If you are planning to visit Nepal, great! You’ll not regret it after you visit. To help you enjoy and explore most of your holiday, here’s our complete Nepal travel guide.
Nepal is a trekkers’ paradise comprising Himalayan views, ancient temples, old and traditional Cities, jungle adventures, sacred sites, charming hills, villages and jungle wildlife watching to offer one of the world’s great travel destinations.
Namaste! Or “hello” in Nepali. Here are some helpful and fun facts about Nepal, which will familiarize you with this magnificent country. The language spoken throughout Nepal is Nepali; however, it is only one of a multitude of languages from the many distinct ethnic groups dispersed through this country. You will encounter many cultures and religions along your travels. Though Nepal is considered secular, Hinduism and Buddhism are just two of the many religions practised in Nepal with dedication and enthusiasm. Here is a rundown of other interesting and useful information. Nepal offers various tourist activities which comprises of different wilderness and adventure activities including mountain biking, Bungee jumping, rock climbing, and mountain climbing, trekking, hiking, bird watching, flights, paragliding and hot air ballooning over the mountains, exploring the waterways by rafting, kayaking or canoeing and jungle safaris, especially in the Terai region.
Geographical Location
Covering 147,181 sq.km. Nepal is a landlocked country. It is nestled between China to the north and India to the south. Though Nepal doesn’t share a border with it, Bhutan is not far to the East along with Bangladesh. The topography of Nepal varies widely. From the highest point on earth, Mt Everest, to the wide expansive alluvial planes in the south in an area called the Terai, Nepal has a vast geographical diversity. In fact, out of the 10 highest peaks in the world, Nepal has 8!
Currency
The currency in Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NRs.). Upon arriving at the international airport you will find two exchange counters, one near immigration and one outside the terminal. It is helpful to arrive with rupees already in your pocket as to avoid any delays in getting to your hotel after a long international flight. In the central tourist area, there is an astounding number of exchange offices for most major currencies. Credit cards can be used widely in the major cities, but cash is king in the countryside.
Electricity/ Internet/Connectivity
Nepal runs on 230V/ 50 Hz. electricity. Many travel and gear stores will carry converters and adaptors for the outlets. All 120V appliances from the USA will need a converter. The outlets are 3 round pins, so an adaptor may be needed. You will find Wi-Fi is extremely prevalent in all cities and even many villages. Sometimes you may have to use internet café which can run about 50Rs per hour. Before you leave your respective country please check with your mobile provider about international rates and connectivity. It is very easy to buy a SIM card for Nepal on arrival in Kathmandu. If you want to purchase a SIM card, please have a GSM 900 compatible phone already unlocked. Surprisingly you will find even with 3G/4G you can get internet access at Everest Base Camp!
People and Populations and Etiquette
The capital is Kathmandu City in a larger valley called the Kathmandu Valley. The population of Nepal as of a UN survey in 2010 was 27.8 million (around 28 million now). Life expectancy is generally 68 yrs. old for men, and 70 yrs. for the woman.
Because of the wide variety of traditional cultures, you will encounter in Nepal it is important to keep some etiquette in mind. In Buddhist sites, please be mindful to walk clockwise around the stupas. Always remove your shoes before entering a private home or monastery. And when entering a temple or monastery remove your hat and attempt to step over the doorway. If you are in a Tibetan home do not show the soles of your feet to people across from you. Rather attempt to fold your legs in.
During mealtimes, you may notice locals eat with their hand, but only the right one. Do not use your left hand for eating or passing food. Many restaurants will have a place to wash your hands before eating, we suggest doing the same.
The normal greeting is ‘Namaste’ with palms together in prayer, and it is not common to shake hands. You also may notice a slight head wobble indicating agreement. It doesn’t mean no, which looks very different.
The cultures are traditional by and large, but Kathmandu and Pokhara are very modern. However, for women in particular in both the city and rural areas, it is best to dress modestly. For the tourist, it is relaxed and accepted for you to not adhere to local dress codes, but it is always good to be considerate of others’ cultures.
