Located in the lap of the Himalayas Nepal is one of the most picturesque countries in the world. It is also a very culturally rich and hospitable nation. The country has world’s eight highest mountain peaks including Mount Everest which makes it a perfect destination for many trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. Other than its mountains, Nepal embraces spiritual tourism in places like Lumbini which is Lord Buddha’s birthplace as well as city tours to vibrant places like Kathmandu and Pokhara where ancient temples and colorful festivals come alive.
At Ashirwad holidays, we bring you the expertise of more than 14+ years in crafting unique travel experiences in Nepal. Our team of destination experts are trained & equipped to design your travel itineraries that will take care of all your needs & interest, whether you want go on a trek of ABC (Annpurna Base Camp) & EBC (Everest Base Camp), or want go on an elephant safari in Chitwan National Park or want to explore the local culture & food at Kathmandu & Pokhara, you name it we have it all.
This travel guide comes handy with information that you require in preparing for your trip to Nepal like best time to visit, things to do at Nepal, places you should not miss during your trip to Nepal and lot more. If you want to know everything about Nepal and want to plan the best tour for you & your family, this our guide presents details which will be quite helpful to you on such a trip.
Plan your next trip to Nepal with confidence with us. Our secure & easy booking options, verified reviews, and personalized service ensure a seamless travel experience. Book their tour now and enjoy the beauty of Nepal and its rich culture.
Diversified landscape & cultural richness of Nepal makes it a unique travel destination in South Asia. Tribhuvan International Airport at its capital city Kathmandu is the major gateways for most of its travellers & it also connect Nepal to the major cities of rest of the world.
Local currency of Nepal is Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Indian Rupees (INR) has s standard conversion rate of 100 INR = 160 NPR which makes Nepal a budget friendly nation for Indian tourists. Nepal use 230V, 50Hz electrical supply (very similar to India) with type C, D & M sockets, so do not forget to carry the universal adaptor along with you on your trip. +977 is the ISD dialing code of Nepal & this should be used as prefix before dialing any number to Nepal.
Travellers visit Nepal to experience the unique blend of spiritual and adventure experiences. Adventure lovers visit Nepal for explore Everest & Annpurana mountain ranges where as for most of the hindu travelers it is an adobe for the sacred holy sites. Kathmandu’s Pashupatinath Temple is among the holiest temples of Lord Shiva in Nepal which has its significance not less than a jyotirlinga of India. Budhaneelkanth (Sleeping Vishnu – a very large statue of lord Vishnu reclining on the bed of serpents) & Muktinath Temple (Shaligrama) are the two very sacred places of lord Vishnu. Muktinath temple has importance for both Hindus & Buddhists & is famous for its 108 water spouts & eternal flame. Janki Mandir of Janakpur (Birth Place of Goddess Sita) is an important pilgrimage site at Nepal which has a deep connection with Ramayana.
Apart from famous places to visit to any tourist place, it’s Food, Culture & Festivals plays another important role, in mesmerizing the traveller and inspire them to travel. Nepal is one of those destinations which has fusion of blending diverse flavors, deep-rooted cultural traditions, and vibrant festivals. Let’s learn why Nepal is always in the bucket list of travellers.
Nepalese cuisine is a delightful journey for the taste buds, reflecting the country’s rich cultural diversity and geographic variety. The most popular dish in Nepal is Dal Bhat, a staple meal consisting of steamed rice, lentil soup, and an array of side dishes like vegetable curries, pickles, and sometimes meat. It is not just a meal but an experience, as each region and household adds its unique touch to the preparation, making every plate of Dal Bhat different.
For street food lovers, Momos are a must-try. These steamed or fried dumplings, filled with minced meat or vegetables and served with spicy dipping sauces, are widely popular and available throughout the country. The Kathmandu Valley offers a variety of local snacks like Chatamari, a rice flour crepe topped with minced meat, egg, and spices, often referred to as ‘Nepali pizza.’ Another favorite is Sel Roti, a traditional sweet rice flour bread shaped like a ring, commonly prepared during festivals.
Nepalese cuisine also varies significantly by region. In the Himalayan region, Thakali cuisine is famous for its hearty meals, featuring buckwheat, barley, yak cheese, and dried meat. In contrast, the Terai region offers dishes with Indian influences, such as spicy curries, samosas, and sweets like Jalebi. Exploring Nepalese food allows travelers to experience the country’s cultural diversity and the warm hospitality of its people.
