A bit about buying jewellery...

Each hill bazaar has its metalsmiths who sell gold and silver at the going rate and, for a modest charge, will tap it into an earring, nose ring, necklace clasp, bracelet or any other form in which a woman wants to display the family wealth.

Common to almost all hill women are "pote," a necklace consisting of strands of glass beads drawn together with a cylindrical gold ornament.

Shops in Kathmandu sell jewellery made of silver, white metal and semiprecious stones, which, though designed entirely for the tourist market, are nonetheless attractive.

(Source: Nepal, The Rough Guide, David Reed)

Temple etiquette...

When entering one of Nepal's beautiful Hindu temples, always remember that you are a tourist. To avoid giving offense, follow these simple guidelines...

• Always ask permission to enter a temple. Some temples will refuse tourists permission to enter altogether.

• Always ask permission to take pictures of the inside of temples.

• Wear clothes that cover your shoulders, arms, and legs.

• Do not wear leather shoes or a leather belt--you won't be allowed in. In Hinduism, cows are sacred creatures and sporting their hide is a no-no.

• Remove your shoes before entering and avoid carrying them in with you. You'll see a pile of shoes outside the door and you can put yours there without fear of theft.

• Do not enter restricted areas or open closed doors or gates.

• Conduct yourself quietly and with respect.

• Make a donation if appropriate.

• Drink it all in like the Journeywoman you are!

  (Source-Karen Dougherty)

Facts about women...

In remote rural areas of Nepal, Hindu women are considered their husband's or father's chattel, given or taken in marriage for the price of, say, a buffalo.

Orthodox Bahuns, (in the minority) believe that a woman is ritually unclean during menstruation and for ten days after giving birth. For that time she must remain apart from all and drink cow's urine to cleanse herself.

Polygamy, though officially outlawed, is widely practiced in the hills, and if a woman doesn't produce a son she's liable to be replaced.

(Source: Nepal, Rough Guide, David Reed)

Eating on a budget...

Daal again? Yuck!

Working with a tight budget? When traveling in Nepal, you'll save money by staying in the many teahouses that dot the trails through the mountain passes. In fact, food may cost you more daily than accommodations--unless you can live on the national dish. Daal bhaat tarkaari is made up of rice, curried vegetables, and lentils and is often spiced up with chilies and vegetable or fruit chutneys. It's tasty, filling, and chock-full of vitamins. If you can stomach it every day of your journey, you'll save a bundle. And, another plus--you might even find yourself looking forward to airplane food on your return journey...

(Source-Karen Dougherty)