Travel Guide For Nepal
This Nepal Travel guide is designed to help you gain more clarity about the country and the Himalayas.
From our experience we have come to realize that the new visa rules, altitude worries, packing lists and cultural questions can easily overwhelm any new travellers. So, with an aim to clear the confusion we created one simple guide that can help you know exactly what to expect before your starting your first day in Nepal.
Whether you are dreaming of Everest, Annapurna, Langtang or a short hike near Pokhara, we promise you that this Nepal Travel Guide gives you the foundations for a safe, comfortable and meaningful journey.
What do you need to know before coming to Nepal?
Before boarding your flight to Tribhuwan International Airport, there are few basics that every traveler should understand.
Nepal Visa
Nepal offers a really simple visa-on-arrival system for most countries. As long as you carry a valid passport, 2 passport-sized photos and the required fee, the process of getting a visa at the airport is pretty straightforward.
However, if you wanna beat the hassle, you can also apply for an online visa using Nepal’s immigration platform.
Note: If you are from a country where the visa on arrival isn’t possible then you need visit the respective Nepalese embassy of your country.
Travel Insurance
While city tours in Nepal are mostly safe, if you are looking to do some trekking in Nepal, then travel insurance isn’t just a formality.
The weather in the Himalayas can’t be predicted, no matter how hard we try, and sometimes an accident does happen, and you might have to opt for a helicopter evacuation as well.
Which is why, it’s essential to choose travel insurance that clearly covers trekking at High altitude and helicopter rescue in case of emergency.
Nepal Safety
In general, Nepal is considered safe for travelers. Like any country, there are small scams and minor annoyances, but violent crime against tourists is rare. Staying aware of your belongings, choosing a licensed trekking agency, and following guide instructions usually keep you out of trouble.
Best Time to Visit Nepal
In Nepal the season you choose wholly shapes your entire experience. And let us tell you the best season actually depends upon the tours that you are going to choose.
For the ones who wants to go for a trekking, then the best season are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
On the other hand, if you are looking for cultural or historical tours then you should plan your visit as per the local festival.
Now here is a twist, trekking in winter isn’t actually great but if you want to go for Natural and wildlife tour in Nepal then month from October to March which is actually kinda best.
However, . Monsoon season, from June to August, brings clouds and rain which brings landslides and makes the trails slippery. Unless you are planning to travel in rain shadow region like Upper mustang, these season isn’t really a good time for traveling.
Health and Altitude Tips
Nepal’s beauty often comes with high altitude. Many popular trekking routes rise above 3,000 meters, where the air gets thinner and the body needs time to adapt.
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or experience. Early symptoms may include headache, loss of appetite, nausea, tiredness or trouble sleeping. These signs are your body’s way of asking you to slow down.
The safest way to trek is to follow a gradual itinerary with proper acclimatization days. Simple habits like drinking enough water, eating well, avoiding alcohol at altitude and listening to your body make a big difference.
Trekking Preparation Guide
A trek in Nepal often begins long before you arrive. A little preparation at home makes your time in the mountains much more enjoyable.
Start by choosing a route that fits your fitness, time and experience. Classic journeys like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp or Langtang Valley each offer different landscapes, durations and difficulty levels. Shorter options like Poon Hill, Mardi Himal or Panchase Trek are great for first-time trekkers or those with limited days.
Packing well is another important part of preparation. Layered clothing for changing temperatures, a comfortable pair of trekking boots, a warm jacket, good socks, personal medicines and a quality day pack are essential. You can rent or buy a lot of gear in Kathmandu if needed.
Money, Internet and Practical Tips
Once you land, practical details start to matter.
The local currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). You can exchange major currencies at banks and money exchange counters in Kathmandu and Pokhara. ATMs are widely available in the cities and some larger towns, but you should not rely on them once you are deep in the mountains. Carrying enough cash for your trek is important.
Buying a local SIM card at the airport or in the city is straightforward with a copy of your passport and a passport photo. Mobile data works well in many lower areas, while higher villages may rely more on lodge Wi-Fi.
Understanding Nepali Culture
A simple “Namaste” with palms pressed together is a warm and respectful greeting across Nepal. Taking off your shoes before entering homes, monasteries, and some shops is a common practice. In villages and religious sites, dressing modestly is appreciated.
On the trails, you may meet communities such as Sherpa, Tamang, Gurung or Magar, each with their own language, customs and traditions. Prayer flags, mani stones and monasteries remind you that you are walking through living culture, not just scenery.