Getting into Nepal
You can enter into by through two ways: either by air of by road transport
By air
You can get into Nepal via air. Tribhuwan International airport in Nepal is the only international airport in Nepal. Different airlines offer flight to Kathmandu airport in Nepal. The Tribhuwan International airport connects various major cities around the world through direct route like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangkok, Kolkata, Doha, Abu Dubai, Korea, Kualalampur, etc. If you are from other nations than those who provide direct flights to Nepal, you can choose the best alternate transit route.
By road transport
You can enter into Nepal by road through India and Tibet border. If you are in Tibet, then you can enter into Nepal via Kodari border from where you can catch a bus to Kathmandu. Likewise, if you are entering into Nepal through Indian border then the most convenient way can be via Gorakpur. You can catch a train and then take a bus to Kathmandu. Raxual and Kakarvitta can also be an option to enter into Nepal.
Nepal Visa
You can obtain a visa for Nepal at the Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu or at the border entry points in Birgunj, Kakarvitta, Nepalgunj, Bhairahawa, Gaddachowki or Kodari.
You can also obtain Nepalese visa outside Nepal from the nearest Nepal Embassy or diplomatic mission. To renew visa, you can renew it at the Department of Immigration, Kalikasthan, Kathmandu.
For obtaining a visa, you need a valid passport and passport sized photo with light background. Visa fees can be paid in cash. Euro, Swiss Franc, Pound Sterling, US Dollar, Australian Dollar, Canadian Dollar, Hong Kong Dollar, Singapore Dollar and Japanese Yen are accepted for visa fees. Note: Credit card, Indian currency and Nepali currency are not accepted as payment of visa fee
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a must if you are travelling to a developing country like Nepal. We never know what can happen during the travel. Sometimes, we may have flight delays, sometimes we may meet in to any accidents or get sick, sometimes we may get stuck somewhere due to any unforeseen circumstances,. Therefore, to insure you against any kind of risk during your travel, travel insurance is highly recommended.
Currency and Exchange
The currency of Nepal is quoted in Nepalese Rupees (NPR). And 1Nepalese rupees (NPR) = 100 Paisa
- Notes are denominated as NPR 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000
- Coins are denominated in NPR 1 and 2.
However, US Dollars are also widely accepted in Nepal in big malls and business areas. However, while dealing in small market, you will need Nepalese rupees to purchase anything.
Best Time to Visit Nepal for Trekking
The best time to visit Nepal for trekking depends on weather and scenery:
- Spring (March to May): Warm weather, clear skies, and blooming rhododendrons make this one of the most popular trekking seasons.
- Autumn (September to November): Cool, dry weather with clear mountain views and vibrant festivals; ideal for trekking in the Himalayas.
- Winter (December to February): Cold temperatures but less crowded trails; good for lower altitude treks.
- Monsoon (June to August): Heavy rainfall makes high-altitude trekking difficult, but it’s a great time for cultural tours and lush green scenery.
Tip: Spring and Autumn are considered the peak trekking seasons for safety, weather, and visibility.
Most Popular Trekking Routes in Nepal
Nepal offers trekking routes for all levels, from beginners to experienced mountaineers:
- Everest Base Camp Trek: The iconic trail to see the world’s highest peak, featuring Sherpa culture and Himalayan scenery.
- Annapurna Circuit Trek: A diverse trek with varying landscapes, from subtropical forests to alpine peaks.
- Langtang Valley Trek: Close to Kathmandu, it’s a serene trek with beautiful valley views and traditional Tamang villages.
- Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek: A short trek with panoramic sunrise views over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges.
- Manaslu Circuit Trek: Less crowded, challenging trek offering stunning views of the Manaslu region.
Tip: Choose your trekking route based on duration, fitness level, and interest in cultural or natural experiences.
Useful Nepali Phrases
Hello, Goodbye – Namaste
Thank you – Dhanyabaad
How are you? – Tapai lai kasto chha?
What is your name? – Tapaiko naam ke ho?
My name is ‘Kumari’. – Mero naam ‘Kumari’ ho.
I hope we meet again. – Pheri bhetaunlaa.
Please speak more slowly. – Bistaarai bolnuhos.
Do you speak English? – Tapai angrejee bolna saknu hunchha?
Yes, I speak English. – Ho, ma angrejee bolchhu.
I only speak a little English. – Ma ali ali angrejee bolchhu.
I can speak a little Nepali. – Ma ali ali Nepali bolchhu.
Please say it again. – Pheri bhannuhos.
Excuse me, sorry – Maaph garnuhos
Where are you going? – Hajur Kahaa jaane?
To ‘Patan’ – ‘Patan’ ma
I want to change money. – Ma paisaa saatna chaahanchhu.
May I take a photo? – K ma tasbeer khichna sakchhu?
Could you take my photo? – Mero tasbeer khichna saknu hunchha?
Rice – Bhat
Water – Pani
Curry – Tarkari
Salt – Nun
Sugar – Chini
Hot – Tato
Cold – Chiso
Money – Paisa
Morning – Bihana
Evening – Sajha
Afternoon – Diuso