Trekking in Nepal - a Holistic Guide

 

A paradise for adventure lovers around the globe, Nepal welcomes millions of adventure seekers through numerous activities. The country holds the snowy pinnacles, alluring landscape, Lakes, and Rivers along with the cultural touch with the tranquility of meditating souls with salient trekking in Nepal, which is the most popular outdoor excursion. The country is such a destination where several adventure tales are written.

Not all adventurous activities begin with tough planning, but simple and basic planning often guides the concrete goals. Trekking and Hiking activities in Nepal can be planned with a professional local company that offers jobs to the local guides and offers the best services along with transportation and accommodation management for the trekking from the very beginning, which begins upon your arrival at Kathmandu.

Nepal Trekking plan does not only escorts you to the Himalayan core but also takes you to the heart of indigenous culture, spiritual lifestyles and lets you an opportunity to experience remarkable hospitality. Why not getting such delighting experience by planning your Himalayan trekking in Nepal?

What is the most suitable time to trek in Nepal?

It depends on the trekking you are planning for or heading for. Nepal has got multiple trekking routes that suit throughout the year to hike, even in monsoon and winter. However, alpine trekking is often dependent upon the best time to treks, which generates the best Himalayan views, great walking weather, and reaches your intended destination with an exclusive experience.

March to May (Spring): Spring is the season when the flowers bloom, including the wild species. As most of the trekking trails go through the National Park and conservation areas, the entire region looks incredibly precious. It is one of the most popular trekking seasons in Nepal with crystal clear Himalayan views, colorful green hillsides, sunny skies, and a favorable temperature. However, most of the popular trekking routes will be crowded in spring.

September to November (Autumn): Autumn is the most popular trekking season in Nepal. It is also a festival time, which is highly favorable to explore the picturesque sceneries, towering peaks in sunny weather. Days are warm and nights remain cold. Exploration of the festivals along with walking in the mild temperature days are key features of the excursions in autumn.

December to February (Winter): Winter is a favorable time for trekking in the moderate trail, reaching up to 4000 meters altitude. In the Himalayan region, there will be snowfall in winter, so the adventurous trails become ultra-challenging, which is suitable for real thrill-seekers. However, trekking in Nepal in winter is great as the trails become empty and you will get enough space.

June-August (Monsoon):  For trekking, the monsoon is not regarded a suitable season in Nepal. However, there are some Himalayan rain shadow areas like Mustang and Dolpo region, which are great regions to trek in the monsoon.

Tea House Trekking Vs Camping Trekking

In the recent context, almost all the popular trekking trails in Nepal are facilitated with lodges, hotels, and tea houses. You don't need to carry huge stuff for the camping sets, which saves your budget and heavy schedule in the trip. To be specific, the trekking trails in the Everest region, Annapurna region, Langtang region, Mustang region, and Manaslu region are equipped with the lodging and fooding variations. They provide basic and neat accommodation, warm dining halls, hygiene meals, and comfortable rooms. In some destinations, you will also find upgraded accommodation facilities.

However, there are some trails in the far remote regions, which are comfortable with camping accommodations like the Dolpo region, Makalu region, and Kanchenjunga region. It is due to the isolated parts and not busy trails like others, so better to do camping treks.

Local Trekking Agencies in Kathmandu arrange both camping and tea house trekking throughout Nepal. Find the best one with a huge field experience.

Popular Trekking Routes and Destinations in Nepal

Thousands of international trekkers explore various trekking routes and destinations of Nepal every year. For half of the years, most of the trekking trails become crowded, including Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu, and others. Some of the moderate trails and lower altitude trekking routes remain busy almost throughout the year. Let's have an overlook of some of the popular lodge-based trekking in Nepal.

Everest Base Camp Trekking

·         Everest Base Camp Trekking consists of two weeks itinerary, including a couple of rest and acclimatization days.

·         It is adventurous trekking, which is suitable for the adventure seekers with breathtaking Himalayan views.

·         Spring and autumn is the best time to explore the brilliant sceneries and trekking with the perfect weather condition.