Nepal’s culture is surprisingly heterogeneous and multi-layered with societal activities owing to the geography and history of the country. Over 120 different ethnic groups inhabit the country and each group has its distinct language, culture and customs, which makes Nepal worth visiting again and again. Considered to be the centre of Nepalese culture, there are three ancient cities of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan in the Kathmandu valley. Each city has its unique beauty and importance because it boasts of numerous ancient temples, palaces and courtyards with impressive wood and metal carving.
In Kathmandu you can visit the famous Pashupatinath Temple, which is famous as a sacred Hindu temple and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world throughout the year. Boudhnath Stupa is situated near by which is the largest stupa in the world and serve as center for Tibetan Buddhism, stupa is surrounded by many monasteries & lively bazars. Patan Durbar Square is full of so many remarkable structures and yet again so many temples, while at Bhaktapur Durbar Square people can see how the people of medieval Nepal lived, surrounded by courtyards, temples and even pottery workshops.
Another way of appreciating the Kathmandu’s culture is through its music and dancing. Standard dramatic mounting musical instruments – Madal drum, Sarangi (a traditional string instrument), and Bansuri (bamboo flute) create tunes that are full of love, nature and respect. Dance forms such as the Lakhey dance in Kathmandu and Maruni dance in the eastern hills do not only depend on the evolution of time and art but have their very roots in the much believed local myths as well as the religious rites performed. To the tourists, these as art is the essence of Nepal providing a glimpse of the depth of the nation’s culture.
Celebrating festivals are the major characteristics of Nepali people and each festival describes the internal diversity and spiritual purity of the nation. The most grandiose and longest celebrated festival in Nepal is ‘Dashain’, it is celebrated for 15 days in honor of the victory of good over evil. This festival is so special that even if a Nepali lives abroad, he makes his annual holiday during ‘Dashain’ and returns to Nepal and celebrates this festival with his family and elders. This is the time of joy, meeting friends and relatives, enjoying local cuisines & local cultural performances.
The festival of lights, Diwali known as Tihar in Nepal is another major festival lasting for five days. During this festival, houses are cleaned, painted, rangoli made and decorated with oil lamps and candles, folk songs are sung and crows, dogs and cows are worshipped. Which are considered sacred animals according to Hindu tradition. The festival is also associated with Bhai Tika where sisters place a protective mark (Tika) on their brothers’ forehead and pray for his long life and success.
Like Dashain and Tihar, the festival of colors, Holi is also a major festival which is considered a symbol of the arrival of spring and is also celebrated with great enthusiasm. During this festival, people apply colors to each other, distribute sweets, come out on the streets and share their happiness with each other and people of all ages participate in all this.
Other major festivals include Indra Jatra, which is mainly celebrated in Kathmandu. This eight-day festival is celebrated in honor of Indra, the god of rain. This festival is celebrated starting from the 12th day of Shukla Paksha falling in the 11th month of Nepali calendar till the 4th day of Krishna Paksha. During this time, a huge dance ceremony takes place in the memory of Lord Indra along with chariot processions and rituals in honor of the rain god Indra.
Vivah Panchami is a Hindu festival celebrating the marriage of Ram and Sita in Janakpurdham (Nepal), the capital of Mithila, celebrated with great pomp on the fifth day of Shukla Paksha in November–December. The day is celebrated as the wedding festival of Sita and Rama in temples and holy places associated with Rama, such as in the Mithila region of Nepal and Ayodhya in India. During the Vivah Panchami ceremony, a dramatization of the Ram-Sita marriage is performed and with great pomp, Ram ji’s wedding procession is taken to Janakpur and the Ram-Sita marriage is solemnized.
Every festival in Nepal is an occasion to see how people are connected with each other on a spiritual level and also to be a part of a wonderful rejoicing event, which unites the masses. This could be a lifetime experience for any traveller to experience these festivals which offers a unique glimpse of the vibrant culture and traditions of Nepal.
The best time to visit Nepal will depend on the kind of weather you like and what you want to see or experience in Nepal. Nepal is such a tourist destination where travelers come throughout the year, some come for trekking, some come here to see the old ancient cities and some come here to relax in nature. Each season has its own temperature ranges and here’s a guide to help you decide what you can see or do best in that season.
