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How to Plan a Trip to Nepal

• Nepal Visas and Entry Policy
• Best Time to Visit Nepal

Best Places to Visit in Nepal

• How Long to Stay in Nepal
• How to Get Around Nepal
• Travel Cost in Nepal

Traveling to Nepal is an adventure that never fails to showcase the natural and cultural beauty of this world. Travelers are attracted by the country's immense Himalayan mountain views, jungles full of wildlife, beautiful golden temples, charming hill villages, ancient cities, and friendly people.

Nepal is a landlocked country in the Himalayas between China and India. The most popular things to do in Nepal include trekking, mountaineering, mountain appreciation/photography, and visiting temples. Nepal has a very vibrant culture that is a mixture of Buddhist and Hindu values, which can be seen in the abundance of temples and in the everyday life of the local people.

Nepal Travel Visas and Travel Restrictions

Entry policy: From March 14, 2022, Nepal has eased its entry requirements. All international visitors can go to Nepal whether vaccinated or not.

Visa policy: Most foreigners need a tourist visa to enter Nepal. However, Nepal makes getting a tourist visa quite simple by offering a visa on arrival option for Kathmandu's airport as well as all land crossings. The visa on arrival process is very quick and simple. It requires travelers to fill out a short form, which can also be filled out online 15 days before arrival to make the process even faster.

Best Times to Visit Nepal

Nepal's climate is divided into two seasons: the rainy season (May to August) and the dry season (September to April).

The best time to visit Nepal is during the "autumn" post-monsoon months (September to November) as the skies are generally clear and the views are spectacular, the visibility in the mountains is at its best and trekking conditions are great around Everest and Annapurna. Hotel prices and travel costs during this time are higher than average, and the tourist sites are a bit more crowded than usual. With Asia Highlights , you enjoy 100% refund of any payments made to China Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure ( detail⇒ ).

Another good time to visit Nepal is in the "spring" pre-monsoon months (February to April) when the weather at high elevation is cool and good for trekking. Conditions are often less clear this time of year due to crop burning in the Kathmandu Valley.

"Summer" in Nepal is the monsoon season (April to September). The monsoon rains make for super blooms of beautiful Himalayan flowers, but also cause landslides and dangerous/unpleasant travel conditions (mud, leeches) throughout the country. Low prices match inconvenient travel opportunities.

Temperatures of the "winter" mid-dry-season (December to February) in Nepal often get below freezing in high elevation areas of the country, which can make for difficult trekking conditions.

Conversely, lowland areas such as Kathmandu Valley can be as warm as 20°C (68°F) in the winter months.

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Regarded as a trekkers' paradise, the two most popular places to go in Nepal are Mount Everest and Kathmandu, there is much more of this beautiful country to explore on foot outside these two destinations.

1. Kathmandu — Capital, Temples and Shrines

Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal and the place where most travelers begin their journey. This is a city with chaotic narrow streets that are packed full of gorgeous temples and shrines. Explore the timeless cultural and artistic heritage to learn more about Kathmandu. Include the maze of shrines in the city center, and then wander around the shopping street (Thamel), which is full of handicrafts and great food.

From Thamel Street, you can walk to Durbar Square (an ancient palace), where the city's king was crowned. Spend a half day to observe the grand architecture there, and then have a cup of coffee and rest in the nearby restaurants or shops.

2. Pokhara — Natural Beauty and Adventure

Pokhara is a lakeside city near the Annapurna region. This city has long been famous for its spectacular scenery and abundance of adventure activities. There you can relax while taking in the views of mountains over bobbing boats on Fewa Lake, or participate in mountain biking, paragliding, and trekking.

Pohkara is the starting point for many famous treks, including the challenging Annapurna Base Camp Trek. The two-day Poon Hill Trek offers visitors incredible views of Annapurna in the distance, and the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a less demanding hike that can be taken at your own pace.

Pokhara is also home to the famous World Peace Pagoda, where you can have a panoramic view of the Annapurna range, Pokhara city, and Fewa Lake.

3. Patan — Ancient City, UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Patan, also known as Lalitpur — 'The City of Beauty', has a history dating back to the year 250 BC. Although Patan is only around 5 kilometers (3 miles) from Kathmandu, the city was a fiercely independent kingdom for most of its history and has managed to retain its unique culture.

The architecture of this entire city is based on the principles of the Buddhist Wheel of Righteousness and Patan has long been a melting pot of Hindu and Buddhist beliefs.

While you are in this ancient city make sure to explore the gorgeous temples, royal palaces, and statues of Durbar Square, and check out Patan Museum. This city is definitely worth a visit.

4. Nagarkot — Panoramic Himalayan Views

Nagarkot is located close to Bhaktapur and is well-known for its stunning views of the surrounding Himalayas. There are eight ranges that can be seen from this small mountainous town: Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Lantang, Jugal, Rolwaling, and Numbur. You can also have a panoramic view of the Kathmandu Valley from this small town.

The town itself is surrounded by dense pine forests and is a quiet and peaceful place full of boutique and luxury hotels with mountain views.

Try to catch the dreamy views of sunrise and sunset on a clear day, the town also offers some short treks and mountain biking trails.

5. Chitwan National Park — Nature, Wildlife

If you want to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of Nepal, then Chitwan National Park should be on your list. As one of the most popular national parks in Asia, Chitwan National Park is the best place to observe Asia's rare and endangered species, such as the Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros.

Besides Bengal tigers and rhinoceroses, there are elephants, leopards, Indian bison, and sloth bears to discover in the park. If you want to spend more than a day in the park, you can live in luxury lodging at the edge of the park, or in the affordable accommodation in a nearby village.

How Long to Stay in Nepal — Sample Itineraries

Nepal is a popular destination for trekking lovers. Your traveling days requirement will depend on your interests and where you want to go. Most of our clients spend 8–9 days to cover the essential highlights of Nepal.

See our 9-day Classic Nepal tour sample itinerary: Kathmandu (3 days), Pokhara (2 days), Chitwan (2 days), Nagarkot (2 days).

Top South Asia Tour Itineraries Including Nepal

Most of our clients prefer to include Nepal in a 2-to-3-week South Asia trip. The most popular tour itineraries usually include India, Nepal, and Bhutan. Get some inspiration to explore Asia from our 14-Day India, Nepal, and Bhutan Tour .

See more on our How to Plan an India and Nepal Trip 2024

The above sample itineraries are just for your information. You are welcomed to contact your own experienced 1:1 tour consultant for a tailor-made itinerary .

How to Get To and Around Nepal

Getting to nepal.

The best way to get to Nepal is by flight. There are direct flights available to Kathmandu from New York, Dallas, San Francisco, and Los Angeles in the US and from London, Paris, Munich, Frankfurt, and Istanbul in Europe. To make the trip to Nepal more affordable, travelers can head to India first and then fly to Kathmandu from New Delhi.

Getting Around in Nepal

The main transport from one city to another in Nepal includes planes, buses, and private vehicle. Trains are not available in Nepal.

Because of Nepal's mountainous terrain and poor infrastructure, traveling by bus around Nepal is often draining, and the bus may stop to pick up passengers everywhere too.

The best way to travel from one Nepali city to another is often by private car or jeep, which is more comfortable and faster than traveling by bus. It allows passengers the option of being picked up directly from their hotel and dropped off directly at their next hotel without the hassle of booking taxis and buying bus tickets.

By plane: Flying is another good option for traveling across Nepal. Most internal flights start or end in Kathmandu. The cities of Pokhara, Bharatpur, and Siddharthanagar all have airports. One problem with traveling by plane in Nepal is that delays and flight cancellations are very common due to adverse weather conditions like heavy rain, thick fog, strong winds, etc. (Airports in Nepal don't have the latest technology and so planes rely on instrumental landing systems.)

Connecting with Other South Asian Countries

There are flights from Kathmandu to other main cities in South Asian countries, including India, Bhutan, and Thailand. Most of our clients visit India before their trip to Nepal. They can fly to Kathmandu from Delhi, Varanasi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. Delhi offers the most flight options at the best prices.

From India, it is also possible to cross into Nepal overland. This journey requires taking a bus or train to the India-Nepal border. Trains from Delhi to the Sonauli border crossing often take around 14 hours.

Travel Costs for Nepal

For travelers from Europe and America, Nepal is the most affordable destination in South Asia. General speaking, if you are looking for a comfortable trip (mid-range hotels) in the top destinations in Nepal, it will cost between 10,000 and 12,500 Nepal rupees (US$80–100) per day per person.

The following are some cost estimates for different travel styles:

• For backpackers, the budget needed is around 30–50 USD/day per person (hostels, street food, tuk-tuks, rickshaws).
• For a medium budget, Nepal costs around 80–100 USD per day per person (3/4-star hotels, sit-down restaurants, taxies).
• For a higher standard and a more refined experience, US$100–150 per day per person is needed (4/5-star hotels, nice meals, private guide, and transfers).

Traveling Nepal with Asia Highlights

Want to experience the rich culture and stunning peaks of Nepal? We at Asia Highlights can help you plan your dream trip, tailor-made to suit your travel wants and goals. Leave the planning and stress to us; just relax and enjoy your journey.

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A trekkers' paradise, Nepal combines Himalayan views, golden temples, charming hill villages and jungle wildlife watching to offer one of the world's great travel destinations.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Nepal. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Boudhanath Stupa

The first stupa at Boudhanath was built sometime after AD 600, when the Tibetan king, Songtsen Gampo, converted to Buddhism. In terms of grace and purity…

Maya Devi Temple

The spiritual heart of Lumbini, Maya Devi Temple marks the spot where Queen Maya Devi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama in around 563BC. In the adjoining…

Swayambhunath Stupa

Swayambhunath

The Swayambhunath Stupa is one of the crowning glories of Kathmandu Valley architecture. This perfectly proportioned monument rises through a whitewashed…

World Peace Pagoda

Located outside the main compound, but easily accessible by bike, the impressive gleaming-white World Peace Pagoda, one of the world's greatest stupas,…

Cambodian Monastery

With strong touches of Angkor Wat, this colourful fantasy due for completion in 2018 is already one of the most fascinating temples in Lumbini. The temple…

Royal Thai Buddhist Monastery

Close to the north end of the pond, this stunning and imposing wat (Thai-style monastery) is built from gleaming white marble. The blue-roofed meditation…

Zhong Hua Chinese Buddhist Monastery

This elegant monastery is one of the most impressive structures at Lumbini. Reached through a gateway flanked by dogs of Fo, the elegant pagoda-style…

Hanuman Dhoka

Kathmandu's royal palace, known as the Hanuman Dhoka, was originally founded during the Licchavi period (4th to 8th centuries AD), but the compound was…

Top picks from our travel experts

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Nepal is one of the cheapest countries in Asia for travelers but costs can add up once you factor in activities. Try our tips for budget travel in Nepal.

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Nepal travel guide

Officially the highest country on Earth, lofty Nepal is commonly referred to as the “roof of the world.” That seems like a fitting moniker for this Himalayan nation, where soaring, snow-capped mountains disappear into the clouds like stairways to heaven.

Mount Everest is the star attraction. Tourists come in their droves to climb, hike and admire the world’s tallest peak, which flirts with the stratosphere at 8,848m (29,029ft). But this charming country is much more than just mountains.

The birthplace of Gautama Buddha, Nepal is an important pilgrimage site for millions of Buddhists, who come from far and wide to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lumbini, a temple complex where Buddha once lived.

Holy places abound in Nepal, but not just of the Buddhist variety; Hinduism has a strong foothold in the country and there are many Hindu temples scattered across the country (though some have been severely damaged by the 2015 earthquakes).

Also hit hard was the Nepali capital, Kathmandu, which is encircled by soaring mountain ranges. A beautiful, bustling city it stands at a cultural crossroads between India and China, whose influences can be seen in the architecture and tasted in the cuisine. Meanwhile, a Western vibe prevails in the lively Thamel district, which is lined with bars.

Kathmandu is a good starting point for travellers venturing into the jungle at Chitwan National Park, which is home to Bengali tigers, crocodiles and one-horned rhinos, plus myriad bird species. Phewa Lake is another draw for tourists, as are the hiking trails in the Himalayas.

Wherever you go though, wide smiles will be there to greet you; Nepalese people are amongst the friendliest in the world and it’s not uncommon to be invited into a stranger’s home for tea.

Sitting atop the world, Nepal is just one step away from heaven – and for those who have discovered the country’s many charms, it feels like it too. 

147,181 sq km (56,827 sq miles).

28,850,717 (UN estimate 2016).

214.4 per sq km.

President Ram Chandra Poudel since 2023.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal since 2022.

Travel Advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Nepal set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Embassy of Nepal in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Nepal.

Passport validity requirements

To avoid problems at immigration, make sure your passport has an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after your date of entry into Nepal.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Checks at border control

At border control, you may need to show:

• a travel insurance document which has cover for healthcare costs including repatriation and other emergencies while you are in Nepal
• confirmation of where you will spend your first night, for example, a hotel booking

Visa requirements

You can get a Nepal visa online up to 15 days in advance of your arrival. You can also queue up to get a tourist visa on arrival, but payment must be made in cash, with US dollars being the preferred currency. Applying in advance can reduce the time it takes you to pass through immigration. Visas are available for several lengths of stay at various costs. Look on the immigration department website for the options and how to apply .

Overstaying your visa in Nepal is a serious crime, and can lead to significant fines or imprisonment.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Nepal guide .

If you are arriving in Nepal directly from certain countries in Africa and Latin America, you will need to show a yellow fever certificate to enter Nepal.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Nepal. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Bringing precious metals into Nepal is strictly regulated. You can carry gold ornaments up to 50 grams and silver ornaments up to 100 grams. If you bring in undeclared gold or silver, you may:

• get a fine equivalent to the value of the goods
• go to prison for between one month and 5 years depending upon the value of the goods
• have the goods confiscated
• be detained during the proceedings

Taking money into Nepal

When you arrive in Nepal, declare on your customs declaration any amount above the value of 5,000 US dollars in banknotes or 10,000 dollars in notes and travellers cheques combined. Customs will give a certified declaration which you must keep. You will need to convert all your Nepali currency before you leave Nepal, and the bank or exchange counter at the airport may ask you for the declaration.

ATMs are not reliable outside main tourist sites.

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Nepal

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Nepal, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Attacks can be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. Be vigilant in public places and take local advice.

Civil disorder

Political protests, demonstrations and strikes are fairly common in Nepal. A number of groups have stated their intent to organise protests or political rallies in Kathmandu and elsewhere across the country. They can happen at short notice and may lead to clashes between protesters and law enforcement. When protests occur disruption should be expected, along with an increased police presence. You should: 

• avoid any demonstrations 
• check local media for updates 
• follow the direction of local authorities

There’s a low rate of serious crime in Nepal, but take precautions.

Protecting your belongings

Watch out for pickpockets and bag-snatching, particularly in airports, on buses and in areas popular with foreign nationals like Thamel, Sanepa and Kupondol in Kathmandu.

Take care when walking around at night. Assaults and robberies are more likely in the evening in poorly lit areas. Avoid walking on your own and do not carry large sums of cash. Keep valuables in a hotel safe if possible.

If you are the victim of crime, call:

• Tourist Police hotline on 1144 for emergencies
• Tourist Police HQ in Kathmandu on 01 5347041
• Tourist Police HQ in Thamel (Kathmandu) on 009 77 9851289453

Sexual assault

Women have been sexually assaulted in tourist areas such as Thamel and Sanepa in Kathmandu. Be cautious, especially when alone after dark. See our advice for women travelling abroad .

Drink spiking

Be wary of accepting drinks from strangers and do not leave drinks unattended.

There have been isolated reports of some trekking guides taking inexperienced trekkers to high altitudes too quickly, and then calling in expensive helicopter medivacs from which the guides take a cut. Be wary of trekking deals that look very cheap and may be scams.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

You should carry your passport with you. Leave a photocopy in a safe place or with friends and family in the UK.

Visiting holy places

Avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless tops in temples and other holy places. Remove shoes before entering certain holy places. Non-Hindus are not permitted in Hindu temples.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Penalties for drugs related offences are severe. If you are caught with even small amounts of marijuana, you can go to prison for over 5 years, usually after a long and expensive legal process. Police are arresting an increasing number of people for smuggling drugs into and out of Nepal.

Some skincare products and e-cigarette refills may contain ingredients that are illegal in Nepal such as Cannabidiol (CBD). If the police find you with products containing CBD, they may seize them and charge you with drug possession.

LGBT+ travellers

Nepal is generally open and tolerant to LGBT+ issues, and same-sex relations are not illegal. However, any show of affection in public, irrespective of sexuality or gender, is viewed by Nepalis as inappropriate.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

It’s illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any wild animal or trade its parts without a licence. Nepal is a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) which bans trade of wildlife products without a permit. If you are caught buying or trafficking such goods, or knowingly assisting anyone to do so, you will get a fine or a prison sentence.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Trekking in nepal.

You need a valid permit and a Trekking Information Management System ( TIMS ) card to enter Nepal’s main trekking regions. See the  Nepal Tourism Board TIMS card requirement for more information.

Do not trek alone. All foreign independent trekkers (FITs) must use a local guide or porter while trekking in Nepal’s national parks and protected areas. Always observe national park regulations and follow your guide’s instructions.

If you ignore the requirements, you may be fined or removed from protected areas. Check the Nepal Tourism Board website for further information or updates.

Be aware of hazards all year round, especially above 3,000m:

• sudden weather changes and potential storms
• avalanches and snow drifts
• landslides, rockfalls and flooding
• glacial crevasses and hollows
• altitude sickness
• sun exposure

You should:

• use a reputable trekking agency or guide
• take note of weather forecasts and conditions
• make sure you’re physically fit and have not overestimated your abilities
• take warm clothes and wet weather gear
• use sun block (SPF20 or higher) and sunglasses

Make sure your insurance includes cover for mountain rescue services and helicopter costs.

You can get live updates on trekking conditions in Nepal . You can also follow national weather forecasts .

Internal flights in high mountain areas can be delayed by poor weather conditions and cancellations are common. Carry enough funds in case of delays, particularly in remote areas, where ATMs may not be available and credit cards not accepted.

In remote areas, including long stretches of the Annapurna Circuit trek, mobile phone coverage is limited. Consider renting a satellite phone and make sure your friends and family know you will be out of contact.

Volunteering and adventure travel

Research any organisation or company you’re planning to use before committing yourself. See gap year travel, safer adventure travel and volunteering overseas for more advice.

Nepal’s Social Welfare Council has a list of registered volunteer organisations. You can ask for a copy by sending an email to: [email protected] .

The British Embassy has received reports of volunteer opportunities at orphanages which are profit-orientated organisations rather than charities. If you’re volunteering at this type of organisation, you could be contributing to child exploitation. Contact the Nepali Central Child Welfare Board on +977 1-5010045 and 5010046 to check before signing up to volunteer for one of these organisations.

Transport risks

Road travel.

