A Nepalese haven in Jordan

The first Nepalis came to Hong Kong as Gurkhas with the British Army. Today, they make up just under 1 per cent of the population. One-third live on the strip of land that borders Yau Ma Tei and Jordan.

Their martial history is still apparent, as many work in security. But younger Nepalis are often employed in hospitality, especially nightlife. That's true of Kishor Rai, an assistant manager at Castro's, a bar in Tsim Sha Tsui.

It is commonly said that Nepalis settled in Jordan because of its proximity to a Gurkha barracks. But Rai says the truth is more practical; unlike other minorities in Hong Kong, most Nepalis are not trying to settle permanently but work hard, save their money and live cheaply so they can return to Nepal. Jordan is considered cheap and convenient.

Many Nepalis eat and pass time in small unlicensed restaurants run out of people's homes. Rai believes there are more than 30 unofficial Nepalese restaurants in Jordan alone, many on upper floors behind the market stalls of Temple Street.