Weather information of Nepal:
The average temperature of Nepal (Kathmandu) ranges from 3°C to 30°C. For more details and recent updates regarding Nepal you can also visit the official website of Meteorological Forecasting Division of Government of Nepal. The monthly average temperature of Nepal is:
| Month |
Highest Temperature |
Lowest Temperature |
| January |
19.0 |
3.0 |
| February |
22.0 |
6.0 |
| March |
25.0 |
10.0 |
| April |
28.0 |
13.0 |
| May |
29.0 |
17.0 |
| June |
30.0 |
20.0 |
| July |
29.0 |
21.0 |
| August |
29.0 |
20.0 |
| September |
29.0 |
19.0 |
| October |
27.0 |
14.0 |
| November |
23.0 |
9.0 |
| December |
19.0 |
5.0 |
Best Trekking Season
Choosing the right season for your trek is just as important as choosing the trek most appropriate for your physical abilities and skill level. Having the perfect trek for your passion can all too often be diminished by choosing the wrong time of the year to take it. Part of the magic of trekking in Nepal is witnessing the grandeur of the Great Himalaya Range. Many of the treks are designed to allow the traveller to see these majestic peaks but if you choose the wrong season at best can obscure the visitors’ views, at worst it commits the trekker to unfortunate weather. In general, the main trekking season is autumn (September to November, followed closely by the spring season (March-May). However, depending on the region you choose the shoulder seasons of summer and winter may be more than suitable. Below is an overview of what you may expect for weather in Nepal per season.
Winter (December through February)
High elevation trekking is not only ill-advised but can be dangerous in winter as the alpine environment will be subject to brutally cold temperatures. Passes in the high alpine areas will be impassible due to snow and ice conditions. Nevertheless, it is also a very dry time of year, and if your trek is confined to lower elevations, it can be a great option if you don’t mind colder days and frigid nights. Keep in mind this temperature shift will demand more clothing and can cause your pack to add weight, and for some, this may be prohibitive to enjoying your trek.
Spring (March-May)
Nepal is not immune to nature’s paintbrush as the weather warms in the Himalayan Mountains. Great swaths of rhododendron forest are alive with colour and many treks take you through these woodlands on your way to higher elevations. This is the time of year most mountaineers come to climb the high peaks and many trekkers find it the perfect mix of the last dry weather of winter and the warming air as the season passes into summer. This can be a busy season in Nepal so book your trip early if you plan on visiting during this time.
Summer (June-August)
Summer is marked by the monsoon season and most days are either rainy or cloudy or both. Road conditions tend to deteriorate due to the rains making them difficult to navigate into more remote areas. However, there are regions of Nepal which lie in rain shadows and can be spared the onslaught of the deluge that plagues the majority of Nepal. These times are blessed for the many enthusiastic botanists as the higher valleys and meadows blossom with flowers and lush vegetation. If this time of year is your only opportunity to visit this amazing country, let our customer care specialists help you find a trek that may lend itself more easily trekked in this season.
Autumn (September through November)
Autumn is the most spectacular time of year to visit Nepal. This season offers excellent weather with tantalizing mountain views at the north. The rains have abated, the weather cools, the moderate temperature and the sky gets clear. The hills and valleys are lush with green from the rainy season and water sources have little risk of running dry, unlike the winter season. For many, this is the prime season to go trekking. This is the high season so be advised to book your trek, plane, and accommodations as soon as possible.
Trip Grade
With a variety of landscapes, breathtaking scenarios and diverse cultures, which trek is the right choice for your adventure in Nepal? For most, a decision to come to Nepal is an exciting idea. Visions of soaring white peaks against the backdrop of azure blue skies and ancient temples carved by craftsmen centuries past flicker through the mind. It’s important to find the trip which satisfies your passion, time allowance, and budget. It’s also important to balance your ideas with how physically ready you are for the demands of a trek. Luckily Nepal is bountiful in views and every trek will afford the traveller a chance to experience incredible vistas. There are a few grades to consider when finding the right fit between aspirations and your personal physical fitness.
Leisurely/Easy
- Generally, the elevation doesn’t go beyond 4000m and a standard hiking day won’t last longer than 5-6 hours. The trails in this grade will be well marked, and used regularly, though they are not particularly level. You should be prepared for the whole day walking with temperature fluctuations from cold mornings and nights to warm and hot days.
- This grade is a good choice for novice trekkers or those with children as the elevation gain and terrain will be considerably milder.
- Though these treks are less strenuous all participants with the good physical condition and have had some hiking experience can do this trek, and that grade is best for families and children, with their intended weighted pack.
