Introduction

Hi My name is Saroj Surkheti, the soul behind NepGaijin.

Welcome to NepGaijin — my digital travel journal, where stories meet simplicity, and adventure blends with mindfulness.

I’m a spiritual minimalist, a curious budget traveler, hiker and an outdoor enthusiast who thrives under open skies and starry nights. Originally from Kathmandu, Nepal, I now live and travel between Japan and Nepal, two countries that have shaped my perspective, lifestyle, and purpose.

This blog is my humble offering to the world — a space to share honest stories, real travel experiences, and lessons I’ve learned on the road, especially for those who want to explore deeply without spending excessively.

My Origin

I was born and raised in the cultural chaos and spiritual calm of Kathmandu. Like many South Asian kids, I grew up in a typical middle-class household where travel wasn’t something you just did — it had to be earned, saved for, and carefully planned. There were no luxurious family vacations or international getaways. But even from a young age, I had a spark — a calling to explorewhat lay beyond thehorizon.

Pokhara/Nepal
Kozushima Island/Japan

 I didn’t start traveling with a thick wallet or a safety net. I started with a sense of wonder, a love for the outdoors, and a deep desire to live life fully. Whether it was trekking to Annapurna Base Campor riding my motorbike fromKathmandu to Gangtok, or even just camping in nature I learned how to move through the world with a heart full of curiosity.

Eventually, life brought me to Japan — a land so different from Nepal, yet equally spiritual, grounded, and poetic in its own way. Living in Japan, I was introduced to the concept of minimalism, silence, and the art Ikigai. It’s where I deepened my spiritual practice, embraced solitude, and began viewing travel not just as movement, but as a form of meditation.

Now, I bounce between these two incredible countries, documenting my path and helping others find their own.

Why I Travel on a Budget

Let’s be honest — the travel industry often paints a picture of luxury: five-star resorts, private tours, and first-class flights. But that’s not the world I come from, and frankly, it’s not the world I want to explore.

I travel on a tight budget, not just because I have to, but because I choose to.

Growing up in Nepal, I quickly learned the value of every rupee. But instead of letting financial limitations hold me back, I used them as fuel. Every trip became a puzzle: How far can I go on the least amount of money? How can I sleep under the stars instead of a hotel roof? What if walking, motorcycle ride, or just sleeping open sky with simple tent became the adventure?

Budget travel, to me, is a lifestyle. It’s about resourcefulness, resilience, and creativity. It’s about connecting with locals, eating home-cooked meals, sleeping in guesthouses, hostels, or even a capsule hotel, and experiencing life through people’s stories — not just guidebooks.

What You’ll Find on This Blog

NepGaijin blog or website name tell many things. Nepali person in japan, where Japanese people use word “Gaijin” for foreigners. So named NepGaijin. And it genuinely built for curious souls — the wanderers, the dreamers, the seekers — who want to travel not just to escape, but to expand.

On this blog, I share a travel tips, hiking and camping information, personal stories— all rooted in low-budget, high-experience travel.

Here’s what you can expect:

Budget Travel Information(Japan & Nepal)

I create honest, detailed, no-fluff travel guides for backpackers and budget-conscious explorers. These include:

  • Transportation hacks (local buses, trains, bike routes)
  • Food and accommodation tips under minimum budgets
  • Free or low-cost activities and attractions
  • How to explore hidden gems off the tourist path

Outdoor Camping Tips

I’m passionate about sleeping under the stars and embracing nature on its own terms. I share:

  • Minimalist gear setups that don’t cost a fortune
  • Wild camping spots in Japan and Nepal
  • How to prepare for hikes, treks, and sudden weather changes
  • Staying warm naturally

Hiking Trail Information

As a traveler, hiking is more than walking trails — it’s about feeling connected to nature, discovering hidden places, challenging yourself, and finding peace far away from the noise of everyday life.

  • While hiking or trekking what to pack both Japan and Nepal
  • Hiking Information Trail
  • And many more..

Thank You for Being Here

If you’ve read this far, thank you. Seriously. In a noisy world filled with clickbait and curated perfection, the fact that you took time to connect with my story means a lot.

I created NepGaijin  not to go viral, but to go inward — to share what matters, to encourage others to travel simply, live fully, and think differently.

If my words spark even a single moment of inspiration, then this space has done its job.

Let’s Connect

I’m always happy to connect with fellow travelers, readers, and kindred spirits. Whether you want to ask a question, share your story, or just say hi — don’t hesitate.

Here’s how you can reach me:

  • Contact Page — Send me a message directly
  • Instagram: @nepgaijin — For behind-the-scenes travel photos and tips
  • YouTube: @Nepgaijin— For visual travel guides, vlogs, and reflections

Final Thoughts

Life isn’t measured in years — it’s measured in sunsets watched, strangers befriended, fears overcome, and dreams followed.

So wherever you are on your journey — whether you’re lost, searching, or simply wandering — I hope this blog becomes a gentle companion. A guide. A spark. And beside this if you are interested what i do to make budget then here it is.

Finally, more miles, more mindfulness, and more magic on the road ahead.

With gratitude,
Saroj Surkheti
Budget Traveler/Hiker/Nature Lover| Founder of NepGaijin