Travel to Nepal Guide for Travellers

Choosing the Right Season to Visit

If there’s one thing I’ve learned after years of traveling around Nepal, it’s that timing can change your entire experience. The best months, hands down, are October to December -clear skies, perfect weather, and the Himalayas showing off in full view. Spring (March to May) is another favorite; the hills turn green, and rhododendrons bloom everywhere.

Monsoon season (June to August) can be tricky—heavy rain, leeches on trails, and muddy roads. But if you don’t mind getting a little wet, you’ll see a side of Nepal that’s raw and peaceful, with fewer tourists. Personally, I love traveling just before or after peak season -everything feels calmer, cheaper, and more local.

What to Expect When You First Arrive

Your first few hours in Nepal might feel a bit overwhelming-especially if you land in Kathmandu. The traffic, sounds, and energy hit all at once. It’s chaotic, but it’s also real. The air smells like a mix of incense, dust, and street food, and within minutes you’ll see smiles from strangers who genuinely want to help.

I always tell people — don’t rush to “figure it out” on day one. Just walk, observe, and breathe it in. Nepal unfolds slowly. Once you adjust to the pace, everything starts to make sense — the rhythm, the noise, the kindness.

My Honest Take on Budget & Costs

Nepal can be as cheap or as pricey as you want it to be. I’ve done trips surviving on less than $20 a day — eating local dal bhat, staying in basic guesthouses, and taking buses that test your patience. I’ve also spent weeks in boutique hotels and cafes, easily touching $60–100 a day.

For most travelers, $30–40 a day is the sweet spot. You’ll eat well, sleep comfortably, and still experience the country authentically. Just remember, Nepal runs on cash more than cards, and ATMs don’t always work in remote areas. Always keep some extra cash on you.

Visa, Flights & the Entry Process (Without the Confusion)

Getting into Nepal is pretty simple. You can get a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Just fill out the online form beforehand (or at the kiosk), pay the fee, and you’re good.

• 15 days: around $30
• 30 days: around $50
• 90 days: around $125
• I recommend printing your hotel booking and return ticket — the officers rarely ask, but it helps things move faster.
• If you’re flying in, Qatar Airways, Air India, and FlyDubai are common routes from most major cities. Once you land, the airport can feel crowded, so keep your calm — everyone eventually gets through.

What I Always Pack Before a Trip

I’ve learned to pack light but smart. A warm jacket is a must, even if you’re not trekking — nights get cold fast. I always carry:

• A reusable water bottle (you’ll find safe refill stations almost everywhere)
• Power bank (electricity cuts happen sometimes)
• Good Camera
• A small medical kit
• Good walking shoes—not necessarily hiking boots unless you’re trekking
• A scarf or buff (trust me, it helps with dust and sun)
• Any Smart Gadgets You wish(Those gadgets may not be available here)

One personal tip: always pack a little curiosity. The best moments in Nepal happen when you’re unplanned — when you take a wrong turn, talk to locals, or just sit watching life move around you. That’s where the real Nepal lives.

Before you come to Nepal, having the right documents ready will free you from stress. Here’s what I always make sure to prepare before any trip:

• Passport: Please Make sure it’s valid for at least six months from your arrival date. Nothing ruins a trip like realizing your passport is about to expire so, Please double check it.
• Visa Documents : Most travelers can get a visa on arrival, but I always carry a printed copy of my visa form and any hotel booking confirmation. It makes the process smoother and faster.
• Flight Tickets : Keep both printed and digital copies of your entry and exit tickets. Airport officers rarely ask, but it’s better to have them handy.
• Travel Insurance : never travel without it. It’s not just paperwork — it gives you peace of mind if anything unexpected happens.
• Vaccination Certificates (if required) : Depending on your country, some vaccines may be requested. I keep a digital copy on my phone as well as a printed one.
• Emergency Contacts : A small list of local contacts, your embassy details, and a couple of trusted friends back home can be lifesavers.

My tip: I keep all these documents in a travel wallet or a folder that’s easy to reach at the airport and in any other situation. Having them organized and ready helps me start journey relaxed instead of stressed.

If you’re heading to Nepal, one of the first things you wonder is, “How much is this going to cost?” From my own trips, it really depends on your style — you can go super cheap, comfortably, or splurge a little. Here’s how I usually break it down:

Accommodation

I usually stay in guesthouses or homestays. They’re cheap, friendly, and give you a real feel of the place. Prices:

• Budget: $5–$15 per night
• Mid-range: $20–$50
• Fancy hotels: $60+

Food

Nepali food is amazing and cheap if you eat local. I love dal bhat, momo, and thukpa. Street food is a must-try too. Approximate prices:

• Local meals: $2–$5
• Cafes or western meals: $5–$15
• Snacks or tea: $1–$3

Getting Around

I mix buses, taxis, and sometimes flights. Local buses are super cheap, taxis are handy for short trips, and domestic flights save time if you’re moving between cities. Rough costs:

• Bus: $0.50–$3
• Taxi: $2–$10
• Domestic flights: $70–$150

Activities & Entry Fees

I always pick experiences that feel authentic. Trekking, wildlife, or adventure sports all have fees, but they’re worth it. Approximate costs:

• National parks / trekking permits: $30–$50
• Rafting / paragliding / zipline: $20–$100
• Temples and museums: $1–$10

Extras

• SIM card + internet: $5–$15 per month
• Souvenirs, snacks: $5–$20 per week
• Extra cash for emergencies: $50–$100

Daily Budget I Follow

• Backpacker: $20–$30
• Comfortable: $35–$60
• Luxury: $70+

Tip from Me:

Nepal is cheap if you stick to local food and transport, but don’t stress every penny. Carry some cash, stay flexible, and enjoy the experience. That’s what really matters.

