Navigating Nepal Without English: Kathmandu & Pokhara

Preface (A Bit of Rambling): If you lack confidence, just rely on courage. Arrival ✈️ After clearing customs at Kathmandu Airport, you’ll find currency exchange and SIM card counters inside (no need to rush—walk further, and there are two side-by-side shops; the SIM card vendor speaks Chinese and will activate it for you). I got a 7-day unlimited data plan for ~¥25 RMB. Outside, taxis are on the right side. If you have a ride-hailing app and can communicate via phone, you can book one (cheaper, but pickup is outside the parking lot). Airport taxis to Thamel cost ~900 NPR—insist on an AC car (though I bargained an unofficial cab down to 800 NPR). Then brace yourself for Kathmandu’s dust, traffic, and exhaust fumes—keep your mask on at all times. Money Exchange 💰 Kathmandu: Jiangnan Pharmacy (1005 RMB → 19,000 NPR; avoid Chengdu Restaurant). Pokhara: Peace Restaurant (staff speak Chinese; 1500 RMB → 28,200 NPR). Pokhara’s rates are worse, so exchange more in Kathmandu. Transport 🚗🏍️ Use inDrive (requires a local number—DM me if you need help downloading it). Options: Motorbike taxis (fast for short trips). Budget cars (no AC, aka "spicy death traps" 🚗—prone to motion sickness). AC cars (more expensive but comfy). Drivers will call to confirm your location—I just handed my phone to bystanders to explain where I was. Domestic Flights ✈️ Book via your hotel (cheaper than Ctrip; my ticket included insurance). Note: Kathmandu’s international & domestic terminals are separate (10-min walk between them). Pokhara Airport: Ride-hailing apps don’t work well here—cars won’t enter, so be prepared to hike out to the main road (and marvel at how much better Chinese-built roads are). (To be continued: Accommodation, Food & Bars—if I ever stop being lazy.) #Kathmandu #Thamel #Nepal #NepalTravel #Pokhara #TranslationToEnglish