You need a 1968 international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence to drive in Nepal. The 1949 IDP is not accepted any more. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

Always carry your IDP with you when driving, as well as your vehicle registration documents.

If you’re planning to drive in Nepal, see information on driving abroad and read the International Drivers Association Nepal driving guide .

Road accidents are a major cause of death and disability in Nepal. The causes range from overloading vehicles, negligence of drivers, mechanical failure, speeding, poor road conditions and an increasing number of unregulated private vehicles.

Road conditions are poor, especially during the monsoon season or in mountain areas. The 2015 earthquakes affected many roads and reconstruction work is still ongoing, making conditions worse.

It’s the law to wear a helmet when driving a motorbike.

Bus accidents are common in Nepal and there are a number of accidents resulting in fatalities every year. Buses are often overcrowded, poorly regulated, and poorly maintained. Speeding, low driving standards and poor road conditions contribute to the risk of accidents. Do not travel on overloaded or overcrowded buses, or at night. Tourist buses usually offer a higher standard of comfort and safety.

Air crashes can have a variety of causes and are not necessarily linked with poor safety standards or non-compliance with international safety standards. However, there have been a number of fatal accidents and air crashes across Nepal in the commercial air transport sector (involving planes and helicopters). Over the last 5 years, this includes a number of separate incidents and at least 100 deaths.

The UK Air Safety List ( ASL ) lists all known airlines in Nepal that do not meet international safety standards and are banned from operating commercial air services to or from the UK. Check the UK Air Safety List when considering whether to fly and which airlines to fly with. The list is maintained by the Department for Transport, based on advice from the UK Civil Aviation Authority .

Currently no Nepali airline meets the international safety standards and so all are listed on the ASL . This means they are all banned from operating commercial air services to or from the UK.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Travel during the monsoon season (June to September) can be hazardous. Flooding and landslides cut off towns and villages for days at a time. If you travel by road during monsoon season you should:

• check the road is open
• be prepared to change or cancel your plans at short notice
• make sure any vehicle you travel in is equipped with a winch and ropes in case of landslides
• take enough supplies to cover any possible delays

The government of Nepal Meteorological Forecasting Division provides weather updates (in English) and flood forecasts during the monsoon. You can also access the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology flood monitoring service .

Earthquakes

Earth tremors are common across Nepal. The impact of an earthquake is likely to be worsened by the lack of emergency equipment and poorly resourced medical facilities. British Embassy assistance will be slow to reach you if you are in a remote area.

The National Society of Earthquake Technology (NSET) gives advice on what to do in an earthquake , including ‘ Ten Tips on Earthquake Safety ’. Check with your tour operator to find out what contingency plans they have for an earthquake. 

Following a significant earthquake you should expect transport, accommodation and basic services in affected areas to be disrupted. Relief efforts are likely to be a priority for the authorities. Check with your tour company or hotel for further information on whether travel to an area is possible or appropriate. 

Building safety  

Building, fire and electrical protection standards in Nepal are not always the same as in the UK. You should:

• be aware of electrocution risks (eg exposed wiring)
• check fire precautions, including access to fire exits
• check whether your accommodation has a working fire alarm
• Be aware of the risks of exposure to carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a highly poisonous gas that is impossible to detect without an alarm. It can be produced by fires, charcoal grills or incorrectly installed gas equipment, and a lack of appropriate ventilation is dangerous. Find out more about how to stay safe and the symptoms to look out for .

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

There is no central public ambulance service. Some private providers operate in the main cities. In an emergency, call the local hospital.

Contact your insurance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Nepal guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Nepal, particularly in tourist and trekking areas. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro .

There are seasonal outbreaks of dengue fever, especially in the south-east of Nepal, but cases have been reported across much of the country. Several cases were also recorded in Kathmandu during 2022. If you’re travelling in any area where dengue is prevalent, take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites .

Cholera is endemic in various parts of Nepal. Every year there are reports of outbreaks, particularly in the hilly districts in the west of the country. There have been confirmed cases of cholera in Kathmandu, Nepalganj city in western Nepal and in Doti, Bajhang and Gorkha districts.

Air pollution is a hazard to public health, particularly in Nepal’s cities and especially during December to April. Children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing medical conditions may be especially affected. More information about outdoor air quality is available from TravelHealthPro .

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Healthcare facilities in Nepal

Medical treatment is expensive at western travellers’ clinics in Nepal. Healthcare is poor in most places outside the Kathmandu Valley and Pokhara. It may be difficult to get rapid helicopter evacuation if you fall ill or suffer a serious accident in a remote area of the country. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad, repatriation and evacuation by helicopter. This usually costs between £1,000 and £2,000 or more per flying hour.

FCDO has a list of English-speaking doctors in Nepal .

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Nepal .

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also [mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro].(https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/factsheet/85/travelling-with-mental-health-conditions).

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Nepal

Police: 100

Tourist police (good English language skills): 1144

Ambulance: 102

In an emergency call a local hospital. There is no central public ambulance service, though some private providers operate in the main cities. In an emergency, you should call the local hospital.

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers , funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Nepal
• dealing with a death in Nepal
• being arrested or imprisoned in Nepal
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime
• what to do if you’re in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

You can also contact FCDO online .

Help abroad in an emergency

If you’re in Nepal and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British embassy in Kathmandu .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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Your Trip to Nepal: The Complete Guide

There's a lot to love about small, landlocked Nepal, with its numerous wildlife-filled national parks, ancient Hindu and Buddhist cultures, and more than its fair share of the tallest mountains on Earth . Sandwiched between India to the south and China (Tibet) to the north, the South Asian country's landscape and culture shares similarities with its neighbors, but is also distinctly different. And, despite looking small on the map, its mountainous geography and limited road networks mean that Nepal is stunningly diverse. Popular among trekkers and mountaineers, Nepal is also a fun destination for families, couples, high-budget travelers, and anyone else looking to be surprised and impressed.

Nevertheless, Nepal is a low-income developing country and faces some serious infrastructure challenges. Travelers will have a better time if they're not in a hurry and learn to go with the flow. Here are some important tips for getting the most out of your trip to Nepal.

Planning Your Trip

• Best time to visit : For most outdoor activities in most parts of the country, the best time to visit is from September to November, and from March to May. Winter (December to February) is comfortable at lower altitudes. Traveling during monsoon season (June to August) is not advised, except to areas in the Himalayan rainshadow (Mustang, Dolpo, and others).
• Languages: Nepali and Newari in Kathmandu. Elsewhere, many indigenous and regional languages are spoken, including Maithili, Bhojpuri, Tharu, Gurung, Tamang, and Sherpa. English is spoken as a second language by educated professionals in the main cities.
• Currency: Nepali Rupee (NPR)
• Getting around: Take domestic flights for longer distances, local and tourist buses between the main cities, and private taxis within cities and along major highways.
• Know before you go: Not all of Nepal is at high altitude. It ranges from not much more than sea level on the plains bordering India to 2,700 feet in Pokhara, 4,600 feet in Kathmandu, and 29,000 feet at the summit of Everest. This means how you pack and what you wear should depend on where you're going, and in which season.

Things To Do

Nepal is famous as a mountain adventure playground, and whether you're into high-altitude mountain climbing or gentle walks in the hills, you'll find it. In addition to hiking, you can go whitewater rafting and kayaking, paragliding , zip lining, bungee jumping, and more. But you don't have to be ultra-athletic to enjoy Nepal, as the towns and cities offer cultural and artistic attractions, while the national parks have wildlife safaris and bird watching.

• Go trekking. Trekking trails follow the mountainous paths that Nepalis have been using for centuries, and range from lower-altitude day walks near the main cities to multi-week adventures high in the mountains.
• Tour the temples of Kathmandu. Nepal's capital, Kathmandu , is an ancient city that has traditionally been at the crossroads of trade routes and culture. Its combined Hindu and Buddhist traditions can best be seen in the multitude of temples throughout the Kathmandu Valley, including Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and the Durbar Squares in Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur.
• Join a jungle safari. Spot rhinos, crocodiles, elephants, monkeys, birds, deer, and perhaps even the Royal Bengal Tiger in Nepal's jungle parks, including Chitwan, Bardia, and Koshi Tappu.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on sacred sites in Nepal , national parks in Nepal , and the Great Himalaya Trail .

What to Eat and Drink

The staple foods of the Nepali diet are rice and lentil curry, a dish called dal bhat. Most Nepali people will eat dal bhat at least once a day; it may be a simple meal of just rice, lentils, and a pickle, or it may be a more elaborate affair with vegetable and meat curries (chicken, mutton, or buffalo), salad, curd, papad, and fruit. Dal bhat is available in restaurants and food establishments throughout the country, and may have regional variations in the type of lentil or vegetables used. Nepali curries are generally much less creamy or buttery than those eaten in neighboring Northern India. Vegetarianism isn't that common, although vegetarian food is easy to find (vegan food less so).

Nepali cuisine also has Tibetan influences, and a favorite snack among Nepalis belonging to various ethnic groups is Tibetan momos. These are small dumplings filled with meat or vegetables and served steamed, fried, or in a soup.

In terms of alcoholic beverages, locally produced beer brands are popular everywhere (particularly Gorkha and Everest brands), but in rural areas it's more common for locals to drink and serve homemade rice wine, called chhang or raksi.

Where to Stay

Almost all visitors to Nepal will arrive in, or pass through, Kathmandu. In the capital, the central Thamel district is most popular with travelers—this is where the greatest concentration of hotels, tour companies, restaurants, and shops can be found. Other areas with good quality hotels and guesthouses include Patan, Boudha, Lazimpat, and Bhaktapur.

Beyond the capital, Pokhara and the small towns around the Chitwan National Park are popular and offer a good range of accommodation, from high-end resorts to mid-range hotels and homestays. Pokhara is an especially scenic city because it's set on a lake (Phewa Tal) and is right beside the Annapurna range. Should you stay here, try to get a room with a lake and/or mountain view. Safari lodges around Chitwan often offer all-inclusive packages, or at least jungle safari services for an extra fee.

In rural and mountainous areas, it's not hard to find accommodation, but standards vary enormously. "Teahouses" offer basic accommodation in popular trekking areas, usually with private rooms, shared toilets, and home-cooked meals.

Getting There

Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport is the only international airport in Nepal. Direct flights arrive from a variety of Asian and Middle Eastern cities, including Istanbul, Dubai, Qatar, Delhi, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. To reach Nepal from further afield, such as North America and Europe, it's usually necessary to connect to a flight from one of these other cities first. There are also regular flights to/from Lhasa (Tibet) and Paro (Bhutan).

To enter Nepal overland, there are a number of border crossings along the India border, and limited options on the northern border with China (Tibet). Long-distance buses operate from Delhi , but these can take more than 30 hours, so are only a good option if you're on a very tight budget. Other buses can be taken from places in Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh , Bihar, and West Bengal states in India. Be aware, though, that some border crossing points are only open to Nepali and Indian citizens (it's an open border). Citizens of other countries are only permitted at a few select crossings.

The land border with Tibet is only really a possibility if you've arranged a Tibet tour with a Nepal or China-based tour company, and shouldn't be relied upon as a general entry point. The border is often closed, with little or no notice, by the Chinese authorities.

Culture and Customs

• You'll rarely, if ever, be pressured into leaving a tip, but it is certainly welcome as most Nepalis earn very low wages. When tipping in a restaurant, it's polite to round up the bill to the nearest round number, or to leave about 10 percent in change. When tipping a guide, porter, driver (except short-distance taxi driver), or someone else who has provided you a service, it's better to give this to them directly, at the end of their service. If you give it to their company with the request that the tip be passed on, there's a high chance your guide won't receive it. Again, about 10 percent of the total cost of the service is appropriate.
• Nepali culture is quite traditional, so it's appropriate to dress modestly. Women will generally feel more comfortable covering their shoulders, chests, and knees with loose-fitting clothing. Men should avoid wearing tank tops as these are considered underwear. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will likely see young Nepalis of all genders wearing modern clothes, but the vibe is more conservative in small towns and villages.
• Tourists are generally allowed in temples, but be respectful. It's not a great idea to get your camera right up into someone's face as they go about their daily rituals. A few temples, such as Kathmandu's Pashupatinath and Patan's Krishna Mandir, prohibit non-Hindus from entering certain sections, but these are signposted. When visiting a Buddhist stupa or passing a mani stone wall in rural areas, always pass it on its left. This is the custom, and not doing so is rude.

Money Saving Tips

Nepal is a good value destination and prices are generally low, although not as low as some other South and Southeast Asian countries because of the logistics of transporting goods to Nepal.

• In general, the higher you go in the mountains, the more expensive food becomes. A meal that could be bought for $5 in Kathmandu will likely be double that in Namche Bazaar or elsewhere high in the mountains. Budget accordingly, with cash, as there are few-to-no ATMS away from the main roads.
• When taking a taxi a short distance, such as from the airport or between tourist attractions, settle on a price with your driver before starting out. Ask at your hotel what the price should be. You'll still probably be charged an inflated tourist fare, but you'll save yourself some stress if you agree on a price beforehand—meters are rarely used (or in working order).

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Last Updated on: Mar 20, 2024  

It was only in the late 1950s that Nepal opened its borders to outsiders. Since then, Nepal has been alluring travellers with its mystical charm and diverse landscapes. Home to world’s highest peak, the Mt. Everest, this small Himalayan kingdom is known for its incredible mountain, snowy peaks and some of the best trekking trails of the Himalayas. Mountains, jungles, quaint mountain villages, ancient cities and diverse and interesting culture makes Nepal one of the world’s greatest and most interesting travel destinations. Since you are here, a Nepal trip must be on your mind. Here is our comprehensive Nepal travel guide with all the important information to help your Nepal trip plan. And, even if it is not, we urge you to read on. Nepal might just creep into your heart and then to your travel plans!

Where is Nepal located?

Located in South Asia and home to the highest mountain range in the world, the Himalayas, Nepal is a landlocked country sharing its borders with Tibet in the north and India in the east, west and south. Mt. Everest, the highest peak in the world is located in the northern region, while the southern parts of the country have tropical lowlands.

Just as many parts of India like Darjeeling and Sikkim is influenced a lot by Nepali culture, Nepal too has imbibed a lot of Indian culture and way in it.

Why should you visit Nepal?

Wedged between the mystical world of Tibet and the steamy jungles of India, Nepal is the land of snow peaks and Sherpas. Yaks and yetis rule the bedtime stories in Nepal. And those stories of yaks and yetis also crept into our bedtime stories. Being from the neighbouring country of Nepal, we heard a lot of interesting stories about yetis during our childhood days. It is a place where you can not only attain travel nirvana but also spiritual nirvana . Just as we mentioned before, let us give you a few reasons why you should visit Nepal.

• Nepal is a trekkers’ paradise: Home to eight of the world’s highest peaks, there is no dearth of trekking options in Nepal. There are treks for beginners as well as experienced ones. And finally, the holy grail for mountaineers, Mt. Everest is also located in Nepal.
• Adventure in Nepal : Apart from trekking, Nepal will make your heart skip a beat with its adventure activities. Paragliding, white water rafting, bungee jumping are some of the adrenaline rushing activities that you can do in Nepal.
• Nepal has a rich wildlife: Visit the Chitwan National Park having a rich wildlife.
• Nepal is culturally diverse and exciting: the cultural landscape of Nepal is as diverse as its natural. There are a number of ethnic groups in Nepal that has made the land culturally rich. From Hinduism and Tibetan Buddhism to nature-worshipping shamanism, Nepali culture has integrated all in itself very well.
• Nepal is the birthplace of Lord Buddha: Lumbini is the birthplace of Gautam Buddha and is definitely one of the must-visit places in Nepal. This fact also makes Nepal culturally unique yet diverse.

How to get a Visa for Nepal?

Tourist Visa for Nepal can be obtained on arrival at the Tribhuvan Airport at Kathmandu as well as all land border crossings. A few countries are not given visa on arrival. You are advised to check the list before visiting.

You can also apply for online visa upto 15 days before your arrival and travel within 6 months of the visa being approved.

The visa fees are as follows:

15 Days (multiple entries) : USD 30

30 Days (multiple entries) : USD 50

90 Days (multiple entries) : USD 125

Tourist visa extension is done for minimum 15 days with USD 45 and USD 3 per day for additional days. The visa can be extended maximum upto 150 days in a calendar year, but you will have to visit the immigration office before the expiry of your current visa.

For obtaining a visa on arrival, you will need a passport size photo and 6 months validity on your passport.

The steps for obtaining a visa on arrival:

• Fill in the “ Arrival Card ”
• Fill in the online ‘Tourist Visa’ Form (you can fill it up prior to your arrival visiting official website of Department of Immigration). If you fill it from the website, you will get submission receipt with barcode. Get a printout of it for getting the visa. It works for fifteen days and becomes invalid then after. Alternatively, you can fill the form at the kiosk machines upon your arrival at the airport.
• Next, make payment at the counter to the right of your visa kiosk as per your visa requirement. You can pay with Debit card, but it is always good to keep some cash handy.
• Get the receipt.
• Proceed to the Immigration Desk with your online form, payment receipts and passport and hand in your documents to the immigration officer and get your visa done.
• If you are crossing the land border, only cash payment is accepted.

Nepal Tourist Visa for Indians

Indians do not require a Visa for Nepal. As per recent agreement between the 2 countries, your Adhaar Card is sufficient for getting an entry into Nepal . If you are crossing through the land border, you just have to show your Adhaar card and gain an entry into Nepal. As easy as that! But to get a SIM Card in Nepal, you will need a copy of your passport and a passport size photograph. So it is always good to keep your passport handy.

How to reach Nepal?

Nepal has only one international airport in Kathmandu. So if you are flying in, you will arrive at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan Airport . The flight fares depend on the seasons. Expect high costs especially during the Christmas time and autumn, which is a peak season in Nepal. Also, the rate of flight cost depends on where you are coming from.

Do expect long queues at the immigration lines if you are getting Visa on arrival at the Tribhuvan Airport.

Prepaid taxis are available at the airport terminal to take you to your hotel. Sometimes, a few hotels also provide free pick-up and drop from the airport.

Getting into Nepal from neighbouring countries by border crossing

Many travellers often combine a trip to Nepal with that of India. Those in India can also consider getting into Nepal by crossing the road borders. There are a number of border crossings between India and Nepal and an overland route can be easily planned. The most common border crossing between India and Nepal includes the following:

• Raxaul (India side) – Birgunj (Nepal side): The nearest main town is Patna (6 hours). From Birgunj, buses are available to Kathmandu (136 km).
• Panitanki (India side) – Kakarbhitta (Nepal side) : The nearest main town is SIliguri. Those who are coming from Darjeeling can take this border crossing route. From Kakarbhitta, you will get buses to Kathmandu (458 km) and Pokhara (600 km)
• Sunauli (India side)- Belahiya (Nepal side) : The nearest main town is Varanasi. Belahiya is nearest to Lumbini (30 km). So if you are entering by this route, consider stopping at Lumbini first and then carry on your journey to Nepal. Like all the other border towns, buses to Kathmandu and Pokhara are available from here.
• Jogbani (India side) – Biratnagar (Nepal side) : The nearest main town is Katihar (3 hours). From Biratnagar, you will get a bus to Kathmandu. The distance is 240 km. Biratnagar also has an airport and you will get flights to Kathmandu and Pokhara from Biratnagar airport.

