Nepal Travel FAQ

The best time to visit Nepal depends on your activities. October to December offers the clearest mountain views and perfect trekking weather, with comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall. March to May is also excellent, with warmer weather and blooming rhododendrons, though afternoon clouds may obscure mountain views. June to September is monsoon season with heavy rainfall but lush landscapes and fewer crowds. For high-altitude trekking, avoid the monsoon completely. For cultural tours, any time except peak monsoon (July-August) works well.

The ideal duration depends on your interests. For a cultural overview of Kathmandu Valley with Pokhara, allow 7-10 days. For Everest Base Camp trek, plan 14-16 days total including travel. Annapurna Circuit requires 15-20 days. For wildlife safaris in Chitwan plus cultural sites, 5-7 days works well. First-time visitors often find 2-3 weeks perfect for combining culture, adventure, and wildlife experiences without rushing. Budget extra days for weather delays, especially if flying to mountain regions.

Start by identifying your priorities: cultural experiences, trekking, wildlife, or adventure sports. Consider the time of year and weather patterns for your chosen activities. Build in buffer days for weather delays, especially for mountain flights. Book accommodations in advance during peak season (Oct-Nov, Mar-Apr). Consider altitude acclimatization if trekking above 3,000m. Popular combinations include Kathmandu-Pokhara-Chitwan for first-timers, or Kathmandu-Everest region for serious trekkers. Always have backup plans for weather-dependent activities.

Peak season (October-November, March-April) requires advance booking for popular treks, hotels, and domestic flights. Shoulder seasons offer more flexibility for local arrangements. Trekking permits and guide bookings are easier locally but may limit choices during busy periods. For specialized experiences like tiger tracking in Chitwan or paragliding in Pokhara, advance booking ensures availability. Budget travelers often find better deals booking locally, while those with limited time benefit from pre-arranged itineraries.

Most nationalities require a visa to enter Nepal. Visa on arrival is available at Tribhuvan International Airport and major land border crossings for citizens of most countries. Tourist visas cost $30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days, or $125 for 90 days. You need a passport valid for at least 6 months, a completed application form, and recent passport photos. Some nationalities including India, China, and SAARC countries have special arrangements. Check current visa requirements before travel as policies can change.

Yes, tourist visas can be extended at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Extensions cost $3 per day and you can stay up to 150 days per calendar year on a tourist visa. Bring your passport, current visa, completed extension form, and passport photos. Processing usually takes 1-2 days. It's easier to extend in major cities than remote areas. Plan extensions in advance, especially during peak trekking seasons when offices may be busy.

You need a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure, a visa (obtained on arrival or in advance), and proof of onward travel (return ticket or continuation to another country). Some border officials may ask for proof of sufficient funds ($1,000+ or credit cards). For trekking, you'll need additional permits like TIMS card and area-specific permits. Vaccination certificates may be required if arriving from yellow fever endemic areas. Keep copies of all documents separate from originals.

No vaccinations are mandatory unless arriving from yellow fever endemic areas. Recommended vaccines include Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Japanese Encephalitis (especially for rural areas during monsoon season). Routine vaccines (MMR, DPT, flu) should be current. Consider rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis if planning remote trekking or working with animals. Malaria prophylaxis is only needed for southern Terai regions during monsoon season. Consult a travel medicine doctor 4-6 weeks before departure for personalized recommendations.

Altitude sickness is a real concern above 2,500-3,000m and can be life-threatening. Symptoms include headache, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Prevent it by ascending gradually (gain no more than 500m sleeping altitude per day above 3,000m), staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and listening to your body. Acclimatization days are essential. Descend immediately if symptoms worsen. Carry altitude sickness medication (Diamox) after consulting a doctor. Most trekking areas have evacuation services, but prevention is always better than treatment.

Nepal is generally very safe for tourists with low crime rates and friendly locals. Exercise normal precautions: don't display expensive items, be aware of surroundings, and keep valuables secure. Political strikes (bandhs) occasionally disrupt transport but rarely affect tourists directly. Trekking risks include altitude sickness, weather changes, and trail accidents - hire experienced guides for remote areas. Natural disasters like earthquakes and landslides are possible. Road travel can be challenging due to road conditions and driving standards. Follow embassy advisories and trust local advice.