It doesn’t matter when you visit Nepal, Nepal offers a unique adventure in every season. Choose the best time according to the season and activities you want to enjoy in Nepal and avail the services of Ashirwad Holidays to plan your ideal Nepal trip.
It is very easy to get to Nepal. There are several ways of going to Nepal depending on where you are coming from or your personal preferences. You may fly, travel by train, or go over the road each method presents an opportunity to experience something different. Below is a summary which will make it clear to users what is the most effective method to get to Nepal.
Quick and Simple
To reach Nepal the quickest and the simplest source will be air travel. Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu is the only international airport in the country with connectivity from major cities of the world. There are many flights available for the capital Kathmandu from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata and others.
Yet, in case you are coming from the nearby places, it’s possible to fly to the border region with Nepal. For northern, central, and western India travelers, Gorakhpur Airport is a great option too. It connects well with major Indian cities and is just about 100km away from the Nepal border which starts a quick road access to Nepal. Also, for people coming from central and northern India, Ayodhya Airport works wonderful for providing the basis for arrival.
Lucknow Airport is yet another functional option for travelers from northern and western India. It is connected well both by air and road with Nepal’s border and there are a lot of ways to reach the border within a short period. For the traveler who is mostly eastern in the country, Patna and Darbhanga Airports are reasonably laid to the border areas and link by road to Kathmandu well.
Easygoing and Excursions Go Hand in Hand
From the general bundle as discussed above, how best can one travel to Nepal? For those who fancy adventures, traveling to Nepal through the highway is more than a mere means of transport. India allows entry to Nepal from many land borders, and the advantages of each depend on where you are coming from:
Sunauli Border (Uttar Pradesh) – This border is fit for tourists travelling From Delhi or Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Punjab as well as Western India. It has been found that This is the most preferred route, sometimes reaching it by a burst of taxis and buses from Gorakhpur.
Raxaul-Birgunj Border (Bihar) – This border is suitable for travelers coming from Bihar, Jharkhand and Eastern. Birgunj border is most busy border crossing point and easy access to Kathmandu.
Panitanki-Kakarbhitta Border (West Bengal): This is the best option for people coming From Bengal and Sikkim and from North East part of Indians. This route is very much beautiful and connects with east part of Nepal.
Banbasa-Mahendranagar Border (Uttarakhand): This suit is directed to the travelers of Uttarakhand and Western Uttar Pradesh. This border point is relatively less crowded and provides routes into the western parts of Nepal that are very beautiful.
Jainagar-Janakpur Border (Bihar): This is very useful for individuals who move to faith places particularly Pilgrims going to the sights of Janakpur and other near areas.
Select a land frontier in accordance with your geography and select the areas of Nepal you want to visit. Since travel is overland, one can also take a break at different places and appreciate the people and food at the said places.
An Inexpensive and Picturesque Option
Reaching Nepal by rail is cheap and quite beautiful, especially for those who prefer to travel by land. Although there is no railway service that goes directly into Nepal, there is a major railway station which is the Gorakhpur Junction in the state of Uttar Pradesh that is considered to be the closest to the Nepalese border and you can go to it. The option best suited is meant for the whole of South, Central, Northern, and Western India traveling to Gorakhpur with good interconnectivity of the country provided Gorakhpur for onwards travel to Nepal. From Gorakhpur one can take a bus or taxi to the border at Sunauli, which is nearly 100 km therefrom.
Railways closer for those close to Bihar can opt to travel by train en route to Raxaul bordering Raxaul Birgunj or Jainagar bordering Jainagar Janakpur. These routes are best suited for persons from East India. All these border points have frequent buses and taxies that ferry passengers into several places they want in Nepal.
As mentioned before Nepal adds something or the other to every traveler’s interests. For the adventure seekers, Nepal is a plethora of activities that promises you unforgettable thrilling experience. There are numerous activities that you can participate in, with Kolkata to Nepal tour itinerary:
Classic Treks: Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit
World over, trekking routes in Nepal are regarded highly, especially the Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit trek. The Everest Base Camp trek makes it possible for one to reach the foot of the biggest mountain on the planet and passes through Sherpa villages, monasteries, and forests of Rhododendrons, a chance that comes once in a lifetime. Alternatively, the Annapurna Circuit offers a variety of vegetation from subtropical forests to alpine meadows and wonderful panoramic views of the Annapurna range, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare. Both treks, though not super technical, demand a considerable level of fitness and are suited for people with an adventurous spirit wanting to experience the mountains.