·       EBC trekking is an epic excursion, which begins from Lukla and leads to Everest base camp via Namche Bazaar. Kalapatthar is the ultimate point of trekking, which offers the dramatic sceneries of the Everest region peaks.

Annapurna Circuit Trekking

•         The adventurous Annapurna Circuit Trekking consists of about 14-15 days itinerary. However, the itinerary can be customized.

• The best time to trek on the Annapurna Circuit trail is from March to May and September to November.

•          The trek begins from Chamje/Dharapani and concludes in Nayapul. However, you can conclude the trek at Jomsom and fly further to Pokhara. The Thorong-La Pass (5416 meters) is the most challenging section of trekking.

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking

•          The moderate Annapurna Base Camp Trekking has got about 12 days itinerary and a week itinerary, based on the longer and shorter routes.

• The best time to trek on the ABC route includes spring, autumn, and winter. However, trekking in winter can become pretty much challenging.

•          Annapurna base camp trekking begins from Nayapul and leads you to the natural amphitheater at 4130 meters via Ghorepani Poon Hill. However, the shorter the itinerary starts from Jhinu all the way to ABC, offering the breathtaking views of Mount Annapurna, Fishtail, and the surrounding peaks.

·         Mardi Himal Trek

MMardi Himal Trekking includes about 6-7 trekking days

·         A moderate trekking in the Annapurna region, Mardi Himal Trek is also known as an alternative trek to Annapurna Base Camp.

·         The trek begins from Kande, after driving about an hour from Pokhara and leads through the isolated trail, continually to the Mardi Himal Base Camp, which is located at about 4500 meters altitude.

·         The best time for trekking in spring, autumn, and winter. It is one of the most fascinating trails in Nepal.

Everest Three Passes Trek

•          Having almost 18-21 days itinerary, Everest Three Passes Trek brings back the bundle of adventure tales, crossing over three breathtaking Himalayan passes- Renjo-La Pass, Cho-La Pass, and Khongma- La Pass.

•          March to May and September to November are the brilliant seasons for the trekking over Everest Three Passes, including Everest Base Camp.

•          Everest Three Passes Trek embarks from Lukla, escorts you via Namche Bazaar, crosses the three passes, including the Gokyo valley-Everest Base Camp-Kalapatthar, and back to Lukla through the Sherpa highlands, offering the stunning Himalayan sceneries of the Everest region.

Langtang Valley Trek

•          The duration of Langtang Valley Trek is from 7-10 days, but it depends on the routes.

•          Technically, Trek to Langtang Valley is a moderate journey

• the best time to trek begins from March to May and September to November. However, due to the moderate trail, the trek can be also done in December-February, which can be more challenging than the usual time.

•          Explore the Tibetan Buddhist-influenced ethnic trail of the Langtang valley, beginning from Syaphrubesi, it leads you to the Langtang valley Kyanjin Gompa, which was once described as the most beautiful valley in the world at 3800 meters altitude. On the day hike from Kyanjin Gompa, the ultimate height can be up to 5000 meters, which is called Tserko Ri.

Manaslu Circuit Trek

•          The adventurous Manaslu Circuit Trek consists of a 16-18 days itinerary, beginning from Soti Khola of the Manaslu region and ending in the Annapurna region.

• The best time to trek on the restricted Manaslu region is from March to May and September to November.

•          Larke-La Pass (5200 meters) is the most challenging section of the trek.

•          Manaslu Trekking takes you to the heart of the Tibetan Buddhist culture and communities along with the rich biodiversity of woods and hills, snow-capped Himalayas (Mount Manaslu- 8156 meters is the 7th highest peak in the world). Combining Tsum valley in the trek can be further enticing, but it adds about a week. 

Gokyo Lake Trek

•          Gokyo Lake Trek is about a 10-12 days excursion, which is a moderately adventurous journey.

•          The best time to trek to Gokyo Lake is from March to May and September to November.

•          Gokyo Lake Trek begins from Lukla, guides through Namche Bazaar, and diverts towards the Gokyo valley, leaving the crowded Everest base camp route. Hiking towards the Gokyo-Ri is a rewarding trip to explore the regal sceneries of Mt. Everest, Makalu, Lhotse, and the neighboring peaks.

