Before you begin your exciting journey to Nepal, we have prepared all the necessary information for you to make your visit as comfortable and interesting as possible.
Yes, most travellers can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at various land border points.
Visa fee on arrival:
- 15 days – 30 USD
- 30 days – 50 USD
- 90 days – $125
Yes, our representative will be waiting for you at the airport terminal with a name card. Please look for the sign with your name on it and our representative will assist you upon arrival.
Yes, you can exchange currency upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. However, the exchange rates at the airport may be higher than those at exchange centers in the city. There are many money changers and banks throughout Kathmandu where you can exchange currency. Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu, has several reliable exchange centers offering competitive rates.
Nepalese Rupees (NPR) are the official currency of Nepal. Although some establishments may accept US Dollars and other major currencies, it is advisable to carry Nepalese Rupees for domestic transactions.
Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas. Visa and MasterCard are the most common, although acceptance may vary. However, it is advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling to remote areas where card options may be limited or nonexistent.
The main mobile network providers in Nepal are Ncell and Nepal Telecom (NTC). Both offer prepaid SIM cards with voice, text, and data services. To purchase a SIM card, you will need to present your passport and provide a passport-sized photograph for registration purposes. Some providers may also require you to fill out a registration form.
Yes, you can purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. However, purchasing a SIM card at the airport may be more expensive. As an alternative, we provide SIM cards to our guests for convenience.
Don’t worry about arranging your airport transfer. Our team will arrange your hotel or airport transfer with a private car and a dedicated escort, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free transition from the airport to your hotel.
Yes, you will receive detailed information about your hotel transfer in advance. We will provide you with the name of your personal escort and contact details. You can contact us at any time if you have any questions or concerns before your arrival.
Yes, there are a few cultural taboos that are important to remember. Nepalese culture is rooted in tradition and customs, so respecting them is essential for a pleasant and respectful travel experience. Please avoid public displays of affection, do not touch or climb on religious symbols, and also be respectful of elders and try not to litter or waste resources.
When visiting temples, monasteries and sacred sites in Nepal, it is important to observe cultural etiquette and show respect for the religious significance of these sites. This includes removing shoes before entering to maintain cleanliness and dressing modestly. It is also common to follow local customs and traditions, such as walking clockwise around stupas and not stepping on religious objects as a sign of respect.
Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, thermal underwear, insulated jackets, waterproof pants and jackets, gloves, hats, sunglasses and a backpack
You have the option of bringing your own trekking gear or renting it in Nepal. And of course, Kathmandu has many gear shops where you can find a wide range of gear suitable for your trek.
Yes, there are many shops in Kathmandu where you can buy or rent trekking equipment including clothes, shoes, backpacks and other necessary items.
Yes, we will arrange experienced guides and porters to accompany you on your trek. Our experienced guides will provide valuable information about the local culture, history and environment. The porters will help you carry your belongings, allowing you to fully enjoy the trek without the burden of heavy luggage.
Altitude sickness (AMS) can occur when you ascend too quickly to a high altitude. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. It is important to acclimatize gradually, stay hydrated, and listen to your body’s signals. Our guides are trained to recognize and manage altitude sickness. If symptoms persist or worsen, descending to a lower altitude is critical to recovery.
Yes, you will need two main permits to trek in the Everest region: a TIMS (Trekkers Information Management System) card and a Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit. Our team will handle all the arrangements for obtaining these permits.
The region around Everest is culturally diverse. The predominant religion is Buddhism. The Sherpa communities inhabiting the Everest region practice Tibetan Buddhism. Hinduism is also common at lower altitudes, especially in areas such as the Solu Khumbu region.
Yes, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance to cover emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation and other unforeseen circumstances. It is recommended to purchase comprehensive travel insurance before you start trekking. Having travel insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection against unforeseen circumstances during your Himalayan trek.
You can expect to stay in tea houses (guest houses or lodges), which are simple but comfortable accommodations for travelers. They are usually double occupancy, with basic furnishings such as beds, blankets and pillows. Hot showers are available, although amenities may vary depending on location.
The lodges offer meal options.
- Breakfast: Porridge, eggs, toast, pancakes, Tibetan bread, tea or coffee.
Lunch and dinner: Dal bhat (rice with lentil soup and vegetables), momo (Nepali dumplings), thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), and other local dishes.
Guest houses take steps to ensure food and water safety, but caution is advised to prevent gastrointestinal problems during the trek. Avoid eating raw foods and drink only boiled or purified water. It is advisable to inform the guide of any specific dietary requirements before ordering food
Although tipping is not mandatory in Nepal, it is appreciated, especially in the service sector. If you have received excellent service from guides, porters or hotel staff, a tip as a token of appreciation is always appreciated. However, the amount is at your discretion and should reflect the level of service provided.
