Nepal Travel Guide 2026 — Everything You Need to Plan Your Trip

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate Nepal travel guide, you’ve found it. Nepal is one of those rare destinations that exceeds every expectation — a country where eight of the world’s ten highest peaks rise above the clouds, where ancient temples crowd medieval plazas, and where the hospitality is as warm as the morning sun on Phewa Lake. Whether you’re crossing the border from Gorakhpur for a long weekend or flying into Kathmandu for a three-week Himalayan adventure, this guide covers everything you need — visa rules, budgets in INR, transport, safety, culture, and the best destinations — so you can plan confidently and travel well.

Nepal at a Glance — Quick Facts

Before getting into the details, here’s a snapshot of the country you’re about to visit.

• Official name: Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal
• Capital: Kathmandu
• Area: 147,181 sq km (roughly the size of Uttar Pradesh)
• Population: approximately 30 million
• Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR). 1 INR ≈ 1.6 NPR (exchange rate fluctuates — always check before departure)
• Time zone: UTC+5:45 (15 minutes ahead of India — yes, Nepal has its own quirky offset)
• Official language: Nepali (Hindi is widely understood, especially in border towns and tourist areas)
• Religion: Predominantly Hindu (~81%) with significant Buddhist (~9%) presence; temples and monasteries coexist peacefully throughout the country
• Electricity: 230V/50Hz, Indian plugs (Type C, D, M) generally work fine
• Calling code: +977
• Emergency numbers: Police 100, Tourist Police (Kathmandu) 01-4247041, Ambulance 102

Nepal sits between India to the south, east, and west, and China (Tibet) to the north. Topographically, the country is extraordinary — the flat Terai plains in the south give way to mid-hills, then to the Great Himalayan range, all within a horizontal distance of less than 200 km. This compressed geography means you can go from jungle safari in the morning to mountain viewpoint in the evening on certain itineraries.

The official tourism portal of the Nepal government, managed by the Nepal Tourism Board, is the best source for current entry regulations, trekking permit fees, and festival calendars. Keep it bookmarked.

How to Get to Nepal from India

Indian travelers have more options for reaching Nepal than almost any other nationality — by air, by road, or by taking a train to the border and crossing on foot. Here’s how each route works.

By Air

Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu is Nepal’s only international airport handling scheduled traffic (Pokhara’s new international airport opened in 2023 but operates limited routes). Direct flights connect Kathmandu to most major Indian cities:

• Delhi (DEL): 1h 30min, served by IndiGo, Air India, Nepal Airlines, Buddha Air. Fares from ₹4,500 one-way in advance.
• Mumbai (BOM): 2h 15min, IndiGo and Air India operate this route. From ₹6,500 one-way.
• Kolkata (CCU): 1h, one of the shortest and cheapest routes. From ₹3,800 one-way.
• Bangalore (BLR): 3h (often via Delhi), fares from ₹7,000.
• Varanasi (VNS): 45min direct, excellent option for travelers already visiting UP. From ₹3,500.

Book 4-8 weeks in advance for October-November (peak trekking season) and March-April (spring trekking + Holi). Fares spike significantly during Dasain (September-October).

By Road — Land Border Crossings

Several land borders connect India and Nepal. The three most commonly used by travelers are:

• Sunauli / Belahiya (UP → Bhairahawa): The busiest crossing for tourists. Take a train or bus to Gorakhpur, then a shared jeep or bus (1.5 hrs, ₹100-150) to Sunauli. Cross on foot, clear immigration, then take a bus to Pokhara (5-6 hrs) or Kathmandu (8-9 hrs). This route works well if you’re visiting Lumbini.
• Raxaul / Birgunj (Bihar → Birgunj): Ideal if you’re coming from Patna or other Bihar cities. Patna to Raxaul by train takes 5-6 hours. From Birgunj, Kathmandu is 4-5 hours by bus.
• Kakarbhitta / Panitanki (West Bengal → Birtamod): Best for travelers coming from Darjeeling, Siliguri, or eastern India. From Kakarbhitta, direct buses run to Kathmandu (13-14 hrs) and Pokhara (16-17 hrs), though many travelers prefer taking a domestic flight from Bhadrapur (BHR) airport, which is 18 km from Kakarbhitta.

