Getting Your Visa for Nepal
Heading to Nepal? Everyone needs a visa (except Indian nationals), but luckily it’s an easy process. Here’s the latest information on obtaining a tourist visa and how it works for visa-on-arrival.
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Getting from Kathmandu to Pokhara
Pokhara may not seem far from Kathmandu (the cities are only 126 miles / 204 km apart), but the Nepali terrain and road quality make for a very long drive. That's why many travelers opt to fly. Here are your options for traveling between the two cities, either by air or road.
Teahouse Trekking in Nepal: All You Need To Know
Most treks in Nepal are 'teahouse' treks, which means every night you end up at a simple lodge with basic rooms and a meal. The best thing about teahouse trekking - you only have to carry very minimal gear.
Where to Stay in Kathmandu: Choosing Your Accommodation
Welcome to Kathmandu, the beating heart of Nepal. Whatever your taste or budget, this busy metropolis has an accommodation option to suit you. With so many choices—especially in the tourist hub of Thamel—it can be difficult to decide where to stay. Make the most of your visit to the Nepali capital by checking out these recommendations for the best and most unique hotels, resorts, and homestays in the city.
Domestic Flights in Nepal
Famous for its mountain airports, Nepal offers a number of domestic flights that give you access to all parts of the country. Often, it’s best to take a local flight to save yourself long drives when you only have a short amount of time in Nepal. Given that mountain weather is often unpredictable, however, it's best to add one or two buffer days before and after your trek to account for flight delays.
Where to Shop in Kathmandu
Kathmandu is a shopper's paradise, particularly for those who appreciate high quality artisanal goods at an incredible value. That said, the city is big and traffic is bad, so strategizing your time and whereabouts is key, depending on the goods you're most interested in. Below is a rough guide to help you.
Trekking in Nepal: All You Need To Know
Trekking through the Himalayas is Nepal’s key attraction, and is a life-changing experience for many travelers, regardless of whether they are experienced hikers, or novices. This article is a primer to trekking in Nepal and answers frequently asked questions.
Getting from Pokhara to Jomsom
This scenic twenty-minute flight takes you over the Kali Gandaki Gorge to the town Jomsom at the southern edge of the Mustang region. Along the way, you'll enjoy spectacular views of Dhaulagiri (26,795 ft), Nilgiri (23,166 ft), and the entire Annapurna Himal.
24 Hours in Kathmandu
Kathmandu charms visitors with a mix of ancient history, striking Hindu and Buddhist sites, cheap and cheerful dining, and fun nightlife. If you only have a single day, follow these tips to get the most out of your time in Nepal's busy capital.
Nepal in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
While August is still a month of monsoon rains, they ease by the end of the month. Visitors to Nepal in August will be welcomed by dazzlingly green rice fields. High altitude hiking is out of the question, but trails in the magical Mustang region remain dry. And this is a good time for cultural sightseeing—you'll have the most popular spots all to yourself.
Pre-Departure Checklist for the Himalaya
From physical preparation and training to packing and visas: there are a few things you must do before heading to the Himalaya to ensure a smooth, safe, and comfortable trip. While you don't need to be Superman or Wonder Woman to enjoy trekking in the Himalaya, the better prepared you are, the more you'll get out of the experience.
Planning Your Honeymoon in Nepal
For adventure lovers (and adventurous married couples!) there's hardly a more appealing destination than Nepal. Add the romance of stunning mountain vistas, luxury accommodation, and atmospheric cultural sites to classic adventure activities like trekking and paragliding and you have the ideal honeymoon destination.
Unique Ways to Experience Everest Base Camp
The classic trek route from Lukla to Everest Base Camp is beautiful but has become quite crowded and over-developed. Here are some highly recommended alternatives that take you off the beaten path and let you experience Mt Everest in ways that few people do.
Nepal in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
With the arrival of monsoon season in Nepal, visitor numbers thin out considerably in June. But there are still a number of cultural and trekking activities you can enjoy in this warmer month, if you know where to look.
Tipping Your Guides in Nepal
How much should you tip your guide and porter after a trek? That depends on a variety of factors: whether you're traveling alone or with a group, for just one week or a whole month, and most importantly, what kind of service you received. Here's a brief article to help you.
Nepal in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
July falls right in the middle of Nepal's monsoon season, making it the least visited month of the year. That said, there are still things to see and do when it's wet out. Head to the Mustang region for excellent trekking or dig into the endless cultural sights of Kathmandu and Pokhara, taking advantage of lower prices along the way.
Trekking With Your Family In Nepal
There’s no reason to put off trekking in the Himalaya until the kids have left home. Aside from the amazing landscapes, cultural and wildlife encounters awaiting you, here are some other great reasons why visiting Nepal with your family is a good idea.
