Hitchhiking Adventure: From India to Nepal – Chasing Mount Everest!

Hello, fellow travelers and adventure seekers! I'm Neetu,The Rajasthani woman who's pedaling (and hitchhiking) across borders on two wheels. After wrapping up my incredible journey through India—covering 20,000 km of diverse roads, meeting inspiring souls, and defying odds—I'm now in Nepal. This is my first blog from the roof of the world, where dreams touch the sky. Let's dive into how I made it here, the amazing support I received, why hitchhiking is my go-to mode, and how I survive penniless. Buckle up!

How I Reached Nepal

The Hitchhiking Route from Gorakhpur to the Border

Seven generous lifts from complete strangers. Truck drivers shared their cabs, a biker gave me a thrilling ride through dusty roads, and an auto-rickshaw wallah dropped me right at the border. Each lift felt like a mini-adventure, filled with stories, chai breaks, and that unbreakable traveler’s trust. By evening, I stood at Raxaul border, heart pounding with excitement. Walking across felt surreal—like stepping into a new world. That’s how I officially entered Nepal from India, visa stamped and spirits sky-high!

Why I Chose Hitchhiking

Tackling Social Issues, One Ride at a Time

All my travel projects stem from real social problems and what media highlights—I'm an explorer driven to uncover truths. Why hitchhike now? It started with curiosity and bold missions. First, Kashmir to Kanyakumari on an electric scooter, sparked by the tragic Priyanka Reddy gang rape case. I wanted to spotlight women's safety on India's roads. Then, my All India bike ride (20,000 km!) to understand how monks thrive without money—proving cashless living builds resilience. Now, a recent article shook me: Drunk truck drivers linked to rising rape cases. Why? What's the mentality behind alcohol-fueled aggression? To grasp truck drivers' lives—their long hauls, isolation, and struggles—I chose hitchhiking, especially with truckers. Seven lifts later (trucks, bikes, autos), I've heard their stories: Fatigue, family pressures, easy booze access. No judgments—just empathy and solutions. Hitchhiking isn't random; it's my way to challenge stereotypes, foster trust, and spark change. Eco-friendly, budget-free, and story-packed—it's freedom with purpose! Why hitchhike when you can book a flight? Simple: It's the ultimate test of trust, resilience, and real connections. In a world of apps and AC coaches, hitchhiking strips it down to raw adventure. No money? No problem—strangers become saviors. I've chosen this for India's 20,000 km and now Nepal because it forces you to live in the moment. Each ride teaches life lessons: patience from waiting, joy from shared laughs, safety from gut instincts. It's eco-friendly (less vehicles on road), budget-free (survive on kindness), and story-rich. Google "hitchhiking Nepal safety"—it's doable with smarts! For women travelers, I say: Stay alert, share locations, and trust your vibe. It's empowered me beyond words.

How I Survived Without Money

Kindness, Resourcefulness, And Community Power

Zero rupees in pocket? That's my normal! Surviving cashless in Nepal (and India) is an art. Here's my playbook:

How I Got Support and Connections

From Dr. Vandana to Jain Community Heroes

Hitchhiking solo isn’t just about thumbs up—it’s about the people who become your family. My network started building way before the border.

Back in Kanya Mandal Adhiveshan (a women’s empowerment event), I met Dr. Vandana Kundalia Bardia. We exchanged numbers, and she became my guardian angel. When I told her about my Nepal plans, she connected me straight to the Jain Parishad. Timing? Perfect!

At Raxaul border, a young guy from our Terapanth Jain Community, Sanyam Jain, showed up like a knight in shining armor. He walked with me from Raxaul to Birgunj, ensuring I was safe. That first step into Nepal? Pure gratitude. These connections remind me: In travel, humanity bridges borders.

But the real pillar was Mr. Ashok Baid, President of Nepal-Bharat Sahyog Manch. From Birgunj onwards, he supported my entire Nepal journey—arranging stays, food, and even events. His warmth made me feel at home in a foreign land.

At Raxaul border, a young guy from our Terapanth Jain Community, Sanyam Jain, showed up like a knight in shining armor. He fed me a hearty dinner and dropped me at the community homestay as per my request. Next day, Sanyam’s father, Nirmal Jain, arrived with Mr. Ashok Baid—a popular business person and President of Nepal-Bharat Maitri Manch. They took me to the Consulate General of India where I received a warm welcome, and that’s when I learned about the upcoming Yoga Day event at Chanakya Gate.

June 19th to 24th in Birgunj became family time! I entered Nepal on the 19th and stayed till the 24th, meeting dignitaries, attending youth conventions and cycling club events where I shared my hitchhiking journey. I conducted women’s safety sessions with NGOs, communities, and groups—spreading awareness from my own road experiences.

 

I visited Birgunj Adventure Park, and Divya   (Mr. Ashok Baid’s daughter-in-law) welcomed me warmly. Mr. Baid wouldn’t let me stay in a lodge: “Stay with us as long as you want!” That’s how I found my Nepal family for 5 days. Divya, a well-known makeup artist, teased: “You always live this tomboy style? Let me do your makeover!” Always up for new experiences, I said yes—check the picture for my glamorous transformation! Days filled with learning and laughter.

Yoga Day Honours​

Anthems Unite, Dreams Soar"

The cherry on top? On International Yoga Day, the Consulate General of India (CGI) in Birgunj facilitated me at a grand event. I stood there, witnessing the national anthems of India and Nepal played together for the first time. Goosebumps! It felt like winning gold in the Olympics of travel. Grateful to CGI for letting me share my hitchhiking message with a huge crowd, Nepal dignitaries, and even STF officials. Support like this fuels my fire!

Flag-off ceremony from the Consulate General of India Birgunj

On June 24th, came the emotional highlight: an official flag-off ceremony from the Consulate General of India with dignitaries and local personalities present. People got teary-eyed hearing my cashless struggle—no single note in pocket! It felt like a daughter's bidai after wedding. With heavy hearts, I left in Uncle's driver's car, who dropped me at the highway for my next hitchhike to another Nepali city. These connections weren't just support—they became family who fueled my journey forward.

What's Next?
Annapurna Awaits!

Nepal, you’ve captured my soul—from border walks to Pokhara’s peaks. Grateful for every lift, connection, and monsoon drop. Hitchhiking teaches: The world is kind if you dare.

Stay tuned—my next blog dives into Annapurna trails, Everest dreams, and more survival hacks. Where to next? Follow my journey!

Like, share, and comment: Have you hitchhiked to Nepal? Drop your tips below!