Honestly, one of my favorite things about Nepal is the food. Not just because it keeps you full, but because it tells you a story about the people and the place. Every town, every village has something different, and I’ve learned to just follow my nose (and my stomach). Here’s what I usually go for:

Dal Bhat

If you want to eat like a local, this is it. Rice, lentils, veggies, sometimes meat. I end up eating it for lunch and dinner on trekking days — simple, cheap, and it keeps you moving.

Dhido

This is more for when I’m out in the hills. It’s made from buckwheat or maize flour and usually comes with gundruk or a bit of meat. Not fancy, but filling. I like watching locals eat it — it makes me feel like I’m part of the place.

Thakali Khana

A plate with everything — rice, lentils, veggies, pickles, maybe some meat curry. I grab this after a long walk in Pokhara or Kathmandu. Tasty and enough to keep me full for hours.

Momo

These dumplings are everywhere. Steamed, fried, in soup… every town does them a bit differently. I make it a point to try them wherever I go. Cheap and so satisfying.

Other Local Foods

Nepal has some weird-but-delicious dishes:

Gundruk – fermented greens, kind of tangy. Took me a while to like it, but now I do.

Kwati – mixed bean soup, great on cold mornings.

Samay baji – traditional Newari platter with rice, meat, and spices.

Sel Roti – sweet fried rice donuts, perfect with tea or coffee.

Fruits & Snacks

Guava, oranges, bananas — always fresh. Street snacks like chatpate, samosas, fried corn — I snack on them while walking around markets. Cheap, fast, and tasty.

Drinks

Masala tea – I drink it almost every morning.

Butter tea – strange at first, but I like it in the mountains.

Fresh juices and lassi – perfect for hot days.

Raksi or Tongba – local spirits I try occasionally with friends or locals.

Some Tips from Me

Eat where the locals are eating — it’s cheaper and usually better.

Don’t be afraid to try something new — I’ve had some weird-looking dishes turn out amazing.

Street food is fine if it’s cooked fresh and hot.

Mix traditional meals, snacks, and fruits — that’s how you really taste Nepal.

At the end of the day, Nepal isn’t just temples and mountains — it’s in the food too. I look forward to each meal almost as much as the next view.

Nepal has so many amazing spots, it’s hard to pick favorites, but there are some places I always make a point to visit — the ones that really stay with you.

Kathmandu Valley

This is where it all begins for most travelers. Temples, old streets, and crazy markets everywhere. I love wandering through Durbar Square, watching locals and tourists mingle. Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple) is a must — climb the stairs, enjoy the view, and be ready for a few mischievous monkeys.

Pokhara

Ah, Pokhara — the city with the lakes and mountain views that make you stop and just stare. Phewa Lake is perfect for boating, and if you wake up early, the sunrise over Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) Mountain is unforgettable. I usually rent a bike or just walk around the lakeside — the cafes and small shops make it a chill spot to stay a few days.

Chitwan National Park

If you like wildlife, Chitwan is where I go. I’ve seen rhinos, deer, and even crocodiles on boat rides. Elephant or jeep safaris are fun, but I personally like walking tours with guides — you get closer to nature and hear all the local stories.

Bhaktapur & Patan

These are my go-to for traditional architecture and slower vibes. I love wandering the small alleys, trying local snacks, and just watching life happen. Don’t miss Nyatapola Temple in Bhaktapur or the beautiful courtyards in Patan.

Lumbini

If you’re interested in culture and history, Lumbini — the birthplace of Buddha — is peaceful and reflective. I usually spend a day walking through the monasteries and gardens; it’s quiet, calm, and very different from Kathmandu’s chaos.

Trekking Spots

Even if you’re not into hardcore trekking, you can do short hikes. I love Nagarkot for sunrise views of the Himalayas, and Bandipur for the village vibe with stunning mountain views. If you’re up for it, the Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp treks are life-changing — I’ve done both, and the sense of accomplishment is unreal.

Hidden Gems



Nepal is full of surprises if you wander off the beaten path. Small towns like Gorkha, Dhulikhel, or Rara Lake feel untouched. I usually pick one or two hidden spots just to escape the crowds — it makes the trip feel personal and special.

Tips from My Travels

• Don’t rush — I’ve learned the best moments happen when you linger.
• Early mornings are the best for temples and viewpoints — fewer people, softer light.
• Talk to locals — they’ll often tell you about spots not in the guidebooks.
• Mix big touristy spots with hidden gems for the full experience.

