Nepal Travel Guide
Introduction
Bikemandu Travel offers detailed information about amazing travel spots in Nepal. Our guidebook covers both popular and lesser-known destinations in this small country. For over 10 years, we've helped travellers experience everything from relaxing holiday spots to challenging adventure trails. We provide a clear picture of what to expect at your destination and make sure you're well-prepared before you start your journey.
Our guide includes trekking and tours to high mountains, wildlife in national parks, heritage sites, ancient cities, countryside experiences, food, and culture. Traveling in Nepal is unique because of its mix of cultures, ethnic groups, religions, and natural diversity, including varied landscapes, and a wide range of plant and animal species. Many trekking routes in Nepal were once part of ancient trade routes across Asia, making the country a melting pot of cultures from China and India. Our experienced team will guide you through this fascinating land.
We know that riding or trekking in Nepal’s high mountains can be challenging, so we guide you on the right tools and equipment. Our guides have over five years of experience and are skilled in making quick decisions in extreme situations. If our advice isn’t enough, your guide will provide precise information during your journey.
Key points and Facts
- Be prepared for a developing country: You may see poverty and street children. Avoid giving money directly as it encourages begging. Donate to reputable organizations instead.
- Friendly locals: Most Nepalis are warm and helpful. While a small percentage may try to take advantage of you, the majority will genuinely try to assist.
- Facilities in major cities: Cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara have better food and accommodation services. You can buy riding or trekking gear there, so you don’t need to bring everything.
- Solo travel: Nepal is generally safe for solo travelers, but always follow safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, don’t get drunk alone, and always be aware of your surroundings. Keep in touch with someone about your location.
- Respect local culture: Nepal's culture, religion, and beliefs are deeply rooted. Festivals and traditions are important, and respecting them is essential.
- Sanitation: Sanitation is poor in Nepal, especially in cities like Kathmandu. The air is fresher in the countryside. Tourist areas are generally cleaner, but water and electricity shortages can be common in remote mountain areas.
- Travel delays: The mountainous terrain and winding roads can make travel time unpredictable. Delays are common, and air travel, though faster, can be expensive with frequent weather-related issues.
There are also tourist police available in Nepal to help with any crime-related issues. You can contact them by dialing 1144 anywhere in Nepal or reach the Nepal police headquarters at +977-14247041.
Do's and Don'ts in Nepal
Do's
- Greet with a Namaste: This is the traditional way of greeting in Nepal, with palms pressed together.
- Explore beyond the obvious: Nepal is famous for trekking to Everest Base Camp, but there are many other amazing experiences to explore.
- Get in shape: Treks above 3000m can be physically demanding. Regular exercise before your trip will help you enjoy it more.
- Respect local customs: Nepal’s traditions have deep historical roots. Be respectful, and if curious, ask politely about their customs.
- Smile and interact: The people in the Himalayas are known for their warmth and smiles. Share your stories and enjoy the moments with them.
- Feel at home: Don’t be shy around locals. They are friendly and will appreciate your help with daily chores.
- Feel at home: Don’t be shy around locals. They are friendly and will appreciate your help with daily chores.
- Travel for the experience: Enjoy every moment, even if things don’t go as planned. Unpredictable events are part of the adventure.
- Equip yourself: Bring the right gear for your trek to handle the unpredictable mountain weather. Check our clothes and equipment page for more details.
Don'ts
- Don’t drink tap water: It is safer to drink boiled or purified water, especially in the mountains.
- Mind your food manners: Avoid touching others' food or offering food from your plate. Drink from common pots without letting your lips touch them.
- Don’t be too touchy: Avoid touching people without permission, especially women or those on their way to religious sites. Greet with a Namaste instead.
- Use your right hand: In Nepal, it’s customary to use your right hand for eating, passing things, or receiving items from others.
- Respect religious places: Remove your shoes before entering homes, temples, or monasteries. Follow local customs, such as walking clockwise around Buddhist sites.
- Avoid public displays of affection: Romantic gestures in public are considered inappropriate.
- Keep calm: Raising your voice is seen as disrespectful in Nepal.
- Don’t support illegal wildlife trade: Avoid buying products like ivory or fur from endangered species. This contributes to illegal activities, and you may not be allowed to take these items home.
- Don’t encourage begging: Instead of giving money to children or beggars, donate to charities or school
Altitude Sickness: AMS
When riding or trekking in the high mountains of Nepal, you may experience altitude sickness, known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), due to the lower oxygen levels at high altitudes. AMS typically occurs above 3000m and can cause symptoms like light-headedness, nausea, and headaches. While some mild symptoms are normal, severe symptoms like persistent headaches, vomiting, hallucinations, or breathlessness can indicate serious AMS.
To prevent AMS, it’s essential to acclimatize properly, avoid rapid ascents, and stay hydrated. If symptoms worsen, it’s recommended to descend to a lower altitude. Carry Diamox (after consulting your doctor) to help alleviate symptoms. Always follow your guide's advice and avoid trekking alone. Bikemandu provides experienced guides who are trained to handle health issues on treks. It’s also advisable to consult your doctor before your trip for a health check and advice on altitude sickness.
Clothes and Equipment
Packing the right gear is as important as planning your itinerary. The equipment you bring can either be your strength or weakness. Here’s a list of essential items for a successful trek:
- Bags and Rucksacks: Personal supplies: Snack bars, toiletries, sunscreen, lip balm, camera, and a notebook.
- Day pack: To carry water, a warm jacket, rain gear, camera, sunscreen, and medicine. A hip belt helps reduce shoulder strain.
- Sleeping bag: Essential for cold nights at high altitudes. Choose one that is light and warm.
- Headwear: Hat and sunglasses: For sun protection. If you wear contact lenses, bring extra glasses.