Short Treks: Short Treks in Nepal in Example Ghorepani Poon Hill and Langtang Valley.
There are two shortened routes for those who might be timing themselves out or do not wish to be overly exerted like the trekkers on the routes: the Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek and the Langtang Valley Trek. The Ghorepani Poon Hill trek modestly created over the years is popularly known for viewing the sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. This is quite a simple trek taking 4 – 5 days and is suitable for beginners. Langtang valley trek gives picturesque views and cultural interaction with Tamang communities in a less traffic area compared to the famous trails. These two treks give a good feeling of Nepal’s natural beauty in a limited time frame and without putting forth extra efforts.
Other Unique Treks and Trails: Upper Mustang and Manaslu Circuit Brian.
For trekkers who get tired of the crowded bars and sceneries, there are the Upper Mustang and the Manaslu Circuit treks which are quite interesting where the beaten track is avoided. This Upper Mustang trek takes you to a special area which is referred to as ‘The Last Forbidden Kingdom’, where you can visit century-old Tibetan structures and monasteries, Old caves, and other coconut looking rural regions on a desert ambience. Manaslu Circuit trek is no less than an adventure while trekking over the rocky slopes and capturing elevations of Manaslu, 8th highest peak in the world. These treks suit the most experienced trekkers hunting for quietness and a real culture of people.
Wildlife Safari in Chitwan National Park
A visit to Chitwan National Park offers a chance to see some of the fascinating wildlife of Nepal. Bumpy jeep safaris or elephant rides inside the thick jungles through the Bengal tigers and One-horned rhinosaurs as well as several deer, more crocodiles and many species of birds await as well. And if desired, one can walk with a guide in the jungle or canoe on the Rapti River. Chitwan also features an elephant breeding center, which together with Tharu cultural performances makes it an ideal destination for cultures and wildlife.
Birdwatching in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Save the best for last.
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is a subscription of underwater agglomerates and contains more than 500 resident or migratory bird species. Hosted in the east of the Terai, this wetland region offers tour-guided bird watching and nature walks to look for some endangered species such as the Bengal florican, swamp francolin, and the sarus crane. The reserves cover more than water buffalo and deer, but also abundant scale-free nature and vegetation.
Delving into the Rhododendron Forests in the Annapurna Conservation Area
The greatest protected area in Nepal, the Annapurna Conservation Area comes with beautiful Rhododendron forests, especially during the Spring season when all the flowers are out. Get out into these beautiful and vibrant forests for a walk or a trek and breathe in fresh mountain and take in the sights of the beautiful trees and animals. There are also other ethnic groups living in the area hence learning some about the native culture and conservation is possible.
Taking a Nepali Cooking Class in Kathmandu or Pokhara
Taking a cooking class in either Kathmandu or Pokhara is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself more into the local cuisine of Nepal. You attend classes to prepare local meals like Momos, Dal Bhat, and Sel Roti which after preparation are deliciously scrumptious and delectable foods. Such interactive ones are appropriate for culinary enthusiasts that aim at take home the taste of Nepal.
Nepal Food Tours: Enabling Travel Even Within the Boundaries of Thamel Kathmandu
When your stomach begs for attention, this time, attempt to visit the main site of the blossoming tourist industry of Kathmandu city, Thamel. Plunge into the many choices of Nepalese street food available there. In addition to diverse local restaurants, food tours in Thamel enable tourists to easily discover the streets on foot, tasting local cuisine.
Tasting of Newari Cuisine in Patan and Bhaktapur
How about relishing Newari food, the traditional food of the Kathmandu valley? Reach Patan and Bhaktapur to taste delicacies such as Bara (lentil patties), dine on Yomari (sweet dumplings), and enjoy Chatamari (Nepali pizza). Why not wash it all down with some local rice beer or millet wine?
White-Water Rafting on the Trishuli and Bhote Koshi Rivers
The rivers that gush through the hills of Nepal and the deepest valleys which contain glaciers that thaw providing some of the best white-water rafting in the world. Trishuli River is popular among first timers and family rafters because it has exciting rapids and calm waters in between which enables them to practice further. However, the Bhote Koshi River will be quite different because it is relatively in the middle of the valley but has strong and technical rapids that will give an extremely exciting experience raiding through narrow gorges that are surrounded by thick vegetation. Rafting has become popular among locals and visitors alike, and up to now, it may take half a day or two half days for quite serious adventurers who combine adrenaline and such incredible nature of Nepal as the one does.