Medium
- The elevation profile can range up to 5000m
- Plan on uneven trails that have significant accents, and long descents. The days will be 7-8 hours of hiking, and the length is generally 10-19 days.
- Being adequately prepared for multi-day hiking with a small pack is necessary.
- Acclimatization will be a significant part of the treks program to yield the most enjoyment of the terrain.
Strenuous
- These treks can reach over 6000m
- High physical endurance and some backcountry travel knowledge is required.
- These treks are best suited for experienced trekkers with extensive multi-day backpacking familiarity.
- A complete range of weather can be expected during these treks and there are increased risks of exposure for longer periods of time to the trekker.
These grades are designed to help you choose which treks are best for your physical capabilities. We want you to have an unsurpassed adventure worthy of a lifetime of amazing memories. Together we can create just that.
Is Nepal Safe to Travel?
When a traveller considers taking a trip overseas, there is always the question of safety that is an important part of deciding where to go. Because of the earthquake that hit Nepal in 2015, some travellers have concerns about this, and the adverse effects it may have had on flights, infrastructure, and related health concerns associated with its aftermath. It should be made clear that Nepal is a safe place to visit, and there is no need to have concerns about travelling here.
Still, other travellers might have concerns about the stability of the Nepalese Government. It should also be stated that the Government of Nepal is stable and that local and national elections were held without any disruption to the general functioning of the country. Furthermore, the Nepalese Government has standard check-in procedures at every National Park to ensure tourism safety. It is always important for any international travel to always consult local and international sources before travelling. Listed below are travel advisories and information websites.
The criminal case is low but it is advised to take the precautions while travelling. It is strongly recommended that you retain all your valuables on your person at all times during any travel, not just in Nepal. Even though it is important to have your valuables on your person, have copies of everything in a separate place, in case you lose your original documents.
Though Nepal is safe, please avoid trekking alone, especially if you are a single female traveller. This would be advised for any country, not just Nepal. You will find that most of the Nepalese people in any village or city are more than welcoming, kind and would like all tourists to feel they are having an excellent experience. Most people you encounter on your journeys in Nepal are aware that tourism is an important part of their economy. So while they are some of the most hospitable people in the world they are also keenly aware you are here supporting their economy. Nepal is a safe, and convivial land full of outstanding beauty, warm hospitality, and unique cultural traditions waiting for you to come and discover.
How to Book
A memorable and enjoyable trip begins with making an informed decision, and booking your trip can be one of the most exciting parts of the process. It’s the commitment to the adventure, to known, and unknown dreams, and a multitude of possibilities. But knowing exactly what you’re getting does not have to be a surprise after the booking process has been finished. So, before booking your trip please read carefully the full itinerary and if you have any questions concerning your trek, please reach out to our customer care specialists who are standing by to help with any queries. You can contact us either by email or call us at +977-9841365230. We request you also become familiar with our terms and conditions before booking your trip.
To begin your booking:
Please, select trip that you want to buy from us as we have plenty of activities that you can do here at Bhutan at Nepal Social Treks and proceed for booking by filling up the necessary details on the form. And if you cannot find the program that you need or want to customize the program then do not hesitate to contact us via [email protected] or contact +977-9841365230 with your requirement then we will offer you suitable program and we will communicate through email and once both parties agree then we will suggest you how to book and make payment.
If you are looking for a group tour or join any other existing groups then find your program and select the date you want to travel and click on Book now and add the number of People for the trip, then you will be redirected to the booking form. Fill the form carefully and click on confirm and book and continue. Then you will get the Online payment form and Pay online as you are required to make the 20% payment in advance in order to confirm the Tour and once you pay the amount then you will receive the Invoice for your payment then we will communicate through email for the further steps.
Once you finish booking any trip:
1. You need to send us a passport copy of all the travellers of the group.
2. You need to send us your flight arrival details.
3. You will need to pay 20% of the total amount as advance payment to secure your spot if you haven’t done yet.
Mode of payment
Bank Transfer (Wire Transfer):
You can pay the deposit through the Bank transfer, our bank detail is given below for the Bank Transfer.
Beneficiary Name: Nepal Social Treks and Expedition Pvt. Ltd
USD Account No: 01905822690019
Bank Name: Himalayan Bank Ltd.