Border crossings are generally open from 6 AM to 10 PM. Carry valid photo ID (passport or Voter ID for Indian nationals). Currency exchange booths are available on both sides, but rates are better in Kathmandu’s Thamel or at your bank before leaving India.

By Bus

Luxury tourist buses (Greenline is the most reputable) operate daily between Delhi/Varanasi and Kathmandu, crossing at Sunauli. The journey from Delhi takes approximately 24-28 hours. From Varanasi, it’s 8-10 hours. Greenline buses offer air conditioning, reclining seats, and a meal stop — far more comfortable than local government buses on the same route.

Nepal Visa and Entry Requirements

This is the section most Indian travelers jump to first — and the answer is genuinely good news.

Indian Nationals

Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter Nepal. You can enter freely and stay for an unlimited duration. What you do need is a valid government-issued photo ID. Accepted documents include:

• Indian Passport (most universally accepted, especially at the airport)
• Voter ID Card (Aadhaar is NOT accepted at immigration)
• Driving License (accepted at some land borders but not always at the airport)

The safest option is always your passport. At land borders, Voter ID is generally accepted without issue. Children below 15 traveling without a passport need a birth certificate and a school ID. For a complete breakdown of documents by crossing type, see our detailed guide on Nepal visa requirements for Indian citizens.

Other Nationalities

Citizens of most countries (except India, China, and a few South Asian nations) require a tourist visa. These are available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and at major land border crossings:

• 15 days: USD 30
• 30 days: USD 50
• 90 days (multi-entry): USD 125

Payment is accepted in USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, or major currencies. Bring passport-sized photos (or use the photo booth at the airport). The process typically takes 20-40 minutes at peak times.

Best Time to Visit Nepal

Nepal has four distinct seasons and the right travel window depends entirely on what you plan to do.

October to November (Peak Season)

The post-monsoon months offer the clearest mountain views of the year. The air is washed clean by months of rain, visibility is extraordinary, and temperatures are pleasant — warm in the valleys, cool at altitude. This is prime trekking season. Expect full teahouses on popular routes and higher accommodation prices. Book everything 3-6 months in advance if you’re trekking to Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Base Camp.

March to May (Spring — Second Best)

Spring is the second trekking season and the time for rhododendron blooms in the hills. Temperatures warm up progressively, mountain views remain good (some haze by May), and the trails are less crowded than autumn. Climbing season peaks in April-May, which means Everest Base Camp sees significant traffic. Holi (February/March) and Bisket Jatra (April) festivals add cultural color.

June to September (Monsoon)

The summer monsoon brings heavy rain to most of Nepal from June through September. Trekking becomes difficult and leechy. However, the rain-shadow regions — Mustang, Dolpo, Manang — sit in the Himalayas’ rain shadow and remain accessible. Cultural travelers visiting Kathmandu can still have a good time; the city is green and festivals like Indra Jatra (August/September) are spectacular. Budget travelers will find accommodation prices 30-40% lower.

December to February (Winter)

Winter brings cold temperatures at altitude and snow above 3,000m, closing many high-altitude trekking routes. Lower elevation treks (Poon Hill, Ghorepani) remain accessible and dramatically beautiful with snow-capped peaks against blue skies. Kathmandu Valley and Chitwan are pleasant in winter with minimal crowds. Tihar (October/November) just precedes this season.

For a complete seasonal breakdown with month-by-month recommendations, see our guide on the best time to visit Nepal.

Getting Around Nepal

Nepal’s terrain — dramatic and beautiful as it is — makes internal transport both an adventure and an exercise in patience. Here are your main options.

Domestic Flights

For covering long distances quickly, domestic flights are invaluable. Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines are the two main carriers, both with reasonable safety records. Key routes:

• Kathmandu to Pokhara (PKR): 25-40 minutes, fares from NPR 7,000 (≈ ₹4,400). Compare to 6-8 hours by bus.
• Kathmandu to Lukla (LUA): 35 minutes, the famous mountain airstrip that serves as the EBC trek starting point. NPR 18,000-22,000 one-way (≈ ₹11,000-14,000). Book well in advance — weather cancellations are common.
• Kathmandu to Bharatpur (BHR): 25 minutes, for Chitwan National Park access. From NPR 5,000 (≈ ₹3,100).
• Kathmandu to Bhadrapur (BHR): 1 hour, for eastern Nepal and Ilam tea region.

