Nepal: Eastern Himalayas explored, laterally

Tucked away in the Himalayan Mountains, this enchanting nation’s natural landscape is dominated by eight of the world’s tallest peaks, including the iconic Mount Everest. The sight of these soaring mountains is a magnet for mountaineers and trekkers, offering some of the greatest physical challenges and most scenic hikes on earth.

In addition to the numerous ambitious climbers who flock here to face the challenge of climbing this majestic peak, Nepal attracts large numbers of eco-tourists eager to experience this intriguing country’s virtually untouched natural wonders including verdant valleys, rushing rivers, blue lakes that originate in the Himalayas and lush subtropical forests home to a range of exotic wildlife. Nepal’s cultural landscape is just as diverse as its natural one, playing host to an array of distinct ethnic groups. Other popular highlights include: the capital city of Kathmandu with its exquisite temples and palaces; the sheer magnificence of Patan’s Golden Temple; Chitwan National Park, for its impressive scenery; and, of course, Bodnath, the nation’s most sacred Buddhist monument.

The diverse terrain of Nepal offers excellent opportunities for adventurous activities. Although mountain climbing and trekking are the most popular, there is also superb white water rafting on steep mountain rivers as well as elephant safaris or tiger tracking in the Royal Chitwan and Royal Bardia National Parks situated in the jungles of the Tarai belt.

Currency 

Local currency: Nepalese Rupee 
Symbol: रू 
ISO code: NPR 
Subunit: Paisa (1/100) 
Banknotes: रू5, रू10, रू20, रू50, रू100, रू500, रू1000 
Coins: रू1, रू2, रू5, रू10, रू20, रू50, रू100 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Limited 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Limited 
Diner’s club: Limited 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM 
Weekends: Limited hours in some locations 
Public Holidays: Yes (limited hours) 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 
Main airlines: Nepal Airlines, Himalaya Airlines 
International Airports: Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) 
Domestic Airports: Pokhara Airport, Bharatpur Airport, etc. 

Road: 
Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: No 

Bus: 
Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 
Railway system: Limited 
Subway System: No 

Water: 
Ferries: No 
Water taxis: No 
Leisure cruises: No 

Food and water safety: 
Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: No 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: Nepali cuisine offers a variety of flavors influenced by its diverse ethnic groups. Dal Bhat, a lentil soup served with rice and vegetable curry, is a staple. Momo, dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, are a popular street food. Other notable dishes include Sel Roti, a sweet, deep-fried rice bread, and Dhido, a traditional Nepali dish made from buckwheat or millet flour. 

Drinks: Chyang (traditional millet-based beer), Raksi (traditional distilled liquor), and Chiya (Nepali milk tea). 

Tipping: Tipping is not expected but appreciated, typically rounding up the bill. 

Annual rainfall: Varies 
Average temperature: 15°C 

Summer: 
Average highs: 25°C 
Average lows: 15°C 

Winter: 
Average highs: 20°C 
Average lows: 5°C 

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Nepal is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and favorable for trekking and outdoor activities. These seasons offer clear skies, stunning mountain views, and vibrant festivals. 

Spring and Summer 
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes 

Winter and Autumn 
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Internet cafes: Limited 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Limited 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Limited 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Limited 

Plug Type: Type C, Type D, Type M 
Voltage (V): 230 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.