Bank Address: Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal.
SWIFT Code: HIMANPKA
Credit card payment
You are able to make an online payment now to book your trip in Nepal and you are required to make the 20% down payment in order to confirm the trip. After making the payment your trip booking confirmation will be sent to you via email.
Nepal Visa/ Visa Requirements
Tribhuvan International Airport located at Kathmandu is the only international airport of Nepal. Immigration Office, TIA (Tribhuvan International Airport) under the Department of Immigration has been working for an easier and convenient way for facilitating tourists flying to Nepal by providing Visa on Arrival. ‘On Arrival’ visa procedure is made very quick and simple with the intention of not troubling foreigners visiting Nepal. You can expect some queues and trouble during peak Tourist season. If you wish to skip those queues, you can also consider getting Visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions stationed abroad prior to your arrival or bringing the filled up document from online so that it will be easier and convenient for yourself. It’s all up to you. For a visa on arrival you must have the following documents on hand:
- A valid passport for at least the next six months
- at least one free page
- passport photos
If you have already obtained a visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions, then you must enter Nepal within six months from the visa issued date and total days of stay is counted starting from the day you land in Nepal.
Tourist Visas are obtained on Arrival at the Entry and Exit points. They bear a single and multiple Re-entry facility. Tourist Visa ‘On Arrival’ is the only entry visa to Nepal for tourists. If you are visiting Nepal for other purposes rather than Tourism, you should still get ‘ Tourist Visa’ to get into the country and later you must change the category of visa as per your purpose and duration of stay in Nepal from Department of Immigration by producing the required document.
All the visitors from the following countries are requested to get Visa prior to their arrival at Nepal from their nearby Diplomatic missions (Embassies/consulates) of Nepal Government as they are not eligible for ‘on arrival’ visa for Nepal.
There are various entry points for visa on arrival in Nepal. The following entry points will allow you to enter Nepal and obtain a visa on arrival. Please note that some of the remote entry points may not always operate regularly.
- TIA, Kathmandu (Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu)
- Kakarvitta, Jhapa (Eastern Nepal)
- Birganj, Parsa (Central Nepal)
- Kodari, Sindhupalchowk (Northern Border)
- Belahia, Bhairahawa (Sunauli)
- Jamunaha, Nepalgunj (Banke, Mid Western Nepal)
- Mohana, Dhangadhi (Kailali, Far Western Nepal)
- Gaddachauki, Mahendranagar (Kanchanpur, Far Western Nepal)
Visa Obtaining process at Kathmandu Airport on Arrival:
These are the simple procedures that need to be followed for Tourist Visa on Arrival at the airport (TIA) if you have not acquired Visa prior to boarding the plane.
1st Step Fill in Arrival Card. (All the visitors must fill in the arrival card no matter whether you’ve already got Nepal Visa or not)
2nd Step Fill up your details correctly on the Nepal Tourist Visa Application Form. You can fill in the form online at the official website of Nepali Immigration Department before departure or at Tribhuvan Airport upon arrival Kiosk machines available at airport. The online application maintains valid for 15 days and expires ever since. Keep the submission receipt with barcode safe and print it out to get the form.
3rd Step Pay Visa Fee at the Visa Fee Collection Counter according to your visa requirement (15/30/90 Days). The charge of visa depends upon the duration of Visa you apply. You will get a payment receipt later after payment.
4th Step Proceed to the Immigration Desk with an online form, payment receipts and your passport.
Obtain On Arrival Visa successfully. The Visa Officers will issue the Visa to you upon his/her satisfaction.
Various payment methods can be used at visa fees collection counter but we suggest you carry some cash to be on the safe side. Nepali immigration Department accepts all the major currencies but USD & NPR are the safest bets. GBP & Euro can also be an option. If you do not have these currencies you can also find an ATM there.
On Arrival Visa Fee
Visa Fee of on Arrival Visa for international travellers as per Department of Immigration are as follows:
- USD 30 or equivalent foreign currency for Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry for 15 days.
- USD 50 or equivalent foreign currency for Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry for 30 days.
- USD 125 or equivalent foreign currency for Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry for 90 days.