Upper Mustang Trek

•          Upper Mustang Trek includes a 10-12 Days itinerary, beginning from Jomsom- the district center of the Mustang region.

•          The trek is a moderate journey in the semi-arid region.

•          The best season includes March-May, September-November, and even monsoon (June-August) as it lies in the Himalayan rain shadow area.

•          Upper Mustang trek is a combination of the Tibetan Buddhist cultural affluence, some of the globally renowned festivals, picturesque landscape, and the magnificent Himalayan range. Unlike other trekking trails, Upper Mustang trekking can be done in the monsoon too with the restricted area permits. Combining Muktinath is a perfect form of the trip.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

•          The lower altitude trek- Ghorepani Poon Hill excursion ranges from 3-5 trekking days.

• the best time to trek includes March-May and September to November. However, trekking can be done throughout the year.

•          The trek is a slightly moderate trek, which is suitable for the family groups too.

•          Those that look short and sweet trekking in the lower Annapurna region, Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek is the best option. It starts from Nayapul, leads to Poon Hill (3210 meters), which is the best Himalayan viewpoint of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri Himalayan range. The culturally impressive Ghandruk village is another attraction in the trek. 

Trekking Trail Difficulty in Nepal

There are various trekking trails in Nepal, ranging from easy, moderate to adventurous route options. Some trails are easy that do not require strong physical fitness. Even the moderate trail is quite easy to deal with. However, adventurous trekking requires physical fitness, acclimatization, which makes the trekking easy to complete. Adventurous Trekking in Nepal often leads to a higher altitude, above 4000 meters.

The easy trekking list includes Ghorepani Poon Hill Trekking, Dhampus Sarangkot Trekking and others. The moderate trekking includes Annapurna Base Camp Trekking, Upper Mustang Trekking, Everest View Trekking, Mardi Himal Trekking, Pikey Peak Trekking, Langtang Valley Trekking, and others. The adventurous trekking includes Everest base camp trekking, Everest three pass trekking, Everest Gokyo Lake Trekking, Upper Dolpo Trekking, and many more trips.

Unlike easy and moderate trekking, adventurous trekking requires much more energy and also important to adapt to the soaring alpine altitude, which is also known as the thin air region. However, trekking with guide and porters help to make the trek successful. But, even adventurous trekking does not require climbing equipment, unless you are trekking in winter.

Independent Trekking Vs Guided Trekking

There are trekking trails in Nepal with fewer signals, but still, people can do independent trekking by following the groups and meeting other solo trekkers. But, sometimes you might not get proper information along the trail, which might misguide you and the result can be out of imagination. However, you can do independent trekking with good preparation of researching about the trails, having good maps, challenges, trail options, and side trips.

Guided Trekking is always amazing for many reasons. They are well trained in mountain safety, acclimatization, trekking management and lead to the ultimately intended destinations with exciting memories.

·         Licensed trekking guides are helpful in every problem of the trekkers

·         Guides manage the duration of walking, stops, lunch breaks, and side attractions

·         Well management of transportation (ground and flight)

·         Proper information about trekking gears and acclimatization

·         Sometimes, the accommodation should be booked in advance, which guided trekking manages well

·         Cultural information about some native groups, ethnic people, and communities

·         Well management about first-aid equipment

·         Paperwork and permits management required for the trekking

·         Porters carry your loads in guided trekking

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Cost for Hiring Guides and Porters

A good, professional and experienced trekking guide is available at about 30 USD cost per day and porter around 15 USD per day. Please make sure the guide, who will lead your excursion in Nepal Himalayas is government authorized, trained, and got good knowledge about trekking activities, routes, and altitude problems.

Porters in the Himalayas carry your belongings and make your journey simple and easy. You will be equipped with your belongings that are needed in the mountain. Please remember, you need enough warm stuff, trekking equipment, and more. Trekking with guides and porters can be a lifetime experience for your group. At the same time, they are getting jobs.

Tipping for Guide and Porters

Tipping is general in trekking and mountaineering activities in Nepal. But, there are not any specific criteria about how much should you tip to the guides and porters you hire for trekking in Nepal. Of course, a tip is expected, but it all depends on you.

