How to Plan a Trip to Nepal - Nepal Travel Guide
My country, Nepal, which is nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, is renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. But what exactly makes it a must-visit destination?
Is it the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, where the world's highest mountains, including Mount Everest, touch the heavens? Or is it the mystical allure of ancient temples and monasteries perched on hilltops that draws travelers from all corners of the world?
Perhaps it's the diverse landscapes, from lush subtropical jungles in the south to rugged alpine terrain in the north, that add to Nepal's allure. Perhaps the country's melting pot of traditions and influences, spanning Hinduism and Buddhism, adds a fascinating layer to its cultural tapestry.
In the end, Nepal's charm undoubtedly emanates from a combination of these elements and more. When you visit Nepal, you will come to discover each of these. I can assure you that the ethereal sunrise over the Annapurna Range or the prayer flags fluttering in the scenic mountain deserts will forever impress your mind. Not to mention the warm hospitality of the Nepalese people, which will make you want to re-visit again and again.
Nepal most certainly stands as an ultimate destination for those seeking a blend of nature, spirituality, and adventure. In this travel guide, I will show you all the fundamentals that you need to know before embarking on an epic journey to my homeland.
Table of Contents
More Nepal travel info:
For more ideas on where to go on your trip, check out my guide to 16 Beautiful Places in Nepal.
And if you’re interested in some one-on-one help planning your adventure here, consider booking a Nepal Travel Consultation with me!
Local help with your planning
With so much to see & do in Nepal, planning a trip here can feel incredibly overwhelming. I know, because I’ve planned hundreds!
So if you could use a little help figuring out your plan, consider scheduling a Nepal travel consultation with me!
These are one-hour Zoom calls where we can chat about the trip you’re planning and I’ll share my tips and advice, answer your travel questions, and help you perfect your itinerary.
How to get here
Photo: N509FZ, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The primary international gateway to Nepal is Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu.
Located in the capital city of Kathmandu, Tribhuvan International Airport is Nepal's busiest and most well-connected airport. It serves as the main entry point for international travelers and there are countless flights to Kathmandu arrive every day from all over the world.
If you’re coming from Europe, the United States, Australia, or other distant countries, you’ll probably have a layover in Delhi, Bangkok, Doha, or Istanbul, each of which has regular direct flights into Kathmandu.
Getting from the airport into Kathmandu city
To get from the airport to the city center in Kathmandu, you have several transportation options:
Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport, and they are a convenient way to reach your destination in Kathmandu. Make sure to agree on a fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Airport Shuttle Bus: For budget-conscious travelers, an airport shuttle bus operates from the airport to various parts of the city. It's an affordable and convenient option.
Best time to visit
Without a doubt, the best time to visit Nepal is during the Autumn months of September to November and the Spring months of March to May.
Visiting in Autumn (September to November):
For travelers seeking the perfect balance of favorable weather and vibrant landscapes, autumn is the ideal time to explore Nepal. The skies are generally clear, offering unobstructed views of the majestic Himalayan peaks, including the world's tallest, Mount Everest. The temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 15°C to 24°C (59°F to 75°F), making it comfortable for outdoor activities such as trekking and sightseeing.
During autumn, Nepal hosts some of its most celebrated festivals, including Dashain and Tihar, when the streets come alive with colorful decorations and cultural performances.
The Kathmandu Valley becomes significantly less crowded and much more pleasant during this time since hundreds of thousands of migrant workers depart the Valley to return to their villages to celebrate the festivals.
Trekkers will also find this season appealing as the trails are more accessible than at other times of year. You’ll have to do a little more research if you are looking for a quieter trek though, since this is the peak season for trekkers. Likewise, flights and accommodations can also be a bit expensive.
Visiting in Spring (March to May):
Spring is another excellent time to visit Nepal, especially if you appreciate the vibrant colors of blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers. The temperatures begin to rise, ranging from 12°C to 25°C (54°F to 77°F), and the days become longer, providing ample time for exploration. This season is fantastic for trekking and wildlife enthusiasts, as the lush forests come alive with activity.
The main highlight of spring is that the national parks and conservation areas, where all the trekking trails are located, burst into a riot of colors because of the rhododendrons. It's also a great time for birdwatching, with numerous migratory birds returning to the region.
Spring is a bit quieter than autumn for trekkers, although some places do get quite busy. Additionally, if you are like me and would rather trek light, then spring might be more appropriate since it is warmer and you won’t need as much heavy clothing.
Visiting in winter (December to February):
The winter months in Nepal, while cold, can be a great time to visit if you prefer a quieter time and don't mind the chilly weather. The skies are often clear, offering excellent mountain views, but high-altitude trekking routes can be challenging due to snow and cold temperatures.
Accommodation is significantly cheaper in winter since it's off-season and hotels and guest houses are looking to bring in any guests that they can.