Drink only bottled, boiled, or properly filtered water. Avoid ice unless from reliable sources. Eat hot, freshly cooked food and avoid raw vegetables and dairy products unless from reputable establishments. Street food can be safe if vendors have high turnover and food is cooked fresh. Wash hands frequently and carry hand sanitizer. In remote trekking areas, water purification tablets or UV sterilizers are essential. Most teahouses provide boiled water for a fee. Bottled water creates plastic waste, so consider reusable bottles with purification systems.

Remove shoes before entering homes and temples. Use your right hand for eating, greeting, and giving/receiving items (left hand is considered impure). Dress modestly, especially at religious sites - cover shoulders and knees. Don't point feet toward people or religious objects. Ask permission before photographing people, especially in traditional dress. Don't touch someone's head or point with a single finger. Learn basic Nepali greetings like 'Namaste.' Respect local customs during festivals and religious ceremonies. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory - 10% at restaurants is standard.

Nepal is officially secular but historically Hindu (about 81% of population) with a significant Buddhist minority (9%). These religions have coexisted for centuries, creating unique syncretic traditions. You'll see Hindu temples and Buddhist stupas side by side, often serving both communities. Other minorities include Muslims, Christians, and indigenous animist traditions. Religious festivals like Dashain (Hindu) and Buddha Jayanti (Buddhist) are national celebrations. Respect all religious sites and practices - many places are sacred to multiple faiths simultaneously.

Dress modestly and conservatively, especially in religious areas and rural regions. Cover shoulders and knees at temples and monasteries. Long pants and shirts are appropriate for most situations. T-shirts are acceptable for trekking and casual activities. Avoid revealing clothing like shorts, tank tops, and low-cut tops in cities and villages. Traditional Nepali dress is appreciated but not required. Comfortable, breathable fabrics work best. For trekking, layered clothing is essential due to changing temperatures. Remove hats and sunglasses when entering religious sites.

Nepal has a traditional Hindu caste system, though it's officially illegal to discriminate based on caste. The system influences social interactions and traditions but rarely affects tourists directly. You may notice certain customs in traditional homes (like separate eating areas) but these are cultural practices, not discrimination against visitors. Be respectful of local customs without worrying about accidentally causing offense - Nepalis understand visitors aren't familiar with all traditions. Focus on being respectful and following basic cultural etiquette. Modern Nepal is increasingly egalitarian, especially in tourist areas.

Experience requirements vary by trek. Popular routes like Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp require good physical fitness but no technical climbing skills. You should be able to walk 5-7 hours daily on uneven terrain while carrying a daypack. Start training 2-3 months before departure with hiking, cardio, and leg strengthening exercises. Prior high-altitude experience is helpful but not essential if you acclimatize properly. Hiring a guide is recommended for safety and cultural insights. Some challenging treks like Three Passes require mountaineering experience.

Essential gear includes: good hiking boots (broken in before departure), layered clothing system, warm sleeping bag (rated to -10°C for high altitude), rain jacket and pants, headlamp with extra batteries, first aid kit, water purification tablets, and sunglasses/sunscreen. Trekking poles are highly recommended for knee protection. Many items can be bought or rented in Kathmandu and Pokhara, often at lower cost than home countries. Porters can carry your heavy gear, leaving you with just a daypack. Check gear lists specific to your chosen trek and season.

Adventure sports in Nepal can be safe when using reputable, certified operators with proper safety equipment and trained staff. Research operators thoroughly, check their safety records, and ensure they have insurance coverage. For paragliding, choose operators certified by Nepal Air Sports Association. For bungee jumping, verify equipment is internationally certified and regularly inspected. Weather conditions can change rapidly in mountains - operators should cancel activities if conditions are unsafe. Your travel insurance should cover adventure activities specifically.

Nepal offers incredible wildlife diversity. In Chitwan National Park, you have 95% chance of seeing one-horned rhinos, 30% chance for Bengal tigers, plus wild elephants, crocodiles, and 500+ bird species. Bardia National Park in western Nepal offers similar wildlife with fewer crowds. The mountains host snow leopards (extremely rare sighting), blue sheep, and various pheasants. Over 900 bird species nationwide include endangered species like Bengal florican and spiny babbler. Best wildlife viewing is during dry season (October-March) when animals congregate around water sources.

