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A locals’ guide to Kathmandu, Nepal: top 10 tips

The gateway to the Himalayas has been a backpackers’ haven since the 1950s. Now recovering from the 2015 earthquake, it offers a magical mix of chaos and beauty

The Garden of Dreams

For most visitors, a trip to Nepal begins in Thamel. This labyrinth of streets and alleys lined with souvenir shops, bars, hotels and restaurants has been the hub for backpackers since the country opened itself to outsiders in the late 1950s. Of the city’s handful of green enclaves, the Garden of Dreams is a serene spot in which to escape the bustle of the streets. Just across from the former royal palace (which is now a museum), the garden, with its pavilions and ponds, is the perfect spot to unwind with a book or take a nap on the lawn mats.

Boudhanath stupa

Boudhanath is one of the holiest sites for Buddhists, but don’t expect to feel zen vibes right away at this Unesco-listed site: it’s loud, busy and next to a teeming thoroughfare. It can take a few minutes to take in the grandeur of the great white dome of Boudhanath, badly damaged by the 2015 earthquake but now restored. After the noise of the traffic recedes, you can hear soft chanting and smell the burning incense. Boudhanath is also an important place for Buddhist scholarship, with many monasteries built around the holy site. The area is home to a large Tibetan community, and the shops and restaurants in the vicinity offer a great introduction to Tibetan food and culture. If you can handle spicy food, try lhaphing , a cold noodle dish, found in any of the Tibetan restaurants. Entrance $4

Jazz Upstairs

Jazz Upstairs used to be a regular haunt for Nepali youth in the late 1990s; an intimate seating area on the floor of an old rundown house with a tiny side entrance was the perfect place for clandestine dates and great jazz. The old building has succumbed to a concrete makeover, but Jazz Upstairs, in the Lazimpat neighbourhood, remains popular. Within walking distance of Thamel, the bar hosts live performances on Wednesdays and Saturdays. With excellent music, affordable prices and a rooftop bar with a 360-degree view of the hills that surround the valley, Jazz Upstairs is a welcome change from more touristy haunts in Thamel. A bottle of Gorkha beer with a plate of Alu Dum (a spicy, tangy potato dish) costs around $6. jazzupstairs.com

Nepal on a plate

A thali (a set meal on a metal plate) comes with the Nepali staple daal bh at (rice and lentils) along with masu (meat), tarka ri (vegetable curry), saag (leafy greens) and a cha r (pickle). But a thakali- style thali also makes generous use of Sichuan pepper and jimb u , an aromatic herb native to the Himalayas. In Nepal, it is found in the northern region of Mustang, where the Thakali community is originally from. Tukche Thakali Kitchen is a family-run restaurant loved for its delicious food and warm hospitality. The interior is full of copper pots and brassware, and its traditional chulo (stove) adds to the experience of devouring a thali – that comes with generous refills. Thalis with chicken, mutton or vegetables from around $5, tukche.com

Momo joints

Everyone in the city has their favourite place when it comes to eating momos (steamed meat or vegetable dumplings). Whether it is a hole-in-the-wall bhatti or a posh restaurant, momos are representative of the Kathmandu valley’s ethnic diversity. The Newar traders are said to have brought the recipe back from Tibet. Some of our favourite momo places are Jatra Cafe & Bar in Thamel, for vegetarian momos; the jhol (soup) momos at Le Trio in Jhamsikhel; and pork momos at Yellow Pomelo on Jawlakhel Road.

Stay in the city of beauty

Patan is only a 20-minute taxi ride from Thamel, but feels distinctly different from Kathmandu. Its Sanskrit name was Lalitpur, meaning City of Beauty, and a walk there offers a glimpse of the intimate lives of Newari people, the indigenous inhabitants of the Kathmandu valley. Its Durbar Square is the finest collection of temples and palaces in Nepal, even after the 2015 earthquake. The most memorable experience comes at dusk, when temples and monasteries light upready for evening prayers. People throng to the square to drink tea and watch the evening glow on the gold-plated spires. Newa Chen is a 350-year-old Newari house belonging to the Shrestha family, who restored their three-storey property and opened it to guests in 2006. The beautifully carved windows overlooking the courtyard, brick interiors, beamed ceiling and straw mats transport you back to the 17th century. Doubles from $50 B&B ($40 with shared bathroom ), newachen.com

Tour of Kathmandu Durbar Square

Up until the mid-18th century, the Kathmandu valley was split into three kingdoms: Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur. Each of these three cities has a sprawling palace complex, or Durbar Square, which are testament to Nepal’s monarchical past. All three are listed as world heritage sites. The Kathmandu Durbar Square, above, is an intricate mix of temples, palaces, monasteries and shrines that are not only of historical importance, but each structure and statue evokes myths and legends passed down through generations. The best way to discover this square is by on foot. Alok Siddhi Tuladhar, a cultural heritage conservationist, conducts a free Heritage Walkevery third Sunday of the month. The walk begins at the north end of Kamalachi street near Ason, a marketplace in the heart of old Kathmandu, and the beginning of the ancient trade route that connected Kathmandu with Tibet and India.

Sam’s Bar, Thamel

The roof terrace of Sam’s Bar, in Thamel, has a cosy rooftop terrace and is popular with both backpackers and locals. The graffiti on the walls reads more like love letters to Nepal, left behind by visitors from all over the world. While it doesn’t serve food, expect generous portions of salted popcorn to accompany a cocktail or bottle of Gorkha beer (both about $4). If you are there in winter, grab a seat next to the log fire and order a hot rum punch made with Nepal’s very ownKhukri rum. The communal feel of the terrace means you are sure to have made friends by the end of the night. Chaksibari Marg, no website

Full moon classical music

Kirateshwar Sangeet is a music school that puts together enchanting classical music performances every month on the night of the full moonat Kirateshwar Mahadev temple. Running for over 25 years, these concerts attract eastern classical music talents from Nepal and abroad, the musicians putting on a spellbinding performance with their tablas, flutes, harmonium and sitar. These concerts are free, usually start at around 5pm, and last about two hours. Sitting out in the open under a full moon listening to classical music is a unique experience, so make sure you check the lunar phase before your trip. The temple is in the Pashupatinath temple complex, between Pashupatinath and Gujeshwori temples.

Honacha restaurant

Newari cuisine is famous for its variety. Each dishholds a meaning or plays a specific role in a traditional Newari bhoj (feast). Behind the Krishna temple in Patan’s Durbar Square is Honacha, one of the oldest restaurants serving authentic Newari dishes. The place is always teeming with hungry diners often sharing tables while snacking on chhwela (spicy marinated buffalo meat), bara (round, fluffy lentil pancakes), and spicy potato curry. Don’t forget to try aila , home-brewed Newari liquor, the perfect accompaniment to the delicious food. Full meal around $5, on Facebook

Getting there From the UK, the quickest routes are with Oman Air via Muscat, Qatar Airways via Doha, and Jet Airways and Air India, both via Delhi.

Best time to go Between October and December, when the skies are clear and the views spectacular.

Where to stay Pilgrim’s Guesthouse (singles $18, doubles $14-28) or the Bodhi Boutique Hotel (twins and doubles $55).

Recommended reads Kathmandu by Thomas Bell . Thamel: Dark Star of Kathmandu by Rabi Thapa . Arresting God in Kathmandu by Samrat Upadhyaya .

Bhrikuti Rai is a journalist and Itisha Giri is a poet. Both are producers of Boju Bajai , a monthly podcast on feminism and Nepal

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A Complete DIY Nepal Travel Guide for planning your trip

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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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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The best places to visit in Nepal, from mountains to Buddha's birthplace

Jan 9, 2022 • 8 min read

Nepal is as much about its stunning sacred sights as its magnificent mountains © John Harper / Getty Images

Nepal is the destination with everything: towering Himalayan peaks and world-class trekking, sacred religious sites and wildlife-rich forests – not to mention well-preserved medieval architecture, tranquil hilltop towns and impressive culinary diversity.

Almost everyone visits Kathmandu, and most people take a trek through the Everest or Annapurna ranges – if you’re not sure where else to go in Nepal, try our list of places that shouldn’t be missed, from national parks patrolled by one-horned rhinos to hotspots for mountain adventure sports.

Kathmandu, Nepal's historic, foodie capital

Best for eating out.

An atmospheric old town, countless temples, shrines and religious sites, buzzing markets and several fascinating museums and galleries – plus a fair share of traffic and pollution – combine to make the Nepali capital a riot for the senses. 

History and culture are the main draws for visitors to Kathmandu , but the city also has a remarkably varied dining scene, catering to visitors from across the globe. Alongside excellent Nepali cuisine, you can find everything from Korean bulgogi (barbecued beef), Japanese sushi and Thai curries to French crêpes, Austrian schnitzel and Middle Eastern falafel.

The Himalayas, the world's favorite trekking destination

Best for trekking.

Dominated by eight of the world’s ten highest mountains, the Nepali Himalayas stretch the length of the country and offer unparalleled trekking opportunities. The scenery is awe-inspiring – soaring snow-covered peaks, gin-clear lakes, terraced green hills, remote villages, chains of fluttering prayer flags. Best of all, you can hit the trails with minimal admin, beyond obtaining a Trekkers’ Information Management Systems (TIMS) card and paying any national park fees. 

The Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit and Langtang Valley treks are the most popular routes for travelers, but there are many other less-trodden but equally spectacular routes to follow. The dramatic two- to three-week trek to the base of the third tallest mountain, Kanchenjunga, in the far east of Nepal, is a stunning route that sees just a handful of trekkers.

Bodhnath, Kathmandu's most spectacular stupa

Best for tibetan buddhist culture.

The largest stupa (dome-shaped Buddhist monument) in Asia sits in the heart of the Kathmandu Valley, in the village of Bodhnath (also known as Boudha) on the outskirts of Kathmandu. The shrine is a hub of Tibetan Buddhist culture in exile, and thousands of pilgrims travel here daily to make a kora (ritual circumambulation) of the resplendent white stupa, which is best visited in the late afternoon after most tourists have departed. 

Bodhnath is also a popular place for travelers to study Tibetan Buddhism, with a wide range of courses, seminars and talks on offer. Duck into the backstreets to see Nepal's most skilled repoussé metalworkers in action.

Meet tigers and rhinos in Chitwan National Park

Best for spotting rhinos.

A royal hunting ground in the 19th century, Chitwan became Nepal’s first national park in 1973 and has since earned international recognition for its conservation efforts, with growing populations of rhinos and tigers in the marshlands and forests flanking the confluence of the Rapti and Narayani Rivers.

Located in the western Terai, the thin ribbon of low-lying land running across southern Nepal, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the finest places to view wildlife in South Asia. Its forests, grasslands, marshes and rivers are home to a profusion of animal and bird species, most notably a large population of one-horned rhinos, which have recovered from the brink of extinction thanks to some smart conservation practices.

Bhaktapur, Nepal's best-preserved medieval town

Best for medieval architecture.

Although badly affected by the devastating 2015 earthquake, the Kathmandu Valley city of Bhaktapur remains an architectural treasure trove, with an astonishing collection of well-preserved buildings dating back 600 years or more, including temples, palaces and traditional brick and timber homes.

There are three main squares flanked by temples and palaces, a maze of cobbled alleyways lined with red-brick shops and houses and innumerable tucked-away courtyards, shrines, pagodas and pavilions. A walk through Bhaktapur, which was once an independent kingdom, feels like a journey back in time, particularly if you stay overnight and see the city after the daytrippers have gone home.

Pokhara, gateway to the Annapurna range

Best for adventure sports.

Located on the shore of shimmering Phewa Lake, gazing up at the jagged Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges, the city of Pokhara is Nepal’s adventure sports capital. Travelers come here in droves to relax on the lakeshore and indulge in exhilarating activities in the surrounding mountain valleys.

As well as being the jumping-off point for some of Nepal's most popular treks (including the famous Annapurna Circuit), Pokhara is an excellent place to organize whitewater rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, canyoning and paragliding trips in the surrounding countryside, as well as straight-up adrenaline-charged activities such as bungee jumping and ziplining.

Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha

Best for a buddhist pilgrimage.

A short drive west of the Terai town of Siddharthanagar (also known as Bhairawa), Lumbini is one of Buddhism’s holiest sites. In the middle of the Sacred Garden, the Maya Devi Temple marks the precise spot where Siddhartha Gautama – better known as the Buddha – was born in 563 BCE. 

This intensely sacred site is surrounded by a vast complex filled with temples built in a wild variety of architectural styles by Buddhist communities from around the world, alongside a museum, cultural center and a towering white-and-gold peace pagoda in a park often visited by Sarus cranes.

Encounters with royal history in Gorkha

The best for hilltop palaces.

In the Middle Hills, Gorkha was the hometown of Prithvi Narayan Shah, who unified the warring kingdoms of Nepal in 1769 and founded a long-lasting royal dynasty that endured (with one short period of disruption) until Nepal became a republic in 2008.

