About Nepal
Nepal, a small Himalayan country in South Asia, is known around the world for its stunning natural beauty, Himalayan mountains, unique landscapes, flowing rivers, sparkling lakes, and gushing waterfalls. Nepal is one of the most beautiful countries in the world for those who want to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Renowned as a trekker hub, Nepal has eight of the 14 tallest mountains in the world. This country is a paradise for travelers and trekking enthusiasts around the world. The rugged and off-the-beaten paths decorated with exotic flora and fauna, lead you to the mighty Himalayas. These trails offer one of the best trekking experiences ever. What’s more, the only problem you could come upon is the absolute desire to revisit Nepal because there is just so much to discover, see and experience.
Entry/Exit to Nepal
You can enter Nepal by flight or road. Tribhuvan International Airport in Nepal, and is the main entrance for many tourists. Two homegrown carriers, Nepal Airlines and Himalayan Airlines operate in major destinations in the middle east and India.
However, you can also fly with several other airlines such as Jazzera Airways, Fly Dubai, Air Arabia, Qatar Airways, Bhutan Air, Turkish Airlines, and Air India. However, check to see if these airlines offer a regular flight in the present conditions before your fly. For more information visit https://www.tiairport.com.np/.
If you enter Nepal by road, Nepal has eight access points to its territory. The entry/exit points of Nepal;
1. Kakarvitta, Jhapa (Eastern Nepal)
2. Birgunj, Parsa (Central Nepal)
3. Kodari, Sindhupalchowk (Northern Border)
4. Belahia, Bhairawa (Rupandehi, Western Nepal)
5. Jamunaha, Nepalgunj (Banke, Mid-Western Nepal)
6. Mohana, Dhangadi (Kailali, Far Western Nepal)
7. Gaddhachauki, Mahendranagar (Kanchanpur, Far Western Nepal)
8. Rasuwagadhi, Rasuwa (Northern Border)
Tourist Visa
Every tourist or visitor visiting Nepal must carry a valid passport and visa. You can get a tourist visa when you arrive at the Immigration office of Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or Entry and Exit points. However, this does not apply to people in countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, Afghanistan, and Syria. Citizens of these countries are required to apply for a visa before arriving in Nepal.
During the peak season, the visa application queue can be long at Tribhuvan International Airport. To avoid this long line, you can get a visa directly from the Nepalese diplomatic missions in your country before your arrival.
Your tourist visa for 15 days will cost US$ 30 and US$ 50 for 30 days, and US$ 125 for 90 days. Similarly, if you want to stay longer, you can extend your visa for a minimum of 15 days and pay an additional US$ 45, and US$ 3 per day if you are looking to stay for additional days. Nonetheless, citizens of SAARC countries visiting Nepal for the first time will be granted a free visa or gratis visa for up to 30 days. For more information on getting a visa, please visit Department of Immigration.
Popular destinations to Visit
Nepal is a wonderful country that presents vast natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. Nepal has many famous destinations to visit and explore. Numerous cultural heritage represents the countries’ rich history, are on the UNESCO world heritage list.
While in Kathmandu Valley, don’t miss visiting some of the most famous heritage sites such as Kathmandu Durbar square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath, and Swayambhunath. After visiting these historic sites, you can also take a walk in the tourist hub of Thamel.
There are many places outside the city where you can have a perfect time. One of these places is the scenic lake city of Pokhara. This peaceful destination is situated 203.9 kilometers from the capital. Decorated with tranquil lakes, and the scenic Himalayas, you should not miss out on visiting Pokhara. Some of the other destinations you can’t miss are Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, Chitwan, Ghandruk, and Bandipur.
If you are an adventurer, be sure to visit the famous Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, Ghorepani Poon Hill, etc.
What to do in Nepal
Best known for its trekking activities in the Himalayas, Nepal has also established itself as a popular tourist destination for a variety of other activities. From thrilling, adventurous, and adrenaline-pumping activities to tranquil, peaceful, and leisure activities, there is much to do in Nepal.
Nepal also offers a variety of other options to choose from for those who are not opting for trekking and hiking. You can go for a tour of the Kathmandu valley filled with the perfect blend of its modern and ancient. Besides, you can go for other adventures ranging from paragliding, bungee jumping, zip-lining, rafting, jungle safari, and so on.
Trekking Seasons in Nepal
One of the most popular trekking countries, Nepal welcomes thousands of trekking enthusiasts each year. You can trek in the Himalayas all year round, but certain times of the year provide you with the best views of the mountains.
The best season for trekking in Nepal is spring and autumn. The spring season in Nepal begins in March and lasts till May and is one of the best seasons for trekking. The weather is neither too cold nor too hot. In summary, in a cloudless, blue, bright sky, you will have the clearest and the best view of the Himalayas. Similarly, the fresh, lush forests and landscapes along the trails begin to bloom in the spring.
Another season to look forward to trekking in Nepal is the autumn season, which lasts from October to December. This time of year welcomes you with clear skies and unobstructed views of the show-capped mountains.
Internet and Communication in Nepal
Internet and telecommunications service providers have a broad reach throughout the country. In the city area, you can enjoy free internet service at restaurants and cafés and some public places. Similarly, most of the hotels and guest houses in the major cities in Nepal provide free internet connections. On some of the trails, there is also free internet access. In many cases, you will have to pay for this service.
Moreover, you can purchase a SIM card that can make both local and international calls. Also, you can have internet service. We recommend purchasing either NCELL or NTC SIM cards. These are the major carriers that have the network in almost every part of the country. The country code for Nepal is +977.
Banking, ATM’s and Money in Nepal
The legal tender of Nepal is Nepalese rupee or NRs. The Nepalese rupee is denominated in NRs. 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 rupee notes as well as 1, 2, and 5 rupee coins.
Generally, Nepalese banking services are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Sunday to Friday and with most banks closing at 2 pm on Friday. In Nepal, all commercial banks provide exchange services. ATMs are accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please visit Nepal Rastra Bank for the most recent forex update.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a must for all trips to Nepal. Your travel insurance must cover travel cancellations, theft, helicopter search and rescue, treatment, and many other issues. If you plan to go trekking in Nepal, ensure your insurance covers the altitude. Ensure that you have your insurance documents with you at all times during your stay in Nepal.