Before traveling to Nepal, it is recommended to get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and update your tetanus and diphtheria vaccinations. It is also recommended to consult your doctor about the need for vaccinations against Japanese encephalitis and malaria, depending on the areas you plan to visit.
There are several hospitals and clinics in Kathmandu and other major cities that provide medical care. In remote areas, medical services may be limited, so it is recommended to carry a basic first aid kit and health insurance that covers emergency evacuation.
The best months to visit Nepal are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). During this time of year, the weather is most stable and pleasant for trekking and other outdoor activities.
Internet access is available in most hotels and restaurants in cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara. In remote areas and on trekking routes, internet access may be limited or non-existent.
The main dish in Nepal is dal baht (rice with lentil soup and vegetables). Other dishes worth trying are momos (Nepalese dumplings), gulak (fried sweets), thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup) and chatamari (Nepalese pizza).
Popular souvenirs from Nepal include Tibetan carpets, pashmina (wool shawls), traditional jewelry, Tibetan singing bowls, and wood carvings.
The official language of Nepal is Nepali. English is widely spoken in tourist areas and many guides and hotel staff speak it.
If you lose your passport, you should immediately contact the nearest police station and your country’s consulate or embassy in Nepal to obtain temporary documents and assistance in returning to your home country.
During the hike, it is important to monitor your health, drink enough water, wear warm and comfortable clothes, use sunscreen and sunglasses, and follow the weather conditions and instructions of the guides
Nepal is generally safe for tourists, but basic precautions should be taken: do not carry large amounts of money, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, avoid walking alone at night, and follow the recommendations of local authorities and guides.
There are various modes of transport available in Nepal, including buses, taxis, bicycles and motorbikes. Rickshaws are also available in Kathmandu. For travel between cities and districts, it is recommended to use domestic airlines or rent a private car with a driver for convenience and safety
It is not recommended to drink tap water in Nepal. It is best to drink bottled or purified water. Bottled water can be purchased at most stores and restaurants.
Planning your expenses in advance is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey into the majestic Himalayas. In this section, we provide a detailed description of the various expenses that may arise during your trek, as well as approximate costs of common goods and services in Nepal.
The cost of food per day is about $35-45, including breakfast, lunch and dinner at tea houses along the trekking route. Approximate prices for dishes:
- Dal Bhat Thali Set: $5-20
- Chicken Mo (10 pcs): $2-5
- Thukpa: $4-7
- Street snacks: $1
- Western cuisine: $5-20
- Organic cuisine: $5-15
The cost of drinks per day is about $10-30. Approximate prices:
Coffee (1 cup): $1-5
Masala Tea (1 cup): $0.50-2
Freshly squeezed seasonal juice (1 full glass): $1-3
Cold drinks (1 l): $1-4
Wine (1 bottle): $10-100
Vodka (750 ml): $30-95
Rum (750 ml): $30-80
The cost of drinking water per day is about $5-10. It is recommended to use water purification methods to reduce costs. Approximate prices:
- Bottle of mineral water (1L): $5-10
- Boiled drinking water: $5-15
Various additional costs can range from $10-20 per day, including hot showers, charging devices, Wi-Fi access, etc. Approximate prices:
- Charging accessories: $5-10
- Wi-Fi access: $10-20
The cost of renting trekking equipment varies. Approximate prices:
- Trekking pole: $2-4 per day
- Sleeping bag: $2-5 per day
- Tent: $5-15 per day
- Hooks: $2-5 per day
Cost of purchasing equipment:
- Backpack (75L): $50-90
- Trekking poles: $15-50
- Gloves: $5-30
- Shoes: $50-300
- Down jacket: $50-500
- Hiking pants: $20-50
- Headlamp: $5-20
Additional meals and snacks cost $10-20 per day. Approximate prices:
- High energy cookies (200g): $2-5
- Energy bar / Snickers bar (50g): $1-1.5
- Dried apricot (200g): $4-7
- Mixed dried fruits (1000g): $20-30
- Cigarettes: $2-5
The cost of purchasing souvenirs and participating in additional events may vary. Approximate prices:
- Buying local handicrafts, thangka paintings, clothes, etc.: $5-50
- Bungee jumping: $80-150
- Rafting: $80-100
- Sound Therapy: $60-90 per session
- Massage: $30-100 per session
Tips are usually 5-10% of the total trip cost, depending on the level of satisfaction with the service. Tourists can tip guides, porters and other trekking staff based on the level of service provided.
We hope this budget guide has provided you with valuable insights into the costs associated with trekking in Nepal. By considering all the possible expenses and budgeting wisely, you will be able to enjoy your trekking in the Himalayas. As a rough guide, a budget of $80-$100 per person per day will cover your basic expenses while giving you the flexibility to participate in additional activities and enjoy local delicacies without increasing your budget significantly.