Monsoon Season in Nepal: What To Expect
Starting around mid-June, peaking in July and August, and winding down in early September, the monsoon brings rain, humidity and an increase in temperatures across most of Nepal. True — mountain views are often obscured by cloud, temperatures get uncomfortable, it rains daily, and yes, there are leeches. But this is still a great time to trek and here are our best tips for going about it.
Nepal in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
April is perhaps the most popular month for travel in Nepal, with prime weather for outdoor adventures at any altitude. The most popular trekking routes are at their best and busiest—you'll need to book well in advance to secure your spot on the trail. While you won't have the country all to yourself, you'll find that this is peak season for good reason.
Nepal in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
May is the last month of true springtime in Nepal. Temperatures can be hot in the cities and at lower elevations, but conditions are still good for trekking—so get in quick before the rains start.
Buying and Renting Trekking Gear in Kathmandu
Almost anything you need for your trek, you can find in Kathmandu. There are hundreds of small shops packed with equipment lining the streets of Thamel, the main trekkers' hub. You can buy or rent anything you're missing or don't want to pack—from down sleeping bags and jackets to trekking poles, water bottles, and sunglasses.
Nepal in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
December isn't peak season in Nepal—but with clear, sunny skies and mild temperatures in many places, perhaps it should be. If you've been considering coming to Nepal at the start of winter, take the plunge with this monthly guide.
Nepal in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
November is a lovely month to travel in Nepal, and not as busy with travelers as October. Most trails are still available to trekkers, temperatures are comfortable, and there are important cultural festivals to enjoy. Read on for more about traveling to Nepal in the last month of autumn.
Nepal in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
October is the most popular month for visitors traveling to Nepal. Trekking conditions are glorious, the crisp skies offer excellent mountain views, and cultural festivals offer many opportunities to celebrate. Rates and crowds are at their peak, but for good reason—read on to discover why you should get in on the action in Nepal in October.
Nepal in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
While January is the middle of winter in Nepal, travelers shouldn't hesitate to visit. Manageable temperatures, crystal-clear skies, and excellent low-altitude hiking make this a surprisingly perfect winter destination. Plus, this is the best month for spotting wildlife in Chitwan National Park. Read on to discover why you can (and should!) start your year with a trip to Nepal.
Local Nepali Food Specialties
Influenced by both Indian and Tibetan cuisine, Nepalese food has its own rich flavors and aromas. Here's a selection of dishes you shouldn't miss during your trip to Nepal.
Nepal in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
March is the start of one of Nepal's two annual peak tourist seasons, and it's also when the temperatures have truly warmed up after winter. With the thawing of many high-altitude trekking trails, river levels primed for whitewater rafting, and some exciting cultural festivals, March is a great time to travel to Nepal.
Nepal in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
By mid-to-late February in much of Nepal, winter starts giving way to the warmth of spring, yet international travelers are still not arriving in large numbers. Beyond low-altitude trekking, this is also a great month for jungle safaris, and conditions are excellent for mountain biking. Read on to find out why you should beat the crowds by visiting Nepal in February.
Getting from Kathmandu to Phaplu
Phaplu is a gateway village in the lower Solu Khumbu, serving as the starting off point for a number of treks. It also has one of the only domestic airports in the region. There are a number of short treks nearby, such as Pikey Peak, and you can also trek from her to the upper Everest region.
Getting From Kathmandu to Lukla
Lukla is the gateway to the Everest region which everyone passes through en route to Mt. Everest or to other vantage points in the region. Almost everyone flies into Lukla and starts their trek there, given it shaves off a few days of an otherwise already long multi-week adventure. But if you have the time, the trek into Lukla will be one of the highlights of your trek.
Role of Your Local Guide in Nepal
Traveling with a great guide is important in Nepal—particularly at high altitude. Read on for more information about the benefits of hiring local, learn what to expect, and meet some of the country's top trekking and tour guides.
Solo Trips in Nepal
Planning to visit Nepal by yourself? You may be flying solo, but you won't be alone—Nepal is a popular destination for solo travelers, and great options are available whether you want to join a small group tour or hire a private guide. Before planning your adventure, read on to learn what to expect when booking a guided solo trip to Nepal through kimkim.
Nepal in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
As the monsoon rains subside, travelers begin returning to Nepal this month. The autumn air is cool and clear, popular teahouse treks in the Everest Region are beginning to open up, and a host of lively celebrations keeps the atmosphere festive. Read on for more about visiting Nepal in September.
Everest Mountain Flight: All You Need To Know
Trekking to Everest Base Camp is the classic way to get up-close-and-personal with the world's tallest peak. But there's another way to go that's quicker, cheaper, and less exhausting: hop aboard a plane or helicopter. Here's how to do it, and what to expect.
