Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts

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A short rest before crossing the Khumbu glacier, Three Passes trek

Best Things to Do in Nepal: Trekking, Culture, Adventure Sports & Jungle

With the highest mountains in the world, Nepal is a diverse country that rises from dense jungle to snow-clad peaks in just over 100 miles. Its capital and largest city, Kathmandu, is a bustling metropolis with deep ties to history, culture and ancient religion. Its religions - Hinduism and Buddhism - melt together and lure Western travelers. With unparalleled terrain and adventure, Nepal never fails to deliver an unforgettable experience.

The village of Ghandruk with Annapurna South towering in the background

Ghandruk Trek: Scenic Trek through the Annapurna Foothills - 6 Days

The Ghandruk Trek (sometimes also referred to as the Ghandrung Trek) is a great trekking option for those who are in Nepal for a shorter time or want to combine a relatively short trek with other activities in Nepal. The trek is typically done in 3 or 4 days.

Cozy guesthouse along the trails in Nepal

Teahouse Trekking in Nepal: All You Need To Know

Most treks in Nepal are 'teahouse' treks, which means every night you end up at a simple lodge with basic rooms and a meal. The best thing about teahouse trekking - you only have to carry very minimal gear.

Town of Jomsom against the backdrop of Mt. Dhaulagiri

Getting from Pokhara to Jomsom

This scenic twenty-minute flight takes you over the Kali Gandaki Gorge to the town Jomsom at the southern edge of the Mustang region. Along the way, you'll enjoy spectacular views of Dhaulagiri (26,795 ft), Nilgiri (23,166 ft), and the entire Annapurna Himal.

The desert landscape of Upper Mustang, the former kingdom of Lo

Upper Mustang Trek - 15 Days

The Upper Mustang trek is the ultimate gateway to the mysterious world of the old Buddhist kingdom of Mustang, also called Lo. Once forbidden and isolated from the rest of the world for decades, the area was able to evolve within its own distinctive culture and rich traditions closely tied to Tibet. This moderate, lesser-known trek passes through one of the driest regions of Nepal and provides spectacular mountain scenery.

Trekking for All Ages and Abilities

Nepal’s mountains are formidable, but Raj Gyawali says they can be accessible to almost anyone. Whether he’s leading a family tour, a special needs tour, or a niche tour, Raj says his trekkers will have the experience of a lifetime and leave Nepal with a sense of accomplishment.

View of Annapurna I at sunset from Poon Hill

Ghorepani / Poon Hill Trek: Nepal's Classic Trek - 8 Days

This short trek gives you access to one of Nepal's classic viewpoints of the Annapurna range. You'll follow ancient trails that connect local communities, pass through blooming rhododendron forests and rice paddies, and enjoy views of snow-covered mountains. At night, sleep in comfortable teahouses located in small villages along the route.

Poon Hill: One of Nepal's Most Famous View Points

Offering epic Himalayan views, Poon Hill (3210m / 10,532 ft) is a popular destination for trekkers in the Annapurna region of Nepal. Most people arrive here in the early morning to enjoy the beautiful sunrise views.

The view of Mt. Everest and Nuptse from Kala Patthar

Everest Base Camp Trek - 16 Days

This high-altitude trek through Sherpa country brings you to the base of the world's tallest peak. You'll pass hilltop monasteries, Himalayan market towns, and craggy peaks as you follow in the footsteps of famous mountaineers—eventually making your way to the iconic starting point for all Everest expeditions.

The Cathedral of St. Stephen in historic Hvar Town

Unique Ways to Experience the Island of Hvar

Known for beautiful year-round weather, crisp white and robust red wines, summer nightlife, clear turquoise waters—and active outdoor excursions like kayaking, cycling, and rock climbing, Hvar has become one of the most visited islands in Dalmatia. It's surrounded by stunning scenery and is rich in culture (it is the only island in the world with four UNESCO World Heritage Sites) where one can easily escape and find the perfect relaxation they need.

Church of Saint Donatus in historic center of Zadar.

A Guide To Croatia's Medieval Towns

Stroll around the medieval town centers of Dubrovnik, Hvar, and Zadar (especially after midnight). Travel like a local by hitting the hippest spots in Croatia. These are some of the best places to see and be seen--by day or after dark--in cities across Croatia.

Our mission

I started kimkim with Benoit and Alex based on the belief that the way we all travel has enormous opportunities for improvement. We believe that connecting travelers directly with local experts & operators, and enabling a productive conversation between them is a vastly better way to plan and book travel than the typical search & filter approach that is commonly used by travel companies today.

Classic view of Everest and Nuptse from Kala Patthar

Nepal's Top 6 Viewpoints: Where to See Everest and Other Himalayan Giants

Nepal is home to 8 of the 14 highest peaks in the world. One of the key attractions of traveling to Nepal is to take in stunning views of these Himalayan giants. Here are some of the top viewpoints, with instructions on how to visit them.