Nepal is more than mountains; it’s the towns, temples, lakes, and people you meet along the way. For me, these places are the ones I keep going back to, trip after trip.

Nepal is amazing, but it’s even better when you travel like the locals. You see more, meet more people, and sometimes even save a little money. Here are some things I’ve learned on my trips:

1. Use Local Apps

Technology makes life easier here. I always keep a few apps on my phone:

• Pathao or Tootle – for quick bike or car rides in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
• Sarathi or Sajilo Bus – helps check bus schedules for longer trips.
• Foodmandu – great for ordering local food if you don’t feel like going out.
• Maps.me or Google Maps offline – streets in old towns can be tricky, so offline maps save a lot of time.

2. Learn a Few Nepali Words

Even just a couple of words goes a long way. I always try to greet and thank people in Nepali:

• Namaste (Hello / Goodbye) – hands together, slight bow.
• Dhanyabad (Thank you) – simple and polite.
• Sanchai cha? (How are you?) – people love when you try.
• Pani (Water), Khana (Food), Bazaar (Market) – handy for basic needs.

3. Dressing Tips

Nepal is casual, but modesty matters, especially in temples and rural areas. I usually wear:

• Light, breathable clothes for the city or trekking.
• Long pants or skirts and covered shoulders when visiting temples or rural villages.
• Comfortable shoes for walking on uneven streets or trails.

4. Greetings & Etiquette

• A simple Namaste with hands together is always appreciated.
• Don’t point your feet at people or religious objects — it’s considered rude.
• Ask before taking photos of people, especially in villages.
• Bargaining is common in markets, but do it politely — I always smile and keep it friendly.

Tips from My Travels

• Walk as much as possible — streets are small, and you see life up close.
• Take local transport sometimes; buses and microbuses are cheap and fun.
• Keep small change handy — it’s needed everywhere.
• Observe and adapt; locals are usually happy to guide you if you’re respectful.

Traveling like a local makes Nepal feel less like a tourist spot and more like a place you can belong to for a while. I always try to slow down, follow the rhythm of the city or village, and let the experience sink in.

Nepal is a playground for adventure. From mountains to rivers, there’s something for every type of traveler. I always plan a few activities that make my trips unforgettable.

Trekking & Hiking

Nepal is famous for trekking, and for good reason. Trails like Annapurna Base Camp, Everest Base Camp, and Langtang are life-changing. I’m not talking just about hardcore trekkers — even short day hikes like Nagarkot or Dhulikhel give amazing views of the Himalayas. I usually carry a small day pack, some snacks, and just enjoy the slow pace.

Rafting & Kayaking

Rivers in Nepal are incredible for adventure. I’ve done rafting in Trishuli and Bhote Koshi — it’s thrilling without being too dangerous if you go with a guide. Kayaking is fun too, especially on calmer sections. Honestly, getting wet in the river on a hot day feels amazing.

Paragliding

If you’re in Pokhara, you can’t miss this. Flying over the lakes with mountains around you is surreal. I remember my first jump — scary, yes, but totally worth it. Make sure you go with a certified operator; safety first, thrill second.

Wildlife & Nature Tours

I love Chitwan National Park and Bardia for wildlife. Walking safaris, jeep safaris, or canoe rides let you see rhinos, elephants, and lots of birds. I try to go with local guides — they know the animals’ habits and also share stories about the area.

Cultural Experiences

Adventures aren’t always adrenaline-pumping. I’ve spent days learning pottery in Bhaktapur, joining local festivals, or watching traditional dances. These experiences are just as memorable as trekking or rafting, and they show a side of Nepal most tourists miss.

Tips from My Adventures

• Always carry a small first-aid kit and water when going on hikes or rafting.
• Book adventure activities through reliable local operators — it’s safer and supports the community.
• Go early in the day — less crowded and better light for photos.
• Don’t rush; part of the adventure is soaking in the atmosphere.

Nepal isn’t just about seeing things — it’s about doing them, feeling the mountains, rivers, and culture around you. I always leave some free time in my trips just to stumble upon an adventure I didn’t plan.

I don’t like thinking about emergencies, but in Nepal, it’s better to be ready. I always keep a few numbers on my phone and scribble them on a small card in my wallet — you never know.

Important Numbers

• Police: 100
• Ambulance: 102
• Fire: 101
• Tourist Police (Kathmandu): 977-1-4243808

Hospitals & Clinics

• Norvic International Hospital (Kathmandu)
• Patan Hospital (Lalitpur)
• Pokhara Regional Hospital

If you’re trekking, most villages have tiny health posts. They’re basic but can help with small problems.

Embassies & Travel Insurance

I always check where my embassy is — it’s useful if I lose my passport or need official help. And yes, travel insurance is a lifesaver. Even a small accident or delayed bag can ruin a trip if you don’t have it.

Tips from My Experience

• Keep a local SIM with some credit.
• Carry a tiny first-aid kit — band-aids, medicine for headache or stomach.
• Learn a few Nepali words — locals appreciate it and are usually happy to help.

Honestly, just having a backup plan makes everything feel easier. I travel more relaxed knowing I’m not completely stuck if something goes wrong.