The Nepali Rupee (NPR) is the local currency. Major currencies (USD, EUR, GBP) can be exchanged at banks, authorized money changers, and hotels, though rates vary. ATMs are widely available in cities and major trekking areas, though they may run out of cash during peak seasons. Credit cards are accepted in upscale hotels and restaurants but carry 3-4% surcharge. Always carry cash for local transportation, meals, and trekking areas. Keep exchange receipts - you'll need them to exchange leftover rupees when departing. US dollars are widely accepted for permits and some tourist services.

Budget varies greatly by travel style. Backpackers can manage on $20-30/day staying in guesthouses, eating local food, and using public transport. Mid-range travelers typically spend $50-100/day for private rooms, varied dining, and some guided activities. Luxury travelers spend $150+ daily for premium hotels, private guides, and exclusive experiences. Trekking costs $30-80/day depending on route and services. Add permit costs ($30-50), domestic flights ($100-150), and gear if needed. Peak season prices are 20-50% higher. Always budget extra for weather delays and emergency evacuation insurance.

Internet and phone coverage are good in cities and main trekking routes but spotty in remote areas. Most hotels, restaurants, and cafes offer free WiFi, though speeds can be slow. Buy a local SIM card (Ncell or Nepal Telecom) for better rates and coverage - you'll need passport photos and copies. International roaming is expensive. Internet cafes are common in tourist areas. On popular treks, many teahouses offer WiFi for a fee ($2-5/day), but expect slow speeds and outages. Download offline maps and important information before heading to remote areas. Satellite phones are available for emergencies in very remote regions.

Nepali cuisine blends Indian, Tibetan, and Chinese influences. Dal Bhat (rice with lentil soup, vegetables, and pickles) is the national dish served twice daily with unlimited refills. Momos (dumplings) are incredibly popular and come with various fillings. Newari cuisine in Kathmandu Valley offers unique dishes like bara (lentil pancakes) and choila (grilled meat). Tea culture is strong - try masala chai and local teas. Most restaurants in tourist areas serve international food alongside local dishes. Vegetarian options are excellent and widely available. Spice levels vary but are generally milder than Indian food. Food safety improves at busier restaurants with high turnover.

Nepal offers diverse transportation options for different budgets and comfort levels. Domestic flights connect Kathmandu to Pokhara, Lukla (Everest), Jomsom, and other destinations - book early as flights fill quickly and are weather-dependent. Tourist buses run between major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan, offering comfortable seats and A/C. Local buses are cheaper but crowded and slower. Private car hire with driver is popular for flexible itineraries. Taxis and ride-sharing apps (Pathao, InDrive) operate in major cities. Within cities, cycle rickshaws and electric saafs (three-wheelers) are common. For trekking regions, walking is primary, with porter and yak services available for gear transport.

Nepali is the official language, spoken by about 44% as first language and understood by nearly all Nepalis. Nepal is incredibly linguistically diverse with 123 languages spoken across different ethnic groups. In tourist areas, English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and by guides. Hindi is also understood due to Bollywood's influence and similarity to Nepali. Learning basic Nepali phrases greatly enhances your experience - Namaste (hello/goodbye), Dhanyabad (thank you), Kati ho? (how much?), Mitho cha (delicious). Most menus in tourist areas have English translations. Translation apps work well in cities with internet connectivity.

Yes, alcohol is legal and widely available in Nepal except in some specific religious sites and during certain festivals. Local options include Raksi (traditional distilled spirit), Tongba (hot millet beer popular in mountain regions), and Chhyang (fermented rice/millet drink). International beers like Everest, Gorkha, and Tuborg Nepal are brewed locally. Imported wines and spirits are available in upscale hotels and restaurants but expensive. Drinking age is officially 18 but rarely enforced. During trekking, alcohol consumption should be minimized as it worsens altitude sickness. Some festivals and religious occasions prohibit alcohol sales temporarily. Always drink responsibly and respect local customs.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Nepal. In restaurants, 5-10% is standard for good service, though many upscale places add service charges automatically - check your bill. For trekking guides, $5-10 per day is customary; porters typically receive $3-5 per day. Hotel staff appreciate 100-200 NPR for exceptional service. Taxi drivers don't expect tips but rounding up is appreciated. For tour guides, $10-20 per day depending on group size and service quality. At the end of a trek, tipping ceremonies are common where the whole team is tipped together. Always tip in cash (NPR preferred) and give directly to the person who served you.