Mountain flights (Kathmandu to Lukla, Jomsom, Phaplu) are subject to weather cancellation. Build buffer days into your itinerary around these routes — especially Lukla, where it’s not unusual to wait 1-3 extra days during the seasons.

Tourist Buses

Greenline operates the most comfortable tourist buses between Kathmandu and Pokhara (6-8 hours, NPR 2,200/≈ ₹1,375), Kathmandu and Chitwan (5-6 hours), and the India border crossings. Buses are air-conditioned, seats are bookable in advance, and there’s a scheduled meal stop. Local government buses are cheaper but significantly more crowded and slower.

Private Car and Driver

A private car with driver costs USD 60-100 per day (₹5,000-8,500) depending on vehicle type and route. For families or groups of 4-6, this is often the most comfortable and cost-effective option. Drivers double as guides in many cases and can negotiate entry fees, recommend local restaurants, and take detour stops that buses cannot. For a Kathmandu Valley day tour hitting Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Patan, and Bhaktapur, a private car is strongly recommended.

Motorbike and Bicycle Rental

In Pokhara especially, motorbike rental (NPR 700-1,500/day, ≈ ₹440-940) is popular for exploring the lake area, World Peace Stupa, and nearby villages. An international driving license is technically required for motorbikes; for bicycles (NPR 300-600/day), no license is needed. Stick to mountain bikes on unpaved roads — city bikes are fine only for flat lakeside routes.

Local Transport in Kathmandu

Taxis are metered but drivers often refuse to use the meter — negotiate a price before getting in, or use a ride-hailing app (Pathao, inDrive). Tuk-tuks (electric tempos) operate on fixed routes in the Kathmandu Valley. The Sajha bus service covers major valley routes affordably. Walking is viable within Thamel, Patan Durbar Square, and lakeside Pokhara.

Where to Stay in Nepal

Nepal’s accommodation spectrum runs from basic teahouses at altitude to genuine heritage luxury in the valley. Here’s how to navigate it.

Budget Accommodation (₹500-2,500/night)

Kathmandu’s Thamel neighborhood has hundreds of guesthouses offering clean rooms with attached bathrooms for NPR 800-2,500 (₹500-1,600). Pokhara’s lakeside area is similarly affordable. On trekking routes, teahouses provide bed and basic meals — you’re expected to eat there in exchange for cheap accommodation (often NPR 300-800/room, ₹190-500). Wi-Fi, hot showers (solar or electric), and charging facilities are available at most teahouses below 4,000m.

Mid-Range (₹2,500-8,000/night)

Kathmandu has solid 3-4 star options in Thamel, Lazimpat, and Jhamsikhel. Pokhara’s lakeside zone has attractive mid-range resorts. Properties in this bracket typically include breakfast, reliable Wi-Fi, and airport pickup.

Luxury (₹8,000 and above)

• Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu: A living museum of medieval Newari architecture. Every brick, window, and wood carving is salvaged from demolished heritage buildings. One of Asia’s great boutique hotels. Rates from NPR 25,000/night (≈ ₹15,600).
• Fish Tail Lodge, Pokhara: Set on a private peninsula accessible only by rope-drawn raft, with Annapurna as its backdrop. Rates from NPR 20,000/night (≈ ₹12,500).
• Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge, Chitwan: The original safari lodge of Nepal, now reborn as a sustainable luxury property with authentic Tharu culture experiences and chitwan jungle access. Rates from NPR 35,000/night (≈ ₹21,900) all-inclusive.

How Much Does Nepal Cost?

