Nepal

Nepal’s history comes vividly to life in the Kathmandu Valley, where ancient cities, temples and traditions reflect centuries of artistic and spiritual heritage. Early records and legends refer to the Kiranti rulers, followed by the Licchavis, who governed from around the 4th to 8th centuries. Their period saw the growth of trade, art and Hindu-Buddhist culture. The Changu Narayan Temple near Bhaktapur, with inscriptions from the 5th century, remains one of its finest surviving legacies. 

The Malla period, from around the 12th to 18th centuries, shaped much of the Nepal visitors experience today. Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur developed as separate kingdoms, competing to create grand palace squares, temples, courtyards and public spaces. Their rivalry enriched the valley with remarkable architecture, living traditions and festivals. 

In 1769, King Prithvi Narayan Shah of Gorkha united the Kathmandu Valley and laid the foundation for modern Nepal, making Kathmandu the capital. The Shah dynasty ruled Nepal for many years, while the Rana prime ministers held most political power from 1846 to 1951. 

Nepal’s modern journey has included democratic movements, periods of royal rule and the Maoist conflict of 1996 to 2006. The monarchy was abolished in 2008, and Nepal became a federal democratic republic. Its current constitution was adopted in 2015. 

In 2025, youth-led “Gen Z” protests called for accountability, reform and greater opportunities. The movement led to political change and fresh elections in 2026. Nepal today is continuing its democratic journey while remaining deeply connected to its cultural roots. 

For travellers, this history is not confined to books or museums. It can be seen in the carved windows of Bhaktapur, the sacred shrines of Patan, the busy lanes of Kathmandu and the festivals celebrated throughout the year. 

Covering an area of 147,516 sq. km, Nepal is a landlocked country between India to the south, east and west, and the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China to the north. Although it is relatively narrow, Nepal has an extraordinary range of landscapes and climates within a short distance. 

The country stretches for about 800 km from east to west and varies from around 145 to 240 km from north to south. Its lowest point lies at Kechana Kalan in Jhapa District, approximately 60 metres above sea level, while Mount Everest, at 8,848.86 metres, is the highest point on Earth. 

Nepal’s landscape rises dramatically from the subtropical plains of the Terai in the south, through forested hills, fertile valleys and traditional villages, to the high Himalayan region in the north. Nepal is home to eight of the world’s fourteen highest mountains, including Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Annapurna. 

Many of Nepal’s major rivers begin in the Himalayas or flow from Tibet before continuing south into India and the Ganges river system. The country also protects a remarkable range of wildlife in its national parks and conservation areas. In the lowland jungles of Chitwan and Bardia, visitors may encounter the Bengal tiger, greater one-horned rhinoceros, Asian elephant, gharial and a wide variety of birdlife. 

This remarkable geographical diversity is one of Nepal’s greatest attractions. In a single journey, travellers can experience Himalayan views, peaceful hill villages, sacred valleys, river landscapes and subtropical wildlife habitats. 

In Nepal, accommodation ranges from comfortable three-star hotels to boutique heritage properties, luxury hotels, jungle lodges and exclusive mountain retreats. At Dharma Adventures, we generally use carefully selected higher-category hotels and lodges, chosen for their comfort, service, location and character. 

In Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan and other main destinations, hotels are modern, clean and well equipped. Many have facilities such as restaurants, spas and swimming pools; however, pools are often unheated and may feel cold during winter or be closed seasonally. 

During trekking journeys, accommodation is usually in tea houses or mountain lodges along the route. Facilities are more basic than in the cities, with simple rooms and shared services in some areas. Hot showers, charging facilities and Wi-Fi may be available, often at an additional cost, but can be limited in remote locations due to weather, altitude and local power supply. These stays offer an authentic glimpse into life in the Himalayas.

Most international guests arrive by air through Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal’s main international gateway. Pokhara International Airport also operates limited international services, including selected flights from Dubai. Flight schedules and availability should be checked before traveling. 

Nepal can also be entered by land through designated immigration points along its borders with India and China. Common entry points from India include Kakarbhitta, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Dhangadhi and Mahendranagar. Land routes from China are more limited and may be affected by weather, road conditions or border operations. 

Guests travelling by land should confirm the correct immigration point, visa arrangements, and current route conditions before departure.

Most foreign nationals require a tourist visa to visit Nepal. Indian citizens do not require a visa. Many travellers can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and designated land-entry points, while citizens of certain countries must apply in advance through a Nepalese embassy or consulate. 

Your passport should be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival. Visa rules, fees and eligibility can change, so please check the latest requirements before travel. You may also visit our Nepal Visa Information page for further guidance.

