Nepal is known for its mountains, trekking routes, culture, temples, and spiritual atmosphere. Here’re some quick facts about Nepal:
Capital: Kathmandu 
Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR) 
Language: Nepali 
Time zone: Nepal Time (NPT, UTC +5:45) 
Power plugs: Type C, D & M, 230V / 50Hz 
Driving side: Left Useful local phrases:
Hello: Namaste
Thank you: Dhanyabad
I’m sorry: Maaf garnus
The food/drink is great: Mitho chha
Best time to visit Nepal
Wondering about the best time to visit Nepal? The country has distinct seasons influenced by altitude and monsoon patterns:
Spring
March – May
16–30°C
Warm
Monsoon
June – August
18–30°C
Heavy rain
Autumn
September – November
15–25°C
Clear and sunny
Winter
December – February
2-15°C
Cold
So what’s the best time for visiting Nepal?
- Autumn: best for trekking, mountain views, and festivals
- Spring: best for nature, trekking, and mild weather
- Winter: best for lower-altitude travel and fewer crowds
- Monsoon: best for greenery and budget travel
How to get there and getting around?
Airport: Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu is the main international gateway to Nepal. It connects to major hubs in Asia and the Middle East. Domestic flights are common for reaching remote areas or saving time, especially for trekking regions like Lukla. You can compare flights and find the cheapest deals via Skyscanner. If you don’t know yet when you are going to leave the country, buy an onward ticket and fake your return. This works fine.
Train / Bus options: Nepal has very limited train services. Buses are the main way to travel between cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan. Tourist buses are more comfortable than local ones.
Car rental / taxis: Self-driving is not common due to road conditions and traffic. Hiring a driver is a popular and safer option for travelers. Ride-hailing apps are available in major cities and are often more convenient than negotiating taxi fares. Popular options include Patheo and inDrive.
Boat travel: Boat travel is mainly used in places like Pokhara (Phewa Lake) and Chitwan National Park for short scenic trips rather than long-distance transport.
Cycling or walking: Walking is one of the best ways to explore cities, especially centers. Cycling is possible in areas like Kathmandu Valley and Pokhara, but roads can be busy and uneven. Mountain biking is especially popular for adventure travelers. Consider booking a free bicycle or walking tour via Freetour or GuruWalk.
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FAQ about Nepal
Is Nepal safe for (female) solo travelers?
Yes, Nepal is generally safe for (female) solo travelers, especially in popular tourist areas. I never felt unsafe. Locals are friendly and helpful.
Why is Nepal worth visiting?
Nepal offers incredible mountains, unique cultural experiences, and some of the best trekking routes in the world.
Is Nepal cheap to visit?
Yes, Nepal is very budget-friendly, especially for accommodation, food, and transport. Avoid ATM transaction fees and pay the local currency with a Wise Visa Card or Revolut Maestro Card. I have been using these cards for several years and have saved a lot of money as a result. I recommend bringing both bank cards with you when you travel.
Is tipping expected in Nepal?
Tipping is appreciated, especially for guides, porters, and in restaurants, but not always mandatory.
Do I need a visa for visiting Nepal?
Most travelers can get a visa on arrival. Always check official requirements before traveling. The official website to check visa regulations for Nepal is the Department of Immigration, Government of Nepal portal: https://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np. It provides official and up-to-date information on visa types, requirements, and application procedures for foreign nationals.
Do I need travel insurance for visiting Nepal?
Yes, especially if you plan to trek. Make sure it covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation. Heymondo or Safetywing are among the cheapest travel insurances for travelers and cover medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more. As a reader of Girlswanderlust, you’ll receive a 5% discount on your next Heymondo travel insurance.
Will my mobile phone work in Nepal?
Yes, coverage is good in cities, but limited in remote mountain areas. The main mobile providers in Nepal are Nepal Telecom and Ncell, which together cover most of the country. A smaller operator, Smart Telecom, exists but has more limited reach. Local SIM cards are cheap and widely available. I recommend to skip the hassle of physical SIM cards and stay connected with an eSIM from providers like Holafly, Airalo or Saily. I’ve been using eSIMs on my trips and find them convenient and cost-effective.
Can I drink tap water in Nepal?
No, tap water is not safe to drink. Use bottled or filtered water.
Do I need to speak the local language in Nepal?
No, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few Nepali phrases is appreciated.