The king was born in the 16th-century Gorkha Durbar , a spectacular palace-temple-fort complex in an elevated position high above town and accessed via a steep, meandering trail. Although Gorkha was close to the epicenter of the powerful 2015 earthquake, its buildings survived relatively unscathed and most damaged structures have since been restored.

Bandipur, Nepal's most charming hill getaway

Best for a relaxing getaway.

An enchanting town perched on a ridge in the Middle Hills, high above the road from Kathmandu to Pokhara, Bandipur has been described as a “living museum” thanks to its array of 18th-century Newari mansions and temples.

Once an important stop-off on the lucrative India-Tibet trade route, it offers a captivating mélange of attractive guest houses, charming cafes, pedestrianized streets, dotted shrines, sublime vistas and numerous day hikes, making it an ideal spot for a break from the crowds.

Bardia National Park, for quieter nature encounters

Best for safaris without the crowds.

Around 400km (249 miles) west of Chitwan, Bardia National Park is larger, covers a greater range of habitats and receives far fewer visitors than its more heralded counterpart. Accessed from the quiet village of Thakurdwara, the reserve has one-horned rhinos, tigers, elephants and leopards, as well as gharial crocodiles and rare Gangetic dolphins. 

Although spotting these creatures may require a little more time and patience than in Chitwan, Bardia’s pristine landscapes and the absence of crowds of visitors disturbing the wildlife are more than ample compensation. Early morning and late afternoon safaris offer the best chances of animal encounters.

Janakpur, Nepal's other sacred city

Best for hindu temples.

In the eastern Terai, the city of Janakpur is often overlooked by travelers, yet its glorious Janaki Mandir is an architectural masterpiece and has huge significance in Hindu mythology. Dedicated to the goddess Sita – who, according to legend, was born and married the god Rama here – the baroque Mughal-style temple draws pilgrims from across Nepal and India. 

Janakpur is also renowned for its exquisite Maithili paintings, an ancient art form that depicts stories from Hinduism, as well as scenes from everyday life in the Terai. You can buy works from local painters at the Janakpur Women’s Development Centre just outside of town.

Get Himalayan views without the hard work in Nagarkot

Best for watching the sunrise.

On a ridge just outside the Kathmandu Valley, the village of Nagarkot has one huge selling point: it offers panoramic views of eight Himalayan ranges, including Everest. It's one of the best spots to come for mountain views without the effort of trekking.

If you’re lucky enough to be here on a clear, cloud-free day – these are most common from October to December and March to April – the sight of this magnificent sprawl of snow peaks is mesmerizing, especially at sunrise.

Nepal  is on our 2022 Best of Travel list. For more stories from some of the world’s most exciting destinations  click here .

Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before  traveling during COVID-19 .

You may also like: The Nepali mountaineer reclaiming the Himalaya How to plan your dream trip to the Himalayas How to trek to Everest Base Camp

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A trekking mecca that boasts the snow-mantled peaks of Annapurna and Everest, Nepal, its passes and trails, earthy cityscapes and national parks, is best explored with a qualified personal tour guide from tourHQ.

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Hi I am Dinesh. Warm greetings from Nepal. I started my career as English & German ...

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Namaste & Warm greetings from Nepal. One of the qualified Nepal government`s licensed trekking & ...

Jaya N Bhandari

Namaste! to all Dear travelers and Guest,I am Jaya N Bhandari Working as trekking and mountain tour ...

Ranjan Pokharel

Namaste! I am Ranjan- a government-licensed tour guide in Nepal since 2010. Being a local tour ...

Paras Mani Amgain

Namaste! Greetings from Kathmandu, Nepal. This is me Paras with a decade of experience in tour ...

Suraj Gurung

Authentic trekking in Nepal I'm Suraj and have 15 years of experience leading trekking tours in the ...

Niranjan Nepal Ramesh

 I am Niranjan Nepal (Ramesh) from Dhading district, the hilly region of the western part ...

Anil Manandhar

Dear guests, this is me, Anil Manandhar a certified guide from Kathmandu with experience of more ...

Rajendra Dhamala (Raj DC)

Namaste! Cordial greetings! I am a hardworking and sincere person and I like travelling to places. ...

Badri Aryal

Hi everyone, I am Badri Aryal. Born & frown in the lap of Himalayas. As I was impressed by the ...

Shiva Sedai

A trekking tour guide in Nepal, I love to spend time in the mountain part of the world. A ...

In a strip of land between China and India lies the exotic nation of Nepal. Its’ unique geographical location is perhaps the country’s most interesting draw, holding a piece of the Himalayas, tiger-trodden rainforest, and colorful markets of Kathmandu. Nepal has recently emerged as a go-to destination for backpackers and adventure-seeking travellers, with mountainous treks, monastery visits, and side-by-side rhino sightings drawing them in with every step.

In a country where Hindu mantras echo through mountain’s deep gorges, and daring bungee jumpers end their treks shopping Nepal’s handcrafted goods, the nation delivers equal treatments of culture and excitement. As any Nepal local guide knows, the worst stressor for visitors lies not in the traditional travelling concerns. The native’s welcoming nature is nationally prevalent, and finding groups to safely meander the country’s frontier with exist in every form imaginable. No, the worst fear of those touring Nepal is the sad reality they will inevitably miss much of its’ most intriguing attractions. There is simply not enough time to see, explore, and experience all of Nepal, making a return trip mandatory.

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Nepal Itineraries

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The best way to explore Nepal, of course, is to use this guide to create your own itinerary, but below we offer three recommended routes. "The Best of Nepal" covers the highlights – deservedly popular destinations, but you'll never be far off the beaten track. "Kathmandu and Everest" adds a few Kathmandu Valley sights onto the Everest Base Camp trek, while "Exploring the West" gives you a memorable trip well away from most tourist itineraries.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Nepal, created by local experts

11 days  / from 3248 USD

Exclusive Everest

Trek in the Everest region of Nepal's Himalayas, absorbing spectacular views at every step, including Everest rising above the Nuptse Ridge, Lhotse, the iconic peak of Ama Dablam and other Himalayan giants too. Top this off with a shot of warm Nepalese culture for an experience of a lifetime.

13 days  / from 1950 USD

Himalayan Family Adventure

Experience Nepal's hill villages and jungle lowlands as you embark on a family-friendly adventure of a lifetime. Expect mini mountain treks, overnight camps, river rafting and wildlife safaris. Come here for action, stunning mountain scenery and a look around bustling Kathmandu too.

13 days  / from 2200 USD

The UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Nepal

Set in the heart of the Himalayas, the landlocked South-Asian country of Nepal is home to a wealth of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From wild jungles to ancient civilisations, Nepal offers a combination of history, culture and nature; perfect for the most well-seasoned of travellers.

12 days  / from 1387 USD

A Taste of Annapurna

Experience the great Nepalese outdoors in all its glory with this moderate trek: pass through picturesque mountain villages like Ghorepani; soak up a stunning sunrise from Poon Hill; marvel at the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, all with this unique adventure trek!

Recommended Nepal itineraries

If you are planning your travel to Nepal yourself, use these itineraries created by our travel writers as a starting point for inspiration.

Everest Base Camp, Himalayas, Nepal

Nepal Itinerary 1 - The best of Nepal

You could do a whistlestop tour of the classic sights in eight to ten days. If you trek into the Annapurna region, you'll need another week or two – depending how far and how fast you walk.

1. Kathmandu

The capital has boomed in recent years, becoming a busy, polluted, modern city, but it still preserves a stunning medieval heart and an easygoing restaurant and nightlife scene.

2. Pashupatinath and Boudha

At the holy riverbank of Pashupatinath, the Hindu dead are cremated in the open; just down the road lies the dizzyingly exotic Tibetan Buddhist community of Boudha.

3. Bhaktapur

The stunningly preserved micro-city of Bhaktapur offers a taste of what Kathmandu was like before the modern world arrived.

4. Bandipur

Poised on a precipitous ridge, the old-world bazaar town of Bandipur has become an easygoing haven, packed with gorgeous boutique hotels and friendly homestay lodges.

Set under the white peaks of the Annapurna range, lakeside Pokhara is Nepal's biggest tourist centre. You can paraglide, meditate or just relax on a boat or in a bar.

6. Annapurna trekking

The Annapurna range rises above some of Nepal's lushest, steepest and loveliest foothills – perfect for a shorter trek to the viewpoint of Poon Hill, or, with a few more days in hand, up to the uplifting Annapurna Sanctuary and then back to Pokhara.

From Pokhara, head off next to the jungle, grassland and rivers of Chitwan National Park. You're almost guaranteed sightings of rhinos, deer, monkeys, crocodiles and countless species of birds.

Nepal Itinerary 2 - Kathmandu and Everest

Altitude enforces a minimum 14- to 16-day schedule for the Everest Base Camp trek, but three weeks would allow some exploration of Kathmandu and its valley as well.

1. Shivapuri and Budhanilkantha

Start acclimatizing with a day-hike from Kathmandu up to the valley rim at Shivapuri, taking in the Sleeping Vishnu at Budhanilkantha.

Fly from Kathmandu to the world's most insane airstrip, and in minutes you're at the gates of Khumbu, the profoundly Buddhist Everest region, ready to start walking up to Namche.

A "rest" day at Namche Bazaar, the Sherpa capital, might involve a six-hour round-trip hike to Thame.

4. Buddhist monasteries

The slow ascent necessary for acclimatization above Namche allows time for monastery visits. On the trail between Namche and Base Camp, the serene gompa at Tengboche, Pangboche and Deboche are rich with gilded statues and thangka paintings.

5. Chhukhung

Another "rest day" takes you exploring off the main Base Camp trail up to the Imja Glacier or the peak of Chhukhung Ri, overnighting at the tiny settlement of Chhukung.

6. Kala Pattar

The high point of the Everest trek isn't the relatively disappointing Base Camp itself (5300m) but the breathtaking (literally) viewpoint hillock of Kala Pattar (5545m).

In good conditions, experienced walkers can cross the Cho La into the Gokyo valley, for more views and a descent to Lukla by the western trail.

8. Kathmandu

A post-trek day or two in Kathmandu could be happily wasted browsing for handicrafts, eating and drinking – or seeing the sights.

Nepal Itinerary 3 - Exploring the West

Few travellers head any further west than Pokhara, but as soon as you get off the well-travelled track you start tasting a rougher, richer side of Nepal. This itinerary is for those with weeks to spare – though you could reduce it to a fortnight by settling for just the Karnali, Bardia and Pokhara.

1. The Karnali from Dungeshwar

This remote rafting-and-camping trip begins with a flight to Nepalgunj, a bus or jeep ride via Birendra Nagar to the put-in point at Dungeshwar, then a raft descent through remote, far western hills.

2. Bardia National Park

The rafting trip can end at Bardia, which has all the spectacular wildlife of Chitwan, but a fraction of the visitors – and preserves its laidback mud-and-thatch lodges.

The birthplace of the Buddha sits in the burning hot plains, amid astounding monasteries and ancient archeological sites.

A friendly town on the edge of the hills offering appealing homestays, a fine restaurant, a palace, Himalayan views and a great day-hike to Rani Ghat.

5. Biking the Tamghas Highway

You'll see no other tourists on this rough, multi-day mountain-biking (or, if you must, bus and hitchhiking) route between Tansen and Pokhara.

If you arrive in Pokhara from the west, you'll deserve all that basking by the lake, and all those relaxed bars and restaurants.

An impressive royal palace looms on the ridge above the hill town of Gorkha.

8. Manaslu Circuit

You could make a two- to three-week detour from Gorkha around Nepal's "teahouseable" trekking route – no camping required.

The Rough Guides to Nepal and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Nepal

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Nepal

• Culture and Etiquette in Nepal
• Eating and drinking in Nepal
• Getting around Nepal: Transportation Tips
• Travel Health Nepal
• Travel Tips Nepal for planning and on the go
• How to get to Nepal
• Best time to visit Nepal

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 6.02.2024

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Popular Nepal Destinations

Popular kathmandu tour guides.

Badri prasad A.

I have been working in the tourism and hospitality industry in nepal since 2007. i had worked as a mountain trekking porter in the beginning days. slowly & step by step i got chance to become mountain guide & then the heritage/cultural guide. for now i have been working with outdoor himalayan treks and a freelancer guide from different companies as well.                                                                                                                                  .

