General Info
Getting To and Around Nepal
Getting to Nepal and Around Nepal The main airport in Kathmandu is Tribhuvan International airport, and it is located about six kilometers from the city center. A number of airlines serve Nepal, Hong Kong, Singapore and Bangkok are common transit stops for international travelers. Getting Around The easiest way to get to the regional destination in Nepal is by domestic flight. Because of the nature of our terrain and unpredictable weather - flights are often delayed or cancelled. In the event of a cancellation, airlines will rebook you on the next available flight. The easiest way to book domestic flights is through a travel agent. There is a departure tax of 200 Nepali Rupees for Domestic Flights. It is also possible get around Nepal by bus. Travel agencies run a number of useful bus services to popular tourist destinations, leaving from the Tourist Bus Park in Pokhara and the Thamel end of Kantipath in Kathmandu.
When to Trek
We have four main seasons in Nepal: Summer is from April to September, and is referred to as monsoon season, where the weather gets hot and rain showers are common. Monsoons can cause landslides, which present risks in all over Nepal. Fall from September to November is the high season in Nepal because the weather makes it perfect for trekking. The mountains are at their most visible, although prices are at their peak as well. The best time to trek the GHT is during Fall. Winter is from December and January, and it is fiercely cold along the GHT. Many accommodation providers will shut down during this season. However, the skies are very clear and those who brave the cold will be rewarded with spectacular views. Spring is from February to April, and is a popular time to trek the GHT as the days are longer and warmer. However, the skies are not always clear. Though, as its spring, the flowers in the hills will be blossoming.
What to pack
The average recommended weight that a trekker should carry is around 10-12 kg. If the luggage is more than that, it is wise to hire a Sherpa to carry your bags to avoid unnecessary physical strain in severe mountain conditions. Here are some essentials that you won't want to forget for your trip to Nepal:
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Camera (Dust proof bags for your camera if you have one)
- Battery pack to charge your camera
- A good day pack
- A good pair of hiking boots
- Warm clothes
- Rain gear
- Several good pairs of quick dry socks
- A sarong for bathing
- A first aid kit
- Wet wipes
- Headlamp or torch
- Quick dry towel
- Waterbottle
- Snacks
- Wet wipes / toilet paper /
- Disinfectant gel
- Maps / GPS / Compass
Money
The currency in Nepal is the Nepali Rupee. ATMs are easily found or travelers can exchange money at banks or money changer. Credit cards are widely accepted.
Visas
Travelers require a visa to enter Nepal. These can be obtained upon arrival at Tribhuvan International airport or at a Nepali embassy in your home country. Your passport must be valid for six months following the date of entry to Nepal and you must have at least one blank page in your passport. The price of the visa depends on your length of stay:
- 15 days - $25 USD
- 30 days - $40 USD
- 90 days - $90 USD
Water
Tap water in Nepal is not potable. It is best to drink filtered water.
Washing
When washing along the trail, its important to be modest and cover yourself appropriately. Use a sarong to cover yourself while bathing, whether with a bucket or in a stream.
Nepali Culture
Nepali people are welcoming and hospitable and a kind smile and respectful attitude will go along way in building relationships with your hosts. Here are a few additional tips of how to act respectfully in Nepali culture: