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Nepal Travel Information

What you need to know before you Arrive: 

Nepal is a land of extraordinary beauty and diverse landscapes, offering a wealth of experiences for travelers. Whether you’re trekking through the Himalayas, exploring ancient temples, or immersing yourself in the local culture, there’s something for everyone in this magical country. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Nepal:

Visa and Entry Requirements

Nepal offers visa on arrival for most nationalities, making it easy to enter the country. You can obtain a visa at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at land border entry points. Be sure to check the most up-to-date visa requirements based on your nationality before your journey.

  • Tourist Visa: Available for 15, 30, or 90 days.
  • Documents Required: Valid passport, passport-sized photo, visa fee (varies by nationality).
  • Visa Extensions: Extensions are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara for up to 150 days per calendar year.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Nepal largely depends on the activities you want to do:

  • Trekking and Adventure: The prime trekking seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is clear, dry, and mild.
  • Cultural Tours: The cooler months of October to December are ideal for cultural explorations, especially to visit Nepal’s temples, palaces, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Wildlife Safaris: The best time for safaris in Chitwan National Park or Bardia National Park is during the dry months of October to March, when animals are more visible.

Currency and Payments

The local currency in Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). ATMs are widely available in cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, and most major tourist areas accept credit cards. However, it’s a good idea to carry cash, especially when traveling to remote areas.

  • Currency exchange: Money exchange services are available at the airport, local banks, and exchange counters.
  • Tipping: Tipping is common and appreciated, especially in restaurants, hotels, and for trekking guides and porters.

Language

The official language of Nepal is Nepali, but English is widely spoken in major cities and tourist areas. It’s always helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Nepali, such as "Namaste" (Hello) and "Dhanyabad" (Thank you), to enrich your cultural experience.

Health and Safety

Nepal is generally safe for travelers, but it’s important to take some precautions:

  • Vaccinations: It’s recommended to get vaccinated for diseases like Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Tetanus, and Diphtheria. Check with your healthcare provider for the latest travel health advice.
  • Altitude Sickness: If you plan to trek in higher altitudes, acclimatization is crucial. Trekking above 2,500 meters increases the risk of altitude sickness, so take it slow and drink plenty of water.
  • Travel Insurance: Make sure to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trek evacuations, and lost belongings.

Local Customs and Etiquette

Nepal is a culturally rich country with a mix of Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Respect for local customs is essential to ensure a positive experience:

  • Greetings: A traditional Namaste with folded hands is the customary greeting in Nepal.
  • Dress Modestly: When visiting temples or rural areas, it’s important to dress modestly and respectfully.
  • Respect for Elders: Elders are highly respected in Nepal, and it’s customary to greet them first in social settings.

Transport in Nepal

  • Domestic Flights: Nepal’s mountainous terrain makes air travel the most convenient way to reach remote regions. Popular domestic flight routes connect Kathmandu to cities like Pokhara, Lukla, and Jomsom.
  • Public Transport: Buses and microbuses operate throughout the country, though they can be crowded. Private taxis are also available in major cities.
  • Private Vehicles: AMA Travel provides private vehicle rentals, which offer a more comfortable and convenient way to travel around Nepal.

Electricity and Communication

  • Voltage: The standard voltage in Nepal is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz. You’ll need a Type C or Type D plug adapter for your electronics.
  • SIM Cards and Internet: You can easily purchase local SIM cards for affordable mobile data and internet access. Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, restaurants, and cafes in cities, though it may be slower in rural areas.