Getting around in Nepal | Nepal Travel Guide

Well, getting around in Nepal is a bit tricky. Distances between cities are not that great, but the roads are poor, travelling is slow and the buses are not in the best of conditions. Some of the roads are pretty decent, but there are few that do not deserve to be called roads! Air travel in Nepal is said to be a bit risky. For moving from one town to another, you have tourist buses, local buses, minibuses and jeeps for remote places. There are flights connecting Kathmandu, Pokhara, Jomson and Lukla as well.

Tourist buses in Nepal

Tourist buses are the most common way of travelling across Nepal. There are AC buses with reclining seats, as well as non-AC buses. These buses connect the border town like Kakkarbhitta, Sunauli, Birgunj and Biratnagar with Kathmandu and Pokhara. They also run between all the major towns like Kathmandu, Pokhara, Sauraha (Chitwan National Park), Lumbini, Jomson etc. These vehicles are generally in better conditions than the local buses. In high seasons, it is better to get the tickets to these buses a day in advance, as they tend to get filled. You can get the tickets from the bus stations or bus parks. But all the travel agencies and hotels also can book the ticket for you. They usually charge a 10% commission on the price of the tickets.

We had taken a tourist bus from Kakkarbhitta to Kathmandu. The distance of 458 km was covered in 15 hours. The bus did not have an AC but had reclining seats. Though we would not say that we had a great bus journey, but it was also not uncomfortable altogether. 2 tickets costed us NPR 1600.

Also, we would recommend you to have a look at the bus before booking your tickets.

Express Bus/ Deluxe Bus

These days, a few buses run between the major towns of Nepal that are faster and more comfortable. These deluxe buses have AC and reclining seats with cushions and are quite comfortable. These buses usually run between Kathmandu and Pokhara and also between Kathmandu/Pokhara and Chitwan National Park or Lumbini. These buses usually run during 2 times – day and night. The day buses usually start in the morning and reach the destination by afternoon while the night buses starts in the evening and reach the destination the next morning.

We had taken a deluxe bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The bus was quite a comfortable one and the tickets cost us NPR 1200 per head. Yes, these buses are comparatively costlier, but you will have a comfortable journey.

Minibuses travel on all the routes as the tourist buses and also on other routes. They are generally a bit faster, cheaper and a little less comfortable. Unlike the tourist buses, the minibuses run throughout the day.  If you plan to go by minibus, then there is no need to get a ticket beforehand. Infact, you should get the tickets directly from the bus conductor and not from any vendors who might try to sell you a ticket at an inflated price.

Local buses

You need to be really adventurous if you try to travel across Nepal in local buses. Travelling within the city is all fine, but we would not recommend you to travel between cities on a local bus. These buses are definitely much cheaper but are old, slow and uncomfortable and prone to breakdown. Also, the buses will be cramped with passengers and you might find it hard to travel with all your luggage.

Jeep or 4WD

You might not need to ride a jeep or 4WD unless you are off to the remote places. Jeeps are the only mode of transport in the remote places where the roads are mere mud tracks. On the roughest routes you might even find a tractor! These jeeps are usually used to carry local supplies along with people, so you might find yourself huddled with groceries and goods! The price of a jeep ride depends on the place and region of your travel and the season.

Just like any other place, you will get taxis to take you from one city to another. Do bargain with the driver before deciding on the price.

Air travel is an essential part of Nepal transport network. But air safety record is worse than the road safety record. A flight over the Himalayas can be a visual treat to the eyes and exhilarating, but it can also be quite scary. You might have to take flights in Nepal from Kathmandu to Lukla (for Everest Base Camp trek ) or Pokhara to Jomson (For Annapurna Circuit Trek).  If you are a part of a package tour or hike, then the flight cost is usually included. But if you are looking for flight tickets yourself, you can look into Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines and Sita Air .

Be prepared for bad weather and delays when you are flying in Nepal. Cancellations are also quite common. Also, book your tickets well in advance during the peak trekking seasons.

Travelling within the city – how to get around cities? | Nepal Travel Guide

In Kathmandu and Pokhara, going around by car is a great option. They are quicker and much more comfortable than the local buses. Also, they will take you to the exact location of your destination. Although these taxis have a meter, they always refuse to go by meter and will quote a price. You do have to bargain with the driver. And yes, there are no Ubers here!

Local buses are super cheap but are often crowded and packed to the brim. In most of the cities, the standard fare is NPR 20-25 for a ride within the city. Well, if you are okay with the crowd, then a bus ride is a fun way to observe the local Nepali people and their culture.

Motorcycles and cycles

You will get motorcycles and cycles on rent on per day basis. For renting a motorcycle, you need to have a valid driving license. You might have to leave your passport or return ticket as a deposit for renting a 2-wheeler. Motorcycles can be rented at NPR 700-800 per day based on the type. This rate is excluding fuel. Keep in mind that there is a shortage of fuel in Nepal. So if you are visiting the offbeat tracks, then get your tanks full.

Bicycles will cost you around NPR 200-300 per day.

Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Indians will probably not face many problems because road rules are just like that in India. Tourists from the West might face a problem with the traffic, road conditions and vehicles or people jumping in front of yours while driving.

What is the best time to visit Nepal?

The best time to visit Nepal depends on the where you want to visit and what you want to do. Nepal has a temperate climate with four main seasons centred around the summer and monsoon. Before your Nepal trip plan, decide when you want to visit the country.

Autumn (late September to late November)

Autumn is the peak season in Nepal when the weather is clear and dry. It is neither too cold in the higher altitudes, not too hot in the Terai region. The rains have already cleared away the pollution and dust and you will get a clear view of the mountain peaks. This is also the best time for trekking. Thousands of trekkers hit the Everest and Annapurna region during this time. Prices at Kathmandu are also at their peak.

Winter (December and January)

The weather is most stable and clear during this time. During this time, the trekking trails are relatively less crowded as the temperature becomes quite low at those places. If you can bear the cold, then it is an excellent time to be near the mountains. Otherwise, the Terai region or the plains have a fantastic climate. This is a good time to explore the cities of Nepal.

Spring (February to mid-April)

This is the second-best time to visit Nepal. The weather is warmer and the days are longer. Rhododendrons bloom in the higher altitude areas. This is the best time for viewing the wildlife. This is also a good time for the trekkers. However, during April and May, a haze sits over most of Nepal due to crop burn. So visibility can be low especially in Kathmandu valley and Pokhara.

Monsoon (June to September)

This is the lean season for trekkers in Nepal. Monsoon brings heavy rains, landslides and clouds obscure the mountain views. The countryside though takes a fresh green look. July and August is also the best time to visit the Mustang Valley that falls in the rain shadow area.

Places to visit in Nepal 

Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal is an electrifying mix of medieval alleys, Hindu temples, Buddhist stupas and vibrant city life. There is an entire list of UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kathmandu city itself. Kathmandu is crowded, noisy and dusty, but is also unique in its diversity. While in Kathmandu, do not miss the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kathmandu Durbar Square. After the earthquake in 2015, many of the ancient buildings were thoroughly damaged, but now the majority of the buildings are being restored gradually, mainly with the help of China. You will see bid signboards saying the donation and help of China in restoring these ancient monuments. Well, China seems to have reached everywhere.

The other places of attraction in Kathmandu city are Pashupatinath Temple , the sacred Hindu pilgrimage site, Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath Stupa , the two Buddhist sites. The Narayanhiti Palace , Garden of Dreams are 2 other interesting places to visit in Kathmandu. And of course, do not miss to visit the Thamel market . Thamel is definitely your one-stop solution for all your trekking and hiking needs.

After you have explored Kathmandu city, visit the 2 other UNESCO Heritage sites Patan and Bhaktapur Durbar Squares . Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur were the 3 ancient kingdoms of Nepal. All the 3 Durbar Squares are beautiful and magnificent in their own rights.

While many have complained Kathmandu to be crowded and noisy (which I agree completely), I found Kathmandu totally fascinating. Infact, there is a sense of calm amidst all the chaos in the city. It is something just as we felt when we were in Varanasi . Interestingly, there is a Nepali temple in one of the Ghats of Varanasi built by a Nepali King.

If you do not at all prefer the chaos of Kathmandu, you can visit the rural landscape of Kathmandu valley. A visit to Nagarkot will take you close to the mountains and give you a sense of serenity. Although Nagarkot has now become quite commercialized with many hotels cropping out here and there and is no longer offbeat, still the place is much more serene than Kathmandu.

Pokhara is perhaps the next most visited place in Nepal. While Pokhara downtown can be quite crowded and noisy, the lakeside Pokhara is the epitome of tranquillity. Located around the Fewa Lake with the Macchapucchre Peak (Fishtail Peak) at the backdrop, Pokhara is a paradise for the laidback travellers, backpackers, trekkers and the adventure enthusiasts. Afterall, treks to the Annapurna circuit, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek , Mustang valley – all starts from Pokhara. You can also indulge in various adventure activities like paragliding.  There are few other touristy things to do in Pokhara as well. The best place, however, is the Peace Pagoda located high up on a hill. It was definitely one of our favourite places.

Evening in Pokhara lakeside is completely chilled. There are shacks and restaurants lining the lake where you can simply sit down, enjoy the sunset and have a beer. Pokhara is the perfect antidote to the crowded Kathmandu.

Read about our complete guide on Places to visit in Pokhara .

The ancient Newari village of Bandipur is often overlooked by tourists due to its slight offbeat route, but the place is worth visiting. Bandipur is the living open-air museum of the ancient Newari culture of Nepal. The town was once the stopping point on the Indo-Tibet trade route.

The village has beautifully preserved traditional Newari houses having intricate woodwork (Newari houses are known for their elaborate woodworks. You can also see a few of them in the old alleys of Kathmandu). The town has a distinctly European feel to it with quaint houses and vehicle-free streets. You can also visit the nearby peak to get a great view of the surrounding valleys.

When you are Nepal, you will see quite a few graffiti on walls, buses saying “Buddha was born in Nepal”. Well, Lumbini is the place where Gautam Buddha was born. We thought that our Nepal Travel Guide can never be completed unless we mention about Lumbini. A UNESCO World Heritage Site of immense global significance, Lumbini is visited by thousands of Buddhists every year. The Maya Devi Temple is the most significant place in Lumbini. The place also has a number of monasteries, stupas and temples constructed by the Buddhist community.

Didn’t we tell you before that Nepal is an incredible mix of cultures?

Chitwan National Park

Located in the lowlands of Nepal bordering India, Chitwan National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks of Nepal. It once served as the royal hunting ground, but presently it had achieved the distinction of being a zero poaching place in 2015. You can see the one-horned rhino, sloth bear, crocodile, gharial and monkeys on a game safari. Having said that, try to avoid doing an elephant safari. We had done it once and decided to do it never again!

Adventure in Nepal | Nepal Travel Guide

Nepal is a heaven for the adventure enthusiast. Being the home to the world’s highest mountain ranges, trekking is no doubt one of the main reasons that people visit Nepal. Apart from trekking, Nepal also offers numerous activities for the adventure junkies. Nepal is surely a Disneyland for the adventure enthusiasts. Here is a list of the best adventure in Nepal:

• Bungee Jumping and canyon swing
• White water Rafting
• Paragliding
• Mountain flight over Everest
• Jungle safari

Trekking in Nepal | Nepal Travel Guide

Trekking in Nepal is perhaps the greatest thing to do. We believe that all the mountaineers and trekking enthusiasts visit Nepal at least once in their lifetime. There is something about trekking in Nepal that gives you a sense of accomplishment. It might be the majestic Himalayas that makes trekking so memorable and enriching experience.

Read about our complete guide on Trekking in Nepal along with 14 Best Treks in Nepal .

The best thing about trekking in Nepal is that it has trails for everyone. Of course, Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the ultimate experiences, but in Nepal, there are smaller trails like Poon Hill Trek for all those who do not have much time.

The Annapurna Circuit Trek takes about 16 days and goes through the picturesque Nepali mountain hamlets and gives you a glimpse of the local life in Nepal. However, we feel that Mustang Valley bordering Tibet is one of the ultimate experiences in trekking. The Upper Mustang valley is not frequented by many trekkers because of the high permit fees (USD 500 for 10 days) but it is worth all of it.

Some Quick Information for your Nepal trip plan

Money matters.

The currency of Nepal is Nepalese Rupee (NPR).

You can convert all the major currencies at Kathmandu and Pokhara. You will find many currency exchange shops there. You can also exchange currencies at the airport and near the land borders.

ATMs in Nepal

Debit cards and credit cards are accepted in most of the hotels and restaurants these days. ATMs are widely available in all the major cities of Nepal. Most ATMs have a maximum withdrawal limit of NPR 10,000; however, some NABIL machines have an NPR 35,000 limit. But if you are travelling to interior places, then it is advisable to carry cash.

For Indians

You can exchange Indian Rupee to Nepalese rupee near the border. But do inquire about the exchange rate beforehand. We had exchanged INR to NPR near Panitanki-Kakarbhitta border and got quite a good rate.

You can also withdraw money from the ATMs. Usually, NPR 400 per withdrawal is charged. If you have a State Bank of India Debit Card, then you can withdraw money from State Bank of Nepal at a nominal rate. Usually, Indian rupees of smaller denomination (Rs50 & 100) are accepted in Nepal. Do not carry high denomination currency (Rs500 & 2000) to Nepal. You will find it difficult to exchange them.

Electricity

Power cuts are quite normal in Nepal. While most of the bigger hotels will have generator facilities for power backup, it is always better to keep your mobiles and cameras charged. Do keep a power bank with you.

Electricity Socket: The power outlets are compatible with European plugs (three prongs). Do carry a universal travel adapter with you so that you can use your electronic gadgets.

What is the language of Nepal?

Nepali and Newari is the main language of Nepal. Hindi is also spoken widely, and so is English. Since Nepal receives a lot of foreign tourists, most of the trek operators and sherpas understand and speaks English.

What to eat in Nepal?

Food in Nepal has a lot of Indian influence. Indian travellers will probably feel at home in Nepal. The food in Nepal is extremely good having both Indian and Tibetan influence. A few of the must try dishes in Nepal are:

Yes, Dah Bhat is the staple food in Nepal. You will get it all over Nepal and you will also see people wearing tee-shirts with the slogan written on it “Dal Bhat Power, 24 hour” ! Dal Bhat is a set meal consisting of rice, curry and veggies and dal (soup-like serving of lentils). You can also add some non-veg items with you if you want. Dal Bhat is stomach filling and a serving of Dal Bhat is enough to carry you through the day. Personally, we both are also fond of the Dal Bhat power!

As Indians, we are all familiarized with momos. They are the Nepali version of dumplings filled with veggies or meat and served with spicy chutney. Steamed or fried, momos are the best snacks that you can get in Nepal. It was also our comfort food there.

Where to stay in Nepal?

Tourism has been on the rise in Nepal and so there are a number of hotels, hostels, guesthouses and homestays in Nepal. There are tree-houses in the trekking areas for accommodation.

You will find stays catering to almost all kind of budgets in all the major cities and towns in Nepal. During the peak season, you can pre-book your accommodation. But in cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will probably get a place to stay at all the time. We usually do not pre book hotels and prefer looking for deals once we arrive at the place. If we have to do a booking online, we prefer booking.com

Major Festivals of Nepal

Hindus are known for their many festivals. Nepal, being a Hindu nation has a number of festivals celebrated all around the year. Also, Buddhist festivals are celebrated with lots of vigor and enthusiasm. Nepal is such a place where the Hindu and Buddhist culture has been inexorably mixed. Both the communities have borrowed practices, traditions from each other and they coexist seamlessly.

Nepali New Year celebration is one of the major festivals of the country. This usually occurs in the 2 nd week of April and New Year is a time for week-long celebration all over Nepal. We happened to visit Nepal during this time and witnessed the interesting and visually stunning festivals like Bisket Jatra and Sindur Jatra.

Indra Jatra is another important festival in Nepal when the Kumari, Living Goddess of Nepal comes out in front of the common people. Indra Jatra is celebrated usually in the month of September. Dasain or Dussehra and Holi are also celebrated with great pomp.

How much does it cost to travel to Nepal? | Nepal Travel Guide

Nepal can be as cheap and as expensive as you want it to be. But yes, Nepal is an extremely affordable country to visit. Nepal caters to all types of tourists – budget to luxury.

Being a tourist in Nepal can be cheap, but cost of trekking and mountaineering in Nepal can be quite high depending on the type of the trek you choose and what comfort level you want. Trekking permits come at a high cost in Nepal.

The typical cost of travelling in Nepal is given:

Accommodation:

• Dorms in a hostel with shared bathroom: NPR 500-800
• Budget hotels (with DBR) & homestays : NPR 1200 – 2000
• Mid-range hotels: NPR 2000 – 4000
• Luxury hotels: NPR 5000 onwards (available only in main cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara)
• Tea houses/ trekking lodges: NPR 500 – 2500

Cost of food

• Local meal in guesthouses and small eateries: NPR 150 – 250
• Snacks: NPR 50 – 200
• Three-course meal in fancy restaurants : NPR 600+
• Water bottle (1 litre) : NPR 20-25

Remember, the cost of food and things will increase as you go higher up the altitude. Be prepared to pay almost 10 times the price at higher altitudes than you would pay at Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Cost of transport in Nepal

• Local buses within city : NPR 25-50
• Taxi: NPR 150 onwards depending on the distance
• Tourist buses: NPR 800 – 2200
• Everest Experience Flight cost: USD 180-195

Cost of Hiking in Nepal:

• Porter /guide: NPR 800 – 1500 per day
• Organised Trek: NPR 4000 – 600 per day
• Trekking permit:

TIMS Card: NPR 1000 for Group trekker and NPR 2000 for free individual trekker per trekking route per person per entry.

For SAARC countries TIMS Card fees are as follows – Group trekker: NPR 300; FITs: NPR 600, per trekking route per person per entry.

Books to read about Nepal

Sometimes a book you read can inspire you to visit the place. I love reading and I first read about Kathmandu in a Bengali detective novel “Joto Kando Kathmandu te” by Satyajit Ray. I first read about the vibrancy of Kathmandu in the book which tells the story about Bengali’s most famous sleuth Feluda. So if you are the one who loves to read before travelling a place, here are a few books about Nepal that you might want to read.

Into the Thin Air by John Krakauer

Into the Thin Air is the personal account of Krakauer about his Everest expedition which turned out into a disaster. The book is a fantastic read about the incredible power of mother nature. You can buy the book from here.

Arresting God in Kathmandu by Samrat Upadhyay

Arresting God in Kathmandu by Samrat Upadhaya is the first Nepali author writing in English to be published in the West. The book explores the nature of desire and spirituality in the changing society.

The Snow Leopard by Peter Matthiessen

The Snow Leopard is an account of Matthiessen and naturalist George Schaller’s search of the elusive snow leopard in the Dolpo region of Nepal.

From Goddess to Mortal by Rashmila Shakya

The Royal Kumari of Nepal is a fascinating aspect of Nepal and its religious beliefs. In this book, From Goddess to Mortal by Rashmila Shakya, the erstwhile Kumari recounts her days as the living Goddess in the temple at Kathmandu and her life after post-Kumari status.

Is Nepal safe for travel?

Nepal is quite safe to travel.

After a period of political turmoil and Maoist insurgencies, Nepal has now relatively stable and making strides towards peace. Although demonstrations and strikes (known as Banda in Nepal) can occur anytime anywhere. We were stuck in one such strike during our trip. But overall, tourism is not usually affected. The locals are also quite friendly and warm and will help you. There are no issues about personal safety as such.

Problems might occur during trekking in the Himalayas, but that is also related to unforeseen natural disasters. So while trekking, be in groups, adhere to all the safety precautions and listen to whatever your guide instructs. They know the place well and will give you better advice.

For women travellers, Nepal is quite safe. We would recommend you not to trek alone or walk alone at night. Also, dress conservatively. Infact, these tips go for all the places you visit, not only Nepal!

Recomended read: Best Nepal Quotes that captures its spirit, mysticism and charm .

We have tried to cover all the major questions that had cropped in our mind before travelling to Nepal. Hope you find this Nepal travel Guide useful and it will help you in Nepal trip plan. If you have any other questions about Nepal, ask us in the comments below and send us a mail. Also if you liked the post, share it with others. Pin it for a later read!

Enjoyed reading? Please share it with others. 

Agni Amrita

Related posts.

Sindoor Jatra – A Frenzy of Colours at Thimi, Nepal

Bisket Jatra, Bhaktapur – A Visually Stunning Festival in Nepal

Bhaktapur Durbar Square – things to do in and around

Best Nepal Quotes that captures its spirit, mysticism and charm

Places to visit in Pokhara – Travel Guide

Trekking in Nepal: 15 Best Treks and all that you want to know

45 comments.

I have read many blogs regarding Nepal Visit but i found this is such an informative. Glad to read your blog. Thank you so much for sharing with us.

This DIY Nepal travel guide is a valuable resource for anyone planning a Nepal tour. It provides essential information on the best time to visit, visa requirements, and helpful tips. From the majestic Himalayas to vibrant markets, Nepal has something for every traveler. An excellent guide for a memorable trip!

This is great information and thanks you for the helpful article.

thank you for the detailed article…..

Great infomaction about Nepal tourism given. I love that you have provide so much practical information such as visas, transport and climate, before covering the sights. I knew about Kathmandu and Chitwan Pakhara, Nagarkot but less about , Bandipur and Lumbini!

Thanks for sharing this article it is very helpful for those who want to travel to Nepal. Through your blog, People easily understand Nepal and its culture.

Wounderful blog about Nepal.Thank you very much for sharing your travel experience in Nepal.

Wow this was such a thorough and helpful guide to Nepal. On top of that, your photography is just amazing! I think I would be most interested in visiting Kathmandu and the ancient village of Bandipur.

Thank you author for your article. Keep it up.

Hi Agni & Amrita Thank you so much for sharing your informative post, it is imperative who is willing to Visit the Himalayan country.

Thank you so much!

Why do you advise against elephant rides? Just curious. And thank you for the informative article.

We usually do not take an elephant ride because most of the animals are not treated well in the elephant camps. But we do not stop others if they want to take a ride! 🙂

This is really great blog about Nepal. All the needed information about traveling to Nepal is included. How to get visa to transportation, Cost to the best book about the travel information about Nepal. Thank you for such a great article.

Nice blog author. Thank you. Keep it up.

This is an old post but I found it very useful, Thanks for sharing!

Happy to hear from you Agni & Amrita…very informative… useful also… Thank you so much…

Thank you so much, Sarbari. Glad that you liked the post.

This was super informative! Nepal looks like a great destination to visit. So glad I came across your post to find out all this info!

Thank you so much, Stephanie. Glad that you liked the article.

I love Nepal, and I’ve been three times. Although each time I have had someone else making the arrangements. This is super helpful when I go back!!

Oh wow! 3 times. I am envious. 🙂

This is a real complete guide. After reading it, I feel like I am ready to go to Nepal! I love it – and also the photos are so vibrant and beautiful.

Thank you Adele. Please visit Nepal, I am sure you will love the place.

Thank you for sharing these detailed travel guide. We have been planning on visiting Nepal but was a bit concerned with the visa.

Happy to know that we can apply for an online visa and the fees are affordable.

Can’t wait to get started with the travel planning.

Oh wow! I am excited that you are planning to visit Nepal. It is a beautiful country.

What a nice guide to the country! It is nice to learn that the country is safe to travel.But does the earthquake take place often as well?

Thank you, Mijia. Well, it is difficult to predict nature. No major earthquake happened after that. Hope it remains such.

Nice information

I’ve read many blog about Nepal, and never I read any negative thoughts about this country. Truly rich in traditional culture, this is another destination that is worth visiting by anyone with open-minded heart. Thanks for spreading good news and views about Nepal. Those foods are making me hungry 🙂

Nepal is truly a lovely place. Thanks for liking it.

Wow this was such a thorough and helpful guide to Nepal. On top of that, your photography is just amazing! I think I would be most interested in visiting Kathmandu and the ancient village of Bandipur. I like the contrast of being able to see a well known and busy city contrasted with a quieter authentic village.

Thank you so much! Bandipur is realy an interesting place. The architecture there is simply mindblowing.

Since seeing the Dali Lama talk last year, I’ve always wanted to visit Nepal

Please do visit Nepal. It is a wonderful place.

What an amazingly comprehensive guide to Nepal. I love that you have provide so much practical information such as visas, transport and climate, before covering the sights. I knew about Kathmandu and Chitwan Park but less about Pokhara, Bandipur and Lumbini!

Thank you Kavita. We are glad that you liked the article.

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Ultimate Nepal Travel Guide: Everything to Know for your Himalayan Adventure

Home » Blog » Budget Travel » Backpacking Destinations » Ultimate Nepal Travel Guide: Everything to Know for your Himalayan Adventure

With iconic Himalayan peaks (like Everest!), a vibrant culture, friendly people, and endless adventure activities, Nepal is a dream travel destination for many. We’ve visited this beautiful country 2 times and have put together some important information, personal stories, and handy travel advice in this Nepal travel guide to help you plan an epic trip that you’ll be talking about for years to come.

Nepal may be a small country, but there is no shortage of things to do and reasons to fall in love. What this nation lacks in size, it makes up for in adventure, culture, beauty, and warmth.

We’re certain that with a bit of planning and preparation, you will fall head over hiking boots for Nepal, just like we did. That’s why we’ve put together this (MAMMOTH) Nepal travel guide packed with everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to the Himalayas.

We’re equipping you with both practical tips — like how much money to budget, what to pack, and what foods to try — as well as some interesting information about the country’s diverse culture and history.

We’re also sprinkling in our own stories, tips, and favorite things in this super useful travel guide, so you’re totally prepared for your own epic trip to Nepal.

Our experience traveling in Nepal… 

Nepal is a country that has held a spot on our Dream Travel list for many years.

Over drinks at a family wedding, Ben’s well-traveled uncle, Ronnie, told us Nepal was his favorite country he’d ever visited. And he had traveled to many, many countries.

That accolade paired with photos of colorful prayer flags set against snowcapped peaks were enough to convince us to spend a whole month in this South Asian country.

During our trip to Nepal, we explored major cities, like Kathmandu and Pokhara; and we visited small, remote villages. We drank beers in Thamel (aka Kathmandu’s “backpacker central”!) and spotted wild rhinos in Chitwan National Park — a childhood dream of mine come true! We ate all the momos that could fit in our stomachs and we worked them off by hiking to to Everest Base Camp and the Gokyo Lakes on an epic 17-day trek.

Somehow Nepal lived up to everything we had imagined (we had high expectations!) and even more.

As soon as we left Nepal, we knew we’d be back someday.

And return, we did! We visited Nepal for the second time in May 2019, this time for a travel conference and a bit of trekking (of course!). And we can say once more, this will not be our last trip! There is just something about Nepal that speaks to us. It is a country that we have fallen for for in many ways: We fell for the landscapes, the trekking, the culture, the people.

In total, we’ve spent more than 45 days visiting Nepal. And while that’s not all that much time in the scheme of things, we have learned a lot from our two visits.

There is a lot we wished we would have know before traveling to Nepal, and so many beautiful things we learned about this country that we want to share with you.

In addition to our own advice and tips, we’ve called upon friends who have lived in Nepal to share their insight. We also asked an annoying amount of questions to our local guides, all so we can help prepare you with everything you need to know as you start to plan your travels to Nepal!

Related Reading: We’ve got you covered with a list of the top things to do on your trip to Nepal .

Article Contents

We’re going to go over how much money to budget for your trip to Nepal, what types of clothes to pack, and how to get around the country. We’re sharing the best Nepalese food to try, and how you can contribute (in a positive way) to local communities during your trip. We’re even going over the bathroom situation, sparing no details… And we’ll share some photos of yaks. Because they’re cool.

Alright, if you can handle some awkward puns and little bit of toilet talk, let’s get goin’ so you can start planning the trip of a lifetime!

What you’ll find in this article:

Top Places to Visit in Nepal

Things to do in nepal, best time to visit nepal, tourist visa in nepal, currency in nepal, tipping in nepal, budget for traveling in nepal, language in nepal, religion in nepal, practical tips for nepal travelers, health and safety in nepal, transportation in nepal, accommodation in nepal, responsible tourism in nepal, nepalese food to try, nepal packing list, what clothing should you wear in nepal, interesting & important facts about nepal.

Disclaimer: Just so we’re on the same page… Our first visit to Nepal in 2016 was an independent trip. Our second visit (in May/June 2019) was hosted by the Nepal Tourism Board in conjunction with the 2019 Himalayan Travel Mart. Although we were hosted on this trip, all views and opinions of Nepal in this article are our own.

Affiliates: Also, there are some affiliate links in this guide, which means when you click we get a small percentage of the purchase at no extra cost to you. This allows us to keep sharing great Nepal travel tips with you, so feel free to click away!

Nepal is a small country.

How small, exactly? Well, if you were to lay it over a map of the United States, it would be utterly dwarfed, as the US is 67 times larger. Texas alone, is 5 times bigger than Nepal.

But don’t let its size (or lack thereof) fool you. This country is absolutely packed with beauty and adventure.

Here are some of the most popular places to add to your Nepal Itinerary:

Nepal’s capital city and main hubs for all adventures. Polluted and congested with traffic? Yep, it sure it! But this chaotic city is still worth a few days of exploring during your trip to Nepal

Top things to do in Kathmandu:

Learn how to make momos with Social Tours .

Walk (clockwise) around Boudha Stupa , and when you need a break, enjoy a lassi from one of the rooftop cafes.

Take a Breakfast Food Tour with Backstreet Academy , and see all sorts of hidden gems that you’d never discover on your own.

Explore the ancient cities of Patan and Bhaktapur . (While in Bhaktapur, be sure to try their famous curd, called juju dhau. It’s super tasty!)

Note, these are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites and they cost a fee to enter.

Drink coffee at cute and sustainably-run shops like Kar.ma Coffee at The Hub .

Visit the Asan Market early in the morning to see local vendors selling their colorful goods in this lively street bazaar!

Enjoy a cocktail with a view! We loved the rooftop at our hotel, Traditional Comfort, but there are others throughout the city as well. Plan your drinks to align with sunset for the best view!

Even though Pokhara is the second largest city in Nepal, it is known for its laid back vibe with which many travelers fall in love. The city is situated on the shore of Phewa Lake, and is surrounded by mountains, making it both charming and beautiful.

Top things to do in Pokhara:

Go paragliding with views of the Himalayas. Pokhara is often referred to as one of the best places in the world to try this adventure sport!

Chill out with a smoothie at Jiva Cafe in a shaded garden.

Hike to the Peace Pagoda on a clear day for views over the city and lake.

Sick of carbs? Enjoy a healthy meal at OR2K , an Israeli-fusion restaurant that serves up tasty salads and healthy international fare. AM/PM is another spot for a healthy meal.

Rent a boat and paddle to the island you can see from shore to visit the 2-story pagoda, Tal Barahi Temple.

Watch a film under the stars at the open-air theater called Movie Garden. Showings start at 7pm each evening, and they play a variety of new and old movies. Check out their Facebook page to see the up-to-date schedule.

Good to know: Half the seats are covered, so it’s a good way to spend the night even if it’s raining.

Go up to Sarangkot for sunrise (on a clear day).

Wanna get your party on? Pokhara has a thriving nightlife scene if that’s your thing!

Go souvenir shopping ! Pokhara is a more laid back place to shop than in Kathmandu, and it’s the best place to buy cashmere!

Chitwan National Park

Known for rare animals, like one-horned rhinos, wild elephants, Bengal tigers, as well as a variety of bird species, Chitwan National Park is a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in wildlife and conservation. Situated in the Terai Lowlands of of south-central Nepal, this is a popular spot for travelers to take wildlife viewing safaris and experience a region that is vastly different than the mountainous parts of Nepal.

The birthplace of Buddha, this is a popular pilgrimage spot for Buddhists and those interested in spiritual destinations. You’ll find a complex of stupas, temples, and monasteries to explore, as well as the sacred Bodhi Tree that is a symbol of where Buddha attained enlightenment.

Everest Region (Khumbu Region)

The Himalayas are arguably Nepal’s most famous landmark, so it’s natural that many travelers want to get up close and personal during their time in Nepal.

Unless you want a multi-week hike, the fastest way to enter this region (known as Sagarmatha National Park) is by a short, but notoriously turbulent flight to the small town of Lukla, which sits at 2,860 meters (8,383 feet). Be sure to look out the window during the flight (if your stomach can handle it) because you’ll be met with epic views of the Himalayas.

If you plan to hike to Everest Base Camp, you’ll be rewarded with picturesque views, quaint villages, mountain monasteries, and lovely people. But be prepared for crowds, as this is a popular trekking route.

Our advice: If you have the time (and energy!), add a few days and cross Cho La Pass to the Gokyo Lakes. This lesser-trekked area will surely be a highlight of your time in this region.

Want to trek to EBC? If trekking to Everest Base Camp is a dream of yours, we have you covered with all you need to know about planning your bucket list journey: from what to pack, to the best itinerary, and even how much it costs, we have it all! We even filmed some (hilarious!) video diaries from the trek. Check out our EBC trekking guide for more info!

Annapurna Region

The second most famous region for trekking in Nepal is the Annapurna Region. There are a variety of treks in varying levels of difficulty. From the short and accessible Poon Hill Trek, to the more challenging Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek, there is a little something for every type of hiker in this region of Nepal.

Wanna get off the beaten path in Nepal?

If you want to add a couple lesser-known places to your Nepal itinerary, here are some ideas to get you started. Just know that some of them can be a bitdifficult (or time consuming) to get to. There are plenty more towns and regions of Nepal to explore, but this should at least give you a start.

Nagarkot: this hill station is just 32 kilometers from Kathmandu, yet it feels a world away. Spend the night and be rewarded with a beautiful sunrise.

Bandipur: Situated between Kathmandu and Pokhara, you can break up your trip between the two with a stop at this beautiful town that boats traditional Newari houses. Spend the night in a homestay and explore Siddha Gufa, the largest cave in Nepal.

Tansen: Located in the Palpa district, this charming hill station is a perfect place to get off the tourist path and try a homestay.

Trekking areas that are less crowded: Langtang Valley Trek, Mohare Danda Trek, Dolpo region, Upper and Lower Mustang regions

Whether you are looking for a heart-thumping trek, a spiritual transformation, or a glimpse into the culture of Himalayan people, you’ll find plenty of reasons to love Nepal.

We’ve put together a more detailed list of some of the best things to do in Nepal , but here are a handful of experiences to put on your Bucket List:

Trekking in the Himalayas

Whitewater Rafting

Paragliding in Pokhara

Spot Wild Rhinos in Chitwan National Park

Visit Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Spend the night in a Homestay

Take a Cooking Class

While it’s possible to visit Nepal year-round and have a great time, the weather can influence what you’re able to do. (Especially if you plan to add trekking to your Nepal itinerary!)

Weather in Nepal 

With 4 distinct seasons, you’ll definitely want to be prepared for what type of weather to expect in Nepal.

Winter: December – February | Snow at high elevations means some mountain passes are closed to trekkers. But Kathmandu rarely experiences snow, so if you plan to stay at lower elevations, this may be a fine time to visit.

Spring: March – May | Clear skies and rhododendrons in bloom make this time of year popular for trekkers.

Monsoon: June – August | Daily rains and cloudy skies paired with leeches on many trails make the monsoon season unpleasant for trekking.

Autumn: September – November | This is the season with the clearest skies and consistently great weather.

Best Weather for Trekking in Nepal:

If you’re planning to trek during your time in Nepal (if you like hiking, you DEFINITELY SHOULD!), aim to visit Nepal during autumn or spring. Winter can bring uncomfortably cold temps in the mountains and some passes can be closed due to snow. And monsoon season means daily rain and leeches!

In general, you will have the most comfortable temperatures and the clearest skies from September – November and March – May. However, since the weather is best during these times, expect treks (and other touristy places) to be busier than during other times of the year.

Major Festivals in Nepal

With Nepal being extremely diverse, there are festivals happening all year round. If you want to plan your visit to Nepal around a festival, be sure to look up the dates ahead of time as they may change every year according to the Nepalese calendar.

Dashain: Nepal’s most important festival celebrating goods conquering evil. Many Nepali return to their homes and celebrate with their families for the 15-day festival. The dates change according to the Nepalese calendar. For 2019 and 2020, Dashain occurs in October.

Tihar: Nepal’s second most important festival celebrating over 3 days. Each day a different deity is worshipped. The last day the goddess Lakshmi is worshipped, who is the goddess of wealth, and locals will light different lamps (oil, candles, and colorful lights) in their homes. Happens in late October.

Holi: The festival of Colors! This festival has grown in international popularity. People throw colored powder and water balloons at each other to spread happiness. Typically occurs in March or April.

When arriving in Nepal, you will need to pay for a Visa on Arrival (VoA) and the amount you pay depends on how long you plan to stay in the country. There are 3 options: 15 days, 30 days, and 90 days.

The process to get through immigration is at Tribhuvan International Airport is a little wonky, so I’ll try to simplify it:

Fill out an “Arrival Card” on paper (why we still have these, I’ll never know)

Fill out the Tourist Visa form at a kiosk near the windows of the immigration area.

If you want to skip this step, you can fill out the Tourist Visa form online beforehand within 15 days of arriving in Nepal and print out the barcode receipt.

Approach the “bank” desk and pay for your Tourist Visa on Arrival . You can pay in USD or Nepalese Rupees. (We have heard of other currency being accepted at times, but you will be charged much more!)Make sure you have cash on hand, otherwise you need to wait in line for the ATM as well. Your fee depends on your length stay and you have 3 options:

15 Days: $25 USD

30 Days: $40 USD

90 Days: $100 USD

Make sure to get a receipt from the “bank”

Collect your payment receipt, Tourist Visa form, Arrival Card, and passport and bring them all to the immigration officer for Foreigners for processing. Once you get your passport back, you’re in. Welcome to Nepal!

The Nepalese Rupee is the currency in Nepal.

Note: This is different than Indian Rupees. Don’t try to pay with cash from India!

Conversion rate: 100 Nepalese Rupees = $.90 USD (at the time of writing, June 2019).

Helpful Tip: To make it easy during our travels, we thought about prices as 100 rupees to $1 USD, moving the decimal place over 2 spots. For instance, if the price of a place of momos is 400 rupees. We move the decimal over two places to the left, and think of it as $4 USD for an easy conversion.

Good to know: You won’t be able to exchange your Nepalese rupees outside of Nepal. Be sure to spend it all before you leave or exchange it into different currency.

ATMs in Nepal

Wherever we are traveling, we find we get the best exchange rates when we withdraw money from the ATMs.

You’ll have no problem finding ATMs in Kathmandu, Pokhara and other major tourist hubs. However, ATMs can be scarce in the more rural areas of Nepal, and if you plan to do any trekking, you should be prepared with all the cash you’ll need (don’t forget about tips!). There is a typically a small fee when taking money out of a local ATM, around 500 NPR.

Pro Travel Tip: We love our Charles Schwab debit card because it reimburses ALL ATM fees (whoop whoop!). It has saved us thousands of dollars over the years, so if you’re from the US, go sign up for a Charles Schwab checking account (it’s free!) right now! And no, we don’t get any perks for recommending this, we just seriously LOVE it!

Credit Cards in Nepal

You can pay with most major credit cards at hotels, nicer restaurants and even some souvenir shops catering to tourists. However, you’ll need cash for smaller restaurants and shops, entrance fees to UNESCO World Heritage sites, for tipping, and at homestays.

Confession: I’m rubbish at bartering. But I also hate getting ripped off. Bartering is expected in most souvenir shops, so give it a try. Just remember to be respectful whenever negotiating a price, and carry small denominations of cash. It’s never fun bartering the price way down, then paying with a large bill and asking the vendor to give you change!

Good to know: When paying for things in Nepal, hand the money over with your right hand. This is considered polite, though Nepalese people are forgiving with foreigners who aren’t accustomed to local manners.

Tipping culture is different all around the world, and sometimes it can be hard to know what’s expected. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.

You might be wondering: “Do I have to tip in Nepal?”

The answer is yes, there is a tipping culture in Nepal. It is a bit different than what you may be used to, so keep reading.

We’re breaking down some general rules to follow as a guideline. However, if you have experienced exceptional service, additional tips are welcomed.

Restaurants: Tip is usually included. There is usually a 13% VAT and a 10% service charge, which you will see listed on your receipt. Sometimes the prices listed on the menu include the tax and tip, and other times there is a note that says it will be added to the bill. You can round up if you had great service.

Homestays: If you are in a homestay (where you have a host “mother”), it is customary and appreciated if you tip. 200 – 300 rupees per person per night.

Taxis: No tip necessary! (unless you really want to)

Tipping Etiquette for Treks in Nepal

With permits, guides, accommodation and equipment, trekking in Nepal isn’t necessarily cheap. And there’s one expense many people forget to plan for… the TIPS.

Trekking in Nepal has a tipping culture, and generally it is expected that you tip your guides and porters.

Below, we’re breaking down some guidelines to follow, but of course, tipping is based on your experience, so you can adjust it accordingly.

Pro Tip: Before your trek, it is a good idea to message the company and ask how many guides and porters there will be so you can be prepared. It is also worth noting that there will likely not be any ATMs along your trek, so be sure to bring along cash.

Guide: $5 USD per day per person

Assistant Guide: $3-5 USD per day per person

Porters: $3-5 USD per day per person (this is then divided between all the porters)

So for our 5-day Mohare Danda Trek, Ben and I each tipped 7,000 rupees ($63 USD) in total between our guides and porters. (The total for the 2 of us was $126 USD in tips.)

Everyone in our group put money into an envelope, which was then given to the guides and porters.

Related Reading: Our friend, Jean, from Traveling Honeybird has a good guide to tipping in Nepal that breaks it down in even more detail for you.

Nepal can be a very budget-friendly country for travelers. Basic food, accommodation, and transportation can be very cheap.

See below for some average prices (these will vary depending on where in Nepal you are):

Order of Momos: 150 rupees for 5 momos ($1.34 USD), or 250 rupees for 10 ($2.25 USD)

Local Beer at a restaurant: 250 – 350 rupees ($2.25 – $3.15 USD). If you buy it at a store, the same bottle will cost around 150 rupees.

Tip: Our favorite local beers are Gorka and Sherpa Red Ale, though these were a bit more expensive than the Everest Lager.

Bed in a Dorm in Kathmandu: 560 rupees ($5 USD)

Basic Private Room in Kathmandu: 1,675 – 2,800 rupees ($15 – $25 USD)

Bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara: 600 – 800 rupees ($5.40 – $7.15 USD)

You can easily travel to Nepal on a tight budget.

Responsible Travel Tip: We would encourage all travelers to really think about how you’re spending your money in Nepal. Sometimes paying a bit more for things can go a long way. For instance, spending a bit more money for a trekking company that pays its guides and porters fairly can make a big difference. And staying in sustainably-run hotels may cost a bit more, but your money will be put back into the community and will help protect the local environment.

There are 123 languages spoken in Nepal. Yes, you read that right – 123 languages!

The most commonly spoken language is Nepali, which is the “mother tongue” of roughly 45% of the population. But many have a different native language, which is pretty incredible when you think about it.

Helpful phrases in Nepali

We always try to learn a few words and phrases in the language of the country we’re visiting. We find it goes a long way to try! These words and phrases are a good place to start.

The phrases below are in Nepali, but remember that this is not everyone’s native language.

Hello: namaste

Namaste doesn’t directly translate to “hello”, but it is more or less a way to greet and show respect to someone. It means “I bow down to the divine in you” , and is generally said with palms together and a slight nod of the head.

Thank you: dhanyabaad

How much money? (shopping) Kati paisa?

Delicious: mitho cha

Beautiful: sundara

I am a vegetarian: Ma sakahari hun 

Hinduism and Buddhism are the two most commonly practiced religions in Nepal, and in general, they coexist peacefully.

According to a 2001 census, here is the breakdown of how people in Nepal identify their religious beliefs:

11% Buddhist

3% Kirant (indigenous religion)

and a very small percentage identify as Christian or other religions

Religion in Nepal is intertwined throughout everyday life. As a traveler, you won’t have to look far to see both Hindu temples and Buddhist stupas. You’ll likely witness religious ceremonies — perhaps even animal sacrifices — and you’ll see locals with a red marking between their eyebrows; a blessing called a tikala.

Important Words & Facts about Religion in Nepal

Stupa: dome-shaped Buddhist shrine, typically containing holy relics.

Tikala: In Hinduism, this is a marking (usually red) between the eyes. These may be worn daily, or to signify special religious occasions.

Puja: Hindu ritual to celebrate an event, like a wedding or birth.

Nepal was the only Hindu Kingdom in the world , until 2007, when it was declared a secular state.

Prayer Wheels must be spun clockwise , and are thought to bring wisdom and good karma.

You’ll notice a set of eyes on most stupas around the county. These symbolize the all-seeing eyes and wisdom of Buddha.

There are many different types of Buddhism practiced around the world. For instance, the type of Buddhism practiced in Thailand and much of Southeast Asia is called Theravada Buddhism. The type practiced in Nepal falls under Mahayana Buddhism , similar to what is practiced in Tibet and China.

Butter candles are commonly lit at temples and they signify enlightenment, and are used as offerings.

You might hear bells ringing a lot while traveling in Nepal. This is done before a prayer to get the attention of the gods.

Manners At Temples and Holy Sites in Nepal

Navigate in a clockwise direction when you walk around stupas (aka always keep the stupa on your right-hand side). Also, prayer wheels must be spun in a clockwise direction.

Cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.

Know where you can and can’t go. There are certain spots in temples and stupas that are reserved only for practicing Buddhists or Hindus (depending on the site you’re visiting).

Keep PDA to a minimum. Avoid holding hands or other signs of affection (umm no kissing!), as this can be seen as rude.

Internet | Cell Service | Adapters & Voltage | Drinking Water | Bathrooms

Internet, power voltage, bathrooms, drinking water, cell service…

While these might not be the “sexiest” things to talk about, they are all super important as you plan your trip to Nepal.

Let’s get into the nitty gritty and get you all set to pack those bags!

Internet in Nepal

Let’s just say the Internet situation in Nepal is, well, mediocre at best. As long as you go to Nepal with that as your expectation, you won’t be too disappointed.

On our last visit to Nepal, we had just come from Chiang Mai, where our Internet speeds were out of this world. And in comparison, Nepal’s Internet is sloooow.

When we did have WiFi, we were usually able to upload photos to Instagram and send emails. And in some hotels we were even able to watch Netflix. Not too shabby, huh?!

But there were also times we had to set our email away message to let people know we were somewhat “off the grid”. It was a bit of a mix.

Local SIM Cards

Getting a local SIM card is the best way to have cell service in Nepal. There are 2 cell providers – NCell and Nepal Telecom.

NCell is arguably the easier one to get. You can simply walk up to a NCell booth (you’ll find plenty around Kathmandu and Pokhara) and they will get it set up for you in a matter of minutes. Be sure to bring a copy of your passport with you (we also carry a photocopy in our wallets when we’re traveling).

We both got a 7-day SIM with unlimited 4G data and 1 hour of streaming video for 450 rupees ($4 USD).

When you get up into the mountains, expect for your service to go in and out. Our guides had Nepal Telecom, and the service was much better in the remote mountain areas. However, we took this as a time to disconnect, so we weren’t too concerned about our cell service (or lack thereof).

Adapters & Voltage

In Nepal, the standard voltage is 230V with a standard frequency of 50Hz. Most modern plugs and computer chargers can handle this voltage, but be sure to check your converters first before plugging in.

The power sockets are similar to the European style (plug styles C, D, & M). U.S. travelers will need an adapter. Sometimes, higher-end hotels have a one-type-fits-all outlet, but it best to carry an adapter or two.

Insider Tip: We always travel with a universal adapter . This way, we can charge several electronics at once using only one adaptor. Note: This only works for things that can be charged using a USB port. Our laptops and DSLR cannot be charged from this.

Good to know: Power Outages are common around the country. Be prepared for power outages. Yes, even in Kathmandu. Yes, even in nice hotels. Power outages are very common and something that you will probably experience at least once during your travels in Nepal.

We have a friend who lived in Kathmandu while teaching at an International School, and she said power outages are just a part of daily life in Nepal.

We always travel with a power bank, so we can recharge our devices even during a power outage. We love our Anker Portable Charger because it holds 7 charges at once!

Note: We stayed at Traditional Comfort in Kathmandu , and did not experience any power outages, even when friends at nearby hotels did. We assume it is because they run mostly on solar power.

Drinking Water in Nepal

The tap water in Nepal is not safe to drink.

We were fine brushing our teeth, but you don’t want to chug a glass of it unless you want to be bed-ridden for 24 hours…

On our first trip to Nepal, we carried our trusty Steripen with us and were able to fill up water from the tap and then purify it using the UV light technology. Yes, it really works! And it saves a TON of plastic (and money too).

Right before our most recent trip to Nepal, our Steripen decided to die (after 5 hard years of purifying water for us!). So sadly, we had no other option but to buy bottles during our trek.

Alternative: There are water purification tablets, but personally, I’ve never really liked them — they make the water taste funny to me, and I end up dehydrated.

When you’re at restaurants or hotels that have water jugs, be sure to fill up because this is filtered and safe to drink.

Bathrooms in Nepal

One of my mom’s first questions wherever we’re traveling is: “How are the bathrooms?”…

I think it’s her way of gauging how comfortable she would be traveling in that specific place. So for all of you out there with the same questions as my dear mother, this one’s for you…

I’m going to give it to you straight:

The toilets in Nepal can be bad.

If you’re staying in a hotel, you can expect Western-style flush toilets, but at some point during your travels in Nepal, you WILL encounter the dreaded squat toilet.

We’ve all heard that squat toilets are actually better for you (ermm… you don’t have to push as hard), but it can be difficult to get used to if it’s your first time encountering the squattie pottie.

While teaching English in Korea (and just traveling around Asia in general) we have become well-accustomed to the squatter, so it came as no surprise to find these in Nepal.

They still aren’t my favorite type of toilet, but let’s just say, I can handle them. And I find it a bit funny watching other foreigners open the toilet door, and back away with a horrified face, telling themselves silently, “I’ll just hold it,”. For all travelers in Nepal, there will come a time that you just can’t hold it anymore. Trust me.

So what exactly should you expect?

Toilets in Nepal vary a lot. As we mentioned above, if you stay at a hotel, you should have a clean Western-style flush toilet. But in public restrooms or in homestays you can expect the toilets to be a bit more “rustic”… They can range from Western-style toilets that must be flushed by pouring buckets of water into the bowl, to very basic (and sometimes dirty) squat toilets that require you to plug your nose.

Oh, and don’t forget to BYOTP! That is, Bring Your Own Toilet Paper !

Most public restrooms will not have tissue, so it’s a good idea to purchase a roll (50 rupee to 100 rupee depending on the size), and carry it with you.

Oh, and hand sanitizer too! You’ll thank us later. 

On that note, there will typically be a bin for you to throw the tissue in when you’re done. It can clog the plumbing, so be mindful of where you put your TP (and tampons, ladies!).

Pro Travel Tip (for the ladies!): Swap out your tampons for a menstrual cup . Never again will you have to pack a bunch of tampons or search for them in countries where they aren’t common. Plus, it saves a ton of waste!!! And you won’t have to search around for a bin to put your used ones in (not a fun task).

Bucket showers

If you plan to do any trekking in Nepal, be prepared for a good old fashioned Bucket Shower! In some places, you can pay a bit extra to have hot water.

The price you pay depends on the elevation and access to heating (for instance, on the Mohare Danda Trek, we paid 150 rupees ($1.35 USD) for a hot bucket shower, but on the EBC trek, prices range from 300 – 500 rupees ($2.70 – $4.50 USD), depending on the elevation.  

If you’ve never tried a bucket shower before, give it a go. It’s an experience ! And after a day of trekking, a shower – even if it is from a bucket – feels divine!

Overall, Nepal is a relatively safe country for travelers. There are a few things to be aware of as you start planning your trip.

Air Pollution in Nepal

Like many major cities in Asia, Kathmandu experiences high levels of air pollution. In fact, as you fly into the city, you’ll likely notice a heavy smog hanging over the Kathmandu Valley.

The air quality is typically worst in Kathmandu, and as you get out of the city, it improves. Also, it can vary based on the time of year.

What can you do about it?

Truthfully, not too much. You can wear a mask to help filter the air as you walk around the city. But don’t buy the first mask you see. The cloth masks or the common “doctor’s masks” do little in filtering out pollution, even though you’ll see them worn around town.

If you plan to wear a mask, get one with an N95 filter. This is going to be your best method of protection. We wore these all the time during “burning season” in Chiang Mai.

Insider Tip: Download the AQI app , which tells you the real-time air quality and pollution levels. The colors are a good indicator of air quality, with green being healthy, and declining in quality as the colors turn to yellow, orange, red and purple.

Food Poisoning

If you have a sensitive stomach (or haven’t spent much time traveling in Asia), you may want to be extra cautious of what you eat when you first arrive in Nepal, as your body will not be used to the bacteria in this part of the world.

One easy way to avoid an upset stomach is to stay away from fresh fruits and veggies (at least from street vendors). I know, I know… those are what you’ll be craving after a few days of dhal bhat, but they are often washed with tap water and can make your tummy not so happy.

I learned the hard way when I bought a fresh cucumber from a street vendor on my first trip to Nepal. It sounded so good at the time, but I spent that night near a toilet… Not recommended.

If you go to Western style restaurants, you should be fine ordering a salad, as they will wash the produce with filtered water. And after you’ve been traveling in the region for a while, your stomach may become more acquainted with the local bacteria, so you won’t have to be quite as careful. 

Earthquakes

While there’s not much you can do to predict an earthquake, it is a good idea to know what to do in the case you experience one while traveling in Nepal.

Read this advice for what to do in case of an earthquake . 

Travel Insurance in Nepal

If you’re skimming this article, wondering to yourself, “Do I really need travel insurance for my trip to Nepal?” I want you to listen up, and listen carefully.

YES. The answer to your question is: Yes, you absolutely should get travel insurance in Nepal.

We’ve already shared all sorts of stories about why you should always have insurance when you travel …

Q: What do a stolen camera, a missed flight connection, and an emergency appendectomy all have in common?

A: They are all things that are out of your control, AND they should be covered if you have good travel insurance.

I could ramble on and on about this, but instead of explaining why you should get travel insurance, I want to point out one very important thing that many people may be unaware of.

If you are planning to do any trekking in Nepal, be sure to check the fine print on your standard travel insurance policy to be sure you are covered at the altitude you intend to reach.

Our experience with travel insurance in Nepal: We typically get a year-long travel insurance policy through Allianz Travel , as it is the most affordable option (at $450 USD/year for the both of us) with comparable coverage to other providers. However, both times we have traveled to Nepal, we have also gotten a short-term policy through World Nomads because we are covered at high elevations.

Our Allianz policy only covers medical costs up to 5,000 feet. Kathmandu itself is 1,400 meters — or 4,600 feet — above sea level. That means if we were to go on a little hike and climb 400 feet (not hard to do), and one of us broke an ankle, we WOULD NOT be covered by our regular insurance policy.

Before hopping on your plane to Nepal, be sure to read the fine print on your insurance policy and ensure you are covered at altitude. We even called Allianz to ask because we couldn’t find it in print. If you’re doing any sort of trekking in Nepal, chances are you will need a policy that covers you in high altitude.

Trust us, you don’t want something to go wrong on your trek before you find out your insurance won’t cover it. They have ways of checking these things (ermm… phone GPS…). Something as simple as twisting your ankle could lead to a huge expense. And without trying to scare you, there are many, many more things that can go wrong when trekking at high altitude (we’ve personally witnessed them happen).

Don’t worry too much; just be sure you’re covered. Okay, rant over.

The roads in Nepal are rough. Really rough in some places. Though I will note that they seem to be working on them. Or at least there is quite a bit of construction…

You’ll find winding roads, giant potholes, and long stretches that are unpaved. There is construction taking place in some areas to better the roads for the future, but it seems like it will be far in the future before you can travel around the country without a bumpy ride.

Buses in Nepal

Prepare for short distances to take a long time. For instance, Kathmandu and Pokhara are only 125 miles (200 km) apart, yet the bus ride takes at least 5.5 hours on a good day (when there is no construction or complications). More often than not, plan for it to take 7-8 hours. And on days when construction is bad, we’ve heard of this journey taking up to 12 hours.

The same journey on plane takes just 35 minutes, so if you have a flexible budget to work with and are prone to carsickness, you might want to consider booking a flight between Kathmandu and Pokhara.

However, if you are traveling on a budget, there are things to look forward to as you drive through Nepal. You can glimpse countryside villages, and you can even break up the journey and stay at lesser-known places, like Bandipur which is located between the 2 cities. Plus, traveling my van is much better on the environment. So if you are trying to reduce your carbon footprint, travel by land is the way to go.

The biggest thing we want to you take away is knowing what to expect. We’ve known some travelers who had no clue how “rugged” the roads in Nepal are, and they were really put off by it.

Prevent Motion Sickness

If you are prone to car sickness, pack medicine, ginger chews, or pressure point bands to prevent nausea. Also, bland crackers and bubbly drinks, like Sprite or soda water can help soothe your stomach. If you stop at a restaurant along the way, ask for a ginger tea, which will also help to ease nausea.  

There is no Uber in Nepal, so you’ll likely use a taxi or 2 when getting around Kathmandu.

Like many places around the world, it’s a good idea to negotiate the price before you get into a taxi . We did not see any taxi drivers using meters, so you will definitely want to determine a price before you get inside. This is something that you can negotiate. The prices can vary during certain times of the day, and depending on where you are coming and going from.

But to give you an idea, here are a couple prices we paid in Kathmandu:

500 rupees: 20-minute ride from Boudha Stupa to our hotel (on the outskirts of Thamel). The driver started at 700 rupees.

300 rupees: 10-minute drive from Durbar Square to our hotel. (We didn’t negotiate.)

Nepal has a vast array of accommodation, suitable for every type of traveler: from low maintenance backpackers on a tiny budget to those with luxury taste, and everyone in between.

We traveled with a Travel Agent who books luxury trips to Nepal for Russian billionaires, and she has a list of hotels that cater to her clients’ every need. And on the other hand, we’ve stayed in very humble homestays with outdoor toilets that can only be described as “rustic”. Whatever your travel style and budget, you will be able to find accommodation to suit your needs.

Hotels in Nepal range from basic to ultra luxurious.

Budget hotels: as little as $15 USD per night

Middle range: $50 – $80 USD

Luxury: $150 – $250 USD will get you a super high-end stay in a room fit for a Queen.

Pro Tip: There are literally hundreds of hotels to choose from in Kathmandu, but when we go back we will stay at the Traditional Comfort Boutique Hotel . Not only does it have all the amenities you want like a delicious breakfast, kind and attentive staff, rooftop bar, and spacious rooms, but owner’s design and business model is what sold us. At Traditional Comfort, their staff is 70% women, the water is solar heated, and all of the LED lights in the hotel are solar powered. That’s probably why we never had a blackout there. This hotel will make your stay in Kathmandu so much better.

You’ll be able to find hostels in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Outside of these cities, hostels are not super common.

Dorm Bed: $5 USD for a bed in a dorm in Kathmandu

Private Room: $10 USD for private room

Kathmandu and Pokhara have some seriously beautiful Airbnb options .

Like this stunning rooftop loft in Patan that has traditional Newari details and a sunny balcony, perfect for enjoying coffee in the mornings. Or check out this slightly different layout in the same part of Patan.

And if you want more of a “homestay”-type experience, this Airbnb listing has incredible reviews and promises an authentic village experience.

First time staying in an Airbnb? Make your booking through this link , and you’ll get up to $55 off your first stay. Cha-ching!

Plus, we have loads of info on how to book Airbnbs, red flags to watch out for when booking, and our favorite Airbnbs in our  Airbnb article . Check it out!

Stay with a local family by booking through the Community Homestay Network . This is a special experience and it helps you support communities directly. Their tagline is “Experience Nepal through the eyes of a local”.

This is an easy way to make a difference on your travels, by empowering local women to earn sustainable wages while preserving their way of life.

Prices range from $15 – $40 USD per night, per guest. This typically includes some meals and activities.

If you plan to do some trekking, you’ll likely stay in tea houses along the way. They vary in comfort and amenities depending on the popularity of the trek as well as the elevation.

Price varies based on which trek you’re on, but to give you an idea, the tea houses we stayed at on the EBC trek cost $1 – $5 USD per person per night. We were then required to eat dinner and breakfast at the teahouse, which was typically around $3 – $7 USD depending on what we ordered and what elevation we were at.

As you travel in Nepal, you will have the opportunity to support locals in really meaningful ways. There are many amazing organizations out there that are empowering locals, giving back to communities in need, and creating sustainable ways for families to earn fair wages.

No matter where we are in the world, we always try to follow these responsible travel tips , but here are some ways you can make a positive impact specifically during your travels in Nepal:

Pack a Steripen

As we mentioned above, the water in Nepal is not safe to drink from the tap. This means you will have to purchase bottled water. OR, you can pack a Steripen , which purifies the water in 90 seconds. This is not sponsored by them or anything, we just seriously love our Steripen, and used it during our entire EBC trek to have clean drinking water.

Packing this handy device not only eliminates single-use plastic , but it’ll save you a lot of money over time. Win Win!

Support locals

Remember, as tourists, we “vote” with our purchases. The types of things we spend money on tells communities what we value.

Make sure your money goes to locals and the communities by eating at small “mom and pop” restaurants or purchasing handicrafts directly from artisans. Book with locally operated tour and trekking companies instead of internationally-based ones. Stay at homestays. There are many amazing organizations in Nepal, and they can really use your support.

Be mindful about your waste on treks

When hiking, be sure to carry out all your garbage. And if you feel so inclined, it can be nice to carry a bag to collect some pieces of rubbish on the ground. Little efforts can help!

Ask before taking photos

Before snapping a portrait-type photo of someone, ask if it’s okay to take their photo. If they don’t speak English, make eye contact and point to your camera, as this usually gets the point across.

If they say no , respect their wishes. If they say yes, it can be nice to show them the photo afterwards.

The people of Nepal are usually pretty friendly. But imagine someone taking photos of you without your permission. I certainly wouldn’t like it. And when it is a large camera (like mine is), it can look especially threatening.

Don’t support elephant riding

Sadly, this is very common to see in Chitwan National Park. Take a walking or Jeep safari instead of an elephant safari. Duh. Also, voice your concerns to your lodge and other tour companies in the area, because they are starting to listen, and these practices will hopefully start to change.

Dress appropriately

Be sure to cover your shoulders and knees in holy places to show respect. Easy Peasy.

Don’t give to children begging for money

Sadly, you will likely encounter children asking for money during your travels in Nepal. I know – it tugs at your very heartstrings – but it’s not a good idea to give them money or candy or food, no matter how sweet they are.  

This only encourages children to skip school in order to beg. It encourages parents and orphanages to exploit their children by subjecting them to asking tourists for money.

Giving to children in this way is not a sustainable way to create change or to make a difference in their lives. It reinforces that all foreigners should give them something, little by little chipping away at their sense of dignity and self-worth.

There are other ways you can give back and contribute to those in need.

Donate to organizations in the area that are doing good work.  

Support small family-run businesses so parents can continue to provide for their children.

Volunteer your time with a reputable organization . There are many not-so-sexy roles where your help would be much appreciated. However, if you plan to volunteer with children, please do your research and understand why “orphanages” are not an ethical place to volunteer. Also be sure you’re able to stay for an extended period of time. Read up on why this is important , and be sure to carefully vet the organization you plan to work with.

Don’t forget to tip

As we described in a section above, tipping is expected if you go on a trek in Nepal. Before your hike, use the information we have provided to help you plan out how much money to allocate to tips. Keep in mind that many of the porters and guides rely on tips to make a living.

With influence from neighboring countries like China, India, and Tibet, the food in Nepal is reminiscent of other parts of South Asia, yet Nepali dishes have their own distinct flavor.

Nepalese food is good. But I’m going to go on record saying it is too carb-heavy for me to call it great. Obviously this is a personal opinion, and you may very well LOVE the food in Nepal.

There are many delicious dishes to try, but I will warn you that it can get repetitive. Very repetitive.

This is probably the most loved dish by travelers in Nepal. Similar to Chinese gyoza, these dumplings are typically steamed (but can be ordered fried as well) and are served with a tomato- or peanut-based dipping sauce. The most common types are veggie (mixture of cabbage, onion, carrot) or chicken.

For Nepali people, momos are typically a snack eaten around midday. But we certainly ordered them as a main dish many times.

It’s also possible to find momos with cheese and those with sweet fillings like banana or chocolate for dessert. Momos are seriously delicious, but if you order them every day during your trip (it’s tempting!), prepare to get tired of them. Yes, it is possible. I speak from experience.

Order dal baht if you’re hungry and you need energy! You’ll be served a plate with rice, papadams (thin, crispy crackers), and a bowl of lentils. It typically also comes with curried vegetables, sauces, and pickled greens of some sort.

Dal Bhat varies from place to place, but one thing is always the same: You can have as much of it as you’d like. Seconds?! Yes, please! This it is THE dish you’ll find most while trekking, because it’s easy to make in bulk and it provides a lot of energy.

Funny Side Note: You don’t have to be in Nepal long to hear the phrase “Dal Bhat Power, 24 hour”! Our trekking guide, Gopal, said it so often that a previous group gifted him a shirt with the phrase “Gopal Power, 24 Hour!” embroidered on it, and he wore it proudly while eating many, many meals of dal bhat. Come to think of it, I don’t think we saw him or any of our porters eat anything other than dal bhat.

Good to know: Nepali people eat many meals with their hands, but they usually serve the same dishes to Westerners with forks and spoons.

This Tibetan veggie noodle soup is perfect on a cold day or after many hours of trekking (or umm shopping…). This is the ultimate comfort food, and the best equivalent I can think of in the US is chicken noodle soup. Mmmmm….

I had a particularly good Thukpa at Sherpa Kitchen in Pokhara. At the same restaurant, Ben had a tasty noodle soup served with momos inside!

Traditionally an Indian dish, the Nepalese version is just as tasty! Potatoes are seasoned with cumin, coriander, ginger, chili, and turmeric for a delicious and filling meal. It can even be eaten for breakfast.

Translating to “king of yogurt”, this thick and creamy treat has a custard-like consistency and a decadent flavor. Made from buffalo milk, juju dhau is traditionally served in small clay bowls and eaten with a wooden spoon.

The best place to try this delightfully sweet and tangy yogurt is in Bhaktapur, an ancient city just outside of central Kathmandu.

Masala Chai (Milk Tea)

This tea is ubiquitous with Nepal. It’s kind of like what coffee is to NYC… or Seattle… or Melbourne… Well, you get the picture.

You’ll likely have a mug (or 17!) of this stuff during your time in this country. It’s especially nice on a cold morning or after a long day of trekking.

Vegetarian / Vegan in Nepal

Unlike many countries in Asia, it is quite easy to stick to a vegetarian or vegan diet in Nepal. Two of the countries most famous dishes – veggie momos and dhal bhat – are vegan without having to request any alternatives.

Good to know: You’ll be hard-pressed to find beef on the menu in any local restaurant. Similar to India, cows are considered holy in Nepal, and are treated as Westerners might treat cats and dogs.

Gluten-free in Nepal

In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you’ll be able to find restaurants that are familiar with and serve gluten-free options. However, if you are trekking, here are some dishes that are good options:

Dal Bhat: lentils, plain rice, vegetables

Omelet: There are usually egg options on the menu for breakfast.

Rösti: This traditionally Swiss dish of fried, grated potatoes topped with eggs and cheese, is popular in teahouses. It’s a tasty and filling breakfast while trekking.

Pro Tip: Nepalese food is fun to make and there are cooking class all around the country. Check out Social Tours for their interactive cooking class in Kathmandu or search on Cookly to see if you can find one in other cities. Or try out a Backstreet Academy’s Breakfast Tour and learn about the morning routines and life of locals while working your way through the hidden streets in Kathmandu.

Are you overwhelmed with trying to decide what to pack for your trip to Nepal? We’re going over some essentials that will help ensure you’re prepared!

Steripen : sterilized a liter of water in 90 seconds. Saves money and plastic.

Electrolytes (Nuun brand): Stay hydrated on your trek, we think the Nuun brand tastes the best.

Vitamin C tablets: Keep your immune system boosted

Sarong : multi-purpose cover up.

Quick-dry towel

Chacos / Hiking Boots: If you’re hiking in warm weather and low elevations, we love hiking in Chacos. But if there is snow expected, you should bring boots.

Portable Battery Pack : Charging your phone on treks can cost per hour. Bring your own battery that last up to 7 phone charges.

Motion Sickness bands : Relief for the bumpy roads in Nepal

Charcoal Pills (and stoppers/goers)

Peppermint oil / Tiger Balm

Anti-Bug Balm

Layers of clothes

Sleeping bag liner / pillow case

Kindle Paperwhite : much lighter than carrying a guide book

Camera & extra batteries

Deck of cards

Power Converters & Adapters

Eye mask and ear plugs

Protein Bars & Nuts: You can find some in Thamel (Kathmandu) and Pokhara, but if you bring them from home you’ll have more variety to choose from.

Fitbit : Track your steps and how high you climb

Down jacket: Can also rent this in Kathmandu or Pokhara

Sleeping bag: Can also rent this in Kathmandu or Pokhara

Hand sanitizer

Roll of Toilet paper

Menstrual Cup

This is going to differ based on what types of activities you’re doing. We’re breaking down a very basic idea of what clothing to pack for trekking as well as what to pack when you’re just exploring in Nepal.

Check out this article if you want an entire packing list of what we brought on our 17-day Everest Base Camp trek.

What to wear while trekking in Nepal

Personally, we like to pack a couple hiking outfits that we wear over again during the days (hey, they’re just going to get sweaty anyway!).

We also pack 1 or 2 outfits for the evenings at tea houses that are warm and feel nice to change into after spending the day in sweaty athletic clothes.

quick-dry layers (mix of t-shirts & tanks, long sleeves & zip-ups)

trekking pants/leggings

hiking boots and/or Chacos (depending on elevation and difficulty of the hike)

thick layers & comfortable clothes to wear in the evening at teahouses

Down jacket: Choose one that packs up small (this is lightweight and keeps you super warm!)

Rain jacket : This can be used as a wind barrier too.

What to wear in Nepal (when you’re not trekking)

In general, try to dress conservatively in Nepal, especially when you’re at holy sites.

A woman in our group got yelled at for wearing spaghetti straps at a World Heritage Site.

I always carry a sarong in my daypack so I’m prepared to cover my shoulders or knees.

Clothing for Women:

long skirts and/or maxi dresses (that hang below your knees)

lightweight t-shirts

Personal Note: I felt comfortable in tank tops in some places around Pokhara and Kathmandu, but I always carried something to cover up with in case we visited a holy site or I felt uncomfortable.

cardigan sweater

loose, lightweight cotton pants, leggings

jacket for cold weather

rain jacket for rainy season

Clothing for Men:

Long pants/jeans

Shorts are fine in warmer months, though locals don’t seem to really wear them

athletic zip-up

Are you getting excited about your trip to Nepal? We are thrilled that Nepal is on your travel list, and we think it’s a country you will quickly fall in love with. We sure did.

Now that we’ve gone over all the nitty-gritty things that you need to know as you start to plan your travels, you’ve earned some interesting facts about the country.

Some of these are fun, while others give you a deeper perspective on the culture, and others still are hard to hear.

We think it’s important to be informed about the countries we visit, so we hope you find these facts meaningful as you plan your travels.

1. No Big Macs here

Did you know that Nepal does not have any McDonald’s ? There are a handful of countries out there that are resisting the allure of the Golden Arches, and Nepal is one of them. Now the question is, are you disappointed or ready to give the country a round of applause…?

2. Let’s learn Everest’s “real” name…

Everest is the tallest peak in the world, and it was named after Sir George Everest, a British surveyor who actually never saw the famed mountain with his own eyes. However, few people outside Nepal know the local name of this iconic mountain.

In Nepali and Sanskrit, this towering peak is known as Sagarmatha , which translates to “Peak of Heaven.” And in Tibet, the people call this mountain Chomolungma, meaning “Goddess Mother of the World”. Both are beautiful, aren’t they?

3. UNESC-Whoa! 

Nepal is a pocket-sized country, but it has the densest concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites of anywhere in the world. Just in Kathmandu Valley alone, you’ll find 7 sites including Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, & Boudhanath.

4. Nepal has Child Goddesses

That’s right — in Nepal, there’s a centuries-old tradition in the Newari culture in which a young girl, called a Kumari , or “Living Goddess”, is worshipped by both Buddhists and Hindus. It is believed that she is the reincarnation of the Hindu goddess Durga.

Girls as young as infants are selected through a rigorous process, and once named the Kumari, she must stay indoors (except during ceremonies), and she must be carried everywhere. When the Kumari enters puberty and has her first period, her reign is over and a new Kumari is selected, as she goes back to “normal life”.

Want more info? This is a fascinating interview with a former Kumari who speaks about what it was like to be considered a goddess, and how it felt to transition to “regular” life. And this article from National Geographic gives a glimpse into the family life of young Kumaris.

5. Sherpas and Porters are not the same!

Often, the terms “Sherpa” and “Porter” are used interchangeably, but it’s important to know they are not the same.

Sherpa is an ethnic group of people that are native to the mountainous Himalayan region.

Porters are people who help carry packs or equipment on treks.

Yes, many Sherpas earn their livelihood working as porters . But not all porters are of Sherpa descent.

6. Nepal has its own Calendar

We all may think it is the year 2019, but according to the Nepali calendar, it is actually the year 2076! Yep, we’ve jumped into the future!

This lunar calendar is called Nepal Sambat, and has just 354 days in a year.

7. Beware of “Leech season”

During monsoon season — June and July — beware of leeches while trekking. You shouldn’t have to worry about them in cities, but if you go into the forest, you will likely notice a few blood-suckers trying to cling to your ankles. For this reason, it’s best to avoid trekking at this time of year (unless you really want to make a blood donation!).

8. Nepal is super diverse!

Throughout the country of Nepal, there are 126 castes and ethnic groups. As you travel around the country, you’ll see all sorts of different customs, traditions, and architecture. You probably won’t notice (unless you’re fluent in Nepali), but there are 123 languages spoken in this country. So when someone speaks to you in English, know that they most likely speak a few other languages too!

9. There’s a lotta water here

Nepal has more than 6,000 rivers… say WHAT?! When you consider all the mountains and glaciers, it makes sense, but it’s still impressive. It’s no wonder Nepal is a great destination for river sports, like whitewater rafting and kayaking.

Are you planning to visit Nepal soon?

We have TONS of other articles on Nepal that we think you’ll like. Check out our Nepal Homepage for all the important travel information, or read some of our favorite articles below.