How to find a good guide for trekking?

You can read out some recommendations about guides. However, Arjun Nepal from Shiva Excursion can be your best choice. He has got more than a decade of Himalayan experience leading thousands of trekkers from Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu, Dolpo, Kanchenjunga and other regions of Nepal. He is currently working on Shiva Excursion, he is highly professional, comfortable, knowledgeable, and has got good language confidence.

While Booking through Trekking Companies

Glad, you are about to book your trekking plan to Nepal and you are going through the company. But, please check out the profile of the company before booking, about their teamwork, reviews, authorization, and information. Through the websites, you can also check out the legal papers of each trekking company in Nepal. Just make sure, you are trekking through the authorized trekking company in Nepal.

Also, it's highly recommended that you book your trekking through the local trekking agency of Nepal, which promotes employment to the local guides, the use of local resources, and more.

Shiva Excursion has been operating several trekking trips in all parts of Nepal every year with a professional team of guides and porters. They are a team of trekking enthusiasts and once you book the trip with them, your worries are gone.

Which is better- Group Trekking or Solo Trekking?

Trekkers do have their individual opinion about doing solo or group trekking.

Solo trekking is suitable for people who look for more space, isolation and would love to meditate in the Himalayas. Solo trekkers often enjoy exploring the destinations and customize the itinerary as they want even during the trekking. The entire trekking activities depend on a single decision in solo trekking. Solo trekking is also completely safe in Nepal, but it can be a bit costly than traveling in a group.

Group trekking is much more organized. All the itineraries are set by the company and the team members are subject to follow them. The schedules are fixed and guided by professional guides and porters. The teamwork can be always excellent, where people can enjoy storytelling, sharing cultural information, and laugh and explore together.

Food and Accommodation

As abovementioned, almost all the trekking trails are facilitated with the tea house options in Nepal trekking. Tea houses offer food and accommodation options in most of the trekking trails.

Abundant cuisines are available in the menus in mountain lodges. The typical meal- Dal Bhat (rice/lentil/curry), Indian meals, Chinese items, and continental dishes are included in the menus, no matter you are hiking in Annapurna, Langtang, Everest, Manaslu, and other regions. The restaurants along the trekking trails serve meals along with fruits and juices.

The most popular dishes during the trekking include Dal Bhat, momo dumplings, pasta, soups, pizza, and other items. You can't expect the meals in mountains like the meals you have in your cities, but they do not let you miss your place with mouth-watering dishes.

Having warm meals, mixed with garlic and ginger is amazing adapting to the higher altitude while walking in the Himalayan region.  

The cost of meals increase the higher you move. It is because transportation is not easy in the mountain, which is accessible by yak, donkey, and flight.

Once you trek through the Local Trekking agency in Nepal, you do have a couple of options. If you book the whole trip, meals and accommodation plans are included or if you book with a guide porter and permits plan, you need to pay for every meal stops, for which you need to bring cash. Our recommendation is you book the whole package and get free from the burden of carrying cash with you and enjoy the trip.

Accommodation varies according to destinations. From general to the five-star hotels are available in the major cities of Nepal, whereas mountain trekking destinations are facilitated with lodges and hotels that basically serve people with hot showers, warm dining halls, and clean beds. You may have to pay extra for the services like hot showers, mobile charging, wifi connection, and further services.

However, the Everest region is quite facilitated with upgraded lodges and hotels, along with mountain five-star hotels.

Trekking Map and Guide Book

If you are booked with the local trekking agency in Nepal, you will get the trekking map from them. Even you can find the trekking map and guide book in the book stores of Kathmandu (Thamel). The guidebook mentions the major attractions, side trips, recommended restaurants, lodges and guest houses, and more. While trekking in the mountain, the guidebook mentions the altitude, viewpoints, and views along with the local cultural information.

Water in Nepal Trekking

There are a couple of ways about drinking water in Nepal The Himalayas. In many trekking regions, you can buy mineral water bottles, but they are usually much more expensive than you buy them in the cities.