Nepal is one of South Asia’s most affordable destinations for Indian travelers, and the INR-NPR exchange rate works in your favor (1 INR ≈ 1.6 NPR). Here’s a realistic daily budget breakdown:

Budget Traveler — ₹1,800-3,000/day

• Accommodation: ₹500-800 (dorm or basic guesthouse)
• Food: ₹600-900 (dal bhat sets, momos, local restaurants)
• Transport: ₹300-500 (local buses, shared rides)
• Activities/entry fees: ₹400-800

Mid-Range Traveler — ₹3,500-7,000/day

• Accommodation: ₹1,500-3,000 (3-star guesthouse or boutique hotel)
• Food: ₹1,200-2,000 (good restaurants, occasional splurge)
• Transport: ₹500-1,000 (tourist buses, occasional taxi)
• Activities/entry fees: ₹300-1,000

Comfort/Luxury — ₹8,000-20,000+/day

• Accommodation: ₹5,000-15,000+ (boutique or luxury hotels)
• Food: ₹2,000-4,000 (upscale restaurants, hotel dining)
• Transport: ₹2,000-5,000 (private car, domestic flights)
• Activities/entry fees: ₹1,000-2,000

Note: Trekking adds significant costs — trekking permits (TIMS card ₹700-1,400 for Indians, national park/conservation fees ₹1,000-3,000+), porter/guide costs (₹1,200-2,500/day each), and teahouse meals. Budget an additional ₹2,000-4,000/trekking day above your base costs.

For a detailed, itemized cost breakdown covering flights, permits, accommodation, and food across different trek types and city stays, see our guide on Nepal trip cost from India.

Top Destinations in Nepal

Nepal packs a staggering variety of experiences into a relatively small country. These are the destinations that belong on every first-time visitor’s radar — and most return visitors’ lists too.

Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu is not a single attraction — it’s a constellation of them. The Kathmandu Valley contains three ancient city-states (Kathmandu, Patan, Bhaktapur), each with its own Durbar Square packed with temples, palaces, and courtyards built by rival Malla kings. Specific highlights:

• Pashupatinath Temple: One of the holiest Shiva temples in the world, set on the banks of the Bagmati River. The riverside ghats hold cremation ceremonies that, while confronting, offer a profound meditation on Hindu views of death and rebirth. Entry for non-Hindus: NPR 1,000 (≈ ₹625) to the outer complex.
• Boudhanath Stupa: One of the world’s largest stupas, surrounded by Tibetan monasteries, thangka painting shops, and excellent cafes. The atmosphere at dawn, when monks circle the stupa in morning prayer, is extraordinary.
• Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): A 2,500-year-old stupa on a hilltop overlooking the valley — the 365 steps to the top are guarded by hundreds of resident monkeys. The view at sunrise is among the best in Kathmandu.
• Patan Durbar Square: More refined than Kathmandu’s square, Patan’s is lined with exquisite Newari architecture and houses the outstanding Patan Museum — one of the finest museums of South Asian art.
• Bhaktapur: The best-preserved of the three medieval cities, Bhaktapur feels genuinely lived-in rather than touristified. The potters’ square, the National Art Museum, and the 55-windowed palace are all superb.

Pokhara

Pokhara is Nepal’s adventure and relaxation capital — a lakeside city with Annapurna as its backdrop. Phewa Lake reflects the Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain, 6,993m) at sunrise in a scene that travelers photograph from the shore and promptly set as their phone wallpaper. Pokhara serves as the gateway for the Annapurna Circuit, Annapurna Base Camp, and Poon Hill treks. In town, activities include paragliding over the lake (one of the world’s best paragliding sites), kayaking, white-water rafting on the Seti River, and visiting the International Mountain Museum. Even travelers who don’t trek are usually happy spending three to four days here.

Chitwan National Park

Chitwan is Nepal’s premier wildlife destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park protects one of Asia’s last populations of one-horned rhinoceros (around 700 individuals), as well as Bengal tigers, gharial crocodiles, sloth bears, and over 500 bird species. Activities include jeep safaris, elephant-back safaris (check operator ethics), canoe rides on the Rapti River, and Tharu cultural programs. The best wildlife viewing is in the early morning and late afternoon; visibility is excellent in the dry season (November-May). Our dedicated Chitwan Safari Tour is designed specifically for this experience.

