Nepal's visitors arrive with one question and a hundred agencies offering to answer it. A local friend is the person who isn't selling anything: Kathmandu beyond Thamel, the right momo place, Patan at dusk, and honest advice about which trek and which agency.
What a Nepali Local Friend is for#
| Plan | Why a local matters |
|---|---|
| Kathmandu beyond Thamel | Asan market, the old courtyards, Patan and Bhaktapur |
| Food | A momo crawl, dal bhat where locals eat, Newari food |
| Pokhara | The lake, the viewpoints, which cafés are worth it |
| Honest advice | Which trek, which agency, what things should cost |
Not a trekking guide: trekking guides are licensed, and that's a separate job. A Local Friend keeps you company in town and helps you plan; they don't lead you on the trail.
How it works#
Browse Local Friends, message one, agree a plan, meet in public. Each sets their own hourly rate; worldwide most charge $15 to $50 an hour, and many in Nepal set lower rates in rupees (what moves the price).
For Nepalis: getting paid#
Sign up free, add real photos and a short bio in English, set your rate and free times, reply fast. Roavi takes no commission. Paid friend jobs explains the work.
Live in Kathmandu or Pokhara? Get paid to show visitors your city.
Become a Local FriendFrequently Asked Questions
Can you rent a friend in Nepal?
Yes. On Roavi, Local Friends in Kathmandu and Pokhara offer their time by the hour for the city, the food, the temples and honest advice. It's company, not dating, and not a licensed trekking service.How much does it cost?
Each Local Friend sets their rate. Worldwide most charge $15 to $50 an hour; many Nepali Local Friends set lower rates in rupees. Food and transport are agreed beforehand.Is a Local Friend a trekking guide?
No. Trekking guides are licensed and that's a separate job. A Local Friend shows you the city, eats with you and gives honest advice before you book a trek; they don't lead you on the trail.How do Nepalis get paid?
Sign up free on Roavi, add real photos and a bio in English, set a rate and free times. Travellers message you; you meet in person. Roavi takes no commission.