- Body:
- T-shirts and long-sleeved shirts: Preferably quick-drying synthetic materials.
- Down/fleece layers and waterproof jackets: To keep warm and dry.
- Legwear:
- Lightweight trousers and shorts: Quick-drying materials are ideal.
- Waterproof over-trousers: Breathable materials are best.
- Footwear:
- Trekking boots, trainers, Sandals: Sturdy and comfortable options.
- Gaiters: For wet days.
- Socks and Underwear:
- Thin socks: For comfort.
- Underwear: As needed.
Miscellaneous:
- Torch or headlamp: With extra bulbs and batteries.
- Towels: Quick-drying.
- Water purification tablets: For safe drinking water.
- Medical supplies: Including blister pads, pain relievers, antiseptic cream, and any prescribed medications.
Nepal Travel FAQs
1. How can I get to Nepal?
You can reach Nepal by flight or by road. Major airlines like Nepal Airlines, British Airways, Qatar Airways, and others fly to Nepal. The only international airport is in Kathmandu. You can also enter Nepal by road through borders with India or China/Tibet, with entry points like Birgunj, Bhairahawa, and Kakarvita. Traveling by tourist bus is recommended for a comfortable journey.
2. Can I get a visa on arrival in Nepal?
Yes, you can get a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. You’ll need to fill out a form, bring USD cash, and two passport-sized photos.
3. Is Nepal politically stable? Is it safe to travel alone, especially for women?
Nepal has multiple political parties, leading to occasional conflicts and strikes, but these don’t usually affect daily life. Nepal is considered safe for solo travellers, including women. The local people are friendly, and our team will ensure your safety.
4. When is the best time to visit Nepal?
You can visit Nepal year-round for cultural tours. However, for trekking and expeditions, spring and autumn are the best seasons. Check our trekking seasons page for more details.
5. Is it safe to travel solo in Nepal?
Yes, Nepal is a safe country for solo travellers, including women. Crime in the tourism sector is low, and locals are welcoming. Our team will also support you throughout your trip to ensure your safety.
6. Do you offer airport pickup and drop-off services?
Yes, if you’ve booked a guided trip or book the services with us, airport pickup and drop-off are included. We’ll take you to and from your hotel in Kathmandu.
7. Do you arrange flights, hotel bookings, and other services?
Yes, we can arrange domestic and international flights, hotel bookings, and other services as per your trip itinerary.
8. What should I expect on a travelling and trekking trips in Nepal?
Travelling in Nepal is fun and memorable while you ride solo or in a group, you will see awe inspiring nature and cultural heritage and experience heartwarming hospitality of Nepal. Trekking in Nepal is a challenging and rewarding experience. You'll trek 2-8 hours a day through remote villages and forests with stunning mountain views. Most routes have small teahouses for rest stops. The only area without teahouses is Upper Dolpo, where camping is required.
9. Who will guide my trip?
We have a group of experienced professionals to guide you, who are local Nepali but speaks good English and has extensive experience of respective fields. Our guides are knowledgeable about the region and are trained in first aid, mountaineering, leading and eco-trekking.
10. How many people can join a trip?
We accept groups of any size for trekking, riding or driving. We organise Larger groups to be accommodated with extra arrangements. We also welcome solo travellers, except in remote areas like Mustang and Dolpo, where a minimum of 2 people is required.
11. What insurance do I need before visiting Nepal? Can I get insurance there?
You should arrange travel insurance before coming to Nepal. It should cover potential injuries, accidents, or illnesses during your trip. We do not provide insurance services.
12. How high can you take me?
We can take you as high as you want, including arranging helicopter tours for those who prefer not to trek, ride or drive but still want amazing views.
13. What equipment do I need? Do I need to bring it?
You’ll need trekking shoes for trekking, optional riding gears for riding, comfortable clothing, and personal gear. We can provide sleeping bags, down jackets, tents, and cooking equipment if needed. Check our clothing and equipment page for more details.
14. Can I ride or trek in the Himalayas without prior experience?
Yes, we offer rides or treks suitable for all experience levels. We’ll help you choose the best option based on your fitness and preferences.
16. Is the food and water safe in lodges and camps?
Yes, we ensure that the food and water in lodges and camps meet high hygiene standards. Drinking water is boiled or purified, and the food is often organic and locally sourced.
17. Are your staff fully equipped and insured?
Yes, our staff are well-equipped for their tasks and fully insured. We provide them with the necessary clothing and tools, and we prioritize their safety.
18. What souvenirs can I bring from Nepal?
Popular Nepali souvenirs include handicrafts, tradition
Popular Nepali souvenirs include handicrafts, traditional art, pashmina shawls, and musical instruments like the bansuri, madal, damfoo, Khaijudi, sarangi etc.
18. What souvenirs can I bring from Nepal?
Popular Nepali souvenirs include handicrafts, traditional art, pashmina shawls, and musical instruments like the bansuri, madal, and sarangi.
19. Are there ATMs in Nepal?
Yes, there are many ATMs in major cities and towns. They accept VISA, MasterCard, and American Express. Carry some cash if you’re traveling to rural areas.
20. How can I stay healthy while traveling in Nepal?
Eat well-cooked food, drink boiled or bottled water, and avoid street food. The city air can be polluted, so wearing a mask is advised. Consider getting vaccinated for diseases like Japanese Encephalitis if traveling through forests.
21 . How can I ensure my safety in Nepal? Are there tourist police?
Be aware of your surroundings and follow local guidelines. If you need help, contact the tourist police, who are available in various locations in Nepal.
22. Can I bring my medication with me?
Yes, bring your prescribed medication in its original container along with a prescription to avoid any issues during inspections.