Nepal – Destination Guide

Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Nepal is a breathtakingly diverse country that captures the imagination of adventurers, culture lovers, and spiritual seekers alike. From the snow-capped peaks of Mount Everest to the bustling streets of Kathmandu and the peaceful temples of Lumbini, Nepal is a land of contrasts and beauty. Whether you’re trekking through alpine forests, visiting UNESCO-listed heritage sites, or enjoying a traditional dal bhat meal with locals, Nepal offers experiences that are both humbling and unforgettable.

🏞️ Regions & Highlights

• Kathmandu Valley: A cultural treasure trove, the valley is home to three historic cities—Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan—each filled with ancient temples, palaces, and courtyards. Highlights include Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), and Pashupatinath Temple.
• Everest Region (Khumbu): The gateway to the world’s highest peak, this region offers iconic trekking routes like the Everest Base Camp trek and the Gokyo Lakes trek. The Sherpa culture and stunning views of Ama Dablam and Everest make it a must-visit.
• Annapurna Region: Known for its diverse trekking options including the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp, this area also includes the vibrant lakeside town of Pokhara, a hub for travelers.
• Chitwan & Terai Lowlands: In contrast to the mountains, the Terai is a flat region rich with wildlife. Chitwan National Park offers jungle safaris to see rhinos, tigers, elephants, and more.
• Lumbini: The birthplace of the Buddha and a major pilgrimage site with beautiful monastic zones and peaceful gardens.

🏕️ Things to Do

• Trek to Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp
• Explore Kathmandu’s temples and historical sites
• Go paragliding over Pokhara’s Phewa Lake
• Take a jungle safari in Chitwan National Park
• Visit the birthplace of Buddha in Lumbini
• Enjoy white-water rafting on Himalayan rivers
• Learn traditional cooking or meditation with locals

✈️ Airports & How to Get There

The main international airport is Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. Most international travelers fly into Kathmandu and transfer to domestic flights for trekking regions like Lukla (for Everest) or Pokhara (for Annapurna).

📝 Practical Information

• Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)

• Language: Nepali is the official language, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas

• Best Time to Visit: October to November and March to April are ideal for trekking, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures

• Transport: Local buses, private jeeps, domestic flights, and taxis are common. Roads can be bumpy, and flight delays are frequent due to weather

• Cash vs. Card: Credit and debit cards are accepted in major cities, but it’s always a good idea to carry cash, especially in remote areas. ATMs are available in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but they can be unreliable in rural regions. Be sure to bring enough cash for your trekking and rural travels.

• Tipping: Tipping is common in Nepal, especially for guides, porters, and restaurant staff. A tip of around 10% is appreciated at restaurants. For trekking guides and porters, tips vary depending on service, but around NPR 500-1000 per day for a guide and NPR 300-500 for a porter is customary.

• SIM/eSIM: Nepal has good mobile coverage in urban areas and trekking regions, though signal can be weak in more remote parts. You can buy a local SIM card at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or in major cities. 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.

🛂 Visa Requirements

Most visitors can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or apply online for an e-visa. Visit the official Nepal Department of Immigration for the latest information on visa types and fees.

🍴 Cuisine

Nepali cuisine is hearty and flavorful, often centered around rice, lentils, and vegetables.

• Dal Bhat: A staple dish made of rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and sometimes meat
• Momos: Nepali dumplings filled with meat or vegetables
• Sel Roti: A sweet, ring-shaped rice bread

🎒 Packing List

• Trekking boots and comfortable walking shoes
• Warm layers (fleece, down jacket, thermals)
• Lightweight clothing for lower elevations
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Daypack and refillable water bottle
• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
• Basic first aid and medications
• Power bank and travel adapter
• Passport-sized photos for trekking permits/visas

🌟 Why Visit?

From the heights of Everest to the jungles of Chitwan, Nepal is a destination that rewards exploration and curiosity. Its rich cultural traditions, dramatic landscapes, and warm hospitality make it a dream destination for many. Whether you’re coming for adventure, reflection, or cultural immersion, Nepal welcomes you with open arms and unforgettable experiences.