Nepal offers diverse accommodation from budget guesthouses to luxury 5-star hotels. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you'll find international chains like Hyatt, Marriott, and Radisson alongside boutique heritage hotels in converted palaces. Mid-range hotels ($30-80/night) offer clean rooms, hot water, and WiFi. Budget guesthouses ($5-20/night) provide basic rooms, often family-run with local character. Trekking lodges (teahouses) in mountain regions offer simple twin rooms with communal dining ($5-15/night). Chitwan has jungle lodges and luxury safari resorts. Homestays provide authentic cultural experiences in rural areas. During peak season (Oct-Nov, Mar-Apr), advance booking is essential.

Budget accommodations in Nepal are generally safe and clean, especially in tourist areas where competition ensures quality standards. Look for places with good online reviews on booking platforms. Check that rooms have secure locks and request ground floor or well-lit rooms if concerned. Most guesthouses are family-run and owners often live on-site, providing natural security. Hot water may be solar-heated (limited supply) or on-demand (bucket/geyser). WiFi is usually available but slow. Bedbugs can be an issue - inspect mattresses and bring a sleep sheet if concerned. Budget places may not have 24-hour reception, so inform them of late arrivals.

Hotel amenities vary significantly by price range and location. Luxury hotels (5-star) offer AC, hot water 24/7, restaurants, spas, gyms, swimming pools, and concierge services. Mid-range hotels typically have hot showers, WiFi, restaurants, and travel desks. Budget places provide basic rooms with shared or attached bathrooms, WiFi (often in common areas), and possibly breakfast. Mountain teahouses offer simple beds, blankets, charging stations (for a fee), and communal dining areas - no showers above 3,000m usually. Power cuts are common; hotels have backup generators or solar power. Heating is rare except luxury hotels; bring warm clothes even for mid-range places in winter.

Hotels can be booked through international platforms (Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia), directly via hotel websites, or locally upon arrival. Booking platforms offer best price guarantees and free cancellation options. For trekking, teahouses are typically booked as you go - lodges don't take advance bookings except in peak season. Travel agencies can arrange accommodation as part of tour packages. During peak seasons (October-November, March-April) and major festivals, advance booking is crucial, especially for popular destinations. Many hotels offer airport pickup if booked directly. Walk-in rates are sometimes negotiable, especially in shoulder seasons, but quality rooms may be full.

As of April 2023, solo trekking is officially banned in Nepal - you must hire a licensed guide or join a group for all trekking regions. This regulation enhances safety, supports local economies, and reduces rescue operations. Licensed guides provide route navigation, cultural insights, language assistance, and emergency support. They handle permits, accommodation booking, and can recognize altitude sickness symptoms. Costs range from $25-40 per day for guides. Porter-guides can carry your gear and guide simultaneously ($30-50/day). For technical peaks and remote areas, experienced guides are essential. Even experienced trekkers benefit from local knowledge about weather, trail conditions, and cultural etiquette.

Trekking permits vary by region. TIMS Card (Trekking Information Management System) costs $20 and is required for most treks. Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) costs $30 for Annapurna region treks. Sagarmatha National Park entry costs $30 for Everest region. Langtang National Park requires $30 entry fee. Restricted areas like Upper Mustang ($500/10 days), Manaslu ($70-100), and Kanchenjunga require special permits and must be done through registered agencies. Permits can be obtained in Kathmandu at Nepal Tourism Board or through trekking agencies. Your guide typically arranges permits - bring passport photos and copies. Some areas require two trekkers minimum even with a guide.

Poon Hill trek (4-5 days) is perfect for beginners - relatively low altitude (3,210m max), well-developed trail, comfortable teahouses, and spectacular Annapurna sunrise views. Langtang Valley trek (7-8 days) offers moderate difficulty with stunning scenery, cultural experiences in Tamang villages, and fewer crowds than Annapurna. Ghorepani-Ghandruk loop (5-6 days) combines mountain views with cultural immersion. Royal Trek near Pokhara (4 days) is easy with low altitude and luxury lodge options. These treks don't require technical skills, just reasonable fitness. They're ideal for testing your trekking abilities before attempting longer, higher treks like Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp.