Gratis Visa (Visa for Free)
Gratis Visa is the visa received free of cost. It is issued free of cost in case of following categories of Visa applicants:
- Children below 10 years except for US citizens
- Up to 30 days for SAARC Citizen (except Afghanistan) visiting Nepal for the first time in a given visa Year. Afghan citizen is eligible for Gratis Visa on Arrival only upon the recommendation of the Department of Immigration.
- Non Residential Nepalese (NRN) cardholder
- Chinese Nationals
Officials from China, Brazil, Russia, and Thailand do not need Entry Visa based on reciprocal visa waiver agreement with the respective Government.
If you need to extend a tourist visa or change the category of your visa please contact the Department of Immigration. Tourist Visa can also be extended from the Immigration Office at Pokhara too. Non-tourist visa extension can be done only at Department of Immigration (if eligible) for a period of maximum one year other than a business visa only.
Visa Extension
Tourist visa extension can be done for minimum 15 days with USD 45 and maximum of 150 days in a visa year (Jan 1 to Dec 31) extending the visa at the rate of USD 3 per day for additional days. In case of delay less than 150 days additional USD 5 per day is charged as late fine.
For your Convenience you can use below of our hotel address for visa propose:
Name of Hotel: Hotel Woodapple
Street Name: Kaldhara,
Ward no: 16
Municipality: Kathmandu Metropolitan City
District: Kathmandu
Contact Number: 1-4701071 or 9841365230
Meeting at Airport
After you get your visa; proceed forward for collecting your bags. After collecting your bags, head for the exit and you will see our airport representative holding your name card or Nepal Social Treks board to welcome you. Please look for this sign. If you do not see anyone holding this sign, please contact +977 9841365230. This contact is useful for any assistance anytime and for information and in case of any emergencies.
Flight Cancellation
Nepal is a landlocked mountainous nation, and because of its unique geography, Nepal is blessed with immense natural beauty. Unfortunately, the landscape also laves Nepal prone to flight delays and cancellations, both for international, and domestic flights. Furthermore, if you find yourself traveling during the high season of autumn, or even the shoulder season of spring expect fully booked flights into and out of the country which may force some to travel overland to India for a flight. For these reasons, and for international travel in general, we strongly encourage you to look at your travel insurance, and your flight information as to what are the cancellation or delay policies. It is also essential to give yourself a few extra days on either end of your trip to allow for any contingencies.
The only international airport is Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. It does a surprisingly good job at handling the international air traffic from major cities throughout Asia and the Middle East. It does this despite the fact that the airport lacks the technology of the Instrumental Landing System. As a result, adverse weather conditions influence landing and take-off more acutely than other international airports. Luckily the high season of autumn is almost void of all delays because the weather is generally clear, dry, and stable. However, there is never a guarantee for flights, as any seasoned traveller will attest. If you find yourself visiting Nepal at any other time of year, the chances of weather-related flight issues increase considerably. However, most prone to weather-related delays and cancellations are domestic flights. In cases such as flying into and out of Lukla, there have been incidents where the flight was cancelled and because of a tight schedule, a helicopter was chartered. This cost will be borne by the client but may be claimed through insurance. It is important to check your policy on this matter.
Again we strongly recommend booking your flight as early as possible because autumn and spring season sees the most travellers. Because of this many travellers will have to travel through India to fly internationally. If this is the case, please check to see if you will need to arrange a transit visa for passing through India. There have been incidents where passengers have been refused because they did not have an Indian visa.
Estimated Daily Expenses
(Average daily expenses to be expected in Nepal)
The official currency of Nepal is Nepalese Rupee (NRs).
We recommend you to carry both Nepalese Rupee and American dollars at any time.
The current exchange rate is $1 USD = 113.48 Rs (August 19, 2019)
Nepal has both coins and notes; however, we’ve only dealt with notes these days. Notes from 1 – 1000.
You can find ATMs just about anywhere in most of the cities; however, you may struggle in rural areas with limited households and markets. Most ATMs have a maximum withdrawal limit of 10,000Rs, however, some NABIL machines have a 35,000Rs limit.
The 10,000Rs limit can get very irritating and can cost a lot of bank fees, however, we do recommend taking out as much money as possible each time you visit an ATM.
Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Nepal at most tourist class hotels, restaurants, airlines, and tour agents and cards are getting accepted in most of the common shops too. Again, fees do apply.
