Travel Info
Nepal is a beautiful and diverse destination, offering everything from Himalayan treks to cultural heritage sites. Here are some essential travel tips and the most common travel and trekking routes to know before visiting:
1. Essential Travel Tips for Nepal
Visa & Entry: Most tourists can get a visa on arrival (15/30/90 days). Bring passport-sized photos and cash (USD preferred).
Best Time to Visit:
Trekking: Spring (March-May) & Autumn (September-November) – best weather.
Winter (Dec-Feb): Cold but fewer crowds.
Monsoon (June-Aug): Rainy, landslides, but good for cultural tours.
Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Carry cash (ATMs in cities, limited in remote areas).
Health & Safety:
Drink bottled or purified water.
Get travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking.
Altitude sickness is a real risk—acclimatize properly.
Local Etiquette:
Greet with "Namaste".
Remove shoes before entering temples/homes.
Avoid public displays of affection.
Respect religious sites (clockwise around stupas).
Transport:
Domestic flights (prone to delays due to weather).
Buses (local & tourist options).
Taxis (negotiate fares in advance).
2. Most Common Travel & Trekking Routes
A. Popular Treks in Nepal
Everest Base Camp (EBC) Trek (12-16 days)
Starts from Lukla, passes Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche.
Best for: Mountain views, Sherpa culture.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging.
Annapurna Circuit (12-21 days)
Covers Thorong La Pass (5,416m), Manang, Muktinath.
Best for: Diverse landscapes (jungles to high deserts).
Difficulty: Moderate.
Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Trek (7-12 days)
Goes through Ghorepani (Poon Hill sunrise views), Machapuchare Base Camp.
Best for: Close-up mountain views.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Langtang Valley Trek (7-10 days)
Near Kathmandu, less crowded.
Best for: Tibetan culture & scenic valleys.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
Manaslu Circuit Trek (14-18 days)
Restricted area (requires a guide & permit).
Best for: Remote, less touristy experience.
Difficulty: Challenging.
Upper Mustang Trek (10-14 days)
Desert-like landscapes, Tibetan culture.
Requires a special permit.
Difficulty: Moderate.
B. Cultural & Short Trips
Kathmandu Valley: Explore Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Patan & Bhaktapur Durbar Squares.
Pokhara: Lakeside city, gateway to Annapurna treks. Visit Phewa Lake, World Peace Pagoda, Devi’s Fall.
Chitwan National Park: Jungle safari (rhinos, tigers, elephants).
Lumbini: Birthplace of Buddha (pilgrimage site).
3. Trekking Permits & Guides
TIMS Card (Trekkers’ Information Management System) – Required for most treks.
National Park/Conservation Area Permits (e.g., Sagarmatha, Annapurna).
Restricted Areas (Manaslu, Upper Mustang, Dolpo) require special permits & a guide.
4. Packing Essentials
Clothing: Layered clothing (thermal, fleece, waterproof jacket).
Footwear: Sturdy trekking boots & sandals for cities.
Gear: Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, water purification tablets.
Electronics: Portable charger (power cuts are common).
5. Safety & Responsible Tourism
Avoid solo trekking in remote areas (hire a guide/porter).
Support local businesses (teahouses, local guides).
Do not litter (carry back waste, especially in mountains).
Final Tip
Nepal is an incredible mix of adventure and culture. Plan according to the season, respect local customs, and prepare for altitude if trekking. Enjoy your trip! Namaste! ?