Nepal Travel Essentials You Need to Know Before Your Trip
Table of Contents
Where is Nepal ?
Nepal is a landlocked country in South Asia bordered by China and India. It has an area of 147,181 square kilometers (56,827 sq mi) and a population of approximately 30 million.
Language Spoken in Nepal :Nepali is the official language of Nepal, and is also spoken in parts of India. English is also popular and spoken in major cities.
Climate of Nepal ?
Nepal is divided into three climatic zones: the Himalayan zone, the Midland zone, and the Terai zone.
The Himalayan zone ranges from 3,000 to 6,000 meters (9,800 to 19,700 ft) in elevation and consists of eight of the world’s ten tallest mountains, including Mount Everest, the highest point on Earth.
The Midland zone lies between 1,000 and 3,000 meters (3,300 and 9,800 ft) in elevation and includes the Kathmandu Valley and the cities of Pokhara and Lumbini.
The Terai zone extends from 400 to 1,000 meters (1,300 to 3,300 ft) in elevation and is drained by several large rivers such as the Narayani River and the Kali Gandaki River.
Seasons in Nepal
Nepal has five seasons: winter (December-February), spring (March-May), summer (June-August), autumn (September-November), and monsoon (June-September).
The best time to visit Nepal depends on what you want to see and do while you’re here.
If you’re interested in trekking or climbing mountains, then spring or autumn are the best times to come since the weather is more stable during these seasons.
However, if you want to see Nepal’s flowering plants in bloom or attend one of the country’s many festivals, then summer or winter are better choices since these are when most flowers bloom and festivals take place.
What is the dialing code Nepal ?
+977 dialing code is the code you need to dial when making calls to Nepal. This code is also used for text messaging and data services.
What are the most popular SIM cards in Nepal?
The two most popular SIM cards in Nepal are NTC and NCELL. Both of these providers offer affordable rates and reliable coverage.
Where can I buy a SIM card in Nepal?
SIM cards are available at the airport and in all cities. You can also purchase them from many convenience stores and mobile phone shops.
Currency of Nepal
Nepaleas Rupee , NPR .The NPR i is circulated in both coin and banknote forms. NPR’s coins are denominated in units of 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, and 50 paisa. The banknotes are denominated in units of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 Rupee.
- airports – The best place to get foreign currency is at the airport. Most airports have currency exchange kiosks that offer competitive rates and a convenient location.
- banks – You can also exchange currency at your local bank. Many banks will allow you to buy foreign currency in advance, so you can shop around for the best rate.
- ATMs – ATMs are a convenient way to get cash in the local currency when you’re abroad. However, be aware that you may be charged fees for using an ATM that’s not in your home country.
Best time to visit Nepal
March-April: The second-best time to visit and trek; spring brings warm weather and spectacular rhododendron blooms.
Peak Season – Mid – Septemebr, October, November
This is the best time to visit Nepal as the weather is clear and dry, making it ideal for trekking and outdoor activities. This is also the busiest time of year, so be sure to book your accommodation in advance. Prices for accommodation and activities will be at their highest during this period.
Off season June-Sep
- The weather is unpredictable – The monsoon rains can bring landslides, and clouds often obscure mountain views. Be prepared for anything when you travel during Nepal’s low season.
- It’s not the best time for trekking – Rain, mud and leeches deter most trekkers. If you’re looking to hike in Nepal, you’ll want to wait for the dry season.
- You can find great deals on hotels – Hefty hotel discounts are common during the low season. So if you’re looking to save some money on your Nepal trip, this is the time to travel.
Time in Nepal
Nepal Standard Time : Nepal Standard Time is the time zone for Nepal. It is 5:45 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
Daily Cost and Budget of traveling in Nepal
Budget backpackers can expect to spend around $30 USD per day
This covers the cost of a basic room in a guesthouse, street food for meals, and local transportation. If you want to add some activities like hiking or visiting temples, budget an extra $10-20 per day.
Mid-range travelers should plan on spending $50-100 USD per day
This will get you a nicer room in a hotel or guesthouse, some sit-down meals, and the occasional tour or activity. You can easily find mid-range options for all your travel needs in Nepal.
Luxury travelers can expect to spend $200 USD or more per day
If you’re looking for 5-star accommodations, private tours, and gourmet dining, you’ll need to budget accordingly. Nepal is an affordable destination for luxury travelers compared to many other places in the world.
What are the working hours in Nepal ?
- Bank hours in Nepal
Most banks in Nepal are open from 10am to 3pm Monday to Friday, and from 10am to 1pm on Saturday. However, some banks are closed on Saturday.
- Pubs / Bar hours in Nepal
Bars in Nepal typically close at 11 pm, although some may close earlier on weekdays. On Fridays and Saturdays, bars may stay open until 1am.
- Restaurant hours in Nepal
Restaurants in Nepal are typically open from 11am to 10pm, although some may stay open later on weekends.
- Tourist spot hours in Nepal
Many tourist spots in Nepal are open from 9am to 5pm, although some may stay open until 6pm or 7pm. On Sundays, some tourist spots may be closed.
- Museum hours in Nepal
Museums in Nepal are typically open from 10am to 5pm, although some may stay open until 6pm or 7pm. On Sundays, some museums may be closed.
- Shop hours in Nepal
Shops in Nepal are typically open from 9am to 9pm, although some may close earlier on weekdays. On Fridays and Saturdays, shops may stay open until 10pm or 11pm.
Best way to reach Nepal.