Money exchange offices are readily available just about all the major tourist areas in Nepal, and exchange rates are generally competitive. It’s worth shopping around for the best rate or negotiating. While all major currencies are accepted, USD, Euros or Pounds are the best.
Living in Nepal
Like similar countries within the region, Nepal is an extremely affordable destination which is suitable for all types of tourist, from low budget through to luxury.
Despite the fact that being a tourist in Nepal is cheap, the costs for hiking/mountaineering can be a little more expensive, depending on what hike type and, what comfort level you chose. You should always keep that in mind while budgeting the trip.
The average cost of food and drink in Nepal:
Snacks: 50 – 200Rs
Inexpensive meal: 180 – 300Rs
Three-course meal: 800-1500Rs
Beer: 200-500Rs
Water: 20-50Rs
Soft Drink: 50-80Rs
(NOTE: It’s important to remember that when hiking, the things become more expensive the higher you go. Be prepared to pay up to 10 times more in places of higher altitude than you would do in Kathmandu or Pokhara.)
Estimated accommodation cost:
Teahouse/Trekking lodge: 500 – 2,500Rs
Guest house: 400 – 2,500Rs
3 star double room: 2,000 – 8,000Rs
Luxury accommodation: 15,000 – 25,000Rs
Estimated Transportation Cost:
Local Bus city: 20 – 50Rs
Taxi: 45Rs (per KM)
Tourist Bus: 800 – 2000Rs (Kathmandu – Pokhara/ Chitwan)
Everest Experience Flight/ Mountain Flight: $194 USD (This may vary depending on the fuel surcharge)
Estimated Hiking Cost:
Porter/guide: 1,500 – 2,500Rs per day
Organized trek: 6000 – 8000Rs per day
Trekking permit: 4,000- 50,000Rs
(Note: Guides and porters expect and deserve, a tip at the completion of any trek/tour. The going rate is whatever you feel applicable.)
Recommended Medical Kit
Depending on your medical background and training for medical emergencies what you bring in your personal medical kit may be of personal choice. All responsible travel companies will have an extensive medical kit with properly trained guides. Depending on the nature of your trip, each guide will be trained in the use of all equipment necessary for your specific adventure, and how to use the provided medical equipment. For example, a mountaineering expedition’s medical kit will be far more extensive than a trekking medical kit, and each area travelled will dictate the unique components of the medical gear. However, you may want to bring a few personal supplies for any basic medical needs, or specific to your conditions.
Before you leave for any international travel, especially if you plan to spend time at high altitudes (above 5,500 ft.) consult your physician. If you have any medical conditions, it is best to discuss altitude with your doctor regarding your ability to travel at elevation. If you are taking any prescription medicine it is also recommended to carry extra as it may be difficult to find the equivalent in Nepal. Speak with your doctor about any vaccines necessary for your travel abroad and make sure you are up to date on your routine vaccines. The Center for Disease Control in the U.S. has a website with current recommendations for travel in Nepal. Please check the most current information and talk with your doctor to determine what is necessary for your trip.
This a basic list for a personal medical kit. Yours may include less or more depending on your medical training, travel itinerary, and duration of the trip.
- Current medications for the length of your trip plus extra in case of any damage
- Any medication prescribed to you by your doctor for altitude with specific directions on how to take them
- Hand sanitizer
- Pain relievers (please check with your doctor as some pain relievers can interfere with your current medications)
- Antihistamines for allergic reactions
- Antacid tablets
- Loperamide tablets (for diarrhoea symptoms)
- Blister treatment
- Antiseptic wipes
- Band-Aids
- Duct tape (hint: wrap a small amount around the top of both trekking poles like a roll)
- Water treatment chemicals (Aqua Miura can be a nice option)
- Small plastic baggies (good for putting anything you worry about getting wet in)
- CPR Mask (if properly trained in the use of)
- Non-latex medical gloves
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Emergency heat-reflecting blanket
- Whistle
- Sunscreen
- Lip Balm with sunscreen
- Insect Repellant
There are many small traveller medical kits that can be purchased ready-made from your local outdoor retailer and are a nice choice if you don’t want to spend a lot of time gathering these items. There are a few items on this list that will need to be purchased separately such as a headlamp, whistle, sunscreen, etc. Many other medical supplies are listed on various websites; however, these items should be included in the group medical kit provided by your guide for the trek.
