25 Apr 2025
From the Alps to the Annapurnas — a surprising trend is gaining momentum among Nepali expats in Austria.
High-quality Austrian hiking gear is making its way to Pokhara, Nepal, and it’s not just about trekking; it’s about bridging cultures, boosting safety, and empowering families with the best outdoor gear. This blog dives into why Nepali expats in Austria are choosing to send Austrian-made hiking equipment instead of an online money transfer from Austria to Nepal to their loved ones back home, and how it reflects a changing mindset about outdoor adventure and physical fitness in Nepal.
The outdoor culture in Nepal has long been centered around trekking and mountain climbing, but in recent years, this culture has evolved significantly, especially in Pokhara. As tourism booms, more locals are taking up trekking, not only for recreation but also as a part of their fitness routine.
The popularity of trekking in regions like Annapurna and Mardi Himal has been on the rise among Nepali locals. What was once considered an activity reserved for tourists is now a routine for many locals in Pokhara.
As tourists flock to Nepal for trekking experiences, the local population has naturally adopted trekking as a common practice, influenced by both cultural exposure and economic opportunities in the tourism industry. In 2019, Nepal received over 1.17 million international tourists, with a significant portion visiting for trekking and mountaineering activities.
While there are various local hiking gear options available in Pokhara, they often don’t measure up to the durability and safety standards set by renowned international brands from Austria.
Most local gear tends to be cheaper but sacrifices comfort and longevity. It’s often made for short-term use, which isn’t ideal for the demanding treks in Nepal’s rugged terrains.
Social media platforms, especially Instagram and YouTube, have greatly influenced the younger generation in Pokhara. Outdoor influencers showcasing their treks, adventures, and fitness routines have sparked interest in quality gear.
Nepali expats in Austria, many of whom are familiar with high-quality outdoor gear, have seen the impact social media has on their family members in Nepal. By sending top-tier gear, they are helping their loved ones aspire to the same active lifestyle they experience in Europe.
A growing number of Nepali locals, especially in cities like Pokhara, are focusing on their fitness and taking up outdoor activities, including trekking, hiking, and weekend excursions.
Expats, living in a country where outdoor activities are part of daily life, are encouraging their families back in Nepal to take part in hiking and trekking, thus promoting a healthier lifestyle and a greater appreciation for nature.
Austrian hiking gear has earned a reputation for excellence, built over years of designing equipment meant to withstand the toughest conditions. From high-altitude treks in the Alps to the rugged trails in Nepal, Austrian brands are seen as the gold standard in outdoor equipment.
Austria is home to some of the most reputable hiking brands in the world, including Salewa, Lowa, and Komperdell, known for producing gear that stands up to harsh conditions.
The proximity to the Alps gives Austrian companies a natural advantage, as they design their products with the mountain environment in mind. These brands are trusted by serious trekkers and climbers worldwide.
Due to the high cost of importing international brands into Nepal, many Nepali expats find that buying hiking gear in Austria is far more cost-effective.
Expats often take advantage of local discounts, sales, and clearance offers available in Austria, making the gear even more affordable before shipping it to Nepal.
Shipping hiking gear from Austria to Nepal is made easy with reliable courier services that offer competitive rates and timely delivery.
To further reduce shipping expenses, Nepali expats often pool their resources and arrange group shipments, making it a more affordable option for sending larger quantities of gear to families in Pokhara.
For many Nepali expats, sending hiking gear to their families in Nepal is a way of showing love and care. It’s a tangible way of connecting with family members and ensuring their safety and comfort on their treks.
There’s also a sense of pride in sending something foreign and high-quality, which not only supports the recipient’s trekking endeavors but also elevates their status in the local community.
The trend of Nepali expats in Austria sending hiking gear to Pokhara is rooted in a blend of quality, affordability, and emotional bonds. As Nepal’s outdoor culture continues to grow, so does the demand for high-quality gear that supports both local hikers and trekkers. This shift is reflective of a broader change in Nepal’s outdoor lifestyle and its growing connection to global trends.If you're a Nepali expat considering what to send home, think beyond tradition—invest in gear that empowers and protects. Help your family experience outdoor adventures with the best tools available. If sending gear is not feasible for you, you can always choose the easy option of money transfer from Austria to Nepal.
Nepali expats are shipping hiking gear to Pokhara due to the superior quality of Austrian outdoor brands, the growing demand for safe and durable gear, and their desire to support their family’s outdoor activities.
Yes, Austrian hiking gear generally offers better durability, comfort, and safety compared to the low-cost alternatives available in local markets in Pokhara.
Expats often reduce shipping costs by grouping shipments together, using reliable courier services, and taking advantage of bulk discounts.
Salewa, Lowa, and Komperdell are popular Austrian brands known for their durable and high-quality hiking gear, which is often shipped to Pokhara.
Social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube have inspired many young Nepali trekkers in Pokhara to pursue hiking as a lifestyle, fueling demand for quality outdoor gear.
