Nepal Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Kathmandu – Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Pashupatinath
- Pokhara – Phewa Lake, Sarangkot sunrise, caves
- Chitwan National Park – Jungle safaris & wildlife
- Lumbini – Birthplace of Buddha
- Everest Base Camp & Annapurna Circuit – Iconic treks
- Bhaktapur & Patan – Medieval art and heritage
Best Hotels to Stay
Language & Culture
Nepali is the official language. English is common in tourism areas. Nepali culture blends Hindu and Buddhist traditions, with warm hospitality and rich arts.Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transport: Domestic flights, tourist buses, taxis, rickshaws, trekking guides
- Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
- Food: Dal Bhat, momo, thukpa, Newari cuisine, street snacks
Best Season & Entry Points
| Season | Weather | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| October – November | Clear skies, pleasant | Top trekking season |
| March – April | Warm, rhododendron bloom | Another great trekking window |
| May – September | Monsoon, rain | Not ideal for trekking |
Entry via Tribhuvan Airport (Kathmandu) or Gautam Buddha Airport (Lumbini)
Estimated Budget (for Two Travelers)
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flights | $600 – $1200 | Round trip from US/Europe |
| Accommodation | $30 – $150/night | Guesthouses to premium hotels |
| Dining | $20 – $50/day | Local and tourist restaurants |
| Transport | $50 – $150 | Buses, flights, guides |
| Activities | $100 – $300 | Trekking permits, park fees, safaris |
Packing List Suggestions
- Passport & visa (visa on arrival for many)
- Trekking gear (boots, layers, walking sticks)
- Altimeter/first‑aid for high-altitude
- Warm clothes for mountains
- Sun protection, water purifier
20 Basic Nepali Phrases
| Nepali | English |
|---|---|
| नमस्ते (Namaste) | Hello |
| धन्यवाद (Dhanyabad) | Thank you |
| कृपया (Kripaya) | Please |
| हो / होइन (Ho / Hoina) | Yes / No |
| कति हो? (Kati ho?) | How much is it? |
| सार्वजनिक शौचालय कहाँ छ? (Sarbajanik sauchalaya kahã cha?) | Where’s the public restroom? |
| म बुझिनँ (Ma bujhina) | I don’t understand |
| तपाईं अङ्ग्रेजी बोल्नुहुन्छ? (Tapai Angreji bolnuhunchha?) | Do you speak English? |
| म मद्दत चाहियो (Ma maddat chahiyo) | I need help |
| विदा (Bida) | Goodbye |
| शुभ प्रभात (Shubha prabhat) | Good morning |
| शुभ रात्रि (Shubha ratri) | Good night |
| मेरो नाम … हो (Mero naam … ho) | My name is… |
| म नेपालबाट आएको हुँ (Ma Nepal bata aeko hu) | I’m from Nepal |
| यो के हो? (Yo ke ho?) | What is this? |
| भान्छा ज्ञान (Bhanchha gyaan) | Restaurant? |
| फोटो लिन सक्छु? (Photo lin sakchhu?) | Can I take a photo? |
| म हराएँ (Ma haraye) | I’m lost |
| पानी चाहियो (Pani chahiyo) | I need water |
| सुरक्षित यात्रा (Surakshit yatra) | Safe journey |
Health & Safety
- High-altitude risks—acclimatize gradually
- Use bottled or purified water
- Emergency: 100 (police), 102 (ambulance)
- Travel insurance is essential
- Stay updated on trail/monsoon conditions
Festivals & Holidays
- Dashain & Tihar – major Hindu festivals (Oct–Nov)
- Holi – Festival of Colors (Mar)
- Buddha Jayanti – celebrates Buddha’s birth (Apr/May)
- Teej – women’s fasting festival (Aug)
- Losar – Tibetan New Year (varies, often Feb)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a visa to visit Nepal?
Yes, Nepal offers visas on arrival for most nationalities (15–90 days), or apply online for an e-visa.
Is it safe to trek solo?
Solo trekking is possible on marked trails, but hiring a guide is safer, especially in remote areas.
What’s the best time for trekking?
Spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Oct–Nov) offer the best weather and views.
Can I drink tap water?
No—use bottled or boil/purify water, especially in mountain areas.
How should I prepare for altitude?
Acclimatize slowly, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and consider medication like acetazolamide with doctor’s advice.