The temperature range of Kathmandu Valley in January, the coldest winter month, is 0°C to 18°C. If you are used to colder climates, it’s really not that bad. Winter is potentially a nice time to quietly explore the Kathmandu Valley, since without the business and distractions of the tourist high season, you can enjoy a slower pace of life and a more local feel.
Visiting in Monsoon Season (June to August)
The monsoon season in Nepal brings heavy rainfall, making outdoor activities pretty unpleasant. Trekking trails can be muddy and slippery, and some remote areas may be entirely inaccessible due to landslides. The cities of the Kathmandu Valley are also unpleasant to navigate, since the rainfall causes the roads to flood with dirty water.
Really, the only exception to all of this is the Mustang Belt, which has very little rain during this time and there are virtually no tourists there for the entire season. If you want to explore Himalayan culture, and plan to dedicate a long time to the Mustang area, then Monsoon Season can actually be the perfect time to visit.
How long to spend
7-10 Days - the bare minimum for an introduction
For most visitors, you need at least 7 to 10 days to get a decent introduction to Nepal. While not nearly enough time to do the country justice, a stay of this duration will give you a chance to delve into some of my country's highlights and get a taste for our interesting culture and stunning landscapes.
With 7 to 10 days, I’d suggest spending 4 days exploring the Kathmandu Valley, which houses the three ancient cities of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan. Each city is filled with wonderful medieval palaces, bustling markets, and more fantastic restaurants than you could sample in ten trips, never mind just one! While in the Valley, you’ll also be able to soak up the incredibly positive energy at our most powerful religious centers: Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupati.
After visiting the Valley, plan to dedicate around 3 days for light day hikes in the nearby Himalayan foothills. While not the same as getting into the mountains, these treks will still give you a glimpse of Nepal's natural beauty without having to commit to an extensive, excursion.
Now, if you have a full 10 days, you’ll be able to add in a more extensive, 3 to 4-day hike in one of the nearby areas. There are tons of options that will give you a taste of the rural mountainside in only a few days, and one of the best would be the 4-day route to the pristine Gosaikunda Lake, which lies at an altitude of nearly 4500 meters above sea level.
3 weeks - for a comprehensive countrywide trip
For travelers seeking a more comprehensive and immersive experience, dedicating 3 weeks to visiting Nepal is ideal. This extended timeframe enables you to explore the country at a more leisurely pace, and really delve deeper into its off the beaten path treasures.
You’ll also be able to forge meaningful connections with Nepalese people at both a personal and professional level. And take my word for it: our hospitality will surprise you and reveal intricately unique ways of balancing personal and professional connections.
With 3 weeks, you could spend your first 4 days or so exploring the cities and temples of the Kathmandu Valley, before departing for an extended multi-day hike. The Annapurna Circuit, Everest Base Camp Trek, and Upper Mustang Trek, are three great options, and they take around 12 days - Annapurna and Everest - and 7-9 days - Upper Mustang -.
If you have any time left after your hikes (it’s often recommended to set aside a few days at the start for acclimating to the altitude levels) you could next head into Nepal's southern Terai region for a safari adventure in Chitwan or Bardia National Parks. Both offer the chance to spot rare wildlife like Bengal tigers and one-horned rhinoceroses.
Or if you’re interested in getting off the beaten path, why not spend a few days visiting lesser-known gems like the serene Rara Lake in western Nepal, or the mystical Tsum Valley in the northern of the country.
Overview of Nepal’s regions
The 3 altitude belts that define Nepal. Photo: Globe-trotter, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped from original
The various regions divided from east to west
There are two ways in which we locals typically divide the country: by the three altitude belts and from east to west in five roughly equal-sized sections.
Although there are official and legal administrative regions that are more precise, I think these common-sense divisions are more useful for visitors’ purposes. To better explain all of this, let’s look at both of these interpretations rather loosely by using important touristic destinations as reference points.
The altitude belts of Nepal
First, I, along with many Nepalese, conceive of Nepal as divided into three different belts in terms of altitude: the Himalayan belt, the Hilly belt, and the Southern Plains (also known as Terai). The altitude variation in Nepal is mind-blowing, and to give you an idea, in a span of just 250 km, the altitude goes from 60 meters above sea level to 8,848.
So, starting with the lowest altitude, we can roughly label all the places that lie within an altitude range of 6-450 meters above sea level as the Southern Plains. Most of our internal agricultural production happens in this region since it is more fertile and has easier accessibility to roads and infrastructure in general.
A lot of “mainstream” Nepalese have moved into the plains over the past several decades, but the longer-standing inhabitants are actually closer to Indians in both ethnicity and culture. Going back even further, the indigenous Tharu are the area’s original inhabitants, and they have been living here for several thousand years.
Side note: when we talk about ‘Nepali culture’, we do not generally think of Tharu culture as a part of that, as it is quite distinct. Although Tharu Culture has gained significant representation, owing to the popularity of Chitawan National Park, which lies in the Southern Plains, it is fairly different from what we think of as typical Nepali culture.)
