Nepal Travel Information

Essential Guide for Your Himalayan Adventure

Plan Your Nepal Trip

Best Seasons to Visit Nepal

Autumn (September - November)

The most popular trekking season. Clear skies, moderate temperatures, and spectacular mountain views. Ideal for most treks including Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit.

Spring (March - May)

Second best season with blooming rhododendrons and lush landscapes. Good visibility and stable weather. Perfect for cultural tours and lower altitude treks.

Winter (December - February)

Cold but fewer crowds. Best for cultural tours in Kathmandu and lowland destinations. High passes may have snow but trails are generally manageable with proper preparation.

Summer (June - August)

Monsoon season brings lush greenery but also landslides and leeches. Best avoided for high-altitude treks. Can be good for cultural tours in the Kathmandu valley.

Visa Information

  • Visa on Arrival: Available for most nationalities at Kathmandu Tribhuvan Airport. Tourist visa costs $30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days, or $125 for 90 days.
  • Online Application: You can apply online at nepalimmigration.gov.np to get approval before arrival.
  • Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date.
  • Extension: Tourist visas can be extended at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu for up to 150 days per year.
  • Trekking Permit: For restricted areas like Upper Mustang and Manaslu, special permits are required through registered trekking agencies.

Altitude Safety Guide

Altitude sickness can affect anyone traveling above 2,500 meters. Here's how to stay safe:

Ascend Gradually

Follow the "climb high, sleep low" principle. Don't increase elevation by more than 300-500 meters per day above 3,000 meters.

Stay Hydrated

Drink at least 3-4 liters of water daily. Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they contribute to dehydration.

Recognize Symptoms

Mild symptoms include headache, nausea, fatigue. Rest and descend if symptoms worsen. Severe symptoms require immediate descent and medical attention.

Acclimatization Days

Build rest days into your itinerary when crossing major passes or reaching high altitudes like Everest Base Camp (5,364m).

Emergency Evacuation

Helicopter evacuation is available in remote areas but is expensive. Travel insurance covering high-altitude evacuation is essential.

Packing Essentials

Clothing

  • Thermal base layers (merino wool or synthetic)
  • Insulating mid-layers (fleece or down jacket)
  • Waterproof outer shell jacket and pants
  • Trekking pants and quick-dry shirts
  • Warm beanie and gloves
  • Sun hat and buff/neck gaiter
  • Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support

Gear

  • Backpack (40-60L) and daypack (20-30L)
  • Sleeping bag rated to -10°C or lower
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Water bottles or hydration system (2L capacity)
  • Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses)

Health & Safety

  • Personal medications and first aid kit
  • Altitude medication (Diamox/Acetazolamide)
  • Water purification tablets or filter
  • Anti-septic gel and wet wipes
  • High-energy snacks
  • Insurance documents copy

Documents

  • Passport (valid 6+ months)
  • Visa approval letter (if applied online)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Emergency contact information
  • Permit copies for restricted areas
  • Passport-sized photos (4-6)