Paragliding and Ultralight Flights in Pokhara
Home to stunning lakeside views and the notorious Annapurna range standing our sights, Pokhara is one of the world’s best paragliding accurately pertained. After you’ve looked at the gorgeous mountains, you can enjoy the view from the Phewa Lake, which is filled with paragliding through tandem or ultralight flights, both offering the delights of the Himalayan scenery from the air. These are flights designed for adventure lovers who wish to see Nepal from a different viewpoint.
Bungee Jumping and Canyon Swing at The Last Resort
If you have an itch for adventure then the migrants aid the Last Resort located next to the Tibetan border has the highest bungee jump in the world at an elevation of about 160 meters above the impressive Bhote Koshi river. If you think this is nothing, then you should try this Canyon Swing, where you embrace some free fall and swing over the mouth of deep river gorges and is only for the brave. This activity is well suited for thrill seeking adventurists who are willing to explore their limits in this activity.
Exploring Historic Sites in Kathmandu Valley-Bagmati
The Kathmandu valley is the best place to explore the cultural aspects of Nepal, with temples and ancient stupas that shout relics from history and spirituality of the nation. Try the holy temple of Pashupatinath, a World Heritage Site and one of the most important Hindu temples in the world. There’s the Boudhanath Stupa which is one of the most significant stupas of Tibetan Buddhism and the largest in Asia, and you can also go up the stupa of Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and enjoy spectacular views of the valley. Each one of these places has a story to tell about the culture and beliefs of Nepal.
Involvement in Local Festivals such as Dashain, Tihar & Holi
Nepal is a country that enjoys festivals. And the best way to learn about these various cultures is by experiencing the festivals. The Dashain and Tihar celebration, the two major festivals of Nepal, is a major celebration throughout the country. Observe families who come together, who perform certain customs, and eat certain foods. Holi is a paso or celebrations whose participants celebrate the arrival of spring through music, dancing, and throwing of colors. It will give one a deeper insight into the Tibetan way of life and the festivals in which the communities participate.
Seeking through the Traditional Villages of Bhaktapur and Bandipur
Alternatively, should you want to appreciate the culture, then you can opt for the cultural villages of Bhaktapur and Bandipur. Bhaktapur, in the present-day Kathmandu Valley, is also one of the ancient cities of Nepal, right in the middle of medieval buildings, wood, and colorful pottery centers. Bandipur, an ancient town on a ridge provides panoramic Himalaya mountain views and neware culture which is hospitable and industry-based lifestyle. People offer you a taste of their wonderful history, culture, and ways of living, all of which are in rich abundance.
Shopping for Handicrafts in Asan Bazaar of Kathmandu
For people who love shopping in the markets of the Kathmandu valley, Asan Bazaar is amongst the oldest as well as the major food and commodity markets of the Kathmandu valley and is a good place for some shopping, with traditional crafts, like hand woven cloth, metal works, earthen wares and jewelry, available. It’s also a good place to get a feel of life and culture of the area.
Buying Tibetan Carpets and Thangka Paintings in Boudhanath
Around the stupa, there are many shops serving Tibetan carpets and Thangka paintings (Nepalese Buddhist art). These hand-knotted carpets and paintings are sure very delicious presents or as a memento from travels.
Finding Unique Souvenirs in Pokhara’s Lakeside Markets
Lakeside markets of pokhara present a variety of souvenirs from Indian fashion jewelry, bead jewelry and clothing to herbal teas and spices. Take your ideal pace in browsing the market because there is no need to hurry, just take your time in one architectural stall to another, you will find a variety of products from ancient to contemporary.
Pashupatinath Temple (Kathmandu): Acknowledge to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this is one of the most revered temples of Lord Shiva. It is a prominent place of worship for Hindus across the globe.
Muktinath Temple (Mustang): A holy shrine for both the Hindus and Buddhists in the Mustang region of Nepal. Devotees come to Muktinath to perform Dab bob Dhankarma which involves the use of 108 water spouts.
Janaki Temple (Janakpur): This is a temple consecrated to the goddess noting her importance to devotees and situated in Janakpur region. It is a site of pilgrimage for the Hindus and the patrons of Ramayana.