The next region would be the hilly belt, which includes all the places between 450 and 4500 meters above sea level. Naturally, it’s hotter here, and culturally, people from the hills are what we think of as the “mainstream” Nepalese.
Then, from 4500 meters upwards, we’ve got the cold and mountainous Himalayan belt.
The 5 administrative development regions
Now, the second way we typically divide Nepal is from east to west, breaking the country into five equally sized regions.
If you divide the rectangular map of Nepal by roughly five equal vertical divisions, you get five regions officially called our “five development regions” - Eastern, Central, Western, Mid-Western, and Far-Western.
By combining these two simple divisional categories (the altitude belts with the east-to-west regions), you can understand Nepal quite well. For instance:
Kathmandu lies in the hilly belt of the Central region.
Pokhara, another famous tourist destination, is in the hilly belt of the Western region.
Mt. Everest is in the Himalayan belt of the Eastern region.
The popular trekking trail, the Annapurna Circuit, passes through both the hilly and Himalayan belt within Western Nepal.
Then, in the Southern Plains of the Central Region, you have Chitwan national park
Lumbini, another popular place for tourism, is in the Southern Plains of the West Region.
The Midwest and the Far West are almost completely unexplored and significantly fewer tourists visit these regions, even though they have some of the best national parks and potential trekking sites. They are also the least developed regions, so it is indeed only locals who end up navigating the difficult routes traversing these scenic areas.
So, for those of. you reading this blog, you now have a simple but very powerful tool for understanding and navigating Nepal! I don’t know why, but this overview is rarely introduced to tourists, even though it’s really helpful for understanding the country and it will make it much easier for you to follow directions that locals may give you.
Connect with Rakesh, a Kathmandu-based guide and tour operator. Book a call with Rakesh and get his expert local advice to make your trip planning seamless!
Where to go on a first trip
As I said above, travel times in Nepal can be quite long, and given the mountainous nature of the country, it’s not always easy to get from one place to the next. With that in mind, unless you have a huge amount of time for your trip here, you won’t be able to visit everywhere and will have to make some tough decisions cutting places out.
So the first thing you need to do is decide why you’re coming to Nepal (is it for spiritual/religious tourism, cultural and historical sightseeing, nature, serious hiking, mountaineering, etc.) and then pick the places that best meet that focsu/interest. From there, you can start figuring out how to allocate your time in each place.
Having said all of that, there are some places here that are simply iconic and which probably make sense to visit for just about everyone. Here are 10 places that I think definitively meet that description:
1. Kathmandu
A typical trip to Nepal always starts with bustling, hectic, and chaotic, Kathmandu. Being the capital, has a totally distinct charm from anywhere else you’ll visit, and nestled in the Kathmandu Valley, it’s the perfect place from which to begin discovering Nepal.
It also offers a good introduction to the rich cultural heritage of the Valley, which covers three primary cities: Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan.
First up on your itinerary once you reach the city must be a visit to Kathmandu’s Durbar Square. The Durbar Squares (found in each of the cities of the Valley) are medieval courtyards that have palaces, a few important administrative buildings, and a lot of temples significant to religious life since ancient times in Nepal.
A few other must-see sites are the old and giant Buddhist stupas. Both sites are perpetually crowded by pilgrims circumambulating them, and the atmosphere and energy is peaceful, filled with love and wisdom. Also be sure to pay a visit to the famous Hindu temple Pashupatinath, which is home to Lord Shiva, the patron deity worshipped by many Hindus.
2. Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Photo: Manoguru, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Bhaktapur is another magnificent city located within the Kathmandu Valley. Around 15 kilometers from Kathmandu, it’s very easily accessible from our capital city via the newly built highway.
Of the three cities in the Kathmandu Valley, Bhaktapur has preserved the traditional Nepali way of life the most, so I recommend you spend a full day here walking back and forth between the courtyards, slowly making your way through its maze of streets, and just getting lost (literally and figuratively) in this very special place.
Bhaktapur’s Durbar Square is yet another medieval masterpiece. The clean brick streets immediately give you a sense of ancient times. As you walk around amidst mystical buildings filled with precise carvings, you will also see locals doing traditional pottery and woodwork. Most importantly, don't forget to observe the 55-window palace, where each of the 55 windows is uniquely carved.
3. Patan
The Patan Museum. Photo: Shadow Ayush, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped from original
As soon as you enter Patan, you will notice how the two main religions here, Buddhism and Hinduism, have existed interdependently and harmoniously in Nepal. Patan has the largest number of Buddhists compared to the three ancient cities, and this is evident in many of the monuments here.
The most fascinating site in the city’s Durbar Square is the museum, which is small in size and takes only an hour and a half at maximum to finish exploring. Despite its small size, it houses some of the most ancient statues and manuscripts, each of which are beautifully exhibited and complemented by comprehensive signage.
Patan is home to 136 Buddhist monasteries, so of course you could spend even a week here, depending on your level of interest in monasteries. The one that I most recommend visiting during your brief tour is the Hiranya Varna Monastery, renowned for its Golden Temple, a three-story 12th century temple that has a splendorous gold-plated exterior.
