Feeling homesick is a common and deeply emotional experience for many Nepalese living abroad. Whether you’re a student, a worker, or an immigrant starting a new life in a foreign country, being far from Nepal’s warmth, culture, and close-knit community can leave you feeling disconnected. The good news is that there are many meaningful ways to cope and stay connected to your roots, no matter where in the world you are. This guide offers practical tips to help Nepalese expats ease homesickness and build a sense of belonging while living overseas.
1. Stay connected with family and friends to avoid feeling homesick
One of the most effective ways to reduce homesickness for Nepalese abroad is through regular communication. Make use of apps like WhatsApp, Viber, Messenger, or Zoom to maintain close contact with loved ones. Set a weekly video call schedule or send voice messages that feel more personal than texts. These small actions can help you feel emotionally connected, even from thousands of miles away.
Staying in touch also helps you remain updated with everyday life in Nepal—birthdays, local festivals, or even just simple family gossip—which keeps the feeling of disconnection at bay.
2. Cook traditional Nepali food abroad to feel at home
For many Nepali expats, food is a direct connection to their roots. Preparing authentic Nepali dishes like dal bhat, momo, gundruk ko jhol and sel roti can offer immense emotional comfort. The aromas and flavors not only nourish your body but also remind you of home.
Explore local South Asian or Indian grocery stores to find ingredients such as masala, ghee or timur. Cooking these meals and sharing them with roommates or international friends is a great way to preserve your culture and introduce Nepalese cuisine abroad.
3. Celebrate Nepali festivals abroad and stay culturally connected
Coping with homesickness as a Nepalese abroad becomes easier when you hold onto your traditions. No matter where you are, find ways to celebrate major Nepali festivals like Dashain, Tihar, Teej or Holi.
Decorate your home with diyo, flowers, and traditional items. Join Nepali community celebrations in your area, or organize small gatherings with friends. You can also celebrate virtually by joining online events or streaming cultural shows from Nepal. Embracing these traditions will help you feel grounded and culturally connected, even when far from Kathmandu or Pokhara.
4. Join a local Nepali community abroad
Feeling homesick is often linked to loneliness. Fortunately, many countries have active Nepali communities that host cultural programs, religious events, and social meetups. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, getting involved with these groups can create a sense of family and belonging.
Search for Nepali organizations on Facebook, Meetup, or community forums. Attend events, make new friends, and participate in community service. These relationships often become your “family away from home” and provide emotional support during tough times.
5. Take care of your mental health when feeling homesick abroad
Homesickness for Nepalese immigrants and students is not just about missing home—it’s a response to change, stress, and unfamiliar environments. Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or journaling can help you process emotions more clearly. Apps like Headspace or Calm can guide you through meditation practices that ease anxiety and sadness.
Make sure you get regular physical activity, sleep well and eat healthily. Many universities and employers offer free counseling services, and talking to a professional can help you build resilience while living abroad.
6. Surround yourself with reminders of Nepal
To stay emotionally connected to Nepal, fill your space with things that remind you of home. Hang a Nepali flag, display family photos, or keep traditional crafts or items like rudraksha, prayer beads, or Thangka art. Listen to Nepali music, watch Nepali movies on YouTube or Netflix, or tune in to Nepali news channels online.
These cultural elements not only reduce feelings of homesickness but also help preserve your identity and pride in your heritage.
7. Overcoming homesickness as a Nepalese abroad
Feeling homesick is normal, especially for Nepalese who grow up in tight-knit families and communities. But with the right habits, support systems, and cultural practices, you can overcome that emotional gap and build a life full of purpose, connection, and growth abroad.
By staying in touch with family, cooking traditional food, participating in festivals, and caring for your mental health, you’re not just surviving—you’re thriving. Remember, wherever you go, your roots in Nepal will always stay with you.
