand. For a woman or man, it's recommended to hire a guide with you if you are trekking for the first time. It is still important to be noticed that every year some solo trekkers go missing. No matter how experienced trekkers they are, whether they have been trekking in Nepal or elsewhere. However, these exceptional cases can give out the wrong message in Trekking in Nepal. Choosing the right trekking guide is the most important task for a solo female trekker in Nepal. It's recommended you check their background, references and contact detail. It's always best to take a picture of your guide's face, their license, and trek itinerary and tell them you are these details to your family and friends. There is nothing to be worried about doing all this, make it a friendly conversation and let your guide understand clearly why you are doing this. If you are going with a trekking agency, make sure you also send their details to your friends and family. As with all treks in Nepal do make sure you have the right trekking travel insurance.

5) Try to find another trekker who is interested in the same routes

If you are looking for other trekkers in Nepal to join then you better choose the right accommodation. You are recommended to stay in tourist standard budget hotels or hostels with a lively social scene. There is a large amount of accommodation in Nepal, finding a busy one as your preference can often help to find some other interested trekker. Bars and clubs in Nepal are youth-oriented and it's probably better and safer to go with a company than go alone.

6) Safe Accommodation for Solo Women Trekkers

Accommodation in Nepal for tourists is nearly always fairly central to tourist areas and transport hubs. Arriving for the first time in Kathmandu, it is better to book in mid-range or tourist-standard hotels. We suggest you read the reviews on TripAdvisor or similar travel websites and feel comfortable with its location.  Most of the hotels offer complimentary airport pickups. Where to stay in Kathmandu? The main tourist districts in Kathmandu are Thamel and Paknajol. Of these places, Thamel and Paknajol are probably easier for solo female travelers as the first time visiting Kathmandu. Lakeside is the best area to choose your accommodation in Pokhara. In Chitwan, it's always best to hang around in Sauraha.

Conclusion:

While you are on a solo trip, you may miss your loved ones. Doing everything alone such as Eating, exploring and shopping, you may feel uneasy but slowly you will start to enjoy your own company. A solo trip will make you understand that being by yourself does necessarily not mean being lonely. Self-discovery is one of the most beautiful aspects of traveling alone and all of your likes and dislikes you get to know perfectly. 

Safety concerns are the biggest hurdle for the solo female trekker. But when you are aware and cautious you can manage safety issues. Interact with people from different walks of life and if you feel like you can join in groups and do group activities together. Who knows? You may cease up making lifelong friends. Moreover, the open-mindedness of Nepalese towards other cultures makes foreigners feel welcomed. Get perception into the way of life of locals and create interesting memories for a lifetime.