Hello Everyone, I am Anil, a registered licensed trekking guide in Nepal with vast experience in trekking to Annapurna, Everest, and Langtang, region of Nepal. Moreover, since the start of 2019, I have been running a tour and trekking company with an excellent team. Hence, for any kind of short-day tour, wildlife tour in Nepal, and trekking in Nepal, feel free to get in touch with me. We will conduct safe and memorial tours for you. Thank you.                                                                                                                                  

Hello, prospective travelers! I'm Kashyap , a passionate tourism graduate from Amity University Kolkata with a fervor for showcasing the beauty of Nepal. As a licensed tour guide and trekking guide, I am dedicated to providing you with an authentic and memorable experience in this enchanting land. With a deep love for my country's rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and diverse traditions, I am eager to share the wonders of Nepal with you. Whether you're seeking a cultural immersion in the bustling streets of Kathmandu, an awe-inspiring trek in the Himalayas, or a blend of both, I am here to tailor an unforgettable journey that suits your interests and preferences. My extensive knowledge of Nepal's history, geography, and local customs ensures that your exploration will be not only informative but also deeply enriching. From the ancient allure of Kathmandu's Durbar Square to the spiritual ambiance of Pashupatinath Temple, and the breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan peaks, let me guide you through a personalized adventure that captures the essence of Nepal. Embark on a journey with me, and together, we'll create memories that will last a lifetime. I look forward to welcoming you to the heart of the Himalayas and sharing the magic that makes Nepal an extraordinary destination.                                                                                                                                  

Myself Prabin. I am a government certified professional Tour Guide. I have been working as a tour guide since 2012. I was born and raised in Bhaktapur. I am student of Master in Nepalese culture, History and Archeology. if you are interested in Nepalese culture and history I will be the perfect guide for you.                                                                                                                                  

Namaste and Greeting from Nepal. I am very enthusiastic about introducing myself. Myself is Ph.D. A scholar in Tourism with a master’s in Soft Skills Corporate Training. I have been associated with the hospitality industry and institutes in Nepal. I have first-hand experience in handling and in association with people from various walks of life, which gave me the ability to effectively manage people and their behavior. I have been actively associated with people from various cultural backgrounds to bridge the areas in communication and comprehend the changing needs in the hospitality industry. I have been in the industry for 20 years of service. As customers have recognized me all over the world and my firm is aware of providing the best service to our valued client. I want to offer you some prodigious tour and treks packages of the beautiful Himalayas ( Nepal,Tibet and Bhutan ) to the adventure’s client . As people had travel experience with me, are evidence of our exceedingly efficient and quality services. They have shared their best moment on our company review pages. As I label myself as leading. I am innovated and highly efficient organization in the country. I looked forward to server the quality service with smile . Sincerely, Sujan Lamichhane Thamel, Kathmandu Nepal.                                                                                                                                  

I am a licensed government travel and tour guide in Nepal with a wealth of experience leading tours and treks in various regions such as Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, and Kanchenjunga. My friendly demeanor, positive attitude, and professionalism make me a trusted guide for tourists from all over the world. I am fluent in several languages, including Nepali, English, Japanese, and Hindi, which allows me to communicate effectively with my clients and make them feel comfortable throughout their travels. I offer customized tour packages and activities tailored to my clients' preferences, ensuring a memorable experience. I am dedicated to providing high-quality service, including safety, hygiene, and top-notch equipment to ensure my clients have the best experience possible. I am always enthusiastic about exploring new sites in Nepal, discovering hidden gems that can become perfect destinations for future generations.                                                                                                                                  

Prem prakash B.

Namaste warm greetings from nepal. i have been working as a english speaking tourist guide in nepal since 2010 as a full time worker. i have gained my experience with different nationalities. since covid-19 pandemic, i lost the job including so many of my colleagues too. i have been lookin for a tourism related job in this new normal and i found your website where i can work from home in case of inquiry of the clients being a virtual tour guide.                                                                                                                                  .

I'm Devaraj, your friendly guide & let me tell you a little bit about myself and what you can expect from our time together. I was born in Baseri, Dhading District, a hilly region in central Nepal that is also known for the Ganesh Himal and the Manaslu Trek. Since 2002, I've been a trekking guide. My adventure towards guiding began as a personal quest to uncover Nepal's hidden treasures and natural beauties. Over time, my passion for the great outdoors, desire to encourage others to embrace the spirit of adventure, and commitment to forging a deeper connection between people and the environment grew into a vocation. So, if you're up for a voyage of exploration, challenge, and growth, come along with me as we explore the beautiful landscapes and civilizations that await us. Let's make lasting memories one journey at a time.                                                                                                                                  

Popular bagmati tour guides.

I have been a guide for over 30 years and an awardee of "Global Guide Award" for three consecutive years 2016, 2017 and 2018. Besides, I am also a founder member of "Tourist Guide Association" of Nepal. I therefore, can provide your clients a Guide any time round the year even when I am occupied.                                                                                                                                  

Namaste! I am Milan. There is so much to see, feel, taste, explore, learn and understand in our small Himalayan country due to such diversified yet complex social & religious structure. “Once is not enough” is the motto of Tourism in Nepal. Meeting people from around the world and sharing & learning the ideas, knowledge and wisdom is what I liked most about working in tourism. And after working for long time, I still am very curious about so-so many things and always seeking and learning to provide the deeper insights of natural and cultural beauty of Archaic Nepal with proper safety and comfort.                                                                                                                                  

Popular pokhara tour guides.

Ananta kumar K.

Well, i have completed my master degree in tourism administration from bangalore university and i have worked for travel and tourism service since 2005 ad. now, i have received the license from government of nepal as tourist guide since 2018 ad. i love to travel different places to know more about its culture and biodiversity. so that i would like to be a tour guide of yours. thank you.                                                                                                                                  .

I was born in , in a country site of Nepal near the Ganesh Himal and langtang Himal area. As I was impressed by the natural beauty of Nepal, Cultural activities and varieties of traditions, festivals I decided to deliver the information to foreigners. I stared my career in tourism as a mountain/trekking porter when i was 14 years old. I used to work in tourism for more than 10 years. After lots of hard work and difficulty’s I became the National Government Licensed Guide .Since then, I have guided more than 100 tours in Nepal as well as Bhutan, and Tibet in different type of activities such as trekking, hiking, peak climbing, adventure activity bungee jumping, river rafting, cliffing, fishing, kayaking, paragliding, tandem, wild life jungle safari, city tour etc. while improving my tours. My tours are very flexible and I always do my best to customize them according to the interests of my guests. I studied about the places and will provide you knowledge to appreciate them more deeply than just visiting there by yourself or a member of group tours. I love to deliver the Nepalese cultural things, traditional activities and varieties of such as different ethnical groups/cast in Nepal, Histories, and stories about the heritage sites and natural beauty of Nepal. Therefore, I am sure that I can provide you the best tours customized to your interests. It will be my great pleasure to help Travelers to enjoy their holiday in Nepal.                                                                                                                                  

I am a professional multilingual travel guide and travel entrepreneur from Nepal. With over a decade of experience in the sector, I started my own travel agency iFly Nepal from 2021. iFly Nepal is a prominent travel agency, providing an extensive array of activities including Travel, Tours, Trekking, Expeditions, Guide Services, Hotel Reservations, Vehicle Hire, Cooking Classes, Language Classes, Local Shopping, and numerous others to travelers arriving in Nepal from around the world. We are also committed to promoting gender equality and practicing sustainable tourism in the country. With my in-depth knowledge of local culture, history, cuisine, and various trekking routes and trails in Nepal, I am adept at tailoring my services to meet the unique needs and interests of my clients. As a friendly and approachable guide, I have earned a reputation for my professionalism and expertise in the field. My excellent communication skills and attention to detail enable me to ensure that my clients have a safe and enjoyable experience during their trips in Nepal. My goal is to provide my clients with the best possible service to ensure that they have a unique and memorable experience in Nepal.                                                                                                                                  

Popular gandaki tour guides.

A bachelor in Tourism Management, I speak fluent English, Japanese, and Spanish. By guiding tourists throughout the Himalayan Region and the vibrant cities in Nepal, I have gained vast knowledge about the culture, language of the lifestyle of the local people. I promise to guide you best for any monuments and cities.                                                                                                                                  

I am government licensed professional tour and trekking guide based in Kathmandu, Nepal. I can help you through your Nepal tour, trekking, peak climbing, mountain expedition and other adventure activities in the Himalayas.                                                                                                                                  

Kamal prasad R.

"greetings from nepal we are experienced and registered trekking and travel companies in nepal. our work during the last 12 years. organise many trekking and tours, like the everest, annapurna , langtang , mustang, manaslu, ganesh himal and helambu. so that we can plan your holiday as per your satisfaction and budget. we i’ll be able to provide you with our cost effective services. we are very serious about our work"                                                                                                                                  , popular lumbini tour guides.

Mahesh pati M.

I am a local-born boy from lumbini and was grown on the lap of this beautiful garden. my passion is to introduce the birthplace of lord buddha in my local way i.e beyond books. i was certified by nathm & unesco in 2015 and before that, i was active as a local tour guide since 2011. i used to make my guest's trips informative, memorable, and enjoyable. on request various services are offered like transportation, indo- nepal border migration works, meditation on monasteries, etc. book me and i'll let you assure that you have the best one for lumbini.                                                                                                                                  , popular other bagmati locations tour guides, popular narayani tour guides, popular sagarmatha tour guides, nepal tour reviews.

Christopher P.

Kathmadnu Valley Heritage Tour

“ Amazing Guide! ”

Prabin was an excellent guide from start to finish. He always communicated well and thoroughly. I felt extremely confident heading into the tour. On the day of the tour he arrived early and was ready to go as soon as we were. He is incredibly knowledgeable about Nepal, Kathmandu, and the surrounding areas and had many facts and stories to share. He always took time to answer any questions thoroughly. He is also very kind and funny, making him the ideal guide. I highly recommend!

Thank you Christopher, for the kind words and your experience. appreciate alot

Full day Heritage Tour

“ Terrific guide ”

Prabin is great. He's working on his MA in Nepalese culture and history and he uses his knowledge to full extent. We went on a full day tour with him visiting Changu Narayan Temple, Bhaktapur, Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. Along the way he suggested a few stores to buy things we were looking for and from what I gathered those were not prearranged commission-paying spots as the owners did not know him and asked for his name. Good sense of humor, very friendly, fluent English.

Thank you for your kind words.

City tour with Nagarkot

“ Very kind guide ”

I had a walk around tour in Kathmandu and outing to Nagatkot, monkey temple, Patan and Bakthapur Durbar squares. Susan was very kind, went out of her way to accommodate my wishes- including choosing the right kurti, pashmina, haggling for the price of ceramics... it was a very enjoyable time and I certainly recommend Susan as a competent guide!

Thank you for your wonderful review. It was so nice to guide you. I also enjoyed a lot being with you.

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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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• Travel Guide & Tips

Guidebook for First Time Travelers in Nepal

• Modified on Mar 18, 2024

Nepal  is a Popular Tourist Destination for a variety of reasons, including the presence of some of the World's Highest Peaks, including Mount Everest, which continues to draw travelers and trekkers. The Kathmandu Valley's ancient temples and other historic sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage sites, are part of its rich cultural heritage, which combines elements of Hindu and Buddhist culture. It also offers a diverse range of natural beauty, ranging from the Mountain Ranges of the Himalayas to lush forests, lakes, and rivers, which makes it a Popular Destination for Trekking, Hiking, Peak Climbing, Helicopter Tours and other forms of adventure activities .

A rich biodiversity makes Nepal a Desirable Travel Destination for those who enjoy nature and wildlife. There are several national parks and conservation areas in the country, including Chitwan National Park, which is famous for the number of Bengal tigers and one-horned rhinoceroses that live there. Travelers can participate in a wide range of cultural activities in Nepal, which serve to demonstrate Nepal's rich and vibrant history as well as its vibrant and colorful heritage.

Nepal is also well-known for its traditional handicrafts, which include weaving, pottery, and metalwork. According to the data from NTB, more than 6,00,000 tourists visited Nepal in 2022 which is why Tourism is the Largest Economic Industry in Nepal and the Largest Source of Foreign Economy. In addition, Nepal is quickly gaining a reputation as a Prime Destination for Spiritual and Mindfulness Tourism. In conclusion, the welcoming and warm demeanor of the local populace contributes to an enhanced overall experience for Tourists Who Travel to Nepal. 

However, Traveling to a new country can be intimidating,  especially if you don't speak the language. To help you alleviate these fears, we have created a comprehensive Travel Guide for First Time Travelers to Nepal, complete with Important Tips and Information While Traveling To Nepal to make your trip seamless as possible. This guide covers Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling to Nepal, ensuring that you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Table of Content

Travel guide for first-time travelers to nepal, visa entry requirement .

Nepal Visa entry requirements are Important for Travelers to consider before visiting Nepal. Depending on the traveler's country of origin and the purpose of their visit, a visa may be required to enter Nepal. Visitors can obtain a visa either upon arrival at the airport in Nepal or in advance through a Nepalese Embassy or consulate. The type of visa required and the length of stay permitted can vary based on the purpose of the visit, such as tourism, business, or study. It's Important Tip for First Time Travelers to research and understand the visa requirements for their specific situation in advance of their trip to ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into Nepal.