4. Lumbini
The Maya Devi Temple in Lumbini. Photo: Bibek Raj Pandeya, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. cropped from original
Lumbini is one of my favorite places in Nepal. Its primary site, Maya Devi temple, is believed to be where the Buddha was born, birthed by his mother, Maya Devi. To get to the temple, you’ll first walk through an extremely pleasant meadow on either side of you.
After visiting the temple, head behind it and lay down in the shade of the surrounding trees. Soak in the peaceful atmosphere and just let go of all your tension and worries.
Around an hour on foot from the Maya Devi temple, there are dozens of beautiful monasteries built by many countries from around their world in their own traditional architectural styles. Among them, be sure to check out the Thai monastery, which has unique architecture that makes it look like an ice house.
5. Pokhara Valley and Phewa Lake
Photo: Jmhullot, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped from original
Next on the list is Pokhara Lakeside. Pokhara is, of course, the epitome of natural beauty in Nepal, with its beautiful lakes and surrounding mountains. Of the many places to visit in Pokhara, the Lakeside area is the most frequently visited, and with good reason.
The primary attraction in Lakeside is Phewa Lake, a gorgeous lake of more than five square kilometers. You will see reflections of the mountains Machhpucchre, Annapurna, and Dhaulagiri on its surface.
And while enjoying your stay here for a few days, you may want to hike to Sarangkot for a beautiful view. Or you might want to go enjoy a breathtaking paragliding ride from the nearby Mandre Dhunga, which is a 35-minute ride from Lakeside.
6. Everest Base Camp
Everest Base Camp trek. Photo: Gunther Hagleitner, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped from original
The Everest Base Camp lies at an altitude of 5,140 meters above sea level and the trek to reach it is quite challenging, best for people that are at least reasonably fit. Although the trek has become increasingly touristy in recent years, and some people rightly claim that this over-tourism detracts from its majesty, I still recommend it.
After all, Everest is the tallest mountain in the world, and I’m willing to bet that you will have few other experiences that can top the sights you’ll see on this trek, and the sense of awe that you’ll experience when you reach this mighty mountain’s base camp.
It's a 7 to 14-day journey getting here, depending on many factors, such as whether or not you fly first to the nearest airport or arrive another way. The hike will provide you countless breathtaking views of not only Mt. Everest, but also a dozen other mountains. You will also witness firsthand the harsh lives of the local Sherpa people, for whom climbing up and down these steep mountains is an everyday routine.
7. Chitwan National Park
Photo: Sanjaya Adhikari, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped from original
Chitwan National Park is a treasure trove of more than 600 wildlife species. It's most famous as the home to the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger and one-horned rhinocerous, but it has much more to offer beyond those two special creatures.
Some tourists prefer to explore the jungle on an elephant safari, which has its own charm, but I personally recommend walking through the forests under the guidance of a local guide. If you are lucky, you will see one of those rare tigers or a rhino.
Another activity I suggest is a canoeing trip along the Narayni River; on this journey, you will see antelopes, local crocodiles, and many species of birds.
8. Bandipur
A square in Bandipur. Photo: Bijay chaurasia, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped from original
Bandipur is a relaxed town located around three hours away from Pokhara. It's the best place to chill out if you have just finished a few days of trekking or are a bit tired of the hustle and bustle of the cities.
It's an old, hilly settlement with some pleasant medieval architecture. You can enjoy leisurely strolls around the town, and if you stay for a few days, you’ll almost certainly pass by the same locals multiple different times (the town is very small), which can be a nice way to begin to feel a bit of a connection with a place.
One of the best things to do here is just set off on lots of random little hikes. The town lies amidst a continuous stretch of hills, so it's very pleasant to walk aimlessly for short hikes and feel like a local.
9. Gosaikunda Lake
Photo: Q-lieb-in, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped from original
Gosaikunda is an amazing, sacred lake situated at an altitude of 4,380 meters above sea level. While accessible via a fairly expensive helicopter ride, the most common way in which people reach this lake is through a few days of trekking.
Along the trek, you will be walking past vibrant oak, rhododendron, and bamboo forests. It sounds bucolic and idyllic, and it is, but also be prepared for a thrilling adventure, as the roads are narrow and the cliffs are steep and almost bottomless, so you need to pay close attention as you hike.
The trek is extremely steep and therefore quite challenging for beginners, but you will thank me for recommending it once you see this pristine lake, sitting motionless like a deep reservoir of wisdom and mystery.
10. Annapurna Base Camp
Photo: Bijaya2043, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped from original
Another popular trek is the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, which leads you to the base of Annapurna Mountain, whose peak is 8,091 meters above sea level. The hike is gorgeous, not only for its continuous mountain views, including Annapurna, but also because it offers the opportunity to experience drastically changing landscapes and vegetation.
