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Moving to Nepal | Expat Exchange
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Moving to Nepal

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Dec 03, 2023

Summary: Many expats and digital nomads move to Nepal for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly people. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Nepal are Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan. People looking for a place to live in Nepal can search online for rental listings, contact local real estate agents, or ask around in the expat community.

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What do I need to know before moving to Nepal?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Nepal, they said:

"Nepal is a culturally and geographically diverse country, so it is important to research the area you plan to move to and familiarize yourself with the local customs and language. It is also important to be aware of the political situation in Nepal, as it can be volatile at times. Additionally, the cost of living in Nepal is relatively low, so expats should plan their budget accordingly. Health care in Nepal is generally of a lower standard than in other countries, so expats should consider taking out health insurance. Finally, expats should be aware that the infrastructure in Nepal is not as developed as in other countries, so they should be prepared for some inconveniences," commented one expat who made the move to Nepal.

How do I find a place to live in Nepal?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Finding a place to live in Nepal can be a daunting task. The best way to start is by researching the different areas of the country and deciding which one best suits your needs. You can look for rental listings online, or contact a local real estate agent who can help you find a suitable property. Additionally, you can ask friends and family who live in Nepal for advice and recommendations. Once you have narrowed down your search, you can visit the area to get a better feel for the neighborhood and to view potential properties," said one expat in Nepal.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Nepal?

"Expat homes and apartments in Nepal tend to be modern and comfortable, with amenities such as air conditioning, hot water, and internet access. Many expats choose to live in larger cities such as Kathmandu, where they can find more modern housing options. Expat apartments in Nepal often come with balconies, allowing for views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Expats can also find furnished apartments, which come with furniture and appliances. Security is also a priority for expats, and many apartments come with 24-hour security guards," replied a member in Nepal.

What is the average cost of housing in Nepal?

If you are thinking about moving to Nepal, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Nepal varies depending on the location and type of accommodation. Generally, housing in Nepal is relatively affordable compared to other countries, with basic accommodation costing around $10-20 per night. For more luxurious accommodation, prices can range from $50-100 per night," said one expat who made the move to Nepal.

Should I buy or rent a home in Nepal?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Nepal, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Nepal can be a great investment, as the country is growing rapidly and real estate prices are on the rise. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Nepal, as well as the availability of financing options, before making a decision. Renting a home in Nepal can be a great option for those who are not ready to commit to a long-term purchase, as it allows for more flexibility and can be more affordable in the short-term. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Nepal should be based on individual needs and preferences," remarked one expat who made the move to Nepal.

What should I pack when moving to Nepal?

We asked people living in Nepal to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Nepal, it is important to pack clothing suitable for the climate. Lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen are ideal for the hot and humid weather. It is also important to bring a good supply of sunscreen and insect repellent. Additionally, it is recommended to bring a first aid kit, a flashlight, and a multi-purpose tool. It is also a good idea to bring a few items of comfort from home, such as books, music, and photos. Finally, it is important to bring a valid passport and any necessary visas," said one expat in Nepal.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Nepal?

We asked people in Nepal if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"Yes - during our five hour wedding ceremony I occasionally used my left hand! But friends helped out - there were a lot of intricate mudras or handling of objects, and as I am ambidextrous, just using the right hand doesn't happen naturally for me," replied a member in Kathmandu.

"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Nepal. Avoid touching someone on the head, as this is considered disrespectful. It is also important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Refrain from taking photographs of people without their permission, and be aware that public displays of affection are generally not accepted. Additionally, it is important to be mindful of the local language and to be respectful when speaking to people," commented one expat who made the move to Nepal.

Why do people move to Nepal?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Nepal, they responded:

"Nepal is a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural scenery. It offers expats a unique opportunity to experience a different way of life and explore a diverse range of cultures. The cost of living in Nepal is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The country also offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from trekking and mountaineering to rafting and paragliding. Additionally, Nepal is home to a vibrant expat community, providing a great opportunity to meet new people and make friends," commented one expat living in Nepal.

How are healthcare services Nepal?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Nepal, they replied:

"Nepal has a public healthcare system that provides basic healthcare services to its citizens. The quality of public healthcare in Nepal is generally considered to be low, with limited access to specialized care and medicines. Foreign residents in Nepal have access to the public healthcare system, but the quality of care is not as good as in other countries. Expats in Nepal typically use private healthcare services, which are more expensive but offer better quality care. Private healthcare services in Nepal are provided by both local and international providers, and are generally considered to be of a higher quality than the public healthcare system," said one expat living in Nepal.

What are medical services in Nepal like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Nepal, they replied:

"Medical services in Nepal are generally limited, with most of the population relying on traditional medicine and home remedies. The country has a few hospitals and clinics, but they are often overcrowded and lack the necessary resources and equipment. The government has made efforts to improve access to healthcare, but the quality of care remains low due to a lack of trained medical personnel and inadequate funding. In rural areas, access to medical services is even more limited, with many people having to travel long distances to receive treatment. Despite these challenges, the Nepalese government is working to improve access to healthcare and increase the quality of medical services," commented one expat who moved to Nepal.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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