Information on visa requirements and application processes can typically be found on the website of the Nepalese embassy or consulate in their home country, as well as on the website of the Nepalese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. By ensuring that they have the proper visa and documentation, travelers can avoid any potential issues with entry into Nepal and ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. For more detailed information about Nepal Visa, visit here.

Travel Insurance 

Travel insurance is an Important Aspect of Traveling that can provide financial protection in case of unexpected events, such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen luggage. Travel insurance can help to cover the cost of medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and other unexpected expenses that may arise while traveling.

Before purchasing travel insurance, it's important to carefully review the coverage options and exclusions to ensure that the policy provides the necessary protection. Travelers should consider factors such as their health, the destination, and the length of their trip when choosing a travel insurance policy. Additionally, it's a good idea to check if any existing health insurance policies provide adequate coverage for international travel. It is the Best Travel Advice for any traveler specially when you are traveling at higher altitudes.

Keep your documents safe

You must be very careful with Keeping Important Documents such as passports, visas, and tickets in a safe place. It is crucial to ensure a smooth and stress-free trip. Travelers should consider keeping these documents in a money belt or a secure and accessible location.  It's Best Travel Advice to make copies of important documents and keep them in a separate location in case the originals are lost or stolen.

Avoid Solo Travelling/ Trekking 

Solo Traveling or Trekking in Nepal is not Recommended due to potential safety risks, particularly in remote areas. Nepal is a beautiful country with rich culture and stunning landscapes, but it can also have potential safety risks, such as unpredictable weather conditions, challenging terrain, and a lack of medical facilities in remote areas. Traveling in a group or you must hire a licensed guide with a Local Travel Agency  who can provide added safety and security, allowing travelers to fully enjoy their trip without worrying about potential risks. By avoiding solo travel or trekking, travelers can minimize their exposure to potential dangers and have a more enjoyable and stress-free experience in Nepal.

Learn Basic Nepali Words

Language can be a barrier while traveling to Nepal. Interacting with local people and navigating the country can be made easier by Learning a few basic Nepali words and phrases. This can help to build a connection with local communities and improve the overall travel experience.

These basic Nepali Words can be very helpful while traveling to Nepal:

• Hello: Namaste 
• My name is Alex: Mero naam Alex ho.
• What is your name? : Tapaiko naam k ho?
• Hajur: All purpose meaning of the term yes, pardon, excuse me.
• How are you?: Tapailai kasto cha?
• I’m fine: Malai Thik Cha.
• Thank You: Dhanyabad.
• Hope to see you again: Pheri Bhetaula.

Carbon Neutral Inititiatve

Nepal has been working towards Reducing Plastic Paste and Promoting Sustainable Tourism. Plastic and Carbon waste is a growing problem in many parts of the world, including Nepal, and has a significant impact on the local environment and wildlife. By Supporting Carbon Neutral Initiatives, travelers can reduce their personal impact on the environment by eco-friendly alternatives and help promote sustainable tourism practices and reduce the impacts of global warming in Nepal. Simple steps to Support Carbon Neutral Initiatives include bringing a reusable water bottle, avoiding single-use plastics like straws and shopping bags, and disposing of waste properly. By taking these steps, Travelers can help to protect the environment and support the local community in their efforts to promote sustainable tourism practices.

Vaccination 

Before traveling to Nepal  or anywhere outside the country, it is Best Travel Advice to check the vaccination requirements for the specific destination and activities. Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 is an Important Consideration for Travelers. Receiving a vaccine can help to reduce the risk of contracting the virus and spreading it to others, as well as protect against severe illness.

Travelers should check with their healthcare provider and local health authorities for the most up-to-date information on COVID-19 vaccines and requirements for travel. Additionally, travelers should also follow recommended health and safety guidelines, such as wearing a mask, practicing good hand hygiene, and following local restrictions, to help protect themselves and others from the spread of the virus. Travelers also must include vaccines for common illnesses such as yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A.

Don’t Miss Out on Nightlife in Thamel and Pokhara

Thamel and Pokhara are two Popular Tourist Destinations in Nepal known for their vibrant nightlife and local culture. From street performers and local shops to live music and drinks, the nightlife in these areas offers a unique and exciting experience for travelers. By not missing out on the nightlife in Thamel and Pokhara, travelers can immerse themselves in local culture, try new foods and drinks, and experience the nightlife that these destinations have to offer. It is a great opportunity for travelers to mingle with locals and other travelers, making the most of their trip to Nepal.

Choose a Sustainable Travel Option

Sustainable Travel Options are beneficial for the local community, environment, and the traveler's own experience. Sustainable Travel Practices can include choosing eco-friendly accommodations, using public transportation or carpooling, eating locally sourced food, and supporting local businesses. By choosing Sustainable Travel Options, travelers can help to reduce their carbon footprint, conserve natural resources, and support local communities. Additionally, sustainable travel practices can also provide a more authentic and culturally immersive experience, allowing travelers to fully immerse themselves in the local culture and environment while minimizing their impact on global warming.

Drone allowance Information

It is important for first-time tourists to Nepal who intend to carry a drone to be aware that drones must be registered with the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN). Without authorization, it is illegal and criminal to operate a drone. Prior authorization from the Department of Tourism, Ministry of Home Affairs, and CAAN is required to operate a drone in Nepal if it weighs more than 2 kilograms (4.5 pounds) or flies more than 121 meters (400 feet) above the ground. All drone flights in public locations up to 200 feet in altitude require authorization from the local administration office. It is recommended to study a detailed guide on how to travel with a drone in Nepal in order to become familiar with the rules and restrictions.

Don’t Forget to Exchange Nepali Currency Before You Leave

Exchanging Nepali Currency Before Leaving the country is important for travelers in Nepal. Nepali currency, known as the Nepalese Rupee, is the official currency used in Nepal and is not widely accepted outside of the country. By exchanging Nepali currency before leaving, travelers can avoid any potential difficulties or complications with exchanging currency in their home country or on the way home. It's a good idea to exchange only the amount of money that will be needed for the remainder of the trip and any purchases before departing. Travelers can exchange currency at banks, money exchanges, or at the airport before leaving Nepal. By taking this step, travelers can ensure that they have the proper currency for their needs and can avoid any potential difficulties related to currency exchange.

Important Emergency Contacts For Traveling Safe In Nepal

During your time in Nepal, there may be instances where you may need to call an emergency number for assistance. Given below are the contact numbers of tourist police based on your location here in Nepal:

Tourist Police Helpline:

• Bhrikutimandap: +977-1-4247041
• Thamel: 977-1-4700750
• Basantapur: 977-1-4268969, 4269452
• Pokhara: 977-61-521087
• Belhiya: 977-71-520197
• Metro Police Control, Ranipokhari: 100, 120, 130
• Department of Immigration, Kalikasthan: 977-1-4433934,4429660
• Police Headquarters Operation, Naxal: 977-1-4412780,4411549
• Nepal Tourism Board, Bhrikutimandap: +977-1-4256909
• Nepal Tourism Board, Pokhara: 977-61-465292,463029
• Tourism Crisis Unit: 977-97510-44088
• Himalayan Rescue Association: 977-1-4440292, 4440293

Faqs for First-Time Travelers to Nepal

Is solo female travel possible in nepal.

Yes, solo female travel is possible in Nepal. However, like in many other countries, it is important for solo female travelers to take necessary precautions and be aware of their surroundings. Nepal is generally a safe country for tourists, and incidents of crime against travelers are relatively rare. However, Solo Female Travelers may face certain cultural and societal challenges, such as inappropriate behavior or unwanted attention. To avoid these issues, it is advisable to dress conservatively, avoid being out alone at night, and be aware of local customs and norms. It is also recommended to Book Accommodations in well-established areas and to contact reputable travel companies and tour guides, as they can provide valuable local knowledge and support. Overall, with the proper precautions, Solo Female Travel in Nepal can be a safe and rewarding experience.

When is the Best Time to Visit Nepal?

The Best Time to Visit Nepal depends on the type of activity you're interested in.

• If you are planning to Trekking and Mountaineering in the high mountain ranges, the best time is from September to November, the weather is more clear and stable. For more information about best trekking destinations in Nepal, click here  and click here for best hiking destinations near Kathmandu.
• For wildlife watching in Nepal, the best time is from October to March, when the animals are easier to spot and the weather is dry.
• Any time of the year is suitable for cultural and heritage tours. However, the best time to visit the Kathmandu Valley is from September to November when the weather is pleasant and visibility is clear.
• For rafting, adventure sports or other water activities in freshwater rivers, the best time is from September to June, when the water levels are high.
• In general, the monsoon season in Nepal, which runs from June to September, can make your travel and outdoor activities difficult due to heavy rains and landslides, so it is best to avoid traveling during this time.

It is Highly Recommended to check local weather conditions and seek advice from Local Travel Agencies before planning your trip to Nepal.

Is Planning Required to Visit Nepal?

Yes, Planning is Highly Recommended when visiting Nepal.  Nepal is a country with a diverse range of attractions, including natural wonders, cultural heritage sites, and adventure activities, and proper planning can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Some of the things to consider when planning a trip to Nepal include:

• Entry requirements: Check the Visa Requirements for your country and ensure you have the necessary documentation for entry into Nepal.
• Health and safety: Check for any Health Warnings or Vaccinations that may be required, and take out appropriate travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies.
• Transportation: Plan your transportation within the country, such as flights, buses, or taxis, to reach your destination.
• Accommodation: Book Your Accommodation in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and comfort.
• Itinerary: Plan your itinerary, taking into account the time of year and the type of activities you want to participate in.
• Budget: Establish a Budget for your trip, including Transportation, Accommodation, Food, and other activities.

Proper planning can help make your trip to Nepal a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience. To book your trip to Nepal, visit our website here, or conatct us here.

What is Considered Disrespectful in Nepal?

It is essential to be respectful of local customs and norms when visiting Nepal as the Nepali culture is totally different and unique from western culture. So here are common practices and behaviors that you must know are considered disrespectful in Nepal:

• Dress: People in Nepal expect you to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas, where conservative clothing is expected. Avoid wearing revealing clothing or exposing your legs or shoulders.
• Shoes: You must remove your shoes when entering a temple, mosque, or someone's home.
• Pointing with your feet: The feet are considered impure in Nepali culture, so pointing with your feet or touching someone with your feet is considered very disrespectful in Nepal.
• Touching heads: The head is considered sacred in Nepali culture, so it is considered disrespectful to touch someone's head or to pat a child on the head.
• Public displays of affection: Public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, are generally considered inappropriate in Nepali society and culture.
• Littering: Littering is considered very disrespectful and can also have a negative impact on the environment.
• Photography: You must be respectful when taking photographs, especially in Religious Sites, any paintings around Thamel or Swayambhu, or when taking pictures of people. Always ask for permission before taking photos, especially of individuals.

All-inclusive, it is essential to be mindful of local customs and values and to act with respect and consideration when visiting Nepal.

How do I Get to Nepal? What Are the Entry Requirements in Nepal?

Travelers need to meet the following entry requirements before entering Nepal:

• Passport: You need a  valid passport with at least six months of validity to enter Nepal.
• Visa: A visa of at least 6 Months is required to enter Nepal. Tourist Visas are easily available on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, and can also be obtained in advance from Nepali embassies or consulates abroad.
• Proof of onward travel: Travelers must have proof of onward travel out of Nepal, such as a return ticket or an onward travel ticket to another country.
• Yellow fever certificate: A yellow fever certificate may be required for travelers coming from infected areas to prevent any diseases from entering the country.
• Travel insurance: Travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including evacuation and repatriation, is very important and highly recommended for travelers to Nepal.
• Health declaration form: A Health Declaration form is required on arrival in Nepal, particularly for travelers arriving from infected areas to avoid any viruses or diseases from entering the country.

It is important to check the latest entry requirements for Nepal before traveling, as these requirements may change. Additionally, travelers are Highly Recommended to consult with the Nepalese embassy or consulate in their home country for the most up-to-date information.

How Expensive is Traveling to Nepal?

The cost of traveling to Nepal can vary depending on the type of trip you are planning, your budget, and your individual travel style. Here are some factors to consider when estimating the cost of a trip to Nepal:

• Transportation: First thing first, the Flights to Nepal, internal transportation, and local transportation such as taxis or buses add up in your trip the first.
• Accommodation: The cost of accommodation can vary greatly, from budget-friendly guesthouses to high-end hotels.
• Food: The cost of food can also differ, depending on your dietary preferences and where you choose to eat.
• Activities: The budget of activities, such as trekking, rafting, or visiting cultural sites, can also add up.
• Visa and entry fees: The cost of a visa, as well as any entry or park fees, should also be considered when estimating the cost of a trip to Nepal.