As you will be in the mountain, you have a second option to getting water. You can bring purifying pills or liquids to drink the water from nature. It is a better option and the cheapest one because you should drink plenty of water while walking, especially at the alpine altitude, which increases your adaptation level. Do not get dehydrated during trekking in Nepal.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is an essential part of trekking in Nepal. Some of the adventurous trekking leads you above 5000 meters altitude and the risk of getting altitude sickness along with other factors are possible to happen and there are no facilitated hospitals in the mountain region. In this case, helicopter evacuation is required and travel insurance helps you to get out of these adverse situations.

Note: after the global pandemic of Covid-19 (coronavirus), the Nepal government has made it mandatory to do COVID insurance of a minimum of 5000 USD. Unless further notice comes, this is an unavoidable condition.

Required Paperwork (TIMS and Permits)

Some of the paperwork is required to go for the trekking in Nepal as almost all the trails go through the National Parks and Conservation Areas.  There are two ways of obtaining permits- independently or through the agencies.

If you are heading trekking in Nepal independently, you need to visit the authorized institution. You can get trekking permits from the Nepal Tourism Board of Kathmandu and Pokhara. Permits should be obtained before the trekking. However, some permits can be obtained at the entrance of the trekking.

Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit

Annapurna Conservation Area Entry Permit

Langtang National Park Entry Permit

Manaslu Conservation Area Entry Permit

Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit

Rara National Park Entry Permit

Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit

Kanchenjunga National Park Entry Permit

Usually, the National Park and Conservation Area entry permits costs to fall between 20-30 USD, according to your trekking destinations.

Restricted Area Trekking Permits

There are some of the restricted regions of Nepal that limit travelers and trekkers by asking for special travel permits. To travel or trekking in such restricted regions, you need to obtain permits through the registered trekking agencies of Nepal and go with guided trekking.

The Manaslu Region

The Naru Phu Valley

The Tsum Valley

The Upper Mustang Region

The Dolpo Region

The Kanchenjunga Region

Humla

Restricted area trekking permits can be obtained from the immigration department of Nepal by submitting the original passport, cost, and required papers. The permits cost from 25 USD to 500 USD, based on the regions.

TIMS Card

Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) issues a TIMS card (Trekkers Information Management System) that is required for many trekking destinations. Trekking in Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu, and other regions trekking require a TIMS card. In recent days, Everest trekking does not require a TIMS card after the municipality managed a local pass, which costs around 20 USD, although it is still in dispute. If you are trekking through the agency, it arranges a TIMS card.

Transportation in Nepal Trekking

Nepal has got land and air transportation. By this time, tourists can arrive in Nepal either by taking a flight to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. Or, taking a drive from India.

To be honest, Nepal has got comparatively poor roadways, and transportation in the remote parts of Nepal, it's much more challenging. Transportation in major cities and highways is facilitated with luxurious car/bus/jeep. From Kathmandu, you will get transportation services to your targeted destinations.

However, many parts of Nepal are still difficult to access through the roadways, and some are still untouched. For example, if you want to go to the Everest base camp trekking, you need to fly to Lukla from Kathmandu and begin your excursion. However, due to the weather condition, flight cancellation is usual and can happen anytime.

Money

Most of the trekking routes in Nepal are remotely located, which goes far beyond the mainstream parts. So, you don’t get access to ATM and banks in remote areas.

You can exchange your foreign currency in the major towns of Nepal like Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, and the trekking gateways like Nayapul (Annapurna region), Syaphrubesi (Langtang region), Lukla and Namche Bazaar (Everest region), Aarughat (Manaslu region). ATM facility has been extended in various parts, which help trekkers to get rid of the cash-carrying burden.

If you book trekking from the trekking agency in Nepal, the guide manages the cost required for the trekkers. You just need to care for the extra expenses that are not included in the package. So, it's not a burden at all.

However, if you are trekking independently, you need to carry cash for all your expenses. The daily costs for meals and accommodation come around 30 USD. You need extra transportation and extra expenses like using wifi, hot showers, beers, and bakery items.