Nepal’s weather varies greatly according to season and altitude. The Terai plains are warm to hot for much of the year, Kathmandu and the mid-hills have a temperate climate, while Himalayan regions are much cooler and may experience snow at higher elevations. In Kathmandu and the mid-hills, daytime temperatures generally range from around 15–30°C, depending on the season. The Terai can exceed 35°C in summer, while winter mornings and evenings in Kathmandu may fall close to 0°C. Temperatures in the mountains can fall below freezing, particularly at higher elevations. 

Weather conditions can change quickly, especially in the Himalayas, so guests should pack layers and be prepared for cooler temperatures at higher elevations.

Nepal has four main seasons: 

Spring (March to May): Warm days, clear mornings and colorful rhododendrons in the hills. In Kathmandu Valley, temperatures generally range from about 12°C to 30°C (54°F to 86°F). It is a lovely time for sightseeing and trekking. 

Summer / Monsoon (June to August): Warm, rainy and lush, with green landscapes across the country. The temperature usually ranges from around 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while the Terai plains can be much hotter. Rainfall is heaviest during these months. 

Autumn (September to November): Generally clear, dry and pleasant, with excellent Himalayan views. Temperatures in Kathmandu Valley are usually around 10°C to 27°C (50°F to 81°F). It is one of the most popular seasons for trekking and cultural travel.  

Winter (December to February): Usually dry and sunny during the day, with colder mornings and evenings. Kathmandu Valley temperatures can range from about 2°C to 20°C (36°F to 68°F). Higher mountain areas can receive snowfall and become considerably colder. 

Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is mainly a concern for guests travelling or trekking at high elevations, generally above 2,500 metres (8,200 ft). It is not normally a concern during sightseeing in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, or other lower-altitude destinations. 

The likelihood of AMS increases with altitude and with a rapid ascent. Good physical fitness does not prevent altitude sickness, so all travelers should allow enough time to acclimatize, follow the planned pace, and stay well hydrated. Drinking water and eating regular light meals are helpful, but the most important precaution is to ascend gradually and allow the body time to adjust. 

Early symptoms may include headache, nausea, loss of appetite, tiredness, dizziness, disturbed sleep, or shortness of breath on exertion. These symptoms should never be ignored. Guests must inform their guide or trip leader immediately and should not continue to a higher altitude while symptoms are present. 

Severe symptoms, such as breathlessness at rest, confusion, difficulty walking, severe headache, persistent vomiting or a persistent cough, require immediate descent and medical attention. Our trekking itineraries are planned with acclimatization days where necessary, and our guides are trained to monitor guests and respond appropriately. Guests with a medical condition, or those considering preventive medication, should consult their doctor before traveling. 

Nepal is a deeply spiritual and culturally diverse country where Hinduism and Buddhism have flourished side by side for centuries. Most Nepalis are Hindu, while Buddhism is also widely practiced, particularly among Himalayan, Newar and Tibetan Buddhist communities. Many people visit both Hindu temples and Buddhist stupas, and it is common to see Hindu and Buddhist traditions, symbols and festivals woven together in everyday life. 

Nepal is home to more than 100 ethnic and cultural communities, each with its own language, dress, food, music, customs and celebrations. Visitors may encounter Newar culture in the Kathmandu Valley, Sherpa and Tibetan Buddhist traditions in the mountains, Tharu culture in the Terai, and many other distinctive local identities throughout the country. When visiting temples, monasteries and local communities, guests should dress modestly, remove shoes where requested and respect photography restrictions or entry rules.

Nepal celebrates many vibrant festivals, reflecting its Hindu, Buddhist and diverse ethnic traditions. Festivals are often marked by family gatherings, religious ceremonies, music, food and colourful community celebrations. 

Major festivals include: 

Dashain (Sep or Oct): Nepal’s largest Hindu festival, celebrating the victory of good over evil and bringing families together.

Tihar (Oct or Nov): Also known as the Festival of Lights, when homes are decorated with lamps, flowers and colourful designs.  

Holi (Feb-Mar): A joyful spring festival celebrated with colours, music and water.  

Maha Shivaratri (Feb-Mar): A major Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva, especially observed at Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu.  

Buddha Jayanti (Apr-May): Celebrates the birth of Lord Buddha and is observed at Buddhist sites such as Boudhanath and Lumbini.  

Losar (Feb-Mar): The New Year celebration of many Tibetan Buddhist and Himalayan communities.  