Neighborhood Guide to Kathmandu: Thamel & Beyond
In a city as big and diverse as Kathmandu, it'd be a shame to only visit one or two popular areas. Different neighborhoods here offer diverse experiences: Tibetan culture, Hindu temples, unique accommodation, and so on. Here's a quick guide to some of the key neighborhoods of Kathmandu.
Altitude Sickness: All You Need to Know
If you're planning to trek in the Himalayas, the Alps, the Andes — or anywhere above 2500m — it's important to have a good understanding of altitude sickness, which poses a danger to everyone at these altitudes and can be fatal, in severe cases. The good news is that it's easily managed with the right planning and preparation.
Is It Safe to Visit Nepal After the 2015 Earthquake?
In May 2015, Nepal was struck by a 7.8 magnitude earthquake. Many travelers are still wondering if it's safe to visit Nepal. The short answer is "yes". The earthquake has caused severe damage in certain regions, but the country is rebuilding and open for travel.
Everest Base Camp: Nepal or Tibet?
Mount Everest straddles the Nepal-Tibet border, and travelers interested in visiting base camp can do so on either side of the world's tallest mountain. Trekking is only one of several ways to get there, and both starting points come with their own set of considerations. Nepal offers challenging trekking routes and scenic helicopter rides, while Tibet boasts incredible Everest views and the chance to see a less-visited area—read on for more of what to expect.
Unique Ways to Experience Nepal's Main Treks
When planning a trek in Nepal, it's easy to focus on reaching base camp or a high pass while squeezing the rest into as few days of precious vacation time as possible. But you might want to rethink your itinerary: some of Nepal's most beautiful places are a few hours out of the way. Head off the main trekking trails with these worthwhile detours, and you'll have some of the country's most stunning scenery all to yourself.
Nepal, Bhutan, India: Choosing Your Himalayan Destination
The Himalaya is a great destination for travelers seeking high-altitude adventure and cultural immersion. Much of your experience will depend on the region you visit: Nepal, Bhutan, or the Himalayan regions of northern India. Camping treks and guided cultural tours in Bhutan, remote trekking and varied landscapes in India, or the classic routes (and many trekking alternatives) of Nepal—which should you choose? Read on to find out.
5 Things to Do During Your Acclimatization Stop in Namche Bazaar
Namche Bazaar is a thriving Sherpa town in the Everest Region that can only be reached on foot (or by helicopter). It's a common rest stop for acclimatization, and many trekking itineraries include two nights here before the trail ascends to greater heights. Make your day in town count with these activities, from cultural sights to the famed Saturday market—and even an Irish pub with Himalayan views.
24 Hours in Pokhara
If you're trekking in the Himalayas, you may spend a day or two in Pokhara along the way. But the lakeside city is more than a stopover: from spectacular sunrise views and paragliding to boating to a Buddhist temple and dining on traditional Tibetan food, there's plenty to see and do. Here's the perfect plan for spending 24 hours in Pokhara. Spoiler alert: you'll be getting up early.
Everest Base Camp in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
January is firmly in Nepal's trekking off-season, with low visitor numbers across the country. Kathmandu gets quite cold in the evenings, and it's even colder up in the mountains at higher elevations. But, if you're prepared for cold temperatures (and snow!), the clear views and the fact that you'll have the trails to yourself make this a surprisingly great time to trek through the Everest region.
Everest Base Camp in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
October is the most popular month for trekkers to visit Nepal. Conditions are pretty reliable, with crisp, rain-free skies offering excellent mountain views. Crowds are at their peak, however, and the Everest Base Camp Trek is the most popular in the country. Advance planning—as far enough in advance as possible—is important when traveling to the Everest region in October.
Everest Base Camp in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
Along with March, April is a popular month for trekking in Nepal. Temperatures are generally warm (or at least, not too cold in the high Himalaya) and the monsoon rains are still several weeks away. Here are some important things to know about traveling to Everest Base Camp in April.
Everest Base Camp in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
As the monsoon rains die down by mid-to-late September, the conditions are right for trekking in Nepal again. Although lingering humidity may obscure some mountain vistas, there's still a chance to catch impressive views early in the morning. Plus, the popular Everest Base Camp trail is less busy in September than later in the autumn season.
Everest Base Camp in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
February continues the off-season for trekking in Nepal, with colder temperatures hanging around and fewer visitors throughout the country. If you're very well prepared for snow and cold temperatures, the clear views and quiet trails make February an appealing time to trek in the Everest region—and even all the way to Everest Base Camp.
Everest Base Camp in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More
March is the beginning of spring, one of Nepal's two peak seasons of the year. While temperatures in the mountains are still likely to be cold, and snow may still be a problem in some places, routes will begin thawing out. Trekkers hit the trails in larger numbers again in March, and there are many good reasons to do so. Here's what you need to know about trekking to Everest Base Camp in March.
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