A view of Mt. Ama Dablam en route to Everest Base Camp

Best Treks in the Everest Region

Sagarmatha National Park in the Everest region offers up some of the highest treks in the world. To help decide which trek is best for you, here's a list of the main trekking routes with the duration and highlights for each route. Each route has great views, so which one you choose largely depends on your time frame, budget, and appetite for adventure.

The Istrian peninsula coastline hugs the Adriatic Sea

Best Time of Year to Visit Croatia

Are you into water sports? Visit Croatia from June to September when the Adriatic Sea is warm. Do you want to hire a guide and his dog to go truffle-hunting or join a grape harvest in Istria? The season for that is autumn. Whether you’re itching to hike up Istria’s Mount Ucka or just inhale the intoxicating scents emanating from the budding birches, shrubs, and flowers that line Lenuci’s Green Horseshoe in Zagreb, in Croatia, there’s a season for that.

Sleeping bag and backpack in Khopra Danda lodge room

Trekking Gear List for Nepal

It's important to pack the right items for your trek. Don't forget important things, and definitely don't bring too much as you and/or your porter won't be happy with a load that's too heavy. Here is a list of what you need for a comfortable trekking adventure.

Domestic Flights in Nepal

Famous for its mountain airports, Nepal offers a number of domestic flights that give you access to all parts of the country. Often, it’s best to take a local flight to save yourself long drives when you only have a short amount of time in Nepal. Given that mountain weather is often unpredictable, however, it's best to add one or two buffer days before and after your trek to account for flight delays.

kimkim engineering team shipping new product in Pokhara with Phewa lake in the background

5 places with Wifi in Pokhara

Here are 5 places for WiFi in Pokhara, Nepal’s second biggest city and major traveler hub, based on our experience being here with the kimkim team on a quick business trip.

Buddhist prayer flags above the valley along the Manaslu Circuit trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek: The Ultimate Off-The-Beaten-Path Trek in Nepal - 18 Days

The Manaslu Circuit Trek features everything you'd want from a classic trek in Nepal: Epic scenery, intimate encounters with local people and their ancient culture, and a 17,000-foot (5,100 m) Himalayan pass crossing. Kimkim's trusted partners in Nepal organize weekly group departures during the spring and fall trekking seasons, as well as private treks that can run on any date from February to June and September through November.

Just above the Khopra teahouse, looking West toward Dhaulagiri during sunrise

Annapurna Panorama Trek

The Annapurna foothills make for some of the best short treks in Nepal: classic views of Nepal's famous snow-capped peaks, a variety of routes ranging from 3-10 days, and relatively easy trekking given the altitude and local village teahouses.

A group of trekkers just below Khopra Ridge in the Annapurna region of Nepal

Trekking in Nepal: All You Need To Know

Trekking through the Himalayas is Nepal’s key attraction, and is a life-changing experience for many travelers, regardless of whether they are experienced hikers, or novices. This article is a primer to trekking in Nepal and answers frequently asked questions.

Split hugs the Adriatic coastline and extends to the Marjan peninsula, the "lungs of the city"

Unique Ways To Experience Split

A dynamic port city with a medieval Old Town grown out of the 1,700-year-old Diocletian's Palace, Split bustles with modern life amid its ancient Roman setting. Cafés, restaurants, and galleries cram the cobblestone alleyways, the waterfront and Marjan peninsula teem with outdoor activity, claiming Croatia's second-largest city as one of the Mediterranean's most compelling. Read on and discover the unique ways in which to spend your time in exuberant Split.

The 6 Best Boutique Hotels in Kathmandu

Out of the many lodging options in Kathmandu, we have handpicked half a dozen authentic hotels we love. These hotels range from affordable to luxurious, and they all have a unique character.

Korčula's historic town-of-the-same-name juts into the Strait of Pelješac

Unique Ways to Experience Korčula

Korčula is an island favorite, in part for Korčula Town, a less-crowded miniature version of Dubrovnik, but also for its wealth of outdoor activities and cultural pursuits on offer. Whether you are cycling around the island, or prefer swimming at hidden-away beaches, taking a windsurfing lesson, or spending the day sampling the local Pošip and Grk wine, you’ll likely wish you had more time to spend here. Find out how to make your trip to Korčula worth your while.

Delight your senses with Nepal's local sweets (Photo credit: Alex Treadway)

Local Nepali Food Specialties

Influenced by both Indian and Tibetan cuisine, Nepalese food has its own rich flavors and aromas. Here's a selection of dishes you shouldn't miss during your trip to Nepal.

Kalinchowk temple with Gaurishankar in the background (Photo credit: Mads Mathiasen)

3 Great Short Treks in Nepal

Mads Mathiasen has been trekking through Nepal for 20 years. These days, he does everything from short, child-friendly treks with his young son to rugged wilderness adventures with friends. And he is an expert who plans treks for visitors to Nepal, from first-timers to regular returners.