My favorite part of the trek is walking through the incredibly dark and dense forests for hours on end. To me, it feels like returning home. And of course, along your journey, you will also learn a bit about the culture of the Gurung people, who are the primary suppliers of the fierce Gurkha military regiments across the world.
Transportation and how to get around
Traffic in Kathmandu. Photo: Gerd Eichmann, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped from original
Domestic flights
While the airport in Kathmandu is the only international airport currently in operation, there are a few other domestic airports that are located fairly close to some of the most popular tourist destinations.
Although Nepal is small, depending on where you’re coming from and where you’re trying to get to within the country, domestic flights can sometimes be quite attractive options.
If you want to visit Lumbini (the birthplace of Gautama Buddha), you can fly from Kathmandu to GBIA Airport. The direct flight takes 30 to 45 minutes.
Likewise, there are also regular flights between Kathmandu to Pokhara Airportwhich take around 30 minutes.
Additionally, there are short and cheap flights from Kathmandu to Chitwan and the Everest region.
While air travel in Nepal is mostly safe, it’s important that you know that there have been about two plane crashes per year over the past decade, so that is a real concern and something you need to consider.
Long-distance buses
Aside from airplanes, the most convenient and cheapest way to reach the cities and main destinations outside of Kathmandu is by bus. The bus network in Nepal is extensive, and there are regular departures between all major destinations, especially touristic ones.
You can book tickets online or via the staff at whatever accommodation you are staying at (it’s very common for them to reserve tickets on guests’ behalf).
While the bus is most definitely a great option for getting around, there are a few things to be aware of: certain sections of the country’s primary East-West highway are poorly maintained, which means that the ride can be quite uncomfortable, even for us locals.
Additionally, journeys often end up taking many hours longer than expected, so always make sure that you can afford a few hours’ delay.
To give you an idea about distances and travel times, the standard bus ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara takes 9 hours, while Kathmandu to Chitwan is around 6 hours.
Local city buses
In addition to the long-distance buses, there are also local ones within cities, especially Kathmandu and Pokhara. Although they are quite cheap, I don’t recommend wasting your time trying to navigate local buses since there is no organized routine, schedule, or stops. There is often no easy way to identify where a bus stop is, and the trips can easily take two to three times as long as a taxi ride.
Unless you’re looking to take these local buses just for the experience, they just don’t really make sense.
Taking taxis
You hail taxis on the streets from most major tourist destinations in the cities. Just spot the taxi stands, approach them, and ask for fares. Taxi drivers will often quote you ridiculously high rates, so your best bet is to look up the fare for that route on one of the Ride Sharing apps, and then offer to pay the driver around 10-20% more than that.
Drivers will rarely go for the actual rate shown on the ride share apps, but if you’re willing to bargain a bit, you can usually get them down to something pretty close.
Ride share apps
Nepal has its own versions of Uber, with the popular ones being as follows: Pathao, In-Drive, and Tootle. Unless you are in a quite remote region of the city, there will always be lots of nearby drivers and you won’t have to wait long for rides.
Also, you can order both motorcycles and cars via these apps. Motorbikes can reduce your travel time significantly, because of the flexibility that they have in navigating roads and traffic.
It might be a scary experience for some foreigners to be cruising on a motorbike in the crowded streets of Kathmandu, where driving rules are “less strict” (to say the least), but it’s also a pretty exhilarating experience and will give you a neat feel for the city.
Hiring private drivers
While you can rent cars and drive yourself, I strongly recommend against. Roads in Nepal can be windy and dangerous, traffic is often terrible, and other drivers will rarely follow driving rules, so you would be taking quite a risk to drive here. So, in the context of Nepal, a car rental usually means hiring a private driver.
This kind of “rental” is a good option for a few reasons: if you are a group of three to five people traveling between major cities, hiring a driver won’t even cost you that much more than taking the bus (since you’d be splitting the cost amongst you).
Likewise, having a driver will mean you can stop wherever you want along the way and actually enjoy the scenery.
Another occasion where the car-and-driver rental is a good option is if you are going to spend the entire day traveling to a few different places. This is, of course, what a travel agency or a hotel does when they arrange a day excursion for you, so why not just do the same thing yourself? You can make a plan with your driver of all the places that you want to visit, and they’ll chauffeur you between them.
Now, does this cost more than public transportation or renting a car yourself? Yes, of course. But the price isn’t that much (more on that below in our “costs and expenses” section) and it’s unquestionably worth it for the freedom and convenience.
Accomodation in Nepal
Whether you're on a budget or seeking luxurious comfort, Nepal has something to offer for everyone. Let's explore the various types of accommodations you can find here.
Nepal boasts a wide selection of international hotel chains like Hyatt, Marriott, and Radisson. These hotels offer top-notch amenities, from spacious rooms to fine dining restaurants, swimming pools, and wellness facilities. These name-brand luxury properties often come with panoramic mountain views and are typically found in major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Nepal also has its own local hotel chains, such as the Shangri-La and Annapurna Group of Hotels. These offer a blend of international standards and Nepali hospitality, providing comfortable stays at various price points.
