Travel advice

Passport and visas

it is recommended to take photo copies of your passport, as well as passport size photos, with you.

For full details on the visa on arrival process, fees and required documents, check the the official Nepal immigration website: https://www.immigration.gov.np/en/page/visa-on-arrival.

Payment

Cash is widely accepted, but acceptance of international credit cards is mixed. Locals use Nepali digital payment apps.

ATMs are widely available, including at the airport. it is recommended to take out cash to cover taxis, meals, and entry to tourist sites. To minimize transaction fees, take out larger amounts at once - perhaps even pool cash with your colleagues - rather than multiple smaller transactions. ATM fees range from NPR 500–850 ($3.75–$6.50 USD) with the maximum withdrawal between NPR 10,000–35,000.

You can also exchange foreign currency for NPR at banks or foreign exchange counters at the airport and in major tourist hubs.

Power/Plugs

Nepal primarily uses round 3-pin plugs (Types D and M) as well as the standard European 2-pin plug (Type C). Power outages still happen occasionally, so a power bank is highly recommended.

Taxis

Rides are available through apps such as inDrive, Pathao, and Uber. Users without Nepali digital payment apps should carry cash to pay the driver. The price in the app is pre-set and no negotiation is necessary.

Tourist sites

Foreigners must pay a special price to enter some sites, such as the three Durbar squares - Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur. If the passport and visa stamp are presented, visitors can request that the validity of tickets be extended from a one-day ticket to cover the duration of the visitor’s stay in Nepal. Sometimes a passport-size photo is requested.

Conservative clothing should be work when visiting religious sites. You may be requested to remove your shoes, but you may walk around the sites in socks.

SIM cards

If desired, inexpensive physical SIM cards or eSIMs with data and a local phone number can be acquired at the airport (passport and visa must be presented).

Weather

June is the beginning of rainy season, with temperatures in Kathmandu ranging from between 20-30° C. Click here to view the weather forecast. A light jacket is recommended for the evenings or if you travel into the mountainous regions.

Carry an umbrella, wear good shoes, and pack mosquito repellent. For those sensitive to air pollution: consider wearing a medical mask during outdoor activities or during rush hour.

Water safety

Use bottled water to drink or brush teeth.