Lumbini

Lumbini, in the Terai plains near the Indian border, is the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama — the historical Buddha — born here in 563 BCE. The UNESCO-listed Sacred Garden contains the Maya Devi Temple (marking the exact birthplace), the Ashoka Pillar (erected by Emperor Ashoka in 249 BCE), and a sacred pool. The surrounding Lumbini Development Zone has monasteries built by Buddhist nations from around the world — Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Thai, Sri Lankan, German — each in their native architectural style. It’s a fascinating global village of Buddhist expression.

Mustang

Upper Mustang is Nepal’s most remote and spectacular trekking destination — a rain-shadow desert behind the Himalayas that was a restricted kingdom until 1992. Lo Manthang, the walled capital, feels like a medieval Tibetan city preserved in amber. The landscape — ochre cliffs, carved caves, mani walls, and ancient gompas — is unlike anything else in Nepal. A restricted area permit (USD 500 for 10 days) is required in addition to regular trekking permits, making this a premium experience worth every rupee.

Adventure Activities in Nepal

Nepal’s geography makes it one of the world’s premier adventure destinations. Here’s a survey of what’s on offer.

Trekking

Trekking is the primary reason most visitors come to Nepal. The range of options is vast — from easy 3-day walks to grueling 21-day expeditions. A full overview of routes, difficulty, permits, and seasons is in our comprehensive trekking in Nepal guide, but here’s a quick summary of the signature routes:

• Everest Base Camp (14 days): The classic Himalayan pilgrimage. Fly to Lukla, trek through Sherpa villages, acclimatize at Namche Bazaar (3,440m), and reach the base camp at 5,364m with views of the Khumbu Icefall. See our EBC Trek Tour and the detailed Everest Base Camp trek guide.
• Annapurna Base Camp (10 days): A shorter but equally dramatic trek through rhododendron forests, past Gurung villages, and into the Annapurna Sanctuary — a natural amphitheater ringed by 7,000-8,000m peaks. Our ABC Trek Tour covers this route fully. Detailed planning in our Annapurna Base Camp guide.
• Poon Hill (4-5 days): The most popular short trek in Nepal. Doable for reasonably fit beginners, with the reward of a 360-degree Himalayan panorama at Poon Hill (3,210m) including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, and Machapuchare. Full details in our Poon Hill trek guide.
• Langtang Valley (7-10 days): Less crowded than Annapurna or Everest, Langtang offers magnificent Tibetan plateau scenery and glacier views. Our Langtang Trek Tour is an excellent option for those who want a less tourist-heavy experience.

For permit information, requirements, and fees, see our Nepal trekking permits guide.

White-Water Rafting

Nepal’s rivers descend dramatically from the Himalayas, creating some of the world’s finest white-water. The Trishuli River (Grade III-IV) is the most popular and accessible, often combined with Chitwan. The Bhote Koshi (Grade IV-V) near the Tibet border is for experienced rafters seeking serious rapids. The Kali Gandaki and Sun Koshi offer multi-day rafting expeditions through remote gorges. Expect to pay NPR 2,500-5,000 (₹1,560-3,125) for a Trishuli day trip including transport from Kathmandu or Pokhara.

Paragliding

Pokhara offers world-class paragliding conditions year-round (best October-May). Standard tandem flights take off from Sarangkot, catching thermals that keep you airborne for 30-45 minutes over Phewa Lake with Annapurna views. Prices: NPR 8,000-12,000 (₹5,000-7,500) for a tandem flight with video. Multiple licensed operators run from the lakeside; Blue Sky Paragliding and Frontiers Paragliding are among the most established.

Bungee Jumping and Zip Line

The Last Resort on the Bhote Koshi river (140m drop, one of Asia’s highest bungee jumps) and the Bungy at the Pokhara suspension bridge are both legitimate world-class experiences. The Last Resort’s zip line is also exceptional. Costs run NPR 8,000-15,000 (₹5,000-9,400) depending on activity.

Jungle Safari

Chitwan and Bardia National Parks both offer excellent jungle safaris. Bardia, less visited than Chitwan, has a higher tiger density and offers more authentic wilderness experiences. Jeep safaris, walking safaris (with armed guide), and canoe rides are all available. Our Chitwan Safari Tour includes accommodation, safaris, meals, and cultural activities in a single package.