Likewise, throughout Nepal, you'll find charming individually or family-owned hotels that offer a unique and personalized experience. These hotels vary from cozy boutique inns to larger establishments. Staying in these accommodations can give you a glimpse of Nepali hospitality and culture, and I strongly recommend them as they provide an opportunity to make connections with local people and to support our local economy.
Then, there are B&Bs and guesthouses which are much cheaper than the accommodations explained above. They offer a homely atmosphere, and many are situated in the heart of picturesque villages or close to popular trekking routes. You'll find rooms at different price levels, often with delicious home-cooked meals.
While AirBnB is gaining popularity in Nepal, especially in cities, it’s still quite limited here and tends to be more expensive than guesthouses.
Typical costs & expenses
Hotels
Accommodations in cities are flexible, depending on your choice and budget. High-end five-star hotels can cost 200 USD a night and more.
On the contrary, low-end, decent rooms will cost you as little as 10 USD per night.
And your average hotel will cost 40–70 USD per night.
The longer your stay, the more you can bargain.
When it comes to trekking, you will be staying in small lodges, and it will cost you 25–35 USD per day along with all meals.
Meals
Nepal offers a lot of variety in food, given the diverse ethnicity present here. Additionally, you can also choose from an international menu.
A typical meal in a medium-scale restaurant will cost you USD 3 to 8.
If you are looking for food in high-scale hotels, it is still not that expensive by Western standards in that you can get a comprehensive meal from USD 9 onwards.
I recommend the higher end of medium-scale restaurants since they tend to be the best value for money while offering tastier food than the most expensive options.
Street food and the cheapest local restaurants are the lowest in cost, but I don't recommend opting for them since they can be extremely unhygienic and may ruin your travel experience.
Alcohol
Nepal is pretty liberal when it comes to alcohol.
You can get tasty local beers for as little as 3 USD. Some of the popular local beer brands among locals and foreigners alike are Barhasinghe and Gorkha.
Foreigners who are used to international wines do not find local wines so tasty, so they are not worth it. If you want to get good-quality wines, then you should try higher-end, medium-scale restaurants or the most expensive hotels. Depending on what you are looking for, you can get one anywhere from 30 USD upwards.
If you go to Newari restaurants and cafes, you should definitely try the local aila, which has around 70% alcohol and can get you pretty drunk if you are not careful. These can cost as little as 2 USD to 10 USD, depending on which tier of restaurant you are buying them at.
Taxi rides and ride share
Within cities, short taxi rides as well as Ride Share taxis typically cost USD 1.5 to 5. As explained earlier in the Travel section, ride-sharing options such as Pathao and In-Drive tend to be 10% cheaper than regular taxis.
If you opt for a motorcycle via the ride share option, it can be half as expensive as a taxi. So short rides could be as low as 0.5 USD.
Long-distance bus
A long-distance bus ride from Kathmandu to destinations such as Pokhara and Lumibini can cost between 10 and 20 USD.
Domestic flights
Since Nepal is quite a small country, domestic flights are very short in duration, between 15 minutes and 1 hour. Typical flights for international travelers cost between 70 and 120 USD, depending on the destination and the season.
Hiring a private driver
As explained in the transportation section above, I don't recommend driving a car by yourself. Instead, you should hire a driver. Airport pick-up and drop-off costs can range from 9 USD to 25 USD, depending on the number of travelers and the vehicle chosen.
A half-day rental for a city tour will cost a minimum of 15 USD for a small car. If you are traveling with a group on a bus, then it will cost a total of 50 USD for the same. Full-day tours are double this price.
Similarly, an eight-hour private transfer from Kathmandu to Pokhara, which is a 410-kilometer ride, will cost only 130 USD.
The cost will vary depending on the vehicle chosen and the route, since some routes are more difficult to navigate. But we can roughly say that the per-kilometer cost for longer routes is around 0.5 USD.
Entrance tickets to museums, sites, monuments
Entrance tickets to museums and religious sites vary, but on average, you might pay around 8 USD to 20 USD, and never more than that.
Trekking permits and guide fees
There are a few fees that you need to pay when trekking.
The first is the trekking permit, which varies based on the location. The lowest is 20 USD per person. For more preserved terrains such as Upper Mustang and Dolpo, it can cost up to 500 USD per person.
Usually, this first flat fee is valid for a certain number of days, for example, a week or ten days. After this time, travelers are charged a per-day fee, which tends to be not that different from the average per-day fee of the initial one-time payment.
The second kind of fee you need to pay is the travel guide cost to be paid to the government.
The third kind of fee is the actual travel guide fee. It ranges from 25 USD to 35 USD for a group with a small number of travelers. For a larger group, the charge can be higher depending on the number and the trekking route.