Budhanilkantha Temple (Kathmandu): Also known as sleeping Vishnu the temple is an open to sky temple which houses a big idol of reclining lord Vishnu and is a temple of visit for the devotees and the tourists.
Manakamana Temple (Gorkha): This temple is very popular among Hindus as this temple is dedicated to divine mother Bhagwati. There is a cable car ride from where one site can see high hills.
Everest Base Camp (Khumbu Region): Last destination for every infinite soul and with no disappointment, it is indeed at the base of Mount Everest.
Annapurna Circuit (Annapurna Region): It is one of the widely trekked trekking routes advertise for its varieties of scenery, cultural and panoramic views of Annapurna range.
Pokhara: The adventure hub of Nepal with activities like paragliding, ultralight flight, bungee jumping, zip line, and boating on Phewa Lake with the beautiful vistas of Annapurna mountains.
Bhote Koshi River: A river that is famous among the enthusiasts of white water rafting and kayaking. With steep gorges and wild water rapids, it is a real şeyat adventure.
Chitwan National Park: Besides the traditional wildlife safaris, Chitwan also accommodates jungle canoeing, jungle walking, and birding, which are good for perfectionists.
Chitwan National Park (Chitwan): It is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is the best wildlife tourism center in the country. One can find the Bengal tiger, one-horned rhinoceros, elephants and many bird species.
Bardia National Park (Bardia): Bardia is renowned for its rich wildlife, which is also less touristy than Chitwan. Their most popular attractions include spotting wild elephants, tigers and Gangetic river dolphins.
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve (Eastern Terai): A birder’s dream that includes more than 500 species of birds along with water buffalo and deer and various other wild animals. Such people are better at birding and taking photos of natural things.
Sagarmatha National Park (Everest Region): It is inscribed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and it is home to endangered species like snow lions, red pandas and himalayan tahr. Extraordinary views of Mount everest and peaks will also be awailed here.
Pokhara: As picturesque as it gets for a place where one can chill down and spend the time very comfortably zooming at peaceful lakes, Located in tranquility, and having glorious views of the mountains and hills. There are boating activities available on Phewa Lake, tours to the World Peace Pagoda, the lakeside promenade.
Nagarkot (Close to Kathmandu): Famed for spectacular sunrise and sunset views over the Himalayas, it is a calm hill station, Nagarkot, providing peace and a sense of fresh air from the chaos of the city.
Bandipur: Haunted offering a perfect picture of newari life set on top of a hill outside the thriving nepal garnished with her architectural marvels and soulful panoramic view of the Himalayan range.
Lumbini: Tourist destinations in Nepal usually consist of a offering a peace loving environment with its soothing greenery, temples and meditation rooms in this birthplace of lord buddha called lumbini gardens.
Dhulikhel: This is an interesting small town, because of the great views of the mountains, scenic temples and many hiking, dhulikhel is for you in search of some quiet and relaxing vacation.
Upper Mustang: Also called ‘The Last Forbidden Kingdom’ upper mustang is an entirely different world full of variety and diversity. Emerging from its savage and bare desert, the land of old castles and lots of monasteries, dharamsala, and idols immersed into the culture of tibet.
Rara Lake (Mugu): This is also the largest lake in Nepal located in the northern part of the country and is relatively very far-off. It provides an off-the-beaten track tourist location which is entirely calm within the woods and surrounded by snowy mountain tops.
Dolpa (Shey Phoksundo National Park): Located in North India Dolpa includes remarkable geography, beautiful high mountain lakes, such as Shey Phoksundo and rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage.
Kalinchowk (Dolakha): Situated at the very height of the Dolakha district, Kalinchowk is a lesser known μέρει that is famed for the Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple and Himalayan views. It is also becoming more popular as a winter destination for tourists due to snow activities.
Tsum Valley: Located ins the Himalaya, Tsum is a best revered agham valley for pilgrims and known for its rich heritage. It is not a mass tourism area meaning a peaceful and real escape.
For Indian Tourists: The tourists who are Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal. To travel to Nepal Indian citizen need government reinforced photo identification such as a passport, voter ID. Aadhar card is NOT a valid travel document while entering Nepal by air. When going abroad, it is preferable to have a passport.
For Foreign Tourists: Most of the travelers who are not from the Indian sub continent require a visa upon their arrival in Nepal. Visas can be acquired upon entry at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) Kathmandu and any selected borders of the country. In your country you can also get a visa by applying to a Nepalese embassy or a consulate. When it comes to tourist visas, they range from 15 days, 30 day to 90 days.
For Indian Tourists: Major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Varanasi all have direct flights to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. Moreover, it can be helpful to fly to some of the side Indian airports like Gorakhpur, Lucknow, Ayodhya, Patna or Darbhanga. From these cities, there is a road access to the Nepal border.
For Foreign Tourists: There are direct flights to Kathmandu from many countries by different international airlines. Foreign tourists may also do the reverse, going to India first and then flying from there to a few Indian cities or Indian airport(s) nearby Kathmandu followed by a road trip to Nepal.
Sonauli Border (Uttar Pradesh): Border at Sonauli, situated very close to Gorakhpur, is among the most sought after for Nepalese picnickers. There is a good road connectivity it is served by constant buses and taxi services from Gorakhpur. This border is ideal for travelers from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and other north states.
Raxaul Border (Bihar): It is yet another point of entry into the Indian territory a little beyond the town of Birgunj, in Nepal. It is best for the people who are travelling from Bihar, Jharkhand and East India. Raxaul is well connected by Rail to many Metropolitan cities of India and the immigration point is always buzzing with buses and taxis for Kathmandu and other parts of Nepal.
The Nepali is the language of Nepal while English can be heard especially in places inhabited by tourists like hotels and restaurants and it is also the language most people use in the capital city. Moreover, a substantial number of Nepalis understand Hindi which is very helpful for Indian visitors. You will see cheerful and warm-hearted people in the street and if you need assistance they will be happy to offer it in simple English or Hindi.
The currency used in the country is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Approximate one Indian Rupee (INR) is equal to 1.6 Nepalese Rupees (NPR), but the value may vary. One can exchange currency at banks, authorized currency exchange counters and some hotels. Although ATMs are present in larger cities such as Kathmandu, enough cash should be taken since these facilities are few and far between in more rural areas.
Able to use debit and credit cards in hotels, restaurants and shops in Kathmandu and Pokhara among other metropolitan areas. However, several Indian bank cards are labeled with several notes that recommend ‘Not for use in Nepal or Bhutan’, which should be noted by the user. Plan to bring extra funds as a safety net in case of any traveling activities, particularly to less frequented parts.
UPI payments (PhonePe, GPay, PayTM, etc.), are not a common way of making purchases in Nepal because these applications are mainly focalized in India. Nevertheless, some of the businesses which are located nearby borders or in crowded tourist areas, may indicate acceptance of UPI payments only, through some application but that is not the case most of the times. Cash is preferred or it is advisable to carry international cards.
Yes, it is true that a large number of mobile devices will function in the country of Nepal. GDP of Indian tourists can use their cell phones with the roaming services or they may buy a local sim at the place for example Ncell or Nepal Telecom at the time of their arrival for greater connection and lower prices. Please keep in mind that your mobile phone needs to be unlocked in order to use local SIM cards.
There is a good availability of internet in Nepal as there are a number of facilities located in the urban areas like Kathmandu and Pokhara, in which most hotels, cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi services. You can use WhatsApp and other social networks after logging onto the local Wi-Fi service or purchasing a local SIM card with the internet data package. Mobile Internet works fine in big cities and places of tourist attractions, although it may be intermittent in more outlying areas.
There is no problem in finding Indian vegetarian food in Nepal, especially in tourist places like Ktm, Pokhara and Lumbini. Wraps, samosas, pakoras, and several other Indian-style snacks can be found in many Indian restaurants. Enough vegetarian meals are found in most local eateries too.
Yes. Jain food, South Indian food (including dosa, idli, sambar) and Gujarati foods including dhokla and thepla are available in number of restaurants in Kathmandu and Pokhara. But, it is good practice to ask the restaurant for any specific requirements as these restaurants have various options.
They also use type C, D and M combine sockets supplying the 230V 50Hz frequency electric power supply. If one travels from India, then generally, one does not need an adapter because the plugs look the same; however, it is advisable to have a universal adapter for other gadgets.
No. Currently, there are no restrictions imposed regarding COVID-19 for entry into Nepal. With that, some precautions such as wearing masks in crowded areas, use of hand sanitizers and good travel health practices are suggested.