On average, a budget-friendly trip to Nepal can cost around $30-50 USD per day, while a mid-range trip can cost around $50-100 USD per day. A high-end trip, with luxury accommodation and activities, can cost upwards of $100 or more per day. Overall, it is possible to travel to Nepal on a budget, or to splurge on a luxury trip, depending on your individual preferences and budget.

What Are the Things To Avoid While Traveling to Nepal?

It is very important to be aware of and respect the cultural norms and customs, and to respect the local way of life when visiting Nepal. Here are some Things to Avoid when traveling in Nepal:

• Dress modestly: People in Nepal expect you to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas, where conservative clothing is expected. Avoid wearing revealing clothing or exposing your legs or shoulders.
• Be respectful at religious sites: It is very important for travelers to be respectful at religious sites and follow local customs, such as removing shoes and covering your head.
• Avoid littering: Avoid littering and dispose of waste properly to help preserve the local environment. Littering is also considered very disrespectful in Nepal.
• Do not use your left hand: In Nepal, the left hand is considered unclean, so avoid using it when performing rituals, eating, or handling food.
• Avoid taking photos without permission: It is essential for you to know that people might get offended while taking pictures so do not take photos of people without their permission, especially in rural areas.
• Do not touch or pat sacred animals: Do not touch or pat sacred animals, such as cows, which are considered holy in Hindu culture.

By following these guidelines, travelers can show respect for the local culture and way of life, and help to ensure a positive and culturally sensitive travel experience in Nepal.

Is Solo Trekking/ Traveling Recommended in Nepal?

Solo trekking and traveling in Nepal can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, but it also requires careful planning and preparation. Here are some Things to Consider When Solo Trekking or Traveling in Nepal:

• Safety: Trekking and traveling in Nepal can involve traveling in remote areas, and solo travelers may be more vulnerable to safety risks such as theft, illness, or injury. It is highly advisable to hire a licensed guide through a Local Travel agent when traveling or Trekking in Nepal for your safety.
• Preparation: If you're a Solo traveler, you should make sure that you are well-prepared for the trip, including obtaining the necessary equipment, supplies, and visas, and researching the itinerary and route of the place you are traveling. 
• Health and Travel Insurance: Solo travelers should make sure they have adequate health insurance and are up-to-date with necessary vaccinations. Health and IInsurances are very essential while traveling especially when you are a Solo Traveler which can help you in emergencies like altitude sickness  when Trekking at Higher Altitudes.
• Emergency plan: Solo travelers should have a plan in place in case of an emergency, including contact information for the nearest embassy of your country or consulate, and a plan for evacuation if necessary.

In conclusion, while solo trekking and traveling in Nepal can be a lifetime experience, it is also important to be well-prepared, cautious, and respectful of local cultures and traditions. Travelers who are not confident in their solo travel abilities must prefer to consult with a Local Travel Agent or with a guide for added safety and support.  Here is a blog on why you should choose a Local Agency for Traveling in Nepal.

Do I Need a Guide While Traveling to Nepal?

Whether or not to hire a guide while traveling in Nepal depends on your individual travel style, budget, and plans. In context to some factors like Safety, Cultural Insights, Language, Flexibility, and Budget, hiring a guide while traveling to Nepal is very essential. If you are planning on traveling to rural areas, your guide can help you to communicate and remove the language barrier. Traveling with a guide is always the safest option for planning trips, walking in remote areas, and knowing about the cultural insights and the main parameter, the Language. Ultimately, the decision of hiring a guide while traveling in Nepal depends on your needs and preferences. If you prefer to choose a guide, make sure to research and choose a reputable company that has been trained and is licensed by the Government of Nepal.

In conclusion, these were few very important tips and guide for the fist-time travelers to Nepal.  Here is another blog on the top reasons why you must visit Nepal for 2023. For further informations about destinations to explore in Nepal, feel free to email us orcontact us here.

Ashmita Thapa

Ashmita is a content writer at Footprint Adventure with a really positive outlook on life. She is dedicated to exploration, and enjoys going on hikes and treks. She is delighted to travel  and explore the beauty of Nepal with Footprint Adventure. She genuinely believes in promoting her native country in whatever manner she can, with the goal of making the biggest possible contribution to the travel and tourism sector.

Ashmita adds that she is extremely appreciative of Footprint Adventure for offering her the opportunity to learn more about travel and tourism. She would also like to grow here with more dedication and effort for the company. She also values the chance to meet new people, explore various regions and cultures, and broaden her knowledge about travel and tourism in Nepal.

"Self-improvement comes through change. Push yourself to the places you've never been before"

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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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Jessie was amazing ! Everything from her level of English to her understanding of what we valued .

We had a good time exploring the city with Selinda!

Our guide lele is a wealth of information, Lele is very professional and very attentive to our needs. Lele is amazing. Lele got everything spot on. It probably helps that Guilin is a brilliant place to visit so Lele has great material to work with but that doesn't take anything away from how much Lele helped make it a great trip.

Our guide for Beijing was super knowledgeable and experienced and able to help us to achieve as much as we wanted within the time given. We had a fun time guided by him as he is also super humorous and you can see how he interacts with the vendors and people whom he comes by. Thank you for a very enjoyable time in Beijing and accommodating to all our needs!

Our China Highlight guide. Michael, was attentive, thoughtful and knowledgeable. He narrated many interesting historical events about Chengdu while touring around the city and having afternoon tea with us. He was thoughtful to provide us with snacks during long hikes at Leshan or walks around the city.

She was very flexible and added extra time when we needed it and we felt extremely well taken care of. She also chose the best restaurants for us,

Our tour guide Helen, was excellent, she was very kind, professional and passionate for her work and she also loves Pandas! She will take you to take the best panda photos and to know more about Chengdu city. Our tour was great, she took us to all our destinations always with the best spots: Temples, pagodas, famous streets, theaters, pandas...you name it! Everything was great.

He picked up our pre-booked boat/other excursions tickets so we were able to avoid all the long lines and chaos. He is knowledgeable of the places we visited, courteous, fun to travel with and well-versed in Chinese classics.

Tom is the guide that will take you to where no other guide will. We pushed for the experience and Tom and the team delivered more than what we could have ever asked for. His English speaking ability and his Chinese history knowledge is second to none.

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Places To Visit in Nepal

Here are the top 32 tourist places and attractions in nepal, 1. kathmandu.

1 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal 46 Tourist attractions

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 Vishnumat...

Best Time: September to November

2 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal 33 Tourist attractions

Pokhara, the 'Tourist Capital of Nepal,' is the second-largest city in this Himalayan country, after Kathmandu. At an altitude of more than 900m, it is one of the highest cities, making it the base for many world-famous treks. The highlight of the town is its Lakeside, which is a boating paradise fl...

3 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal 20 Tourist attractions

Nestled in the Himalayas in Nepal,  the beautiful town of Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Lumbini is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with many ancient stupas dating back to 2000 years and monasteries built by past dynasties. People come here from all over the world to this abode of ...

Best Time: April to May

4. Chitwan National Park

4 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Chitwan National Park, nestled in the subtropical lowlands of southern Nepal, spans an impressive area of approximately 932 square kilometers. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this sanctuary embodies Nepal's commitment to preserving its diverse ecosystems and rich wildlife. The park stand...

Best Time: October - March

Nepal Travel Packages

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Nepal Kathmandu Tour: Super Saver Package for 5 Nights

4 Nights 5 Days Nepal Package - Budget All-Inclusive Tour

Best Nepal Tour Package - Kathmandu & Pokhara With Nagarkot

Nepal pokhara tour package with chitwan jungle safari, nepal honeymoon package with candle lit dinner at nepali restaurant, amazing nepal tour package with lumbini sightseeing, 5. bhaktapur.

5 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal 11 Tourist attractions

Bhaktapur is one of three medieval cities in the Kathmandu Valley, the other two being Kathmandu and Patan. It is often referred to as Bhadgaon and Khwopa and has a mix of Hindu and Buddhist population. This city is located around 12 kilometres from the capital city of Kathmandu and is divided into ...

Best Time: October to November, March to April 

6. Janakpur

6 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal 9 Tourist attractions

Janakpur is a city in Nepal which is believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sita and the place of her marriage with Lord Ram. Also known as the City of Ponds, Janakpur boasts of more than seventy ponds that dot its verdant landscape. Here you can learn more about the ancient and revered Hindu...

Best Time: September to March

7 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal 10 Tourist attractions

Patan is the third-largest city in Nepal right after Kathmandu and Pokhara. It is presently known as Lalitpur. Both names are derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Lalitapattan’. The city is located just across the river Bagmati from Kathmandu. Patan has a Durbar Square that is full of statues, templ...

Best Time: November-January

8. Bandipur

8 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Pretty as a picture - that is how one can perfectly describe Bandipur. This living and breathing abode of Newari culture is a hilltop settlement in the Gandaki Zone at 1030 metres, some 700 metres above the Marsyangdi River. The municipality snuggles itself on the saddle of the Mahabharat Range...

9. Nagarkot

9 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal 8 Tourist attractions

Located at a mere 28-kilometre drive away from Kathmandu, Nagarkot offers one of the best views of the Himalayas in the entire region as it has an altitude of 7000 feet (2000 metres)! Perched at the edge of Kathmandu Valley, Nagarkot gives you one of the widest panoramas of the Himalayan ranges...

Best Time: October to March

10. Sagarmatha National Park

10 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Sagarmatha National Park is a wildlife reserve that is well known to people for its location which is dominated by Mount Everest in the Himalayas of Eastern Nepal. The location, which is in the Solukhumbu district of Nepal, has been visited by tourists since the 1960s, although it was officially est...

Best Time: October to November

Best tourist destinations in Nepal

Temples in Nepal

Hill Stations in Nepal

Cities in Nepal

11 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal 8 Tourist attractions

Dharan is a city located near the Southeastern border of India and is a replica of Indian culture and tradition. Dharan is the gateway to the Mahabharat hills and is one of the biggest pilgrimage locations in Nepal. This low-lying hilly region is extremely clean, colourful and culturally d...

Best Time: January to April; September to December

12. Mustang

12 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Mustang is known for its trekking tours and mountain sightseeing. Elevated at an altitude of 3840 kilometres, this city is divided into two parts: Lower and Upper Mustang. Even though it is relatively unexplored, this city is a great destination for those who want to immerse in Tibetan culture as we...

Best Time: June to September

13. Chitlang

13 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Chitlang is an ancient Newar dominant village in Nepal. Surrounded by the Chandragiri hills, it is acclaimed as one of the most popular stops in the old trading routes from Tibet to India and thus holds a rich historical significance. Chitlang serves to be the most preferred destination from Ka...

Best Time: Throughout the year

14 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Some 25 km north of Abu Khaireni, the picturesque town called Gorkha is the ancient home of the lionhearted Gorkha people. Around 300 years ago, when Prithvi Narayan Shah unified all the rivalling fiefdoms of Nepal into one monarchy and divided up the country into 50 different states, Gorkha was bor...

15. Kirtipur

15 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

The sleepy town of Kirtipur comes like a breath of fresh air amidst the other dust laden villages and cities. Thanks to the stunning ancient temples that are scattered along its backstreets and the authentic experience of the Newari culture that it offers, the town has been gaining more and more pop...

16. Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

16 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Towards the north of the Kathmandu valley, just from where the hustle and bustle of the urban world start to fade away, and the imaginary lines of the city get blurred into the outskirts, lies the Shivpuri National Park. The sprawling sub-tropical forest, spreading for around 160 square meters, the ...

17 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Located in the Khumbu area of the Solukhumbu district in north-eastern Nepal, Lukla is a small town perched at the height of 2,860 metres above the sea level. While many would describe the place to be just an airport and a strip of hotels, this quaint little town definitely offers much more than tha...

18. Biratnagar

18 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Biratnagar is a metropolitan city located near the Indian border and is the capital city of Province No.1 in Nepal. Biratnagar is popular for its Jute Mills - the first large scale industry of Nepal and the famous Kali Mandir that holds high religious importance in Hinduism in the country. Name...

Best Time: November-March

19. Dhulikhel

19 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

You can never get enough of the mountains. There is something about the scenic beauty and tranquillity of the majestic peaks that just makes you want to stay there forever and breathe in the pure fresh air. Dhulikhel in the Kathmandu Valley is one such place, which offers picturesque views of the hi...

20. Panauti

20 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Located some 32 kilometres away from the capital Kathmandu, Panauti is a leftover reminiscence of a time long bygone. The word ''Panauti' in Hindi means 'unlucky', and for some reason unknown, it sits perfectly well with the historical background of this medieval city. At one glance, the town of Pan...

Best Tourist Attractions in Nepal

Go Trekking Across the Majestic Himalayas

Explore the Iconic Kathmandu Durbar Square

Be Amidst Beautiful Nepalese Temple Architecture

Visit the Birthplace of Buddha, Maya Devi Temple

Take a Wildlife Safari at Chitwan National Park

Indulge in Some Delicious Nepali Cuisine

Experience Thrill With These Adventure Activities in Nepal

Visit the Holiest Shrine in Nepal, the Pashupatinath Temple

Visit Patan, a Town That Dates Back to 250 BC!