A local guide (in a city)
According to the latest guideline, the fee for an English-language guide for a half-day city tour for up to two tourists is USD 13. Depending on the language and the number of people in the group, city guide fees for a half-day tour can cost up to 25 USD. A full-day fee is double this price.
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Paying for things and using credit cards
Using credit cards
Credit and debit cards are accepted in hotels, travel agencies, and high-end restaurants in cities. But you have to have cash to pay for taxi fares, buses, and local restaurants. Additionally, if you are going trekking, you have to carry cash since you will mostly be staying in small lodges, which do not have the means to afford card payment gateways.
Withdrawing/exchanging cash
You can easily withdraw cash from your card at ATMs, which are located throughout major cities. If the one you go to doesn’t work, then try another nearby. The most reliable ATM is that of Nabil Bank.
You can exchange your foreign currency at money exchanges, which are not easily available like ATMs and are found only in the core tourist areas.
Tipping
It’s appropriate to tip tourist guides, many of whom do not necessarily get a sufficient return for the work they do. You can tip anywhere from 15% of the regular guide fees. Please refer to the Expenses section to understand the variation in guide charges.
You do not need to tip waiters in restaurants and they do not expect it either.
It’s a good custom to tip private drivers, and you should generally do something around 20% of the total fare. You don’t need to tip ride-share drivers or standard cab drivers.
Safety
Nepal is generally free of major scams, but as with any poorer country that survives heavily off of tourism, there is the possibility that some people will try to overcharge tourists for goods and services. To avoid being ripped off, do some research about what things should cost (our Costs and Expenses section above will give you a good idea), and always agree on a price before you receive the good/service.
Now, apart from that, the majority of the safety concern in Nepal surrounds trekking. When on hikes, especially longer multi-day ones, you will be trekking in remote places with narrow pathways and almost non-existent medical facilities. So make sure to do some preliminary research about what to expect on each trekking route and always carry a first-aid kit with you.
The Nepal government has also made hiring a trekking guide mandatory for most of the trekking sites, so please consult with your guide beforehand about possible safety issues specific to your trekking route.
Another important point is to avoid trekking in monsoons, except for maybe in the Mustang region, which is less affected by the rain. Likewise, it might be best to stick only to major cities during the monsoon season and avoid frequent travel across cities, since this is the time of year when bus and plane accidents are most frequent.
Additionally, it is best to avoid trekking during high winter unless you are a professional mountaineer and understand how to navigate the mountains during this time.
Other useful things to know
Here are a few other things you should know when traveling in Nepal:
Bargaining
Bargaining is a custom in Nepal, so unless you go to an ultra-modern shop with fixed rates, do not hesitate to bargain or ask for discounts. When it comes to clothing, for example, you might even be able to buy it for 50% less than the marked price.
Speaking Nepali
Like most people, Nepalese love it when foreigners speak some Nepali. So if you have time, pick up a good Nepali phrasebook and learn some Nepali. It will help you make friends easily and gain trust.
Nonetheless, most people involved in the hospitality industry speak English, so you will be fine even on a remote trekking route.
Dressing (conservatively)
When you visit temples, monasteries, and stupas, it is best to dress modestly and avoid short clothes. Especially women need to be careful about this.
At other times, you don’t really need to worry about this, especially in the cities, since Nepalese women also wear “modern” Western-style clothing. Even so, to avoid unwanted attention, it’s best to dress modestly.
Suggested Nepal itineraries - from 7 days to 2 weeks
There are countless ways to spend your time in Nepal, but the average traveler here is typically looking for a mix of culture and nature. With that in mind, we’ve put together a few potential itineraries below that combine both of those things.
7-Day itinerary for first-time visitors
This itinerary focuses on visiting the sites that have great spiritual, cultural and historic significance to Nepal. You will learn about the two important religions of Nepal: Hinduism and Buddhism by visiting the sites most relevant to them.
Day 1: Arrival to Kathmandu and traditional welcome dinner
Day 2: City tour of Pashupatinath, Patan, Swayambhunath
Day 3: Visit to Namo Buddha and town of Bhaktapur. Evening stay at Namo Buddha monastery
Day 4: Flight to Lumbini and an evening wander of the city
Day 5: City tour of Lumbini and the surrounding monasteries
Day 6: Tour of Kapilvastu, Tilaurakot, and other historical sites around Lumbini
Day 7 : Early morning flight to Kathmandu and departure
9-Day Comprehensive Nepal Tour
This tour focuses on visiting a varied mix of some of the most popular destinations in Nepal. The itinerary includes a nice balance of religious and historical places along with beautiful natural areas.
You will also enjoy a short hike and some adventure activities that are hallmarks of tourism in Nepal.