Indra Jatra (Aug-Sep): A distinctive Newar festival in Kathmandu, known for masked dances, chariot processions and the appearance of the Living Goddess Kumari.  

Festival dates follow the lunar calendar and change each year. 

Nepal has a population of approximately 30 million people. It is a culturally diverse country, with communities living across the Himalayan mountains, mid-hills, valleys and southern plains. 

Nepali is the official language and is widely spoken throughout the country. Nepal is also home to more than 120 mother tongues, including Maithili, Bhojpuri, Tharu, Tamang, Nepal Bhasa (Newari), Gurung, Limbu and Sherpa. 

English is commonly understood in hotels, restaurants, airports, tourist areas and by guides, so visitors can travel comfortably without speaking Nepali. Learning a few simple words, such as namaste for hello, is always warmly appreciated. 

Nepalese food is varied, flavourful and shaped by the country’s many ethnic communities and landscapes. The everyday staple is dal bhat, a wholesome meal of rice served with lentil soup, seasonal vegetables, pickles and sometimes meat or curry. It is nourishing, freshly prepared and enjoyed throughout the country. 

Visitors can also try popular local dishes such as momo (steamed dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), Newari specialties, Tibetan-influenced dishes and traditional breads. In the Terai, flavours are often influenced by neighbouring India, while mountain regions feature simpler, warming meals suited to the climate. 

Hotels and restaurants offer a good selection of Nepali, Indian, Tibetan, Asian and Western cuisine. Vegetarian, vegan and most dietary requirements can usually be arranged with advance notice. Guests should let us know of any allergies or special dietary needs before travel so we can plan accordingly.

Tap water is not recommended for drinking in Nepal. Visitors should drink sealed bottled water or water that has been reliably filtered, boiled or treated. Most hotels and restaurants provide safe filtered drinking water, and guests are encouraged to carry a reusable bottle and refill it from a trusted source whenever possible. 

Use bottled or treated water when brushing your teeth and avoid ice unless you are confident that it has been made from purified water. Raw salads and uncooked vegetables should be eaten only at reputable hotels and restaurants where safe washing practices are followed. Fruit that can be peeled is generally the safest choice. 

These simple precautions help guests stay healthy throughout their journey, particularly in remote areas and while trekking.

The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR), commonly written as Rs. or रु. 

Cash is widely used for local purchases, tips and shopping in smaller towns or remote areas. Visa and Mastercard are accepted at many major hotels, restaurants and larger shops in Kathmandu, Pokhara and other main cities. American Express may be accepted at selected establishments, but card acceptance can be limited outside these areas. It is therefore advisable to carry some Nepalese rupees for everyday expenses. 

It is considered auspicious to make donations at sacred sites like monasteries and temples. However, donations and the amount to be donated are not obligatory. 

Giving to those in need is a kind and personal decision. However, we do not encourage giving cash directly to beggars, particularly to children, as this can unintentionally encourage begging and keep children away from school. Guests should not feel pressured to give, even if approached by several people seeking attention. 

If you would like to support local communities, we recommend contributing through a reputable charity or community organisation, such as Dharma Karma Society, our CSR initiative supporting community development, education, women’s empowerment, animal welfare and environmental causes.  

English is widely spoken and understood in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, shops and by guides, drivers and tourism staff. Visitors can usually travel comfortably without speaking Nepali. 

Outside major towns and tourist areas, English may be less commonly spoken, but local people are generally welcoming and helpful. Learning a few Nepali words, such as namaste for hello and dhanyabad for thank you, is always appreciated. 

Nepal is a welcoming country with deep Hindu and Buddhist traditions. When visiting temples, monasteries and stupas, dress modestly and follow your guide’s advice on entry rules. Long trousers or skirts and covered shoulders are recommended; some religious sites may require visitors to remove their shoes. Buddhist stupas and temples should be circumambulated in a clockwise direction. 

Use your right hand, or both hands, when giving or receiving food, money and gifts. Avoid pointing the soles of your feet towards people, religious objects, altars or a family’s cooking area, and avoid touching anyone on the head. A namaste, with palms together, is a respectful and widely used greeting. 

Always ask permission before photographing people, monks or local communities. In monasteries and temples, photography may be restricted, and flash photography is often prohibited to protect valuable wall paintings and religious artwork. Public displays of affection should be kept discreet. 

Following these customs shows respect for local traditions and will make your cultural encounters more meaningful. 

Pack according to the season, destinations and activities included in your itinerary. As temperatures can vary greatly between the lowlands, Kathmandu Valley and Himalayan regions, layered clothing is the most practical choice. 