Recommended Flights
If you are planning your trek to Nepal, then you will fly into the capital, Kathmandu. All international flights come through here as this is the only international airport in Nepal. Tribhuvan International Airport is located east of the city and is just a short taxi ride from the major tourist areas. Though it is diminutive in size for an international airport, it is surprisingly efficient. It handles an amazing array of international flights daily. There are a few long-distance flights, but more than likely you will have a stopover in the Middle East or Asia if you are coming from anywhere in Europe, Australia, or America. If you plan to fly to India before transferring to Nepal, please check all the requirements for your country concerning any potential transit visas needed. During the peak season, most flights are booked solid so plan well in advance your arrival and departure, and it is recommended to give yourself plenty of time on both ends for any unexpected delays.
Before arrival, there are a few items we recommended you have ready. Though Nepal is a visa on arrival for most, try to have a visa form filled out before going to the immigration counter with a few passport photos in hand. During peak season the queues for obtaining a visa may take some time. Your visa can be purchased using many major currencies, or a credit card. Please refer to the website for the most current information concerning the visa for your country.
There are two currency exchange booths, both one next to the visa counter, and one just outside the airport, still it is recommended to have some money exchanged prior to your arrival. If possible inquire to your hotel about the price of a taxi from the airport to the hotel you are staying, and have the address and map ready for the driver.
This is a list of the major carriers that fly into and out of Tribhuvan International Airport from abroad but can change frequently.
Air Arabia Serves the Gulf states.
Air China Daily routes to Lhasa, Chengdu and around China.
Air India Serves the subcontinent, including Kolkata and Delhi.
Bhutan Airlines Serves Paro several times daily.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines Daily flights to Dhaka.
Cathay Dragon Four to five flights to Beijing per week.
China Eastern Airlines Serves Lhasa, Kunming and Shanghai.
China Southern Airlines Serves Guangzhou and Lhasa.
Druk Air Serves Paro daily.
Etihad Airways Daily connections via Abu Dhabi to the rest of the world.
Fly Dubai Several flights per day.
Himalaya Airlines Reaches the Gulf and Malaysia.
Indigo The budget choice for Delhi.
Malaysia Airlines For Kuala Lumpur.
Malindo Air / Batik Air Malaysia For Kuala Lumpur.
Nepal Airlines Regular flight from Hongkong, Malaysia, India, UAE and Qatar
Oman Air For Muscat.
Qatar Airways Daily connections through Doha, with excellent onward flights to the USA and Europe.
Salam Air everywhere from across the Middle East, to Africa, Asia and Nepal.
Sichuan Airlines For Chengdu and Lhasa.
Silk Air From Australia, and overall Asia
Thai Airways Provides the most popular Southeast Asian route to Nepal via Bangkok.
Thai Lion Air For Asian region
Tibet Airlines From Chengdu and Beijing
Turkish Airlines Daily connections via Istanbul
Uni-Top Airlines Regular flight from Asia
Travel Insurance
We at Nepal Social Treks and Expedition Team strive to deliver the highest quality service while providing the best in safety and security. However, being prepared for any contingencies is an important part of any risk management plan. Therefore, it is required for all our adventure trips to have travel insurance that covers both medical and emergency evacuation costs. When choosing your travel insurance please confirm that it is worth at least 100,000.00 USD.
Not only do we here at Nepal Social Treks and Expedition Team require it, but for any international travel, it is a good idea to be covered for theft, loss, and medical emergencies. Nepal is a stable country and is not a major risk for travellers. Petty theft is minimal especially compared to many other international destinations. Please take care of all valuables while travelling and carry extra copies of documents and carry them in a separate place.
All of our guides are trained for medical emergencies and ailments. We also plan and prepare our trips to incorporate slow and responsible elevation gain to mitigate any altitude-related issue. Unfortunately, however cautiously we approach gaining altitude, it can affect some more than others. Travel insurance can be a good safeguard against the common illness which can include advancing altitude sickness. When purchasing your travel insurance please read the fine print to make sure the particulars of your trip are covered, including the type of activity, elevation, and helicopter evacuation. If you are unsure if your policy will cover you for your adventure, call them and discuss your travels so you are clear, and not experience any unforeseen issue in case you need to use it. Another important aspect to discuss with your travel insurance company is if you will need to cover the cost upfront and then be reimbursed, or if it will pay directly to the provider. Know before you go!
