Nepal – Destination Guide

Nepal is one of the world’s great adventure destinations, where towering Himalayan peaks rise above ancient cities, sacred temples, and lush jungle lowlands. From the summit of Mount Everest to the peaceful birthplace of Buddha in Lumbini, this is a country defined by contrast, colour, and culture.

Whether you are trekking through alpine forests in the Annapurna region, exploring centuries old courtyards in Kathmandu Valley, or sharing dal bhat in a mountain teahouse, Nepal offers experiences that are humbling, challenging, and deeply rewarding.

🌍 Regions & Highlights

Kathmandu Valley

• Home to the historic cities of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan, this cultural heartland is packed with UNESCO listed temples, palaces, and courtyards. Highlights include Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, and Pashupatinath Temple.

Everest Region – Khumbu

• The gateway to the world’s highest peak and home to the iconic Everest Base Camp trek. Expect Sherpa villages, dramatic suspension bridges, and legendary peaks such as Ama Dablam.

Annapurna Region

• A diverse trekking paradise offering the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp. The lakeside city of Pokhara is a relaxed base for trekkers and adventure lovers.

Chitwan & Terai Lowlands

• Subtropical plains rich with wildlife. Chitwan National Park is famous for rhinos, elephants, crocodiles, and Bengal tigers.

Lumbini

• The birthplace of Buddha, with peaceful monastery zones, sacred gardens, and the Maya Devi Temple.

🎒 Things To Do

• Trek to Everest Base Camp
• Trek to Annapurna Base Camp
• Explore Temples and Durbar Squares in Kathmandu
• Paraglide over Phewa Lake in Pokhara
• Take a Jungle Safari in Chitwan National Park
• Visit the Birthplace of Buddha in Lumbini
• Go White Water Rafting on Himalayan Rivers
• Join a Traditional Cooking or Meditation Class

✈️ Airports & Getting There

International Airport

• Tribhuvan International Airport – KTM – Kathmandu

Key Domestic Airports

• Tenzing Hillary Airport – LUA – Lukla
• Pokhara International Airport – PKR – Pokhara
• Bharatpur Airport – BHR – Chitwan
• Gautam Buddha International Airport – BWA – Bhairahawa – Lumbini
• Nepalgunj Airport – KEP – Nepalgunj
• Jomsom Airport – JMO – Mustang
• Simara Airport – SIF – Bara

Most trekking itineraries begin with arrival in Kathmandu. From there, domestic flights or road transfers connect to trekking regions. Mountain flights are weather dependent, so flexibility in scheduling is important.

🗓️ Best Time To Visit

• October – November: Clear skies, excellent mountain views, ideal trekking conditions
• March – April: Warmer temperatures and blooming rhododendrons

Winter can be very cold at altitude. The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rain and limited visibility in mountain regions.

💰 Currency & Money

• Nepalese Rupee – NPR

Cash is essential, particularly in trekking regions and rural areas. ATMs are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara but can be unreliable. Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants in cities, though surcharges may apply.

Tipping

Tipping is customary and expected in many tourism settings. Around 10 percent is common in restaurants. For trekking:

• Guides: Approximately NPR 500 – 1000 per day
• Porters: Approximately NPR 300 – 500 per day

Amounts may vary depending on group size, service, and trek duration.

🛂 Visa Requirements

Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or apply online in advance.

Typical requirements include:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• At least one blank passport page
• Completed visa application form
• Passport sized photos
• Visa fee payable in cash

Common tourist visa durations:

• 15 Days, 30 Days, 90 Days

Official government website for current information: https://www.immigration.gov.np

🛡️ Traveller Safety

Nepal is generally safe for travellers, including solo travellers, particularly in established tourism regions.

Personal Safety

• Petty theft can occur in busy areas. Keep valuables secure and avoid carrying large sums of cash openly.

Road Safety

• Road standards vary. Use reputable transport providers and avoid night travel in remote areas where possible.

Natural Hazards

• Nepal is prone to earthquakes, landslides in monsoon season, and sudden mountain weather changes. Follow official advice and your trekking leader’s instructions.

Medical Facilities

• Quality facilities are available in Kathmandu, but rural regions have limited services. Evacuation insurance is critical for trekkers.

🍽️ Food & Drink

Nepali cuisine is simple, hearty, and perfect after active days.

• Dal Bhat – Rice, lentils, vegetables, optional meat
• Momos – Steamed or fried dumplings
• Sel Roti – Sweet rice bread

Teahouses along trekking routes serve nourishing and filling meals.

🧾 Practical Info

• Electricity 230V supply. Bring a universal travel adapter.
• Water Do not drink tap water. Use bottled or purified water.
• Internet WiFi available in cities and many trekking teahouses, though speeds can be slow at altitude.
• Connectivity – SIM & eSIM Local SIM cards available at Tribhuvan International Airport and in major cities. Coverage is good in urban areas and main trekking routes but limited in remote regions. Using an eSIM is our recommended choice while travelling anywhere in the world, and our recommended provider is Holafly. For more information on eSIMs, check out this blog.

🏔️ Trekking In Nepal – What To Know

Trekking is the highlight of many trips to Nepal, but preparation is essential.

Permits

• Most trekking regions require TIMS cards and conservation area permits.

Travel Insurance

Insurance must cover:

• High Altitude Trekking To Your Maximum Elevation
• Emergency Helicopter Evacuation
• Overseas Medical Treatment

Altitude Awareness

• Altitude sickness risk increases above 2500 m. Plan proper acclimatisation days and monitor symptoms carefully.

Weather & Delays

• Flights to Lukla and other mountain airstrips are frequently delayed due to weather. Always allow buffer days.

Physical Preparation

• Moderate to high fitness is required for most multi day treks.

Cash & Connectivity

• Carry sufficient cash. ATM access is limited outside major cities.

🌈 LGBTQIA+ Travellers

• Nepal Has Relatively Progressive Legal Protections Within The Region
• Urban Areas Such As Kathmandu Are Generally More Open
• Rural Areas Remain More Conservative And Discretion Is Advisable

✨ Why Visit Nepal?

Nepal is where epic landscapes meet deep cultural tradition. From Himalayan summits to jungle safaris and sacred temples, it is a destination that rewards adventure and curiosity.

Whether you visit for trekking, wildlife, spirituality, or cultural immersion, Nepal leaves a lasting impression long after you return home.