We recommend comfortable walking shoes, a light waterproof jacket, warm layers for mornings and evenings, and sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Bring a small daypack, reusable water bottle, personal medication, a basic first-aid kit, insect repellent, hand sanitiser, a power bank and a universal travel adapter. Nepal commonly uses 220–240V electricity with Type C, D and M plug sockets. A small torch or headlamp is also useful, particularly for trekking or stays in remote areas where charging facilities may be limited. 

For visits to temples and monasteries, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is recommended. Keep your passport, visa documents, travel-insurance details, copies of important documents and some cash secure and easily accessible. 

Carry a small, comfortable daypack for essentials needed during sightseeing, short walks and road journeys. We recommend bringing a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, hand sanitiser, tissues, any personal medication, a light rain jacket or umbrella, and an extra warm layer for cooler mornings and evenings. 

Keep your camera, phone, power bank, passport copy, cash and other valuables secure and easily accessible. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, particularly for heritage sites, village walks and uneven paths. For trekking or high-altitude journeys, your guide will advise on any additional items required 

For sightseeing, village walks and short hikes, comfortable, well broken-in walking shoes or light hiking shoes with a good grip are usually sufficient. Avoid bringing new footwear, as it may cause blisters. 

For trekking journeys, carry sturdy, well broken-in hiking boots with ankle support, a durable sole, good traction and a waterproof, breathable lining such as Gore-Tex. Ensure there is enough room for warm socks, particularly for higher-altitude treks. Wear the boots several times before travel to make sure they fit comfortably. 

Your exact footwear will depend on the trek, season and altitude. We will provide specific recommendations as part of your pre-departure packing list. 

DA.EP_.012-NEPAL-TREKKING-ESSENTIAL-CHECKLIST.pdf 

Nepal can be enjoyed by travellers with a wide range of fitness levels. Cultural journeys, city sightseeing, wildlife experiences and scenic drives generally require only a normal level of mobility, although some heritage sites involve steps and uneven paths. 

Trekking, hiking and high-altitude journeys require a higher level of fitness and preparation. Guests should be comfortable walking for several hours on uneven terrain and should select a trek that matches their fitness, experience and interests. Our team can recommend suitable options and adjust the pace where possible. 

Guests with medical conditions or concerns about altitude should consult their doctor before travel and let us know in advance so we can plan appropriately.

Nepal’s national parks offer the chance to see remarkable wildlife in its natural habitat, including the greater one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, gharial crocodile, deer and a rich variety of birdlife. Safaris in Chitwan and Bardia National Parks are not only about spotting animals; they are also an opportunity to experience Nepal’s forests, grasslands and river landscapes. 

Always follow your naturalist’s or guide’s instructions. Keep a safe distance from animals, remain quiet and avoid sudden movements, loud conversation or playing music. Never feed, touch or try to attract wildlife. 

Stay inside the safari vehicle unless your guide says it is safe to get out, and do not leave litter in the park. Flash photography should be avoided, especially near animals, as it can disturb them. Wear neutral-coloured clothing, carry binoculars if possible, and enjoy wildlife patiently and respectfully. Sightings cannot be guaranteed, but responsible behaviour helps protect both guests and Nepal’s wildlife.

Nepal has good private hospitals, clinics and pharmacies in Kathmandu and other major cities, where treatment is available for most routine medical needs and emergencies. However, facilities outside the Kathmandu Valley and major urban centres may be more limited, particularly in remote mountain regions and during trekking journeys. 

For serious illness or injury in remote areas, evacuation to a larger town or Kathmandu may be necessary. Guests should therefore have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical treatment, emergency evacuation and, where relevant, helicopter evacuation. 

Please carry sufficient personal medication for your journey and let us know in advance of any important medical condition, allergy or dietary requirement. Our team and guides will assist in arranging appropriate support if medical attention is required.

For up-to-date pre-travel health advice, guests may refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and CIWEC Hospital and Travel Medicine Center, a specialist travel-medicine provider in Kathmandu. 

For most travellers, no vaccinations are required specifically to enter Nepal. However, a yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required for guests arriving from, or having recently transited through, a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. 

Before travel, guests should ensure that their routine vaccinations are up to date and consult a travel-health professional at least four to six weeks before departure. Depending on the itinerary, season, planned activities and individual medical history, a doctor may recommend additional vaccinations or preventive medicines. 

For the latest health guidance, please consult your doctor or travel clinic and refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Entry requirements may change, so guests travelling from yellow fever risk areas should also confirm the current requirements with the relevant Nepalese embassy or consulate. 