If you are participating in cultural tours that are relegated to cities below 2,500 meters only, travel insurance is not mandatory but is still strongly advised. Nepal Social Treks and Expedition will not incur any expenses due to any accidents, theft, or problems that may occur while participating in our cultural city tours.
Nepal is an amazing opportunity for exploration and can be the trip of a lifetime. Having the right insurance for your travels can leave you feeling secure knowing you have participated in your own well-being and safety. Together we can create an amazing adventure!
Below is a list of possible insurance options but your search should not be limited to this list only.
For Canadian Customers:
https://www.tugo.com/
https://www.ab.bluecross.ca/
http://www.rbcroyalbank.com/travelinsurance/
For American Customers:
http://www.axa-assistance.us/services/travel-insurance.html
For Customers from Australia and New Zealand:
https://www.allianzworldwidepartners.com.au/
https://www.worldnomads.com.au/
For British Customers:
http://www.europassistance-usa.com/
For Customers from Europe and Slovenia:
http://www.europaeische.at
For Germany and Switzerland Customers:
http://www.eurocross.com/
For Asian and South-African Customers:
http://www.ms-ins.com/english/
Equipment Checklist
One of the most enjoyable parts of getting ready for an adventure of a lifetime is getting together all the clothing and equipment necessary. As you decide on each item all your dreams, and ideas of what the trip may include are dancing across your mind. To be prepared for what you may encounter on your trek we have compiled a checklist for you to assist you in staying the most comfortable while on your active vacation. It will be important to think in terms of layering your clothing to mix and match the right amount of insulation while allowing for weather protection. Please bring only what is necessary as this will help both you and your guide. A porter is available for two people who can carry up to 25 kg. If you find there is anything missing or you couldn’t find it before leaving, you will be able to purchase these items in Kathmandu. There are no shortages of excellent gear and clothing stores here.
Required (Check with us the exact gear list it may differ as per your trip)
- Day pack 20-30 liter
- Day Pack Rain Cover
- Large duffel bag (Nepal Social Treks and Expedition will supply a complimentary water proof duffel, however one extra will be necessary for non-trekking items left at the hotel in Kathmandu)
- Down Jacket/ Insulated Jacket (Nepal Social Treks and Expedition may provide a complimentary down jacket which will need to be returned upon the completion of your trek, but again we strongly recommend you bring your own)
- 4 Season Sleeping Bag rated to 0 degrees Fahrenheit (Nepal Trekking Team also can provide a sleeping bag for the duration of your trip, however bringing your own is best)
- Underwear (quick dry )
- Base Layers Top and Bottom (Synthetic or wool only, please make sure it is non-cotton. Heavyweight for colder travel period)
- Fleece Pants (seasonal)
- Quick-Dry Hiking Pants
- Hiking Shorts (If you purchase convertible hiking pants, you may omit hiking shorts)
- Waterproof-breathable Shell Pants
- Hiking T-Shirt
- Fleece or Wool Sweater/Jacket
- Waterproof-breathable Jacket
- Fleece/ Wool Gloves
- Fleece/ Wool Hat
- Hiking Socks (Synthetic or Wool)
- Headlamp with extra batteries and spare bulb
- Large Plastic Bag (to line the inside of daypack)
- Small Ziploc Baggies (For various documents and medicines to stay dry)
- Trekking Poles
- Water Bottle (1 L)
- Basic First Aid Kit
- Sunscreen
- Sunscreen Lip Balm
- Sunglasses (Highest Protection)
- Sun Hat
- Toiletries
- Toothbrush/ paste
- Biodegradable Soap
- Toilet Paper
- Wet Wipes
- Hand Sanitizer (60% Alcohol or more)
- Any Medications
- Small Camp Towel
Optional
- Ear Plugs/ Eye Mask (Optional)
- Binoculars
- Journal/ Pen
- Travel Games
- Camera
- Bandana
- Camp Shoes
- Travel Clothes for Town Wear
- Sleeping Bag Liner (if renting from NHT)
Travel Documents
- Airline Tickets (Conformation and Itinerary)
- Copy of Passport (2 Copies, First Page Only)
- Trip Itinerary
- Nepal Visa (2 Copies)
- Passport Photos (4)
- Valid Passport
