Nepal Travel Guide: Essential Info for First-Time Visitors

SIM Cards, Money Exchange, Connectivity

Getting a Local SIM Card

To stay connected in Nepal, getting a local SIM card is easy and affordable. The main providers are Ncell and Nepal Telecom (NTC). Both offer tourist SIM cards with good data packages. 

You can buy a SIM card at the airport, right outside customs. Bring a passport photo and a copy of your passport and visa. A typical tourist SIM card gives you 20GB of data and costs between 1,000 and 1,500 NPR. It is valid for 30 days. 

Ncell usually has better coverage in cities and along trekking routes, while NTC works better in remote mountain areas. If you plan to hike, consider getting both SIM cards.

Currency and Money Exchange

The official currency of Nepal is the Nepali Rupee (NPR). In 2024, the exchange rate is about 130 NPR per USD, but it can change.

Use authorized money changers in Thamel and tourist areas. Avoid changing money at the airport for better rates. Bring clean and untorn USD bills, as damaged notes may not be accepted.

ATMs are common in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other places. Most accept international cards, but you can usually withdraw 30,000-50,000 NPR per transaction. Check for foreign transaction fees from your bank before you travel. 

Many high-end hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, but cash is often preferred in Nepal. Always carry some rupees, especially when visiting rural areas or trekking, as ATMs may not be available.

Internet and WiFi

Most hotels, guesthouses, and cafes in tourist areas offer free WiFi. Speeds can be slow, especially in remote areas. If you need reliable internet during your travels, getting a local SIM card with data is recommended. 

Some trekking routes have WiFi in teahouses, but you might have to pay around 200-500 NPR per day. Do not count on having constant internet access in the mountains.

Local Food & Etiquette

What to Eat in Nepal

Nepal’s cuisine reflects its culture and geography. Most meals are based on rice and lentils. The national dish is dal bhat, which includes steamed rice, lentil soup, vegetable curry, and pickles. Locals joke that dal bhat gives you the strength to trek all day, and it really does! Many restaurants offer all-you-can-eat options at low prices.

Other must-try dishes include:

• Momos: Dumplings stuffed with vegetables, chicken, or buffalo meat.
• Thukpa: A warm noodle soup, perfect for cold mountain nights.
• Sel roti: A sweet, rice doughnut enjoyed during festivals.
• Chatamari: Known as “Nepali pizza,” this rice crepe comes with various toppings.

Street food can be tempting, but choose busy stalls to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Always drink bottled or filtered water, as tap water is not safe to drink.

Dining Etiquette

Nepali hospitality is famous. If invited to someone’s home, remove your shoes before entering. People usually eat with their right hand, even though utensils are readily available in cities. Avoid passing food with your left hand or eating with it, as it is considered unclean.

In local restaurants, tipping is welcomed but not required. A 10% tip is seen as generous.

Safety & Cultural Awareness

Staying Safe in Nepal

Nepal is generally safe for travelers, but use common sense. Petty theft can happen in crowded areas like Thamel or during festivals. Keep valuables secure and avoid showing expensive items.

Nepal is safe for solo travelers, including women. However, it’s best to avoid walking in unknown areas at night. Stick to well-lit streets and arrange transportation through your hotel if you are out after dark.

When trekking, be careful. High altitudes can be challenging. Listen to your body, stay hydrated, and take your time. Hiring a guide can make your trek safer and more enjoyable.

Nepal is prone to earthquakes due to its location on a central fault line. Know the emergency exits in your accommodation and learn about earthquake safety.

Respecting Local Customs

Nepal is a spiritual country, with Hinduism and Buddhism as its main religions. Respect religious sites by removing your shoes before entering temples and asking permission before taking photos of people or ceremonies.

Dress conservatively, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Avoid showing your thighs and upper arms. Men should cover both shoulders. Kathmandu and Pokhara are more relaxed, but modest dress is preferred elsewhere.

Public displays of affection are frowned upon. You can hold hands at tourist sites, but kissing and hugging in public are inappropriate.

Learn a few simple Nepali phrases like “Namaste” (hello/goodbye), “Dhanyabad” (thank you), and “Maaf garnuhos” (excuse me). Locals appreciate your effort, and it helps build connections.

Best Time to Visit

Peak Season (September to November)

Autumn is the best time to visit Nepal. You’ll enjoy clear skies, warm weather, and colorful festivals like Dashain and Tihar. Trekking conditions are excellent, but popular trails can be crowded.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is another good time to visit. The hills bloom with red and pink rhododendrons. The weather is mild, and visibility is good. However, hiking trails and accommodations fill up quickly during this season.

Monsoon (June to August)

During the monsoon season, expect heavy rain, especially in lowlands. Trails become muddy and affected by leeches, making trekking difficult. However, it’s a good time to explore rain-shadow areas like Upper Mustang and Dolpo. Kathmandu and Pokhara are less crowded, and you can find better deals on lodging.

Winter (December to February)

Winter is less crowded, which is excellent for introspective travelers. The weather in Kathmandu and Pokhara is pleasant, but trekking at high altitudes requires proper gear. It can get very cold in the mountains, and some passes may be closed due to snow.