Nepal provides plenty of accommodation choices with budget guest houses to high-end hotels. Branded hotel chains like Hyatt, Marriott, Radisson, Hilton et al and their likes are present in cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara. You may also decide on staying at boutique hotels and heritage properties as well as homestays for an immersion experience.
Road condition in Nepal varies a lot. The roads that lie between the major cities such as Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan are in proper conditions mostly. Whereas such roads in further areas become bumpy, narrower and tougher especially during the monsoons. It is safe to travel on the road but since Nepal is a hilly country, it is advisable to get an able local driver who is familiar with the terrain.
There is an appreciable network of domestic air services crisscrossing the sea of hills a nepal nation of landlocked itself. There are regular flights between Kathmandu, Pokhara, Bharatpur (Chitwan), Lukla (Everest Region), Jomsom (Annapurna Region) and Nepalgunj (Bardia National Park). Domestic flights are the fastest means of transport over remote regions but there might be delays in operations especially caused by weather climates.
As a general rule, visitors must dress respectfully when visiting temples in Nepal. Both male and female visitors must wear clothes that cover the shoulders and knees. Do not put on shorts, sleeveless tops and very tight clothes. It is also helpful to have a scarf or shawl which can be used to cover the head if necessary.
Tipping is not mandatory, however it is appreciated if felt the service offered to you at restaurant is optimal. A tip of 5% to 10% is advisable incase service charge is not included in the bill. As a kind gesture small tip of NPR 100 – 300 per day for hotel staff & porter & NPR 500 – 1000 for guide is advisable & good enough. Tipping in taxi is not expected but while paying rounding up to nearest amount is always considered polite.
Do’s:
Greet with “Namaste”: Fold your arm join your palms & bring it in front your chest & say “Namaste (Or) Namaskar” to great people politely.
Remove Shoes: It is always advisable to take off your shoes & then enter to someone’s house or any temple.
Use Right Hand: Always use your right hand to receive or give anything to anyone. Both hands can also be used in some cases like receiving prashad of temples to show more respect.
Don’ts:
Avoid Touching Others’ Heads: Head of anyone is considered to be sacred, so avoid touching the head especially children.
Do Not Point Feet: Pointing one’s feet at someone, at people in general, and especially at religious symbolic structures is offensively taken.
Avoid Public Displays of Affection: In Nepalese culture, unwanted physical contact including kissing and hugging is a taboo.
Do Not Enter Temple Inner Sanctums: Sometimes outsiders especially non-Hindus are not permitted access to the most sacred parts of Hindu temples and the inner specific areas only for Hindus.
In case of an emergency in Nepal, using the phone there may be several options you may want to utilize. For police assistance, dial 100, for fire services, dial 101, and for medical emergencies or ambulance services dial 102. One should also make sure that they have the addresses of the embassy or consular office for their country in Nepal within reach in case of an emergency. If you are trekking or are in remote locations, carry with you the contact number of your guide or trekking agency or tour operator. To be even more prudent, it is advisable that one informs a responsible person about the area they are visiting along with the purposes and the timelines.
It is not a requirement however travel insurance is advisable for Nepal covering the treks and other adventure activities. Ensure you take a policy that has medical cover, evacuation, cancellation and loss of belongings.
There are currently no vaccinations that are mandatory for one to be able to enter the territory of Nepal however, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus vaccinations are advised. If you intend to travel to places where there is a high possibility of contact with those diseases vaccinations against hepatitis B, rabies, and Japanese encephalitis can also be taken. Visit a healthcare provider prior to dashing to other countries.
Yes, especially while buying items such as handicrafts, souvenirs and clothes, haggling is the norm and is accepted in the markets of Nepali. If you are given a quote you need to offer about 50-70% of what is originally quoted and make the changes to a level that is suitable to both parties.
In general, all but a few religious sites in Nepal allow photography. However, some places can be off-limits and especially within certain temples or during particular ceremonies. It is best practice to seek permission or look for notices prohibiting the taking of photographs in temples before doing so.
The most common & polite way to great people in Nepal is just by saying “Namaste (OR) Namaskar”. To do so, simply fold your hand, join your palm, bring in front of your chest, bow little & say “Namaste (OR) Namaskar”. This is common form of greeting whether it is formal meeting OR informal. Sowing respect to local customs is always appreciated.