Tribhuvan international airport (kathmandu) –
The main airport in Nepal, Tribhuvan International Airport is located in Kathmandu. It’s the busiest airport in the country and sees a lot of international traffic. When you arrive, you can take a prepaid taxi to your hotel or Resort.
Many midrange hotels offer free pick-ups from the airport, so be sure to ask about that when you’re making your reservations. Long queues at immigration can slow things down if you are getting your visa on arrival, so try to have all your paperwork in order before you arrive.
Getting around Nepal – transportation
- By plane – The only way to really see the country
Nepal is a beautiful country with many different landscapes, from the mountains in the north to the tropical jungle in the south. The only way to really see it all is by plane. Fortunately, there are a number of airports throughout the country, so you can fly into Kathmandu and then head out to explore.
- By bus – An adventure in itself
Needless to say, Nepal is not known for its well-maintained roads. But that doesn’t mean that travel by bus isn’t an option. In fact, it’s often the only way to get around, especially if you’re not comfortable with driving on your own. Just be prepared for some hair-raising moments and delays along the way.
- By car – The best way to see the country at your own pace
If you’re looking for a more leisurely way to see Nepal, then renting a car is your best bet. You’ll be able to explore at your own pace and make stops whenever you want. Just be sure to budget for fuel, as prices can be high depending on where you are in the country.
- Micros in Nepal
Micros are small, shared taxis that are a popular form of transport in Nepal. They are typically cheaper than private taxis and provide a more flexible service, making them ideal for travelers on a budget.
- Taxies – the most common and convenient way to get around
Taxis are the most common and convenient way to get around in Nepal. They are relatively inexpensive and can be found on almost every street corner in Kathmandu.
- Tempos – a cheaper alternative to taxis
Tempos are a cheaper alternative to taxis in Nepal. They are typically used by locals and can be found on many streets in Kathmandu.
- Rickshaws – a unique way to see the city
Rickshaws are a unique way to see the city of Kathmandu. They are typically pulled by a bicycle or motorcycle and can be found on many streets in Kathmandu.
8.Motorbikes – You can rent a motorbike in Nepal and they are a popular way to get around, especially if you’re planning on doing some trekking. Just be aware that the roads are dangerous and so are the traffic rules.
- Bicycle – the cheapest and most eco-friendly option
Bicycles are the cheapest and most eco-friendly option for transportation in Nepal. They can be rented from many shops in Kathmandu and are a great way to explore the city.
Is Nepal Safe – what travelers need to know
Nepal is generally a safe country for travelers, but there are areas of crime that tourists should be aware of. pickpockets are common in Kathmandu, so keep your belongings close to you at all times. it’s important to take precautions when traveling alone or in remote areas.
Sanitation in nepal – what travelers need to know
Sanitation conditions in Nepal are generally good, but there are some areas of concern that travelers should be aware of. The tap water in Kathmandu is not safe to drink, so be sure to only drink bottled water. There have also been reports of foodborne illness, so it’s important to only eat well-cooked food from reputable sources. Hygiene is an issue with the street food vendors but not all should be avoided.
Electricity in nepal – what travelers need to know
Electricity is widely available in Nepal, but there are some areas where power outages are common. When packing for your trip, be sure to include a flashlight and extra batteries just in case. It’s also a good idea to bring a portable charger for your electronics.
Pollution in nepal – what travelers need to know
Pollution is a problem in Kathmandu and other major cities in Nepal. The air pollution can be extremely harmful to your health, so it’s important to take precautions if you’re planning to spend time in these areas. Wear a mask when outdoors, and try to stay indoors as much as possible.
Money, Credit cards, Banks in Nepal
When traveling to Nepal, it’s important to let your bank know in advance. This way, they can flag your account and watch for unusual activity.
Be sure to check your email from your bank regularly while you’re away. They may send you important messages about your account or travel-related updates.
There are plenty of ATMs and foreign exchange lounges in Kathmandu, so you shouldn’t have any trouble getting the local currency. However, be aware that there may be a fee for using these services. fee is in a range of USD 5.00, however some bank do waive them.
ATM Withdrawal Amount Is Capped In Nepal -When withdrawing money from an ATM in Nepal, the maximum amount you can receive is 25,000 NPR (about $200 USD). Be sure to have small bills on hand in NPR as vendors may not be able to make change for larger denominations.
Avoid Excessive Use Of Credit Card In Nepal – While it’s convenient to use your credit or debit card for purchases in Nepal, be aware that there is a risk of fraud. Use your card only at reputable businesses and keep a close eye on your statement for any unauthorized charges.
Keep The Slips Secured – When making a purchase with your credit or debit card in Nepal, be sure to keep the slip safely secured until you’re able to review the transaction on your statement. This will help ensure that no one else can access your account information.
Internet and communication – what travelers need to know
Good internet and mobile coverage is now available in most of Nepal
With 4G now available in Kathmandu and other major cities, travelers can enjoy good internet speeds for activities such as browsing the web, online banking, social media, and watching videos.
3G is widely available across Nepal
While 4G might not be available everywhere in Nepal just yet, 3G coverage is widespread. This means that if you’re traveling to more rural areas, you’ll still be able to stay connected.
There are a few internet/mobile blackspots in Nepal
Even though coverage has improved greatly in recent years, there are still some dead zones where you won’t be able to get any signal at all. These are mostly in remote mountainous regions, so if you’re planning on trekking off the beaten path, make sure to bring a reliable offline backup option.