Day 1: Arrival to Kathmandu and traditional welcome dinner
Day 2: City Tour of Pashupatinath, Patan, and Swayambhunath
Day 3 : Visit to Bhaktapur, Changunarayan, and Bouddhnath
Day 4: Fly to Pokhara. Cisit Davis Falls and check out the Mountain Museum. Free evening in the Lakeside area
Day 5: Panoramic Sunrise View at Sarangkot, a short hike to World Peace Stupa, paragliding
Day 6: Drive to Chitwan and see a Tharu Cultural Show
Day 7: Jungle Safari, canoeing, and other activities in Chitwan
Day 8: Flight back to Kathmandu and free afternoon
Day 9: Departure
15-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek
This trek focuses on traveling through the Annapurna Conservation area to eventually reach Annapurna Base Camp. It’s a challenging trek and covers walking through varying landscapes.
The region is dominated by the Annapurna Massif, a 55 km long geological masterpiece whose highest point peaks at 8091m/ ft. and is called Annapurna I.
The region is also known for the Annapurna Conservation Area Project, the first of a kind conservation effort in Nepal which makes sure the habitat of 1,000 plant species, 400 native birds, and 30 mammal species in the area remains intact.
Day 1: Arrival. Evening wander of Kathmandu
Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath
Day 3: Drive to Pokhara Valley
Day 4: Drive to Nayapul and trek to Tikhedhunga (1,577m/5,173 ft),
Day 5: Trek to Ghorepani (2,850m/9,350ft).
Day 6: Poon hill hike and trek to Tadapani (2540m/8332ft),
Day 7: Trek to Chhomrong (2,210m/7,249 ft),
Day 8: Trek to Dovan (2,600m/8,528 ft)
Day 9: Trek to Machhapuchre Base Camp (MBC- 3,700m/12,139ft),
Day 10: Trek to Annapurna Base Camp (ABC- 4130m/13550ft)
Day 11: Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo (2,300m/7,544 ft),
Day 12: Trek to Jhinu Danda (1,780m/5,859 ft),
Day 13: Trek to Pokhara (823m/2,700ft),
Day 14: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft),
Day 15: Departure
10-Day Langtang Valley Trek
This itinerary focuses on trekking through Langtang Valley. Langtang trek can be completed within a short time with a gradual, less-demanding walk.
Aside from experiencing scenic rustic view, you will also be exposed to local Tamang culture.
Day 1: Arrival to Kathmandu. Explore the city.
Day 2: Sightseeing in UNESCO world heritage site of Kathmandu Durbar square and Swayebhunath stupa.
Day 3: Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1,462 m)
Day 4: Syabrubesi to Lama Hotel (2482 m)
Day 5: Lama Hotel to Langtang Village (3425 m)
Day 6: Langtang to Kyanjing Gompa (3870 m)
Day 7: Kyanjing Gompa excursion; Kyanjing Gompa to Lama hotel
Day 8: Lama Hotel to Syabrubesi
Day 9: Syabrubesi to Kathmandu
Day 10: Departure from Kathmandu
16-Day Everest Base Camp Trek
This itinerary focuses on traveling through various regions near Mt. Everest eventually reaching up to the Everest Base Camp. You will see several mountains on the way and also experience firsthand the culture of tough Sherpa people.
Day 01: Arrive to Kathmandu. Explore the city.
Day 02: Sightseeing in UNESCO world heritage site of Kathmandu Durbar square and Swayebhunath stupa.
Day 03: Fly to Lukla (2,800m) & trek to Phakding (2,650m),
Day 04: Day 04 Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440m),
Day 05: Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar.
Day 06: Namche to Tyangboche (3,867m)
Day 07: Tyangboche to Dingboche (4,358m)
Day 08: Acclimatization day at Dingboche
Day 09: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,928m),
Day 10: Trek to Gorakshep (5,160m) & hike to Everest Base Camp (5,320m)
Day 11 Early in the morning, hike to Kala Pathar(5,550m) & trek back to Pheriche
Day 12 Pheriche to Namche Bazaar(3440m),
Day 13 Namche to Lukla(2800m)
Day 14 Fly back to Kathmandu
Day 15: The sightseeing in Kathmandu (Pashupatinath, Patan and Baudhanath)
Day 16: Departure
10-Day trip to Poon Hill
Panorama circuit trek comprises of short and easy hikes along the scenic villages of western Nepal on the foothills of Annapurna. The trek also permits you to get an idea of the traditional lifestyle in authentic Nepali villages.
This trek is usually suitable for those who have a limited time to carry out a long trek and given its easy nature, can be done in family.
Apart from trekking, you will also explore the cultural heritages of Kathmandu and attractions of the beautiful lake-city of Pokhara.
Day 1: Arrival day in Kathmandu and explore the city
Day 2: Sightseeing in UNESCO world heritage site of Kathmandu Durbar square and Swayebhunath stupa.
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara valley (823m/2,700ft)
Day 4: Drive to Nayapul and trek to Tikhedhunga
Day 5: Trek to Ghorepani (2,850m/9,350ft).
Day 6: Poon hill hike and trek to Tadapani
Day 7: Trek to Ghandurk
Day 8 : Hike 1 hr and then Drive to Pokhara
Day 9: Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 10: Departure from Kathmandu
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