Top 10 Things to Do in Nepal

Independent Everest Base Camp Trekking Guide

Everest Base Camp 17-day Trekking Itinerary

Mohare Danda Trekking Guide: 5-Day Annapurna Trek

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We want to hear from you!

Have you traveled to Nepal? What were your thoughts? Is there any important info we’re missing in this Nepal Travel Guide?

Do you have any more questions about planning your own trip to Nepal that we haven’t already answered? Comment below and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

Comments (13) on “ Ultimate Nepal Travel Guide: Everything to Know for your Himalayan Adventure ”

Great post! Just curious, what time of year did you to the EBC trek? Is the fall or spring better weather wise?

Thanks in advance!

One of the travel guides on nepal I’ve ever seeen.

A great post mate

As much as your thinking is praised, it is very important to have a beautiful thinking to write a beautiful post and indeed such a beautiful post is rarely seen as much as the beautiful post you have written, it is a very beautiful of my life The post is what I saw today.

Nepal is going to be my next travel spot, I have known so much from your blog post. My target is the spend most of the time in Pokhara. The photos were also amazing. Thank you so much for this informative blog post.

This guide is amazing!! I’m so excited about this as I will be here in less than a month and this blog was so incredibly useful!! You guys have definitely made me even more excited about visiting!

Wow! Thank you for all of this information. My best friend lived in Nepal for the summer one year to teach English when we were in college, and I’ve wanted to go ever since. I don’t have plans to hike Everest, so I love that you gave so many other options for things to do in Nepal. I especially appreciate the practical tips about the mask with a filter and being careful if you have a sensitive stomach (which I do). Thank you again!

Wow! This is the most comprehensive guide I’ve seen! I knew about trekking in Nepal, but had no idea there are so many fun things to do… I want to go paragliding in Pokhara now!!

Wow awesome site it’s helped alot to get me real information about tha place thank you very much

This guide is amazing! I recently traveled to Nepal and this brought back so many great memories – wish I had this guide before my trip!

Oh wow, thats one really great post, thanks for the exellent read!

And I love the fact that you talked about tipping, thats always something I reseach before heading off to a new place.

Wow! What a great in-depth guide. I have not been to Nepal yet but it’s on my list. Thanks for mentioning not to ride elephants and to spend a few dollars more on tour companies who are paying fairer money to their guides.

I challenge anyone to have a question about Nepal after reading your guide. You have done an incredibly thorough job of preparing folk for a trip there.

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Nepal Tours & Vacations

Sitting on the spine of the world, sandwiched between the superpowers of China and India, you’ll find humble Nepal.

We’re not meant to play favorites, but when you’ve been running Nepal tours for three decades, the country kind of gets under your skin. Picture a tiny Himalayan country where sherpas trudge the mountain paths and prayer flags crisscross the sky, their fluttering Buddhist mantras waving in the breeze. Follow our leaders up to Everest Base Camp, trek the rhododendron forests of the Annapurna, track rhinos through Chitwan National Park or stuff your face with momos in the warren-like streets of Kathmandu's Thamel. Whichever type of  Nepal trip  you choose, we promise you one thing: you’ve never been anywhere like this.

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Nepal at a glance

Capital city.

Kathmandu (population approximately 1.5 million)

Approximately 30.5 million

(GMT+05:45) Kathmandu

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type M (see D)

Learn more about Nepal

Best time to visit nepal.

Nepal's climate is primarily temperate, with some tropical and alpine regions. From June until August, the monsoon hits, making it too wet and humid for trekking.

The post-monsoon period from September to November is rice-harvesting season and is characterized by lush vegetation, clean air, and excellent mountain views. Days are warm and sunny, although nights become increasingly cool. This is the start of the trekking season, which runs until May.

Winter (December to February) is dry and clear, with temperatures dropping below freezing at high altitudes, although in Kathmandu, it can still sometimes reach a pleasant 77ºF.

Spring (March to May) is warmer and is a particularly beautiful time to visit as the rhododendrons and the orchids are in flower.

Learn more about the best time to visit Nepal

Learn more about weather in Nepal

Culture and customs

With more than 30 different ethnic groups and a wide range of religions and language dialects, Nepalese society is rich in diversity. With Indian, Tibetan, Chinese, and Mongolian influences, Nepalese food, clothing, customs, and music vary, depending on what area you're traveling in and what ethnicity people belong to or identify with.

Learn more about regional culture on our 15 day Tamang Heritage & Langtang Valley Trek.

Hinduism is the dominant religion, followed by Buddhism. Standing alongside these religions, there are also small populations of people who follow Islam and Christianity. Simultaneously, animist beliefs and belief in spirits are common throughout Nepal, particularly within rural communities.

Like India, the caste system exists in Nepal, as does the custom of arranged marriage. As one of the least urbanized countries in the world, life differs greatly between the rural and city-dwelling populations, with rural people largely living a very simple, traditional life - slow-paced, village-based, in connection to their family and local community. Nepalese people are generally very friendly and welcoming of travelers.

Experience Nepal from a new perspective on our culturally-centred 13 day Nepal Women's Expedition.

Eating and drinking

With Tibetan, Chinese, and Indian influences, Nepalese food is flavorsome without being too spicy, filling without being rich, and reasonably priced for travelers on a budget.

Things to try in Nepal

These fried or steamed dumplings are usually filled with meat or cheese. Comparable to Tibetan momos, kothey are flavoursome snacks that can usually be bought cheaply from street stalls or markets.

Popular with vegetarians and vegans, this lentil soup is usually served with rice and found almost everywhere in Nepal. A safe yet tasty choice for everyone.

This spiced meat curry will usually consist of chicken, buffalo, or mutton, as beef hardly features on the menu in Nepal for religious reasons.

Learn more about what to eat in Nepal

Geography and environment

Landlocked Nepal shares borders with  China  and  India  and is home to a wide range of landscapes and habitats. As much as 75% of Nepal's land is dominated by hills and mountain ranges, including the world's highest mountain, but there's so much more to this region than Everest.

A lot of the country is known as the Terai region, characterized by forests, plains, marshes, and scrub, and within these varied landscapes are the many impressive animal species that inhabit this region. Chitwan National Park is perhaps one of the best places in all of Asia to see its incredible wildlife. Home to a variety of common and protected species, you may be able to spot some exciting house names like the single-horned Asiatic rhinoceros, leopard, and the Bengal Tiger.

Experience the beauty of wild Nepal on a 11 day Family Holiday with Teenagers.

History and government

Early history.

Nepal has been inhabited by people for more than 2,500 years, with evidence suggesting tribes of mountain-dwelling people moved to the area from China and other Central Asian regions. Due to a lack of archaeological evidence, little is known about the early periods of history in Nepal, with legend and folklore providing the backdrop to this kingdom of mystery. Ruled early on by the Kirati Dynasty, Nepal continued to be ruled by a succession of dynasties until the Malla Dynasty emerged in the 12th century. During this time, the kingdom expanded rapidly and widely before evolving into small communities with local rule. By the 15th century, many temples and palaces had been built in Nepal, some of which are still in existence either as functioning temples or UNESCO World Heritage sites. The kingdom of Nepal was unified by King Shah in 1768 and went on to sign commercial treaties with Britain in 1792 and 1816 after hostilities with the British East India Company. Visit a relic of Nepal's royal power on our One Week in Nepal Tour.

Recent history

Nepal held its first elections in 1959, but with the king dissolving parliament and banning political parties soon after, Nepal's monarchy retained power. After decades of pro-democracy movements, Nepal was finally declared a democratic republic in 2008, with Nepal's monarchy being removed from power after ruling for more than 240 years. Nepal celebrated its Year of Tourism in 2011, with arrivals increasing year upon year since 2006 due to increased infrastructure, expansion of air travel, and the enduring popularity of the Himalayas and mighty Mount Everest. Learn about Nepal's climbing history at the International Mountain Museum in Pokhara during a Nepal trekking tour.

Top 10 must-visit places of Nepal

1. bhaktapur.

This ancient, cultural gem draws people in with temples, grand palaces, colorful festivals, beautiful art, and royal history. Walking the car, tuk tuk and rickshaw-free streets is a pleasant change from the electric energy of Kathmandu.

Trip: Nepal Adventure - 10 days

2. Langtang National Park

Featuring everything from tropical rainforest to perennial ice, Langtang National Park is an example of Mother Nature at her most extreme. With so much geographic diversity, it's no wonder you'll be able to spot a menagerie of creatures, including red pandas, musk deer, rhesus monkeys, and Himalayan black bears. Langtang is simply unmissable!

Trip: Tamang Heritage & Langtang Valley Trek - 15 days

3. Kathmandu

Nepal's busy capital is an epicenter of trade, tourism, and history. Acting as a launching point for international visitors, Kathmandu is a handicrafts hot spot, hippy hangout, travelers' rest stop, and artistic enclave all at once.

Trip: One Week in Nepal - 8 days

Pretty Pokhara offers travelers attractive vistas, a tranquil ambiance, and views of three of the highest mountains in the world. Lakes, waterfalls, and canyons ensure visitors are well rewarded for the effort.

Trip: Premium Nepal & Bhutan - 17 days

5. Bandipur

The hilltop town of Bandipur was once a very prosperous trading center and is now popular with tourists for its old-world charm, quiet atmosphere, and nearby national park teeming with wildlife.

Trip: Classic Nepal - 11 Days

6. Chitwan National Park

A conservation success story, this park has managed to preserve one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. Home to one-horned rhinos, wild elephants, hyenas, leopards, and more than 450 species of birds, visitors will delight in the thrilling wildlife-spotting opportunities here.

Trip: Premium Nepal - 9 days

7. Annapurna Range

This popular trekking region can lay claim to some of the most beautifully treacherous peaks in the world. Surrounding valleys of green fields, wildflower-studded meadows, and lowland villages just add to the stunning views on offer.

Trip: Annapurna Circuit Trek - 15 days

8. Namche Bazaar

Once a trading post, now a popular stopover for Everest trekkers, the small settlement of Namche Bazaar is a fascinating place to spend a few days acclimatizing. With yaks, sherpas, small cafes, bakeries, and a vibrant weekly market, Namche Bazaar is a microcosm of Everest-life.

Trip: Everest Base Camp Trak & Gokyo Lakes Trek - 19 days

9. Seti River

White water raft your way down the Seti River while passing isolated jungles, flowing waterfalls, and white sandy beaches. See the natural landscape from a completely new viewpoint and bypass local villages, rice fields, and the famous suspension bridges found throughout Nepal - all in the most fun way possible.

Trip: Nepal Family Holiday with Teenagers - 11 days

10. Everest Base Camp

Sherpas, yaks, travelers, climbers, teahouses, and tent villages - nothing beats the electric energy of Everest Base Camp. All have come to either tackle the mighty mountain or stand in its epic wake. Either way, it's a privilege and the experience of a lifetime.

Trip: Everest Base Camp Trek - 15 days

Arguably, the most interesting shopping in Nepal can be found in Kathmandu - with its vibrant local artistic community populating the markets and laneway shops with colorful art and handicrafts.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring some items back into your home country. The United States and Canada generally have strict customs laws.

Things to buy in Nepal

1. Prayer flags

You don't have to be a spiritual person to appreciate the beauty of vibrant prayer flags. Take some home to inject a bit of Nepal into your home or backyard.

2. Scarves and wraps

Travelers will be able to find top-quality cashmere in the boutiques and markets of Nepal, so take the chance to stock up on colorful scarves, pashminas and wraps at good prices.

3. Buddhist art

Beautifully painted, colored thankas and mandalas are commonly found in the markets and shops of Kathmandu and make a meaningful souvenir to take back home.

Festivals and events in Nepal

Phalgun festivals.

Kathmandu explodes into a whirlpool of color, dance, music, and rhythm with the annual Phalgun festivals - Losar, Shivaratri, and Holi. Expect everything from public bathing ceremonies to people committing extreme feats of weightlifting with their body parts! With Tibetan rice wine flowing and an amazing array of festive food on offer - this is a great time to be in Kathmandu.

Indra Jatra

This eight-day festival held in Kathmandu features ceremonies, dancing, and displays of spirituality, but none of these events compare to the spectacle of the third day when Kumari (the living goddess) tours the city streets aboard a chariot. Other popular gods also come out to play and parade, as masked dancers perform in Durbar Square in this exceptional display of local culture.

Mani Rimdu Festival

Offering a rare chance to observe the Sherpa culture of the Everest region, this festival held at Tengboche Monastery features days of meditation cycles, religious ceremonies, masked dances, and parades. This holy time for Buddhists sees locals travel by foot to receive blessings en masse against a stunning Himalayan backdrop.

Further reading

Nepal travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Nepal?

All foreign nationals (except Indian passport holders) require a visa to enter Nepal. Visas are obtainable from embassies abroad, land borders (including borders with India & Tibet) and on arrival at Kathmandu's Tribhuvan Airport.

Getting a visa at the airport or land borders can sometimes take time due to long queues. There have been instances when travelers are asked to show proof of exit from the country, i.e., flight tickets. You may also need to provide two passport photos and the following fees in US dollars (subject to change, cash only). Other currencies are also accepted, although rates may differ.

This page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 7 June 2023 

Is tipping customary in Nepal?

While tipping isn't mandatory in Nepal, it's considered polite to leave service workers in restaurants and cafes a 10% tip if a service charge hasn't already been included in the bill.

What is the internet access like in Nepal?

Travelers will be able to access the internet in large cities like Kathmandu. Smaller towns, isolated areas and rural villages may have limited to no access, so prepare to disconnect when leaving the city.

Can I use my cell phone while in Nepal?

Cell phone coverage is generally good in urban areas, but can be patchy and less reliable in rural and mountainous areas. Ensure global roaming is activated on your phone before you arrive.

What are the toilets like in Nepal?

Squat toilets are the most common toilets in Nepal. Always carry your own toilet paper and soap or hand sanitizer, as they aren't usually provided.

What will it cost for a...?

Nepal's currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). The cost of food and necessities differs depending on your elevation, with Kathmandu being cheaper.

Here's what you can expect to pay in Kathmandu for a:

• Bottle of water (approx 50 fl oz) = 25-50 NPR
• Cappuccino = 100-300 NPR
• Cup of tea/chai = 10-30 NPR
• Bottle of domestic beer = 200-500 NPR
• Meal (inexpensive restaurant) = 150-500 NPR

Can I drink the water in Nepal?

It's not recommended to drink the tap water in Nepal. Filtered water is a better option, try to use a refillable canteen or water bottle rather than buying bottled water. Remember to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Nepal?

Credit cards are usually accepted by modern hotels, restaurants and medium-large shops in tourist areas. Smaller shops, cafes, market stalls and places in remote areas probably won’t have facilities that support credit cards, so ensure you have enough cash to cover expenses while in rural areas or when visiting smaller vendors and bazaars.

What is ATM access like in Nepal?

ATMs can be found in Nepal's large cities. Smaller towns and isolated areas will have very few, or none at all, so have enough cash to cover purchases, as ATM access may not be available.

What public holidays are celebrated in Nepal?

For a current list of public holidays in Nepal go to:   http://www.worldtravelguide.net/nepal/public-holidays

Is Nepal accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely   accessible , regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Airports are not yet equipped to international accessibility standards and there are few (if any) adapted vehicles available for hire. Only a few high-end hotels have custom built bathrooms i.e. with safety rails or roll in showers. Getting around can be challenging for travelers with disabilities as pedestrians often share the road with vehicles, cities and towns are crowded and streets winding and chaotic. Rickshaws and taxis can be hired easily in Kathmandu, although traffic congestion can be severe. Porters and assistants are readily available for trekking trips. The country is keen to make headway in the accessibility space, with an annual conference on Accessible Tourism being held since 2014 and a shift towards more positive attitudes in the way people with disabilities are perceived in the region. The first “accessible trekking trail” in the country was opened near Pokhara in 2018. Travel companies have arranged custom treks and adventures in Nepal for travelers with disabilities, including on the popular Everest Base Camp route.  

Is Nepal a LGBTQIA+ friendly destination?

Everyone should feel comfortable when they travel with Intrepid and we know that many of our travelers are part of the LGBTQI community. It’s important for our travelers to be aware of the local laws and customs in the destinations we visit as some countries have laws that discriminate against LGBTQI people. We recommend you visit  Equaldex  and/or  Smartraveller  before you choose your trip for up-to-date advice and information about LGBTQI-related laws. 

Nepal legalized homosexuality in 2007 and implemented protection by law on the basis of sexual orientation the same year. The new constitution of 2015 also contained a number of provisions for the LGBTQI community, including the right to have preferred gender on ID cards and allowance of some gender neutral terms. It is expected that future ratifications of the constitution may include legalization of same-sex marriage. Nepal recognizes a third gender (meti). Nepal Pride is an annual event held in Kathmandu since 2001 and the Nepal Tourism Board is keen to promote the country as an LGBTQI-friendly destination. Despite the openness of the laws, many LGBTQI Nepalis face discrimination and societal pressure for heterosexual marriage, with harassment and violence, particularly for transgender people, not uncommon. For the LGBTQI visitor to Nepal it’s unlikely you will experience any difficulties or hostility. Holding hands with your partner is socially acceptable, but public intimacy is generally frowned upon as Nepal is still quite conservative in this regard.

For more information about LGBTQIA+ culture in Nepal, please visit:

http://www.bds.org.np/

https://www.equaldex.com/region/nepal

Does my trip to Nepal support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Nepal directly support our foundation partners, Sagarmatha Next and Seven Women.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Sagarmatha Next

Sagarmatha Next are tackling waste management issues in the Everest region of Nepal. Donations help them remove waste responsibly, empower travelers with knowledge on how to care for the environment here and host artists who are turning rubbish into art at their information center.

Find out more or make a donation. 

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Kathmandu travel guide

Kathmandu tourism | kathmandu guide, you're going to love kathmandu.

This fabled city, rich with history, culture, and tradition, has become a sprawling urban center hosting 2.5 million inhabitants and tens of thousands of travelers at any one time. Surrounded by some of the world's greatest peaks, Kathmandu has mountains of its own in the form of ancient monuments and temples.

As a capital, Kathmandu is the epicenter of economic and political life in Nepal, which significantly colors any visit. The most developed region in the nation, Kathmandu offers visitors the chance to not only experience a vibrant culture, but to enjoy luxury amenities, fantastic shopping, and cosmopolitan cuisine.

Whether you're looking to gather your bearings in the city before launching a mountain trek, or you're just interested in museums, stores, and tea shops, Kathmandu delivers. There is something for every traveler in this ancient metropolis.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Kathmandu

1. a staggering array of festivals.

Many of Nepal's most important festivals take place in Kathmandu, which hosts pilgrimages, harvest celebrations, and the Festival of Lights, an important Hindu festival. These events take place throughout the year and are not to be missed.

