For those living comfortably snug lives in the city, destinations like Gokyo, Dolpa and Langtang understandably seem like far-flung, distant lands. Sure, you could drop all else and travel there but that would require oodles of money, thorough planning and not least, a band of merry friends for company. But what if you were to make the trip all alone?

Since 2015, the organisation Nepali Travellers has been doing just that—each year providing travel grants to Nepali citizens who are committed to taking solo journeys of self-discovery. In that time, 28 Nepali women have undertaken solo travels under the programme that provides assistance in budgeting, logistics, itinerary planning and risk management along with the grant. 

Travelling in a group might help create bonds and memories that last a lifetime but solo travel inspires confidence, builds character and enhances the ability to create and connect. It also brings forth questions of gender, risks and the very purpose of travel to the forefront—for, in the end, travel is always about expanding your horizons and in the process empowering yourself. 

These images were taken by three of the eighteen winners of Solo Woman Travel Challenge 2017.

- Photos and Text:prasuna dangol, slesha acharya & allan rai