Go Paragliding in Pokhara!

Go Bungee Jumping in Nepal

Make a Trip to the Stunning Hill Stations

21. Pathibhara temple

21 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Pathibhara temple, also known as Mukkumlung, is said to be one of the most significant Hindu temples in Nepal. Located on top of the Taplejung hills, this temple offers scenic views of Mount Kanchenjunga. This temple is considered one of the holiest temples, and many people travel from various parts...

22. Birgunj

22 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Birgunj is a Nepali city which is based near the border of the Indian state of Bihar. It is a major point of entry for Indian goods trade. Birgunj also receives the goods coming in from the port of Kolkata. Located in the Terai region, Birgunj is the second-largest city after Bir...

23. Bharatpur

23 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

A lot of people visit Nepal for the attraction of the wilderness, namely Chitwan National Park. Bharatpur is the city that falls right in the gateway of the forested area. Located in central-south of Nepal, Bharatpur is the headquarters of the Chitwan district as well as a separate metropolitan admi...

24. Itahari

24 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

A sub-metropolitan city with seven municipalities in the Sunsari district, Itahari has recently evolved into a bustling transportation junction in the eastern side of Nepal. The two main branches of the Nepal highway circulation - Mahendra Highway running from east to west and Koshi Highway running ...

25 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Jomsom is also known as Dzong-Sampa or New Fort. Jomsom lies along both the banks of Kali Gandaki river in the Mustang District of Nepal. Jomsom is the capital of Mustang district. Kali Gandaki happens to be the deepest gorge in the world. The altitude of Jomsom is 2700 m. Jomsom has developed as a ...

26. Kagbeni

26 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Far away from the bustling town squares and temples and dance festivals of the towns and cities of Nepal, the village of Kagbeni awaits you with its audacious beauty. Officially Kagbeni is a settlement that bridges the gap between Lower and Upper Mustang, right at the feet of Muktinath Valley by the...

27. Mount Manaslu

27 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

The word Manaslu comes from the Sanskrit word manas, which means a person's soul, and Mount Manaslu can be reflected as exactly that - the mountain of the soul. Despite all the chaotic craze around mountain trekking that Nepal experiences every season, Manaslu has surprisingly held on to its pristin...

28. Narayangarh

28 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Narayangarh is a major transportation and commercial hub in Nepal. This moderately crowded city falls under the bigger umbrella of Bharatpur City and under the administrative jurisdiction of Chitwan district in southern Nepal. Narayangarh, also referred to as Narayanghat, sits with all its buzzing n...

29. Shashwat Dham

29 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

The thing about Nepal is that you can never run out of spiritual places to visit. And yet most of them are old temples with the same archaic architecture and follows a typical path of devotion. Shashwat Dham, on the other hand, is completely different, both in terms of ambience and philosophy practi...

30. Nuwakot

30 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Stuck somewhere in between the 17th-century ambience and 21st-century facilities, Nuwakot is one of the most attractive destinations of Nepal. Albeit there are not many attractions to see, the Nuwakot Palace and its Durbar Square in itself are enough to draw the travellers who love to delve deep dow...

31 out of 31 Places to visit in Nepal

Located at 2322 metres above the sea level in the Thaha Municipality of Nepal, Daman has inarguably the best view of the Himalayan range in the entire country. On the best of days, the whole stretch from Mount Dhaulagiri in the west to Mount Everest in the east can be seen perfectly. The snow-creste...

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Home » Adventure Travel » The Ultimate Nepal Travel Guide: What to See And Do In Nepal

The Ultimate Nepal Travel Guide: What to See And Do In Nepal

Nepal is a bucket list vacation destination for many, with mountains, ancient sites, architecture, tradition, culture, lush forests, and wildlife. Though a small nation in South Asia, there are many activities to do in Nepal and the same amount of reasons to fall in love with it.

It offers the perfect natural scenery of three different regions in its tiny geographical frame. Enjoy the majestic snowclad mountains in the north, feel relaxed in the hilly villages surrounded by the unique culture, and go for wildlife viewing opportunities in the plains of Terai.

Additionally, if you are searching for thrilling chapters in life, Nepal provides you with this experience. Likewise, you will feel a spiritual connection with the locals as soon as you land on Nepali soil.

Everywhere you go, and at any time, you will hear friendly greetings from the locals saying, “Namaste.” Coming to Nepal is an intangible feeling but of course, what can be much better than experiencing it all yourself?

The Ultimate Nepal Travel Guide: What To Know Before Visiting?

So, are you ready to experience Nepal on your own? We are here to help you go through some practical must-know stuff and tips before you visit us.

Here, we have gathered all the information on visas, safety, activities to do, when to visit, accommodation, and so on while adding a few sprinkles of Nepal’s diverse culture and tradition.

All About Nepal

A little background on this nation, Nepal is a landlocked country in South Asia, lying between the two giant nations, India and China. Among the world’s top ten highest mountains, it is home to the top eight peaks, not to mention; it is also the only nation with a non-rectangular flag.

Moving on, if you search for Nepal, you will see about 123 known languages in this country. However, the mother tongue or the most common language is Nepali, and you can expect most people to speak English in urban areas.

If you wish to speak a few native languages, below are some phrases that might help.

• Namaste:   Warm greetings
•   Dhanyabaad:   Thank You
•   Mitho chha:   Delicious
•   Kati paisa:   How much money?

Religion And Culture

In Nepal, Hinduism and Buddhism are the major religions the locals follow, and you can see it connected with everyday life. Both religions coexist peacefully, and you will find numerous temples and stupas along your journey.

Furthermore, Nepal also has indigenous people living together with diverse cultures. Hence, there are multiple festivals and ceremonies you can come around, such as Dashain, Jatras, Tihar, Lhosar, and so on.

Below are some tips if you enter any holy sites in Nepal.

• If you are visiting a stupa, you will see multiple prayer wheels. Always spin them in a clockwise direction and whether you are in a temple or any site, constantly roam in a clockwise direction as well.
• Join your palm of hands together for a prayer.
• Keep PDA to a minimum and avoid public kissing or any sign of affection.

Tourist Visa Information Needed In Nepal

You can gain your Nepal tourist visa upon arrival here at the Tribhuvan International Airport or apply for it online up to fifteen days before arrival. If you used it for online access, you must travel within six months.

As you arrive here, you will be required to pay for a Visa on Arrival (VoA), and it gives you three options; 15 days for U.S. 30, 30 days for U.S. 50, and 90 days for U.S. 125. To pay for your VoA, follow the steps you will need to follow.

• Fill in the Nepal immigration ‘Arrival Card’ or online ‘Tourist Visa’ form.
• Upon arrival, make payment at the kiosk near the windows of the immigration area. (Remember to get your receipt!)
• Pass through the immigration officer with passport control, showing your passport and visa receip t.

Currency In Nepal

Finally, you are here in Nepal! Now, how about the currency? The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese rupee. As of the moment, 1 USD equals to NRs 132.

Moving on, you can find foreign currency exchange in several places here. Similarly, there are multiple ATMs in the city areas and tourist hotspots; however, it will be difficult to find any of those in the rural areas.

Therefore, walking with cash is better if you travel from significant city areas. Apart from ATMs, you will also find the wide use of credit cards in tourist hotels, restaurants, cafes, and so on. However, yes, both services, ATMs and credit cards, do have their fees.

Now, if you are up for shopping or looking for souvenirs, you can indulge yourself in bartering. Indeed, it is acceptable here; however, you must be respectful.

Accommodation During Your Trip

According to your style and budget, Nepal provides you with the accommodation of your choice. For most tourists, Thamel is the particular destination for their stay.

If you look into hotel rooms, you can have three options; budget hotel for USD 15 per night, mid-range rooms for $50 – USD 80 per night, and luxury rooms for $150 – USD 250 per night.

Here, you can also opt to stay in a hostel where a bed in the dorm will cost you USD 5 per night, and a single room will cost you USD 10 per night. Furthermore, you can also choose Airbnb options if you are staying in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

If you want a more personal experience, you can also choose homestay. It will allow you to stay with a local family and cost you around $15 – $ 40 per night per guest. Lastly, there is a teahouse option. It is often used during trekking and costs $1 – USD 5 per person per night.

Transportation Facility In Nepal

Most of the roads in Nepal are pretty rough, especially in remote areas, while in the major cities, you will have traffic problems. Indeed, most of the time, your traveling will be filled with bumpy rides.

So, how to get from one place to another? Well, there are multiple mediums for you to travel, such as local buses, taxis (cab), airlines, and applications. Using applications like Pathao and In drive is the best option if you travel a short distance within Kathmandu valley.

Likewise you can also use cabs; however, they are expensive, and it is better to negotiate the price before you ride. Another option is the local or tourist buses, which are often a good choice when traveling out of the valley. Indeed, there are some domestic airlines for travel as well.

Food And Water In Nepal

The central cuisine of Nepal is Dal, Bhaat, and Tarkari (Pulses, Rice, and Curry), and you will see it available in most hotels. It is the primary meal of every Nepalese, and they eat it at least once a day.

While in Nepal, there are multiple local cuisines to try, and on every corner of the road, you will see numerous cafes and restaurants. If traveling to the South Asian side for the first time, you should be cautious about what you eat and where you eat.

With food comes water, and you must realize that Nepal does not have the best form of drinking water. That means you can only drink straight from the water tap in a remote village free of pollution.

This tap water is fine for showers, brushing, or washing but not for drinking. Hence, you will need filtered water, or you can buy bottled water in any local stores here.

Now, as you are here, below are some of the must-try local cuisines and drinks.

• Dhido and Gundruk
• Selroti and Achaar
• Gorkhali lamb and beer
• Thakali Khana Set and rice wine
• Newari Khaja set and Juju Dhau

Internet And Local SIM Cards

You can find wifi and internet in most restaurants, hotels, and homes in Nepal. However, it is not fast, and you need help finding it in rural areas.

While in Nepal, it is best to buy a local sim card for communication and calls on the cell. There are quite a few cell providers, but Ncell and Namaste Telecom (NTC) are the major ones.

You can quickly get sim cards if you walk to the booth, but you will require a copy of your passport and a pp sized picture as you fill out the form. In the city areas, the sim cards are always in range; however, if you travel to remote locations, expect the signal to go in and out of range at times.

Travel Destinations In Nepal: Where To Travel And What To Do?

Nepal is an affordable country and provides an array of destinations to embark on your journey. Packed with adventure and natural beauty, below are some of the top places to visit while in Nepal.

The capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu itself, has loads to offer, from nightlife to adventure and religious journeys. There are multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites inside the valley.

Below are some of the activities to do while in Kathmandu.

• Pastoral visits to Boudhanath, Swayambunath, and Pashupatinath.
• Explore the ancient cities of Patan and Bhaktapur.
• Stroll across Thamel and enjoy its nightlife.
• Hike across the trail of Shivapuri National Park.
• Enjoy the sunrise and sunset views from Nagarkot.

The city of lakes, Pokhara , is a tourist hub in Nepal and offers the immense beauty of the Himalayas. Not to mention, it is also the pivot point for most adventure activities and trekking trails.

Below are some of the activities to do while in Pokhara.

• Boat in the Phewa Lake.
• Go paragliding with the views of the Himalayas.
• Hike to the World Peace Pagoda.
• Visit Sarangkot for sunrise and sunset views.
• Embark on your trek to Annapurna Base Camp.

Lying in the Terai Region of Nepal, enjoy the wildlife scenery of the Chitwan National Park .

Below are some of the activities to do while in Chitwan.

• Go on a jungle safari in a jeep or ride an elephant.
• Bath with the elephants.
• Visit the Sauraha Elephant Breeding Centre.

Some Other Destinations And Activities In Nepal

• Trek to Everest Base Camp .
• Visit the birthplace of Lord Budhha, Lumbini.
• Take a helicopter ride to Everest.
• Visit the tea garden in Ilam.
• Embark on lesser crowded trekking trails such as Langtang Valley Trek, Mohare Danda Trek, Dolpo region, and Upper and Lower Mustang regions .
• Go for whitewater rafting.

Trekking Tips And Necessities

If you are looking forward to trek in Nepal, you must understand the weather well. If possible, always aim for Autumn or spring, as it has the most comfortable temperatures and the clearest skies.

If you trek during winter, you will need tons of warm clothes, and the temperature is freezing. Likewise, the monsoon season is difficult due to everyday rain and leeches in most areas.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Nepal?

Nepal has four distinct seasons; Spring, Monsoon, Autumn, and Winter. Spring is between March and May, and traveling in this period will showcase a full bloom of Rhododendrons and clear blue skies.

