Roaming for Roasts: My Journey into Nepal’s Coffee Culture

As a coffee enthusiast and avid traveler, I had always been fascinated by the unique coffee cultures of different countries. So, when I heard about Nepal’s burgeoning coffee scene, I knew I had to explore it for myself. 

After weeks of planning and anticipation, I finally arrived in Kathmandu, ready to dive headfirst into the world of Nepalese coffee. As I walked through the bustling streets, I couldn’t help but notice the distinct aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air. It was a sensory overload, and I knew that this was just the beginning of my journey. 

My first stop was a small coffee shop in the heart of Thamel, a popular tourist district in the city. The place was cozy and welcoming, with colorful decorations adorning the walls and a lively atmosphere. As I sipped on my first Nepalese coffee, I was struck by its unique flavor profile. It was bold and robust, with a hint of spiciness that I had never experienced before.

Over the next few days, I visited countless cafes and roasteries across the city, each with its own distinctive take on Nepalese coffee. I have been fortunate to visit the Nepal Tea & Coffee Development Board, National Coffee Producers’ Association, Coffee Cooperatives, Barista academies, coffee estates and other significant coffee centers where the conversation revolved around coffee production, consumption, processing, and coffee promotion. In addition to this, I also stayed with a local family who had been growing coffee for generations. They showed me how they harvested and processed the beans, and I even got to help out with the daily chores. As we sat around the fire in the evenings, sipping on steaming cups of freshly brewed coffee, I felt a deep sense of connection with these kind and welcoming people.

As I ventured further into the Nepalese countryside, I was blown away by the stunning beauty of the landscape. The rolling hills and lush green valleys were a far cry from the bustling city, and I felt as though I had stepped into another world. It was here that I discovered the true heart of Nepalese coffee culture. My journey through Nepal’s coffee culture had been eye-opening and transformative, and I knew that I would never forget it. As I sat in a café on my final day in Pokhara, savoring the last of my Nepalese coffee, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible experience.

In the end, I realized that coffee was so much more than just a beverage. It was a symbol of community, a way of connecting with people from different cultures and backgrounds. And as I left Nepal, I knew that I had gained so much more than just a newfound appreciation for coffee. I had gained a new perspective on life, one that was centered around compassion, curiosity, and a love of adventure.