Bring enough of any regular prescription medication to cover your entire trip, with a small extra supply in case of delays. Keep all medicines in their original labelled packaging in your hand luggage, and carry a copy of your prescription or a doctor’s letter showing the generic medicine name, dosage and reason for use. 

A small personal first-aid kit may also be useful, including items such as plasters, antiseptic wipes, oral rehydration salts and any usual over-the-counter medicines you personally use. Please check with your doctor or pharmacist before travel, especially if you are trekking, travelling to remote areas or have a medical condition. 

Do not start medication for altitude sickness, malaria or other travel-related conditions without medical advice. Guests should also check that any controlled medication is permitted in Nepal and in any transit country.

Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all guests travelling with Dharma Adventures. Your policy must cover medical expenses, accidents, emergency evacuation, loss of baggage and trip cancellation or interruption. Guests undertaking trekking, rafting or other adventure activities must ensure that these activities, including helicopter or aircraft evacuation where relevant, are specifically covered by their policy. 

Guests with pre-existing medical conditions must declare these to their insurer, as non-disclosure may affect a future claim. Please check your policy’s coverage limits and exclusions carefully before travel and carry your insurance details and 24-hour emergency-assistance contact number with you.

Foreign currency can be exchanged at major banks, authorised exchange counters and Tribhuvan International Airport. Some larger hotels may also provide this service. US dollars, British pounds and euros are generally easy to exchange. Always use an authorised provider and keep your exchange receipt. 

Visa and Mastercard are accepted at many major hotels, airlines, restaurants and larger shops. American Express may be accepted at selected establishments. ATMs are widely available in Kathmandu, Pokhara and larger towns, but may be limited or unavailable in remote areas. It is therefore advisable to carry sufficient Nepalese rupees before travelling beyond the main cities. 

Nepal is generally a welcoming destination for visitors, and most travellers enjoy trouble-free journeys when they take sensible precautions. As in any country, keep valuables secure in busy markets and tourist areas, use reliable transport, and follow your guide’s advice during sightseeing, road travel and outdoor activities. 

Political demonstrations and local disruptions can occur from time to time. Guests should avoid crowds, demonstrations and political gatherings, and follow the advice of local authorities and their guide. Weather conditions, particularly during the monsoon, can affect road travel and trekking routes. Guests travelling to remote areas should confirm local conditions before departure. 

For trekking and remote-area travel, appropriate fitness, careful acclimatisation, suitable insurance and an experienced guide are important. We monitor local conditions and will advise of any itinerary changes required for guests’ safety and comfort. 

Tipping is not compulsory in Nepal, but it is a thoughtful way to show appreciation for good service. It is common to tip guides, drivers, porters, hotel staff and restaurant staff, particularly when they have contributed positively to your journey. 

The amount is entirely at your discretion and should reflect your satisfaction with the service received. Guests who wish to thank an individual staff member for particularly good service may offer a tip directly and discreetly. At restaurants, please check whether a service charge has already been included in the bill before leaving an additional tip. 

Your Dharma Adventures guide can provide practical advice on customary tipping for your specific itinerary, including trekking and group travel. 

Nepal uses 220–240V electricity. Most phones, laptops, cameras and chargers work with this voltage, so you will usually only need a universal travel adapter. 

Check your charger label. If it says “100–240V,” it is safe to use in Nepal. If it says 110–120V only, it cannot handle Nepal’s voltage, so you need a voltage converter.

A power bank and spare camera batteries are useful, especially for trekking or travel to remote areas where charging may be limited. Keep power banks and spare lithium batteries in your hand luggage when flying. 

Wi-Fi is available at most hotels, restaurants and cafés in Kathmandu, Pokhara and other main tourist destinations. Mobile internet is also widely available in towns and cities through local SIM cards and eSIM services. 

Internet access may be slower or less reliable in remote areas and during trekking. Some mountain lodges offer Wi-Fi or mobile data, often at an additional cost, but the connection can be limited due to weather, altitude and local power supply. Guests travelling to remote areas should be prepared for occasional periods without internet access. 

In an emergency, please contact your assigned Dharma Adventures guide or the 24-hour emergency contact number provided in your travel documents. Your guide can arrange immediate support and coordinate with local services where necessary. 

For urgent assistance in Nepal, the main emergency numbers are: 

Police: 100  

Ambulance: 102  

Tourist Police: 1144  

Keep your travel-insurance details and insurer’s 24-hour emergency assistance number with you at all times. In remote areas with limited network coverage, inform your guide, lodge staff or the nearest local authority as soon as communication is available.