2. Adventure Around Every Corner

Kathmandu's location under four mighty mountains - Shivapuri, Phulchoki, Nagarjun, and Chandragiri - makes it an ideal launching point for all sorts of adventures. From treks through the Kathmandu Valley, to bungee jumping, to trips to local villages, there's much to explore.

3. A Rich History

Kathmandu is over 2,000 years old, and it's easy to tell. Many of Nepal's most important religious and historical sites are located in Kathmandu. While in town, be sure to visit the Narayanhiti Palace Museum to learn more about this heritage.

4. The Incredible Durbar Square

Renowned since ancient times, Durbar Square is filled with magnificent palaces and temples, as well as the Kasthamandap from which the city is named. Over 10 sites of interest can be found in the square, though some were heavily damaged in the 2015 earthquake.

5. Experience Nepalese Culture

Kathmandu is one of those rare places where it doesn't matter what you've got on your itinerary - just experiencing the city and the living culture of the Nepalese is enough to fill up your days.

What to do in Kathmandu

1. boudhanath temple: a colorful cosmos.

The Boudhanath Temple, or Stupa, is the largest temple outside of Tibet. It is at the center of Kathmandu's Tibetan culture and is richly endowed with Buddhist symbolism. You can find it in Boudha, in the east of Kathmandu, where it dominates the skyline. It is thought that the Boudhanath Temple dates from the 14th century and its exterior represents the Buddhist cosmos. Inside, you will find an extraordinary array of frescoes and structures incorporating many sacred numbers from the Buddhist faith. Visiting is a colorful, moving and exhilarating experience that lives long in the memory.

2. Durbar Square: A Magical, Mystical Square

Durbar Square is sure to feature on your visit to Kathmandu. The name means royal palace square and the square faces the Hanuman Dhoka Palace. This was the seat of the Nepalese royal family until the 19th century and was the setting for the coronation of Nepalese kings. Today, you can visit the state rooms, where you will find elaborate wooden carvings, decorative window frames and the Mahendra and King Tribhuwan museums. To the south of the square you will encounter one of the strangest attractions in all of Nepal. The Kumari Chowk is a gilded 'cage' (actually a beautiful building) which is home to the Raj Kumari, a young girl regarded as the living embodiment of the Hindu goddess Durga.

3. Pashupatinath Temple: Experience Living History

Pashupatinath Temple is one of the four most important sites in Asia dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is said to date from around 500 AD and there may have been a site of worship as much as 500 years before that. It is the most extensive temple complex in all of Nepal, stretching along both banks of the Bagmati River. The main temple is built in pagoda style and features a roof gilded in silver and intricate wood carvings. Unlike other World Heritage Sites, Pashupatinath is a working temple and you can watch the fascinating daily rituals of the monks when you visit.

4. Narayanhity Palace: An American architect and Nepalese Traditions

The Narayanhity Palace was the principal residence of the monarchs of the Kingdom of Nepal until the 19th century. It housed state occasions with lavish hospitality and includes a huge complex of buildings, courtyards and gardens. The current palace is not as old as you might think; it was built in 1970 by the American architect Benjamin Polk. After the 2006 revolution, the palace was converted into a museum. It holds a fantastic collection, including the fabulous crown jewels of Nepal. You can also admire the beauty of the Reception Hall and Throne Room, with its 48-foot chandelier.

5. Swayambhunath Temple: A Stunning Stupa from the Lake

The Swayambhunath Temple sits atop a hill around two miles west of Kathmandu. It is the oldest Buddhist temple in Nepal and one of the most holy. Legend says the temple appeared spontaneously when the valley emerged from a lake 2,000 years ago. The temple complex includes lots of shrines, statues and countless prayer wheels. Some highlights are the huge gold Vajra, or thunderbolt, on the east side and the Sleeping Buddha on the west. It is still a working temple and is one of the best places in Nepal to see religious ceremonies.

Where to Eat in Kathmandu

Kathmandu's cuisine is one of the city's main attractions. The momo, a dumpling which can be filled with buffalo, chicken, or vegetables, can be found from street vendors throughout town, and is often paired with daal, curry, stewed vegetables, a pickle, and curd. Chiya, a milky tea, is a must as well. If you eat at a tourist restaurant, expect prices to be at least 25 percent higher than elsewhere. Meals can approach रू300 at a tourist establishment, but locals pay much less. Angan serves great Masala Dhosa for around रू70, while Wunjala Moskva hosts performances by local dancers.

When to visit Kathmandu

Kathmandu is a relatively temperate and warm city, with winter highs hovering around 66 degrees, and summer highs peaking around 90 degrees. However, summer also sees very high rainfall, and winter lows reach the low thirties, so preparation is required no matter when you visit. Spring and fall may be the best times to visit, as weather is mild and rain less frequent.

How to Get to Kathmandu

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) is located just a few miles east of town. There are many regular connections to Asian countries including Thailand, India, Korea, Malaysia, and China, and many others. Most hotels include hotel transfers, but taxis are available for about रू400-500, although if you walk to the end of the parking lot you may find one for रू200-300.

It is possible to rent a car and driver in Nepal, but rates vary wildly depending on the trip. For example, the 95-mile trip to Simbhanjyang and back costs रू4500, while a round trip to the Borderlands, approximately 115 miles total, costs रू4300. Researching and comparing pricing ahead of time is highly advised.

Buses are often used by locals trying to connect with other parts of Nepal. However, buses are incredibly uncomfortable due to poor road quality. It is also possible to ride into Nepal on buses from India. Kathmandu has two bus stations: Balaju to the north and Kalanki to the south.

Airports near Kathmandu

Airlines serving kathmandu, where to stay in kathmandu.

Thamel - Thamel is generally known as the tourist district, with attractions such as the Royal Palace (Narayanhiti Palace), a wide array of restaurants and bars, and the most hotels of any district in the city.

Popular Neighborhoods in Kathmandu

Chetrapati - bordering Thamel, Chetrapati is home to a university campus, a Buddhist temple, and many great restaurants. It's a nice place to walk around.

Jhochhen - located right by Durbar Square, Jhochhen is a fascinating area with several temples and historic buildings, in addition to Freak Street, a popular hang-out spot for hippies.

Where to stay in popular areas of Kathmandu

Most booked hotels in kathmandu, how to get around kathmandu, public transportation.

There are buses for getting around the Kathmandu Valley, and many circle around the outer Ring Road for रू20 to रू35, depending on the distance. Ask the locals for help if you choose to take this route, as it can be very difficult to navigate for a newcomer. Rickshaws are also abundant in the Thamel area, with prices open to negotiation. Keep in mind that rickshaws should cost about रू100 for a ride across town.

Taxis can be found throughout the city. Taxis have meters, which have rates beginning at रू14 before 21:00 and rising to रू21 afterwards. However, many drivers choose not to use the meter, so you may have to negotiate a price before your journey starts. A trip across town should cost no more than रू100-200.

It is possible to rent a car (or a taxi) for a day, or to get to a specific destination. Patan should cost रू300 to access, and Bakhtapur should be around रू1,000 rupees one-way. Renting a car for a full day of sightseeing around Kathmandu should cost around रू3800 rupees, and there is a Sixt outlet at the airport.

The Cost of Living in Kathmandu

Shopping streets.

Everything from jewelry to electronics can be found in Kathmandu's markets, which take place throughout the city. Kathmandu is also known for its many bookshops, which are stocked with both classics and travel guides. Thamel has many second-hand bookshops. If you are looking for clothing, a high-quality pair of jeans can be found for about रू3,000, while local, traditionally made goods cost far less.

Groceries and Other

Kathmandu has many convenience stores and a number of supermarkets, including Bhat Bhateni and Big Mart. However, you'll find plenty of food sold on the street as well. A loaf of bread will cost around रू90, while a dozen eggs fetches रू190.

• Tourist Information Nepal
• November 11, 2018 November 29, 2018
• Kulendra Baral

Nepal is located in South Asia between China in the north and India in the south, east and west. While the total land area is 147,181 sq. km including water area of the country that is 3,830 sq. km. The geographical coordinates are 28°00′N 84°00′E. Nepal falls in the temperate zone north of the Tropic of Cancer.Nepal’s ecological zones run east to west about 800 km along its Himalayan axis, 150 to 250 km north to south, and is vertically intersected by the river systems. The country can be divided into three main geographical regions: Himalayan region, mid hill region and Terai region. The highest point in the country is Mt. Everest (8,848 m) while the lowest point is in the Terai plains of Kechana Kalan in Jhapa (60 m).

The Constitution of Nepal, adopted in 2015, establishes Nepal as a federal secular parliamentary republic divided into seven provinces. Nepal was admitted to the United Nations in 1955, and friendship treaties were signed with India in 1950 and the People’s Republic of China in 1960. Nepal hosts the permanent secretariat of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), of which it is a founding member. Nepal is also a member of the Non Aligned Movement and the Bay of Bengal Initiative. The military of Nepal is the fifth largest in South Asia; it is notable for its Gurkha history, particularly during the world wars, and has been a significant contributor to United Nations peacekeeping operations.

Nepal Tourism Board: Nepal Tourism Board is a national tourism organization of Nepal established in 1998 by an Act of Parliament in the form of partnership between the Government of Nepal and private sector tourism industry to develop and market Nepal as an attractive tourist destination. The Board provides platform for vision-drawn leadership for Nepal’s tourism sector by integrating Government commitment with the dynamism of private sector.NTB is promoting Nepal in the domestic and international market and is working toward positioning the image of the country.It also aims to regulate product development activities.

Fund for NTB is collected in the form of Tourist Service Fee from departing foreign passengers at the Tribhuvan International Airport , Kathmandu, thus keeping it financially independent. The Board chaired by the Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation consists of 11 Board Members with five Government representatives, five private sector representatives and the Chief Executive Officer.“ Naturally Nepal , Once is not Enough” is the tourism brand of Nepal.”Naturally Nepal” is a simple expression that repackages the Nepal brand in a positive light. “Once is not Enough” not only accurately captures the tourists’ emotions at the airport’s departure gate but also serves as a decision tool that enables the Nepali tourism industry individually and collectively to focus both on consumer retention and acquisition.

Nepal Tourist Information Centers Nepal Tourism Board, the tourist service center at Brikutimandap (Phone: +97714256909, Fax: +977 1 4256910. E-mail: [email protected] provides brochures and free posters on Nepal from Monday to Thursday from 9 am to 5 pm. On Fridays, it closes at 3 pm. The department stays open until 4 pm in winter.

Other tourism information center locations are listed below with phone numbers. Birgunj – 051-22083 Pokhara – 061-20028 Bhairawa – 071-20304 Janakpur – 041-20755 Kakarbhitta – 023-2020

Tourist Police Nepal: Tourist Police Nepal was established in 1979 AD as a special unit of Nepal Police working under Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Tourism Industry Division. Tourist Police today has the strength of 227 Officers working under the Supervision of Police Inspector and has 24 units spread throughout the country including 9 units inside the Kathmandu valley and 15 units outside the valley in 11 different districts. The Central Office is situated inside the Premises of Nepal Tourism Board, Bhrikutimandap Kathmandu Nepal. Since its inception, the tourist police have been active in facilitating tourists and delivering security services.

For any assistance in Nepal: Tourist Police Nepal Bhrikutimandap Kathmandu. (Inside the premises of Nepal Tourism Board) Phone: +977-14247041, 1144. Email:- [email protected] Website:- www.nepalpolice.gov.np

No matter when and where you are Dial 1144

Resources: Nepal – Wikipedia, Nepal Tourism Board

About Author

Attractions

• UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Protected Areas
• Eight Thousanders
• Pilgrimage Sites

Bungee Jumping

• Motor Biking
• Rafting & Kayaking

Mountain Biking

Paragliding.

• Cave Exploration
• Bird Watching

Mountain Viewing

• Jungle Discovery
• Butterfly Watching
• Nagarkot Sunrise and Sunset
• Traditional Crafts
• Meet the People
• Village Tours
• Food & Culinary
• Cultural Tours
• Heritage Walk

Museum Tours

• Faith Healing
• Panchakarma Treatment
• Sound Meditation
• Natural Hot Water Springs in Nepal
• Pilgrimage Tours
• Destination Wedding
• Indra Jatra
• Chhat Parva
• Event Calendar
• Festival Highlights
• Travel with children
• Ganesh Himal Trek
• Chandragiri - Chitlang - Kulekhani
• Pilgrimage to Doleshwar mahadev Temple

About Nepal

Travel details.

• Tourist Visa
• Local Transportation
• Trekking Permit
• Park Entry Fees
• Heritage Site Entry Fees
• Tourist Police
• Safety in the Mountains

Book Your Trip

• Book Experience
• Travel Updates

Pokhara’s tranquil beauty has been the subject of inspiration for many travel writers. Its pristine air, spectacular backdrop of snowy peaks, blue lakes and surrounding greenery make it ‘the jewel in the Himalaya’, a place of remarkable natural disposition. With the magnificent Annapurna range forming the backdrop and the serenity of the Cluster of 9 Lakes with three major ones - Phewa, Rupa and Begnas – Pokhara is a great destination for a weekend getaway as well as a long relaxing holiday. Pokhara Valley, gateway to the Annapurna region where many a trekker finds his Shangri-la, sits high on the list of ‘must visit’ places in Nepal.

Pokhara once lay on the important trade route between India and Tibet. To this day, mule trains set up camps on the city outskirts, bringing goods from remote Himalayan regions including Mustang. Gurungs and Magars, who have earned world-wide fame as fierce Gurkha warriors, are predominant here. Thakalis, indigenous of the Thak Khola region of Mustang , are known for their entrepreneurship and run tea houses along the trek routes in the Annapurna region . The Pokhara is best known for the stunning view of the Annapurna range. It is perhaps one of the few places on earth from where mountains above 6,000 m can be seen unobstructed from an altitude of 800 m within the distance of 28 km. 

Many find Machhapuchhre's razor-edged "Fish Tail" peak piercing the skyline or reflected in the still waters of Phewa Lake to be their most lasting impression of Nepal. Pokhara Valley has in recent years grown as a destination for adventure sports such as paragliding and ultra-light aircraft flights. And with boating, bird watching, trekking and mountain biking as other attractions, Pokhara has it all. 

Pokhara is warmer than Kathmandu. Summers are warm and humid while winters are mild and pleasant. 

ACCESS/ ACCOMMODATION

One can fly directly into Pokhara from Kathmandu. One can also take a bus or drive to Pokhara from the border towns. Accommodation in Pokhara ranges from luxurious world-class hotels and resorts that provide modern services and amenities to comfortable lodges with basic amenities.

Places to see in Pokhara

Phewa and cluster of 9 lakes, davis fall & gupteshwar, mahendra gupha, world peace pagoda, old bazaar & bindyabasini, things to do in pokhara, boating & kayaking, accessible trail, birdwatching, ultralight flights, accessible tourism trail.

Nepal Tourism Board is a national tourism organization of Nepal established in 1998 by an Act of Parliament in the form of partnership between the Government of Nepal and private sector tourism industry to develop and market Nepal as an attractive tourist destination. The Board provides platform for vision-drawn leadership for Nepal’s tourism sector by integrating Government commitment with the dynamism of private sector.

Nepal Tourism Board

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"The City of Peace"

Kathmandu tourism.

Sprawled over its namesake valley surrounded by Himalayan mountains, Kathmandu is Nepal’s capital and most-visited destination, full of ancient temples, golden pagodas, natural beauty and fascinating villages. At an elevation of 4,344 feet, Kathmandu marks the confluence of the Bagmati and Vishnumati rivers. One can find excellent trekking options of the world’s tallest peaks, stunning Indo-Tibetan and Newari craftsmanship, UNESCO-listed heritage landmarks and delicious food here.

Kathmandu is the gateway to exploring Nepal’s essence. Amidst the old city’s maze-like alleyways is the 1627-built Durbar Square, where locals frolic during Indra Jatra masked dance festival. Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, Monkey Temple and Boudha Stupa are some more eminent religious establishments. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Nagarkot, Rani Pokhari Lake and Champadevi Hill for hiking, bungee jumping, rafting and mountain climbing. Learning about Buddhism at Kopan Monastery, buying pashmina shawls and trinkets at Indra Chowk and Thamel’s markets and digging into steaming momos are great ways to enhance the experience. From courtyards of drying chillies and rice, incense wafting out of shrines, national museums, and contemporary Nepali art galleries to hobbit-sized workshops, bustling bazaars, rickshaws, Thukpa and Everest beer, Kathmandu offers something unique for every tourist, devotee, backpacker, history buff, foodie and shopaholic.

Places To Visit In Kathmandu

Boudhanath Stupa

Swayambhunath Temple

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Pashupatinath Temple

Thamel (Commercial Street)

Garden of Dreams Kathmandu

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12 Best Clubs in Kathmandu For a Wild Night

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Shopping in kathmandu.

• Thamel is the centre for all things shopping. You'll find everything, from handicrafts to metal works, from paper works to clothes here.
• The local handicrafts and antiques are world-famous, and the handwoven cloths of the region are intricate and beautiful.
• Do buy Pashmina and Cashmere shawls while you're here, they are absolutely exquisite and a must-have!

Nightlife in Kathmandu

Currency in kathmandu.

• Visas and MasterCard are accepted in Kathmandu, however not every place has the option of paying via card so it's imperative that you always carry cash in NPR with yourself.
• No other currency is formally accepted, however, guides may sometimes accept tips in USD to exchange for NPR, usually resulting in getting higher tips.

Exchanging Money in Kathmandu

• Money changers or exchange shops in Thamel District are very popular and charge minimal exchange rates. 
• Some recommended currency exchange dealers are Annapurna Money Exchange and Laxmi Money Exchange, both located in Thamel Marg.
• ATMs are easily available in the city and cash is dispensed in NPR only.
• Major currencies such as GBP, USD, Euro, Yen or INR can be exchanged at the money changers.
• ATMs of most banks levy a fee of NPR 750 per transaction and limit withdrawals to NPR 25000, so it's better to withdraw a fair bit of cash in one transaction.
• Be careful of pickpockets and also be careful while using your cards.

Daily Budget for Kathmandu

History of kathmandu.

(Source ) Chariot procession in

Kathmandu in the late 19th century 

Language of Kathmandu

Dos and don'ts in kathmandu.

• Dress Modest: Dressing in Nepal doesn't confine to strict or absolute norms for tourists. However, it is preferred that one does not dress scantily since it is not very fondly looked upon by the locals.
• Be Vary of Scams: The locals, in general, are very welcoming to foreigners, but like any city, one must be careful of touts and cheats.
• Greetings : Saying Namaste as a form of greeting is a common practice. Shaking of hands as a greeting is practised too, however, a man should not offer his hand to a woman unless he is offered it first.
• Tipping Customs: Tips are often given in Nepal. In restaurants and hotels, 5 - 10% of the bill is sufficient. You can tip your guide anywhere between NPR 300 - 500 per day.

Best Time to Visit Kathmandu

Top stories about kathmandu tourism.

2 Airports in Kathmandu: Tribhuvan International Airport & Pokhara Airport

 History of Kathmandu: A Detailed Article

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