 

Phone and Internet Wifi connection in Nepal Trekking

International roaming can be used in Nepal from your sim card. Access to a Nepali sim card is an easy way to be in connection and at the same time, internet connection has been extended in many parts of Nepal, so phone and internet connection have become quite easy.

There are various telecom companies in Nepal, which offer SIM cards that work throughout Nepal. Among them, Nepal Telecom and NCELL connection are popular ones. Even these SIM cards work in many rural parts of the country. However, in some isolated parts, high altitude regions and gorge parts may not support the connections as you expect. You can buy internet data packages from the plan, which is better and relatively cheap.

Internet connection has been extended throughout Nepal, which has gone extremely spreading after the COVID crisis as many things ran through online. In cities, you will find strong internet connection and WIFI, whereas, in the mountain region, it's comparatively weak. But, still, you can use a WIFI connection. But, you need to pay extra to use WIFI.

Post Coronavirus (COVID-19) Conditions

The global pandemic of coronavirus (COVID-19) has turned out a devastating scenario in travel and trekking throughout the world and also in Nepal. Trekking tours and mountaineering became the first scene, which was terribly affected by the travel ban and the fear of spreading disease.

The adventure souls around the world had to be confined in their own places canceling their travel plans. So is the case in the Everest base camp trek, which remained empty for almost a year, and finally, Nepal has started to welcome trekkers completing the safety protocols for the tourism activities.

In several stages, the government of Nepal changed its policies to welcome trekkers around the globe. First, it made a mandatory rule to stay in quarantine for 2 weeks, then to 1 week and it's being revised. The introduction of the COVID vaccinations brought a new paradigm to defeat coronavirus and people start to travel again.

The season of 2021 has started to welcome trekkers steadily and it is expected to increase in the upcoming days.

Responsible Trekking in Nepal and Cultural Issues

·         No trash, please. Leave only your footmarks

·         Use less canned and plastic-wrapped things

·         Drink purified water (UV sterilizer, treatment pills), instead of buying mineral water bottles

·         In some communities, wearing short clothes is not regarded well. Just to respect them, please, wear proper dress.

·         Tongue kiss in public is taken as a violation of local rules. Do it in a private space

·         Do not wear shoes and sandals while visiting the temple

·         Always spin the prayer wheels clockwise

·         Ask permission to take pictures

 Safety in Nepal Trekking

It is important to understand the geographical condition, altitude, and challenges before heading for trekking in Nepal. Walking in the remote parts should be handled properly preparing about the safety measures and information.

-           Know about the geographical conditions of your trekking area

-           Know how to adapt to the soaring altitude and the way to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

-           Drink plenty of water, stay hydrated

-           Make sure your insurance covers helicopter evacuation as there are no facilitated hospitals in the mountains and you need to rescued by helicopter in case you have some problems

-           It's better to take at least a guide because it can be risky to trek alone in many parts of Nepal as the trekking trails go through the national parks and conservation areas

-           Be updated with the weather conditions. Sometimes, it can be risky to head ahead during the heavy snowfall and you may get a loss

-           Don’t carry too much stuff to the mountain

-           Note your important number and email address along with your local number if you have

-           Always let any animals pass through without any disturbances and take a side onside the cliff (you meet yaks/horses/donkeys often during the trekking in Nepal The Himalayas)

-           Do not drink water directly from nature, always use purifying tabs and drink natural water

-           Be careful while passing through the stone falling zone and landslides area

 

High Altitude Trekking and Safety Issue

Adventure trekking in Nepal leads above 4000 meters and this elevation holds enough risk of catching Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), which is also known as high altitude sickness. It is not a big problem if you respond it once you receive the symptoms, otherwise, it can be a big issue against your adventure dream.

Acclimatization is the best way to beat high altitude sickness. It helps you to adapt to the soaring altitude in the thin air region. For example, if you are heading to Everest Base Camp Trekking, Namche Bazaar will be your first breakpoint for rest and acclimatization, which is located at an altitude of 3440 meters.