Peak trekking seasons are October-November (autumn) and March-May (spring), offering clear skies, stable weather, and moderate temperatures. Autumn provides crystal-clear mountain views, comfortable temperatures, and festive celebrations (Dashain, Tihar). Spring features blooming rhododendrons, warmer weather, and good visibility, though afternoon clouds can obscure views. December-February is winter - cold but clear, with fewer crowds and lower prices; higher passes may be snow-blocked. Monsoon (June-September) brings heavy rain, leeches, landslide risks, and obscured mountain views - suitable only for rain-shadow areas like Upper Mustang and Upper Dolpo. March-April and October-November are also wedding and festival seasons, adding cultural richness to your trek.

Fitness requirements depend on the trek difficulty and duration. For moderate treks (Annapurna Base Camp, Everest Base Camp), you should comfortably walk 5-7 hours daily on steep, uneven terrain while carrying a daypack at high altitude. Start training 2-3 months before with hiking (stairs, hills), cardio (running, cycling), and leg strengthening exercises (squats, lunges). Prior hiking experience helps but isn't mandatory. Altitude affects everyone differently regardless of fitness - proper acclimatization is more important than athletic ability. For challenging treks (Three Passes, Manaslu Circuit), higher fitness levels and prior high-altitude experience are recommended. Age isn't a barrier - people from 10-80 successfully complete popular treks with proper preparation and pacing.

Dashain (September/October) is Nepal's biggest festival, a 15-day Hindu celebration honoring goddess Durga with family reunions, animal sacrifices, and tika ceremonies. Tihar (October/November) is the 5-day festival of lights celebrating Lakshmi with oil lamps, decorations, and honoring dogs, cows, and crows. Buddha Jayanti (April/May full moon) celebrates Buddha's birth at Lumbini and major stupas. Holi (February/March) is the colorful spring festival with colored powder throwing. Indra Jatra (September) in Kathmandu features chariot processions and masked dances. Teej (August/September) is women's festival with fasting and red saris. Lhosar (February/March) celebrates Tibetan New Year in Buddhist communities. Timing varies annually based on lunar calendar.

Major festivals significantly impact travel logistics and experiences. During Dashain (biggest festival), many businesses close for 3-5 days, transportation is packed as people travel to villages, and hotel prices spike in tourist areas while local restaurants may close. Booking months in advance is essential. However, festivals offer incredible cultural experiences - processions, ceremonies, and celebrations. Tihar creates beautiful cityscapes with lights and decorations. During festivals, attractions may have different hours or close entirely. Public transportation and flights fill quickly. On the positive side, Nepalis are welcoming during festivals and may invite visitors to celebrations. Off-season discounts disappear during festival periods. Plan carefully or avoid peak festival days if you prioritize smooth logistics over cultural immersion.

Photography is generally permitted in Nepal with some important exceptions. Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in traditional dress, during religious ceremonies, or in villages - many appreciate tips (50-100 NPR). Temples and monasteries have varying rules: some prohibit all photography, others allow exteriors only, some charge fees (200-500 NPR) for camera permits. Military installations, airports, and security checkpoints strictly prohibit photography. During religious ceremonies, flash photography may be disallowed. Durbar Squares and UNESCO sites often charge separate camera fees (200-1000 NPR) beyond entry tickets. Drones require special permits and are banned in many areas. Respect privacy and religious sentiments - if someone declines, thank them and move on. Professional/commercial shoots need special permissions.

For landscape and mountain photography, bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera with wide-angle lens (16-35mm) for sweeping vistas and telephoto (70-200mm) for distant peaks and wildlife. Fast prime lens (35mm or 50mm f/1.8) works well in low-light temples. Bring multiple batteries as cold drains them quickly at altitude; keep batteries warm in inside pockets. Memory cards are expensive in Nepal - bring plenty. Lens cleaning kit is essential for dust. Polarizing filter reduces glare and enhances blue skies. Tripod for long exposures and sunrise shots, though it adds weight for trekking. Waterproof camera bag or rain cover for monsoon season. Smartphone cameras are increasingly capable for casual photography. Portable charger/power bank essential for treks where charging costs extra.