Monsoon falls between June and August. It is a pretty hectic period as it rains daily, and the roads get slippery, not to mention the number of sponges you will find on your trek.

Likewise, Autumn starts between September and November. It provides consistent and comfortable temperatures and some of the clearest skies.

Lastly, the Winter is between December and February. You should expect bone-chilling cold with loads of snow at high elevations.

Safety In Nepal

Do not worry; Nepal is one of the safest and friendliest countries. However, it does not mean you do not sign up for travel insurance. Always sign travel insurance before you embark on your journey, and make sure that your insurance covers you even at a high altitude.

Some of the safety tips while traveling are as below.

• Stay away from trek alone; at least have one partner and a guide.
• Take photocopies of your passport, tickets, visa, and trekking permits .
• Be aware of your belongings at all times.
• Always stay hydrated on your trek.
• Carry a small first aid kit with essential medications.
• Be wary of altitude sickness.

Travel Responsibly

As fellow people living together on a planet, always travel responsibly and look for ways to reduce your carbon footprints. Below are some points to consider while traveling.

• Do not litter! As you travel, always dispose of your items in their respective area and try not to litter the trails.
• Do not carve trees or stones for the sake of fun.
• Always stick to the path unless otherwise told.
• Before taking any photographs, always seek permission first.
• Respect the local culture and tradition.
• Do not belittle your porters or guide. Do tip them after their service.
• Refrain from haggling on prices, especially for accommodation.
• Dress and act modestly.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to travel to Nepal is from October to December when the weather and the landscapes are breathtaking. Temperatures vary throughout locations, and the weather is dry until around April.

Nepal is regarded as the premier outdoor sports destination with a wide variety of activities available, including rock climbing, canyoning, ziplining, and other outdoor sports. Skydiving from Mount Everest and landing in the highest part of the world may be the most difficult sport.

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Everest Base Camp Trek

G adventures is dialled when it comes to the EBC trek.

The best trekking company in Nepal! I spent a month in Nepal and did two separate treks with Alpine Ramble – the 11 day Annapurna Circuit and 8 day Everest Base Camp. I did a fair amount of research on trekking companies before booking and Alpine Ramble more than deserves the reputation it has in review sections like these! First up, you have Dil who is the mastermind behind it all. He was really easy to contact via WhatsApp before I arrived. He was able to plan a trip for me that allowed me to see both Annapurna and Everest regions, with enough time for acclimatisation, rest and unforeseen delays. Speaking of which, my flight to Lukla was delayed one day due to weather, which is very common. But this is when Dil went above and beyond. He organised a helicopter to take me the next day, at no additional charge. For context, the other people on the heli had to pay upwards of $300 each. Now I’m sure Dil wouldn’t be able to do this for every customer, but it just shows how committed he is to making sure you have the best time. And I’m so thankful, it was only one of the best experiences of my life! Now onto the guides and porters. I had Basanta and Prakash for ACT, and Krishna Dhakar and Balkumar for EBC. They were all fantastic. Whether it was playing ludo/cards together or them cheerleading me through some of the more challenging sections of the trek, I will be forever grateful to these guys for making my experience so special. They were all such wonderful people. They set a nice slow hiking pace and checked my oxygen levels every night to reduce the risk of altitude sickness, but also recognised when I could go a bit further. They took care of everything, so I could just focus on enjoying the trekking! We stayed in great tea houses throughout, and I’d always seem to get the best room on offer. Maybe that’s Dil working his magic! Last thing. You read and hear a lot about poor working conditions and exploitation in Nepal. It was really important to me that this wasn’t the case for my trip and I can confirm that Alpine Ramble treats all its staff fairly. From limits on how heavy the porters’ bags can be, to the 10% that goes to charity, Alpine Ramble seems very ethical. I was delighted to hear that one of my guide’s (very smart) sons was studying Computer Science in the US. It gave me confidence that my money was being fairly distributed. Thank you so much to everyone at Alpine Ramble, I’ll be back one day!

Classic Nepal Tour

Our tour guide, Navaraj Shrestha, worked very hard and went out of his way many times to make sure everything about our tour was perfect. He is very knowledgeable and a delightful, happy person. He shared many interesting stories and checked in on us often. All accommodations were very good. We enjoyed meeting so many beautiful Nepali people!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.
• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

• In-depth Cultural

Tale of Three Cities (Kathmandu & Nagarkot Tour)

Without doubt one of the favourite countries in the world Nepal Upon arrival I was warmly welcomed by Navaraj my name was mentioned on the board and i felt welcomed and with such a friendly atmosphere i had a fantastic start! The guide and tour was extremely good, very flexible (appreciate this!) and for that he deserves a special thanks. I had four great days there, which obviously also added up to the experience. Navaraj is such a warm personality and highly motivated guide (recommendable!). I truly enjoyed walking the tour with him. The scenery was beautiful and it was a relieve to walk in such a quiet and peaceful environment. The nature of the tour was fantastic Kathmandu t I saw a lot of new things in that trip and experienced a lot especially the temples and the view of the Everest and Hamilya mountains The atmosphere is so special that it really felt like home to me i respect Navaraj who does a great job there; a true sample of excellent tour guide! Many thanks again and I recommend this trip to everyone

Well organised and communication good

Everest Base Camp Trekking

I recently completed the EBC trek return by helicopter, and I must say, the logistics and transportation arrangements made by this company were top-notch. Every detail was taken care of, ensuring a seamless and stress-free journey. Our guide Lakpa played a crucial role in making this trek a success. His knowledge about the area was impressive, and his friendly nature made us feel comfortable throughout. Despite it being the off-season, Lakpa managed to find excellent guest houses for us to stay in. I highly recommend this trek and the exceptional guide services provided by Lakpa and this company.

Loved the tour, everything was amazing!!

Everest Base Camp Trek 12 Days

We recently had the opportunity to embark on the Everest Base Camp trek with Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Team, and I must say, it was an experience of a lifetime. What sets this company apart is their commitment to sustainable tourism and their use of local guides. This not only ensures that you receive authentic knowledge and cultural insights but also contributes to the local communities and economies. From the moment I joined the trek, I felt a deep connection to the local culture. Our guide, a Sherpa with extensive knowledge of the region, shared fascinating stories and anecdotes that brought the mountains to life. It was evident that he had a genuine passion for his homeland and was dedicated to preserving its beauty and heritage. Throughout the trek, we had the opportunity to interact with local communities, visit monasteries, and witness traditional ceremonies. This immersive experience allowed us to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the rich cultural tapestry of the region. It was truly a privilege to be a part of their world, even if only for a short time. Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Team's commitment to sustainable tourism was evident in every aspect of the trip. They ensured that we left no trace, minimizing our impact on the environment. They also supported local businesses and initiatives, further contributing to the well-being of the communities we visited. The accommodations and meals provided were excellent, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and traditional Nepali cuisine. It was a delight to savor the flavors and experience the culinary traditions of the region. The team took great care in catering to dietary preferences and ensuring that we were well-nourished throughout the trek. I highly recommend Sherpa Expedition and Trekking Team to travelers who are looking for sustainable tours and authentic cultural experiences. Their use of local guides ensures that you have access to true, firsthand knowledge and insights. This, combined with their commitment to preserving the environment and supporting local communities, makes them an excellent choice for those seeking meaningful and responsible adventures.

Premium Nepal

Beautiful part of the world with an amazing guide!

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking

From the moment we contacted Sherpa Expedition, communication with the company was seamless and efficient. They promptly answered all our queries and ensured that all our concerns were addressed. Throughout the trek, everything was fulfilled as promised, from the pre-trek arrangements to the post-trek logistics. It was reassuring to have a company that prioritized clear communication and delivered on their commitments.

Annapurna Sanctuary

Amazing adventure into the beautiful heart of Nepal, great group size and a tour leader that had everything sorted before it could be a problem. Every day was a laugh, and the itinerary was smooth and pleasant.

Explore Nepal Tour 11 Days (Hill Stations Beach Jungle Safari and Sunrise view Tour)

Our recent trip to Nepal was an amazing experience . It truly was a trip of a lifetime! Upon arrival we were warmly welcomed by Shailesh Pokharel, the local travel advisor and this was a fantastic start! Despite the constant rainy weather everything went as planned. The trip, overall, was a huge success. Even in difficult, due to the rain situations, our guide, Valmiki Rijal, Sujan, as we used to call him, offered alternative solutions that help us to enjoy every moment of our trip. On the way to every location, he provided interesting and fascinating facts about the history and geography of the places and regions. He is very knowledgeable about Nepal in general, he is nice and engaging and made sure to give us an amazing experience. Sujan was very patient with us and did his best to accommodate our needs and interests. Sujan is a great guide, a true sample of excellent tour guide! After spending 7 days with him, I don’t hesitate to say that we got an exceptional friend in Nepal. Apart of the rainy weather, the other problem we faced was the bad condition of the 2 hotels we stayed in, but again everybody did their best to facilitate our stay. Both Shailesh Pokharel and Valmiki Rijal, (Sujan) and all the people met in Nepal were so friendly that make us felt like home. During our stay in Nepal, we always felt like we were among friends. We really loved meeting Sujan’s family and enjoying the dinner, Shailesh’s wife offered to us at their home. Shailesh and Sujan you have did a great job. Thank you! We highly recommend Nepal Trekking Routes!

Everest Base Camp Trek with Helicopter Return

In the beginning, I signed up for a group but no one signed up for the same date with me so I ended up doing a solo trip to Everest base camp with my guide and also my porter, Mr.Santa. I was a bit worried at first but then I found lots of friends during the trek to EBC. Mr.Santa took great care of me, always walked behind me to check if everything was going well. Mr. Sheilesh came to the airport to welcome me and dropped me off at the airport at the end of the trip. He was also very kind and open to modifying the plan as I requested. I had a beautiful time in Nepal and wonderful experiences during my EBC trek.

One Week in Nepal

Amazing tour, the hiking was incredible and lots of included activities and meals - overall really good value for money, just very cold in the winter, bring lots of warm clothes!

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

I was impressed on how knowledgeable and friendly the whole crew was. they made the trip a very pleasurable trip. Would I do it again/ Absolutely and with the same outfit.

What people love about Fully Guided Tours in Nepal

We had a great experience in Nepal! There is so much to see in the country and the tour provided us a combination of both guided visits and times to explore on our own which was really nice.  From visiting temples and historic sites, to exploring the forests of Chitwan National Park, to sunrise viewing of the Himalayas, all was amazing. Our guide, Raj, was knowledgeable and kind, very gracious, and shared a great deal of information and knowledge.  He moved quickly through areas that he knew but also met the pace we wanted to experience the various facets of Nepal with. All in all, we enjoyed Katmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara, and would recommend anyone to visit Nepal and enjoy the beauty of the country.

Regions in Nepal

• Mount Annapurna (582)
• Mount Everest (470)
• Mount Kala Patthar (404)
• Gorakshep Trail (254)
• Langtang National Park (75)
• Chitwan National Park (22)
• Upper Mustang (21)
• Mount Manaslu (7)

Travel Styles

• Fully Guided
• Nepal Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 10 Best Nepal Trekking Companies & Tour Operators (with 31,613 Reviews)
• 10 Best Everest Base Camp Trekking Companies 2024/2025
• Best Pokhara & Kathmandu Trekking Companies (With Reviews)

• Nepal Tours
• Nepal Travel Guides

Nepal Travel Guide – Travel Insights and Tips

Traveling to Nepal? Our detailed Nepal insights, blogs and travel tips will help you plan the best trip.

A gateway to the awe-inspiring Himalayas, Nepal offers the world’s best treks , such as the Annapurna Circuit and the Everest Base Camp trek. But Nepal is not merely a trekkers’ paradise. You will also find lush tropical rainforests, vast grasslands, stunning temple art, serene Buddhist stupas and colorful cities here.

Visit the outstanding UNESCO World Heritage sites of Patan and Bhaktapur and marvel at their royal palaces and Newari architecture. Kathmandu is also endlessly fascinating, with its medieval alleys, chaotic bazaars, palaces and nightlife. Head to Pokhara and admire the scenery and soak in the quiet charms of the lake city. Go deep into the jungle of Chitwan to spot the wildlife. There is no dearth of places to visit and things to do in Nepal .

Say, you are looking to trek to Everest Base Camp in May or wondering if November in Nepal is ideal for exploration, we have got you covered. Just use our Nepal travel guide to explore this remarkable country and find the best time to visit Nepal .

So, how many days should you spend in Nepal ? We recommend spending a minimum of one week on your Nepali holiday . Once you have gathered all the information on Nepal, you can choose one of these Nepal tours that best fits your budget and interests. Or, you could plan a customized tour to Nepal with the assistance of our local travel experts.

Top Destinations in Nepal

Discover the highlights of Nepal.