Line-ups to use the machines to get your visa-on-arrival in the Kathmandu airport

Getting Your Visa for Nepal

Heading to Nepal? Everyone needs a visa (except Indian nationals), but luckily it’s an easy process. Here’s the latest information on obtaining a tourist visa and how it works for visa-on-arrival (the easiest way to get your tourist visa).

Unique Ways to Experience Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a unique natural wonder with its 16 terraced crystal clear lakes and 90 waterfalls. In the summer months the park and its trails can get busy, but with the tips in this article you can avoid most of the crowds.

Top 6 Things To Do In Oahu

“The Heart of Hawaii” may be best known for the urban chic attitude of Honolulu and Waikiki, but it’s also home to quaint towns and rural roots in the interior and along the Windward Coast. And then there’s the legendary North Shore, synonymous with hot wave action and a cool surfer vibe.

One of many vantage points in the Kalalau Valley, Kauai

Top 6 Things To Do In Kauai

Hawaii’s Grande Dame, the “Island of Discovery” is graced by bold precipices, sundrenched beaches, tumbling waterfalls and verdant rainforests that create a dream for snorkeling, hiking and boating. Splurge with a helicopter tour or Port Allen boat excursion cruising the breathtaking Napali Coast.

Top 7 Things To Do On The Big Island

Youngest and southernmost in the chain, “The Big Island” is the creation of five volcanoes – with Kilauea the youngest and still very active. Recreation abounds on the big island, with deep sea fishing, hiking and scuba diving among top picks.

Top 7 Things To Do In Maui

This is the place for hiking, snorkeling and windsurfing. Diversity rules on the 734-square-mile “Valley Isle,” from powdery beaches and lush rainforests to eclectic Upcountry towns and upscale resorts. From December through April, this humpback whale playground often delivers close encounters during whale watching excursions.

Croatia Adventures: Hiking, Biking, and Climbing

Whether you enjoy the adrenaline rush of a whitewater rapid or the sheer face of a rock wall, Croatia can deliver a satisfying active vacation. The destinations below are the source of some of Croatia’s best outdoor adventures.

Women rolling dough at a traditional food stand in Rijeka, Croatia

What to Eat in Croatia (and Where to Eat It)

Spicy seafood stews, sausages sizzling on the grill, homemade pasta topped with shaved white truffles, cakes made with juicy citrus fruits: Croatia has so much to offer gourmet travelers. Read on to find out about the diverse cultural influences that shaped the national cuisine—and where to try the best dishes.

Fort Lovrijenac, outside the city wall of Dubrovnik, Croatia

Best Things To Do in Croatia

Once a secret destination of in-the-know travelers, Croatia is bursting upon the international scene. And for good reason: This tiny country on the shores of the Adriatic Sea has more than its share of natural wonders, beautiful coastline and picturesque islands.

Views from atop the ridge lines of Pikey Peak

Pikey Peak Trek: A Short Trek with Great Views of Everest - 9 Days

Many say that the view of Mount Everest from Pikey Peak is one of the best in Nepal. That’s a bold statement, but Sir Edmund Hillary himself claimed it to be his favorite, and we're inclined to agree. This trek can be done in three full-on days, or a more leisurely six.

A Week in Kathmandu Valley

Here’s a trip plan that gives you a taste of what Nepal has to offer within a week: a short trek with great views of the Himalaya combined with a visit to the ancient cities of Bhaktapur and Patan. You'll stay within striking distance of Kathmandu.

Is It Safe to Visit Nepal After the 2015 Earthquake?

In May 2015, Nepal was struck by a 7.8 magnitude earthquake. Many travelers are still wondering if it's safe to visit Nepal. The short answer is "yes". The earthquake has caused severe damage in certain regions, but the country is rebuilding and open for travel.

The view of Dhaulagiri from Khopra Danda

Khopra Danda Trek: Best Way to Organize this 5-8 Day Trek in Nepal

The Khopra Danda trek (also known as the Khopra Ridge trek) is a great alternative to the more popular (and more crowded) Ghorepani trek, taking you higher still to another great viewpoint of the Annapurnas.

Lumba Sumba Pass | Great Himalayan Trail

Nepal is a land of breathtaking beauty around every corner, ancient cultures, adventures and mind-boggling diversity. So what makes a crossing of one of many of Nepal's high pass worth writing about?

Phewa Lake with the city of Pokhara on the right

Nepal's Golden Triangle: Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan - 12 Days

For those who can take 2 weeks of vacation to visit Nepal, here is a 12-day itinerary that allows you to experience the highlights of Nepal: Culture in Kathmandu, a short trek in the Himalayan foothills near Pokhara, and a jungle safari in Chitwan National Park in the southern lowlands of Nepal.

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