Nepal Travel Safety Tips

Nepal is generally safe for travelers, including solo women travelers, but it does have specific risks that require awareness and preparation.

Altitude Sickness (AMS)

Acute Mountain Sickness is the most serious health risk for trekkers. At altitudes above 2,500m, the body needs time to acclimatize. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. If symptoms appear, do not ascend further — descend if they worsen. The golden rule: climb high, sleep low. Never rush your altitude gain to chase a schedule. Acclimatization days at Namche Bazaar (EBC route) and Manang (Annapurna Circuit) are mandatory, not optional.

Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA) posts at Pheriche (4,240m) on the EBC route and at Manang (3,500m) on the Annapurna Circuit offer free altitude consultations and talks. Use them. CIWEC Clinic in Kathmandu and Pokhara is the gold standard for travel medicine and altitude advice before you trek.

Food and Water Safety

Stick to bottled or boiled water — tap water is not safe to drink anywhere in Nepal. Carry water purification tablets or a SteriPen for treks (reduces plastic waste). Dal bhat (rice and lentil soup) in local restaurants is generally safer than more complex dishes since it’s cooked to order. Avoid raw salads and street fruit that may have been washed in tap water, especially in Kathmandu.

Scams and Tourist Traps

Kathmandu’s tourist areas have the usual range of hustles. Common ones to watch for: “free” temple tours that end with a mandatory donation at a monk’s school, gem shops claiming stones are rare investment-grade finds, trekking guides who take you to specific teahouses in exchange for commission (it’s legal but raises your costs). Book treks through registered agencies (Nepal Tourism Board maintains a list) or use a trusted platform like Discover Nepal, which uses licensed, vetted guides.

Natural Disasters

Nepal sits in a seismically active zone and experienced devastating earthquakes in 2015. Buildings in the Kathmandu Valley are more robust post-2015, but the risk is inherent. Register with the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu (visit Indian Embassy Kathmandu) so they can contact you in an emergency. During monsoon (June-September), landslides close mountain roads regularly — always check road conditions before heading into the hills during this season.

Medical Facilities

Kathmandu and Pokhara have decent hospitals and specialized travel clinics (CIWEC, Nepal International Clinic). Outside these cities, medical facilities are limited. In remote trekking areas — Khumbu Valley, Mustang, Dolpo — there are virtually no medical facilities except HRA first-aid posts on major routes. Carry a comprehensive first aid kit and any prescription medications you may need for the entire trip.

Cultural Etiquette for Travelers

Nepal’s culture is deeply Hindu and Buddhist, with its own distinct Newari traditions layered on top. Respecting local customs isn’t just polite — it genuinely enriches your experience.

Greetings

“Namaste” (hands pressed together, slight bow) is the universal greeting and is always appreciated when used sincerely. In Tibetan Buddhist areas, “Tashi Delek” (a blessing, used as a greeting) is warmly received. Handshakes are becoming more common in urban areas, especially among younger Nepalis in professional contexts.

At Temples and Religious Sites

• Remove shoes before entering temples and monasteries — look for the shoe rack or follow what others do
• Dress modestly — shoulders and knees covered is the standard. Many temples will turn away visitors in shorts or sleeveless tops
• Walk clockwise around stupas, mani walls, and prayer wheels — this is the correct religious direction in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions
• Non-Hindus are not permitted inside the main shrines of Pashupatinath Temple; the outer area and riverbank are accessible
• Ask before photographing during ceremonies, cremations, or in monasteries — some places prohibit it entirely
• Don’t touch religious statues or offerings with your left hand

Jutho — The Concept of Ritual Pollution

Jutho (pronounced “joo-tho”) refers to ritual pollution caused by contact with another’s saliva. This is taken seriously in traditional Nepali households. Do not share food by offering a bite from your own fork or spoon, and do not double-dip serving spoons. In traditional homes, touching someone else’s food or eating utensils is considered polluting. In restaurants, this is less of an issue, but awareness helps you avoid accidentally offending hosts.