·         Some of the symptoms of acute mountain sickness:

·         Symptoms like dizzying and dehydration or even vomiting

·         Feeling unexpectedly tiredness

·         Having insomnia and other symptoms

Follow some procedures to avoid High Altitude Sickness:

·         Trek high, sleep low

·         Have warm meals with soup

·         Drink tea/coffee

·         Have a soup, mixed with ginger

Nepal Visa Information (Source: Nepal Immigration Department)

Tourist Visa

Tribhuvan International Airport is the only international airport in Nepal. Immigration Office, TIA (Tribhuvan International Airport) under the Department of Immigration has been facilitating tourists flying to Nepal by providing visas on Arrival. The 'On Arrival' visa procedure is very quick and simple. You can expect some queues during peak Tourist season. If you wish to skip those queues, you can also consider getting Visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions stationed abroad prior to your arrival. The choice is yours.

 If you have obtained a visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions, then you must enter Nepal within six months from the visa issued date. Your total stay is counted starting from the day you enter into Nepal.

Visas obtained on Arrival at the Entry and Exit points are 'Tourist Visas'.  They bear multiple Re entry facilities. Tourist Visa 'On Arrival' is the only entry visa to Nepal. If you are visiting Nepal for purposes other than Tourism (sightseeing, tour, travel, mountaineering, trekking, visiting friends and families), you should still get a ' Tourist Visa' to get into the country.  However, you must change the category of visa as per your purpose and length of stay in Nepal from the Department of Immigration by producing required documents.

Nationals of following countries are requested to acquire Visa prior to their arrival from their nearby Diplomatic missions (Embassies/consulates) of Nepal Government. 

Nigeria

Ghana

Zimbabwe

Swaziland

Cameroon

Somalia

Liberia

Ethiopia

Iraq

Palestine

Afghanistan

Syria

Refugees with travel document

Please follow these simple procedures for Tourist Visa on Arrival at the airport (TIA) if you have not acquired Visa prior to boarding the plane. 

1^st Step

Fill in Arrival Card'

Fill in OnlineTourist Visa ‘form ( you can fill it up  prior to your arrival  visiting our official website  Department of Immigration / fill it up using Kiosk machines upon your arrival at the airport).  If you fill it from the website, you will get a submission Receipt with a barcode, please print it out and bring it along for acquiring a visa. It works for fifteen days and becomes invalid then after.  If so, you will have to fill it up again.

2^nd Step 

Make payment at the bank according to your visa requirement ( 15/30/90 Days)

Get the receipt

While you can use different modes of payments (at visa fees collection counter), we advise you to carry some cash to be on the safe side.

On Arrival Visa Fee at Entry Points

15 Days – 30 USD

30 Days – 50 USD

90 Days – 125 USD

3rd Step 

Proceed to the Immigration Desk with your online form,  payment receipts and your passport

Hand in your documents to immigration officer for visa processing. He/she issues a visa to you upon his/her satisfaction.

Visa Extension Fee

Tourist visa the extension is done for a minimum of 15 days with USD 45 and USD 3 per day for additional days.

In the case of delay less than 150 days additional USD 5 per day as of late fine.

Gratis Visa (Visa for Free)

Gratis Visa is issued free of cost in case of the following categories of Visa applicants:

Children below 10 years except for US citizens

Up to 30 days for SAARC Citizen (except Afghanistan) visiting Nepal for the first time in a given visa Year.  Afghan citizen is eligible for Gratis Visa on Arrival only upon the recommendation of the Department of Immigration. If you are an Afghan citizen, you can request concerned institution inviting you to Nepal for necessary paperwork with the Department of Immigration to get you Gratis Visa 'On Arrival'.

Non Residential Nepalese (NRN) card holder ( issued by MoFA /Nepalese diplomatic missions abroad)

Chinese Nationals

Officials from China, Brazil, Russia, and Thailand do not need Entry Visa based on reciprocal visa waiver Agreement

Visas of all kinds including ‘Gratis’ issued at the Airport are Tourist Visas. Contact the Department of Immigration for extending your visa or changing the category of your visa. Tourist Visa extension can be done from Immigration Office, Pokhara too. Non-tourist visa extension can be done only at Department of Immigration (if eligible) for a period of a maximum of one year (except business visa).