Follow Trekking Trails to Everest Base Camp

The Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most incredible experiences in the world. The scenery is jaw-droppingly beautiful. The trek is accessible to anyone with basic fitness levels. While the Classic Everest Base Camp Trek is the most popular, alternative routes like the Three Passes detour are also available. View Tours

Go on a Safari in Chitwan National Park

Spread across 952 square kilometers, Chitwan National Park is home to nearly 50 species of mammals, 55 species of reptiles and amphibians and more than 500 species of birds. Spot tigers, leopards, elephants and rhinos on a traditional jeep safari. And see crocodiles and gharials on an exciting boat safari on Rapti River. View Tours

Explore Kathmandu’s Historic Landmarks

Kathmandu Durbar Square is the heart of the old city. Here, you can find the city’s best architectural heritage and landmarks, including the famed Hanuman Dhoka palace. Other must-visit sites in Kathmandu include the Pashupatinath temple, and Swayambhunath, a Buddhist stupa overlooking the city. View Tours

What to do in Nepal

Read all about the top things to do in Nepal.

Top 14 Things to Do in Nepal

Located between the majestic Himalaya Mountains and the fascinating Indian jungles, Nepal is a land where things like yaks, yetis, mountain peaks and hidden monasteries appear to be seemingly common. Ever since the country opened its borders to foreigners ...Read more

15 Best Things to do in Pokhara, Nepal

If Kathmandu is known for its culture and heritage, Pokhara is the gateway to adventure in Nepal. The picturesque valley features shimmering lakes lined by cafes and restaurants ranging from quirky to luxurious. Surrounding the city are hills, home to loc ...Read more

10 Best Rafting Tours in Nepal - Ultimate Rafting in Nepal Guide

Normally Nepal is all about Mt. Everest and trekking in the Himalayas. But did you ever pause a moment and think about Nepal's rafting tours? If you're going rafting in Nepal, you will be up for some of the best river rafting trips in the world. The rafti ...Read more

10 Authentic Dal Bhat Places in Kathmandu

Dal Bhat is a Nepali meal which basically means cooked lentil soup and steamed rice. The platter ideally also includes a type of vegetable curry, leafy greens, at least one type of pickle, and a meat dish (which is optional). On average, a Nepali cons ...Read more

Top 10 Nepalese Food You Need to Try, other than dal bhat & momos

You cannot escape dal bhat when you are visiting Nepal. The same goes for the unofficial national food called momos. Anyone who has ever been to Nepal will tell you that momo is the must-try food here. Skipping the two famous Nepali foods, we give you a l ...Read more

9 Nepali Momos and Where to Find Them in Kathmandu

Like gyoza in Japan, gnocchi in Italy, Momo is the Nepali version of dumplings. With an average Nepali consuming at least 4 plates of momos per week, i.e. 40 pieces of momos, it has been declared as the unofficial national dish of Nepal. Hole-in-the-wall ...Read more

Nepal at a Glance

Quick facts about Nepal.

Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal. Founded in 723CE by Raja Gunakamadeva, its early name was Manju-Patan. The word Kathmandu means ‘wooden temple.’ Like many South Asian cities, Kathmandu can seem noisy and chaotic at first glance, but this mix of ancient, medieval and modern makes it so intriguing.

49.45 square kilometers. Navigating Kathmandu can seem challenging, but you can easily find rickshaws in the tourist area of Thamel and taxis nearly everywhere. Buses are available, but the service can be confusing.

+977 is the Nepal's country code when making a call from another country. Follow the country code with an area code, such as 01 for Kathmandu.

Nepal uses the Nepali Rupee. ATMs are found in most large towns and cities. Nepal’s main airport offers facilities for exchanging money. Moneychangers can also be found in tourist hotspots. Government-registered money changers usually give better rates. US dollar cheques are accepted in tourist areas but carry local cash when traveling to remote places.

Tribhuvan International Airport is Nepal’s only international airport. It is home to about a dozen private carriers operating within the country and some international airlines that connect parts of Asia and the Middle East. The airport is about six kilometers away from the city center. Code: KTM Closest City: Kathmandu

All foreign nationals barring Indians, need a visa to enter Nepal. Visas are free for 30 days for some South Asian nationals. Tourist visas are issued on arrival at Kathmandu airport, but you may want to get one from a Nepali embassy or consulate in your country beforehand. Tourist visas can be extended up to 150 days.

More than 120 languages are spoken in Nepal, but the official language is Nepali. English is the most commonly spoken international language, and most people in the tourism sector speak basic English. If you go to rural areas, a friendly smile and a ‘namaste’ will go a long way in breaking the ice.

Dial 100 to contact the police. 1144 is the tourist police hotline number for Kathmandu. Dial 101 for fire and 112 for ambulance service.

Nepal does not have Uber, but motorcycle ride-sharing apps like Pathao, InDriver and Tootle are popular here. You can use foreign SIM cards in Nepal, but local ones like Ncell are far cheaper.

When to visit Nepal

Read the below travel guides to find the best time to visit Nepal.

• Jan Avg Daily: 19 ° C Avg Nightly: 2 ° C
• Feb Avg Daily: 21 ° C Avg Nightly: 5 ° C
• Mar Avg Daily: 25 ° C Avg Nightly: 8 ° C
• Apr Avg Daily: 28 ° C Avg Nightly: 12 ° C
• May Avg Daily: 29 ° C Avg Nightly: 16 ° C
• Jun Avg Daily: 29 ° C Avg Nightly: 19 ° C
• Jul Avg Daily: 28 ° C Avg Nightly: 20 ° C
• Aug Avg Daily: 29 ° C Avg Nightly: 20 ° C
• Sep Avg Daily: 28 ° C Avg Nightly: 19 ° C
• Oct Avg Daily: 27 ° C Avg Nightly: 13 ° C
• Nov Avg Daily: 24 ° C Avg Nightly: 8 ° C
• Dec Avg Daily: 20 ° C Avg Nightly: 4 ° C

Best Time To Visit Nepal

If you are looking for the best time to visit Nepal, you need to factor in things like weather, trekking seasons, national festivals, and more. The fall season, between mid-September to November, is the most popular time to visit Nepal when the conditions ...Read more

Nepal in January: Weather, Deals and More

January is the middle of winter and the coldest month in Nepal. But the temperatures are pleasant enough to explore cities and temples, visit national parks and go on low-altitude treks. Since hotel tariffs are low, you can spend more days touring Nepal i ...Read more

Nepal in February: Wildlife Sighting in Cold Weather

As February enters, the woes of winter start to melt away in Nepal, making way for excellent low-season conditions. Pleasant weather and low tourist crowds are the perfect combinations for a short getaway in Nepal in February. While adventure activities l ...Read more

Nepal in March: Celebrations and Spring Weather

With the end of the winter season and the beginning of the popular spring season, Nepal in March is where we see temperatures and crowds starting to rise. March is a good month to visit Nepal, but not as good as April, however, there are more tourists du ...Read more

Nepal in April: Weather and Peak Season Tips

Looking for a great month to trek the Himalayas? April is one of the best times to visit the mountain region of Nepal due to warm, dry weather and good visibility. Obviously, popular time means one thing: crowds—and lots of them. But if you plan ahe ...Read more

Nepal in May: Clear Weather and Trekking Season

May is the end of one of two high seasons in Nepal and one of the best times to explore. As it’s pre-monsoon season, the weather in Nepal in May is favorable and the long days and clear conditions make it an excellent time to go on a trekking holida ...Read more

How long to stay in Nepal

Read about the ideal duration to stay in Nepal.

Great Nepal Itineraries: How Many Days to Spend?

From jaw-dropping mountain vistas to brightly colored temples, a trip to Nepal brings together adventure and spirituality in a unique blend that you’ll be yearning to return again and again. Hike through the Himalayas and take a flight over Mount Ev ...Read more

5 Days in Nepal: Top 3 Recommendations

Traveling to Nepal, but short on time? Don’t worry, there is a lot you can see and do in just 5 days in Nepal. From multi-day treks to wildlife safaris and more, there are plenty of mini-expeditions and adventures you could embark on. Here are some ...Read more

7 Days in Nepal: Our Recommendations

Most travelers heading for Nepal plan a fortnight-long stay in the country in order to trek to the base camp of either Mount Everest or Mount Annapurna. However, the country also has a lot to offer even to those planning to spend just 7 days in Nepal. For ...Read more

10 Days in Nepal: Our Recommendations

Those looking to spend 10 days in Nepal can soak up its towering mountains during one of the shorter treks like Mardi Himal or Poon Hill, then travel down to its plains where nature reserves abound. Try spotting tigers on a jeep safari in Chitwan or head ...Read more

Treks in Nepal

Read the ultimate trekking guides for Nepal.

Trekking Seasons in Nepal

For every trekking season below we list the average temperatures in Kathmandu, which lies at an altitude of 1300 m. If wanting to calculate the potential temperatures during your trek then please note that for every 100 meters of ascend the temperature wi ...Read more

Altitude Illness while Trekking in Nepal

Altitude illness occurs due to changed pressure and oxygen levels. As the altitude increases the pressure levels drop and as a result oxygen levels drop accordingly. Altitude illness may kick in when reaching 3,000 meters and above as a result of the body ...Read more

Health and Safety while Trekking, Including Altitude Sickness

Trekking is generally very rewarding and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. While trekking is not dangerous, health and safety should always be a top priority. Whether you're going for the Everest Base Camp trek in Nepal, the Inca Trail in Peru, or wanting ...Read more

What to Pack for Trekking? Equipment Guide

In order to fully enjoy your trek in the Himalayas, Peru, Tanzania, or any other trek in the world, having the right trekking equipment is essential - both safety and comfort-wise. The trekking equipment necessary depends on the type of trek, and on the t ...Read more

Trekking in Nepal: Top 14 Best Treks in Nepal

Home to the magnificent Himalayas, Nepal offers a multitude of breathtaking trekking opportunities for adventurers of all levels. From the legendary hike to Everest Base Camp that winds through the shadow of the world's tallest peak to the enchanting Anna ...Read more

How to Get to Everest Base Camp

Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, surrounded by glaciers, forested valleys and some of the largest mountains on the planet, the base of Everest is a bucket list item for many. So how do you get to the Everest Base Camp? Let us find out. ...Read more

Nepal Tour and Holiday Packages

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Group tours, private tours, family tour packages, faqs for nepal.

Read the most frequently asked questions and answers about traveling to Nepal below.

• What is the required budget for a trip to Nepal?
• How long do I need to travel Nepal?
• When should I travel to Nepal?
• What are the main attractions of Nepal?

Sustainable travel — How to travel through Nepal responsibly

In line with Bookmundi’s vision, we wish to provide our travelers with a sustainable travel experience through Nepal. As part of this effort, we carbon offset any Nepal tour that you purchase through us. Read more details about our carbon offsetting program .

Here’s what you can do to travel to Nepal more responsibly:

• Carbon offset your trip to Nepal via Qantas that allows for carbon offsetting. If you have purchased your tour through Bookmundi, the moment your tour begins in Nepal, we will carbon offset your tour from its starting point to its ending point.
• You can donate a small amount to help the efforts of Renewable World , an NGO with headquarters in the UK that works with local partners in Nepal to develop affordable renewable energy solutions for poor communities.
• You can also do your bit by traveling sustainably in Nepal. For example, don’t buy plastic bottles, always pack any rubbish generated and dispose of properly, and travel by bus instead of flight between major cities.

Nepal travel tips and insights

• Take off your shoes before entering a temple or someone’s home.
• Objects and cash should be offered and received with the right hand or both hands.
• The Nepali greeting, “namaste,” with your palms held together, is the best way to form a bond or start a conversation with a stranger. A more formal and respectful version is “namaskar,” usually reserved for older relatives or priests.
• Power outages are common in Nepal, especially in remote areas. So always be prepared with a power bank to charge your devices.

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Popular Destinations

• Everest Base Camp trek
• Annapurna Base Camp trek
• Langtang trek
• Everest Region
• Chitwan National Park
• Poonhill trek
• Annapurna Circuit trek
• Manaslu trek
• Island Peak
• Annapurna Region
• Gokyo Lakes Trek
• Everest Base Camp - 3 Passes trek
• Gokyo and Everest Base Camp trek
• Everest Panorama trek
• Upper Mustang trek
• Mardi Himal Trek
• Lobuche East Peak
• Makalu Base Camp trek
• Manaslu-Tsum Valley
• Kanchenjunga Base Camp
• Upper Dolpo trek
• Langtang Region
• Annapurna Panorama trek
• Great Himalaya Trail

Popular Activities

• Active and outdoor
• Art and architecture
• Bicycle tours
• City sightseeing
• Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Helicopter Tours
• Local boat rides
• Local culture
• Mountain biking
• Mountain flights
• National parks
• Natural landmarks sightseeing
• Rainforest and jungle visits
• Sightseeing Tours
• Trekking and Hiking
• Walking tours
• Wildlife safaris and game drives

Upcoming Departures

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