General Social Norms

• Use your right hand for eating, giving, and receiving — the left hand is considered unclean
• Public displays of affection are frowned upon and can attract attention even in Kathmandu
• Bargaining is normal and expected in markets and with taxis (not in restaurants or fixed-price shops)
• Pointing feet at people, sacred objects, or altars is considered disrespectful — tuck them away when sitting on the floor
• Leather goods (belts, shoes) may cause offense if brought into Hindu temple premises — some temples prohibit leather entirely

Photography

Always ask before photographing people, especially in rural areas. Many Nepalis are happy to be photographed and will pose willingly — others (particularly older women and practicing Hindu/Buddhist devotees at worship) find it intrusive. If someone says no, accept it graciously. Professional photography inside monasteries often requires a donation or fee.

Travel Insurance for Nepal

Travel insurance is not optional for Nepal — it is essential. Here’s why the stakes are higher here than in most destinations:

• Helicopter evacuation: If you develop severe AMS or suffer a trekking injury above 3,000m, road evacuation may be impossible. A helicopter evacuation from the Khumbu Valley can cost USD 3,000-8,000 (₹2.5-6.7 lakhs). Without insurance, you pay this upfront (or remain stranded while someone arranges it).
• Medical treatment: CIWEC and private hospitals in Kathmandu are good but expensive for foreigners without coverage.
• Trip cancellation: Flight cancellations (especially Lukla), weather delays, and natural events are common. Insurance covers rebooking costs.

When choosing a policy for Nepal, verify these specific coverages:

• Helicopter/high-altitude evacuation (explicitly listed, not just “emergency evacuation”)
• Coverage at the altitude you’re trekking — some policies cap at 4,000m; EBC reaches 5,364m
• Adventure sports coverage for trekking, rafting, and paragliding
• 24/7 emergency assistance hotline

Indian travelers can purchase Nepal-valid travel insurance from HDFC Ergo, Bajaj Allianz, ICICI Lombard, or international providers like World Nomads. Expect to pay ₹1,500-4,000 for a two-week comprehensive policy depending on age and activities covered.

Nepal Itinerary Ideas

The right Nepal itinerary depends on your interests, fitness level, and available time. Here are four proven frameworks — each detailed fully in its own dedicated guide.

5 Days — Kathmandu Valley and Pokhara

Days 1-2 in Kathmandu: Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, Patan Durbar Square. Day 3: Fly or bus to Pokhara. Days 4-5: Phewa Lake, Sarangkot sunrise, paragliding, World Peace Stupa. This itinerary works for cultural travelers and those short on time. Explore our Kathmandu-Pokhara Cultural Tour for a guided version.

7 Days — Culture, Wildlife, and Mountains

Our detailed 7-day Nepal itinerary from India balances all three pillars: 2 days in Kathmandu, 1 day in Chitwan (safari), and 3 days in Pokhara with a Poon Hill day excursion. Ideal for travelers who want variety without rushing. See also our Nepal tour from India guide for full logistics from major Indian departure cities.

10 Days — Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Fly into Kathmandu, spend one day acclimatizing and exploring, fly to Pokhara, then trek 7 days to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) and back. This is a moderate-difficulty trek doable by anyone with reasonable fitness. Our ABC Trek Tour handles all logistics including permits, guides, and teahouse accommodation.

14+ Days — Everest Base Camp

The full EBC experience requires 14-16 days minimum. Fly Kathmandu to Lukla, trek through the Khumbu Valley over two weeks with acclimatization days built in, summit Kala Patthar (5,644m) for the classic Everest sunrise view, and return to Lukla for the flight back. Our EBC Tour covers this route comprehensively with experienced guides, teahouse accommodation, and airport transfers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Nepal

Nepal rewards careful planning and genuine curiosity in equal measure. Whether you’re drawn by the mountains, the monasteries, the wildlife, or simply the warm humanity of its people, you’ll find a country that exceeds what any guide — including this one — can fully capture. Use this Nepal travel guide as your foundation, explore the detailed guides linked throughout, and reach out to our team when you’re ready to start building your itinerary. We’ve been connecting Indian travelers with authentic Nepal experiences for years, and we’re here to make yours exceptional.

Questions? Call us at +91 77540 97777 or +91 91152 34555 (Mon-Sat 10 AM-9 PM, Sun 12 PM-6 PM). We respond to WhatsApp messages on both numbers.