Travel Notices

NepalNepal

Traveling to Nepal holds a mystical allure for seekers of spiritual enlightenment or the world's highest summit. Take a scenic flight over 29,000-foot Mount Everest, explore Buddhist and Hindu temples, then come down to earth in the winding alleys of Kathmandu, the capital of this ancient kingdom. The aroma of colorful spices and the clang of cymbals intoxicate.

Highlights

  1. Kathmandu 

    Durbar Sqaure, KathmanduAs the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu is a melting pot of culture, history, and tradition paired with modernity. The city offers many things to see and do; it’s impossible to name them all! So, we picked a few places you’ll want to check out during your visit. The palatial complex of Bhaktapur Durbar Square showcases stunning art and design from past centuries. Enter through the Golden Gate, and admire its intricate architectural detailing of supernatural creatures. See the famous 55 Window Palace. If you happen to be in Nepal during the festival season, you must spend some time in Kathmandu! Immerse yourself in tradition and prepare to party during the colorful celebration of Holi, the Festival of Colors. Watch the night sky light up from thousands of glimmering candles during Diwali, the Festival of Lights.

  2. Mount Everest Flyover

    View of Himalayas from an airplaneIt’s the shortcut to the top! Experience a birds-eye view of the tallest mountain in the world, Mount Everest. The best time to go is early morning when the views are the clearest. Hop aboard a small plane and begin your ascent of over 30,000 feet. Listen as the flight attendant identifies the peaks you pass and points them out on your map. Look down upon the glaciers and lakes of the mountains, glistening amidst the sunrise. Witnessing the breathtakingly raw, natural beauty of the Himalayas piercing the sky at dawn is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you will never forget!

  3. Boudhanath Stupa

    Boudhanath StupaLocated a short distance from Kathmandu lies Nepal’s largest stupa, Boudhanath. It’s impossible to miss this perfectly-proportioned monument, thanks to a gold Buddha that sits atop a massive dome. Nepalese prayer flags surround the shrine, blowing gently in the breeze. It’s lovely at night when colorful lights reflect against the whitewashed exterior, making the eyes of the Buddha even more mysterious. Admire the building’s ornate artwork, and reflect as you gaze upon the relics inside. Witness the procession of monks coming to pray at dawn or dusk.   

  4. Take a Street Food Tour 

    SekuwaThe Nepalese know how to cook! Whether you prefer hot and spicy or cool and refreshing, Nepal offers a variety of food that will please any palate. And what better way to get a taste of the local flavors than by taking an off-the-beaten-path street food tour? You’ll find that other Asian countries inspire Nepalese cuisine with an added flair. Wander down narrow alleys and sample freshly-made delicacies at stalls only known to locals. Try your hand at cooking an authentic Nepalese dish during a cooking class hosted by local women.

Fast Facts

Already booked on one of our packages to Nepal? See everything you need to know before you go.

Overview

Capital: Kathmandu
Population:  28.51 million
Currency: Nepalese rupee (NPR)
Languages: Nepali
Drives on the: Left
Time zone: NPT (UTC +5:45)

Entry requirements Please see our Entry Requirements page.
Staying Healthy

According to the Center for Disease control, there is no risk of malaria in Kathmandu. Before you go, consult your physician about inoculations against hepatitis, typhoid and tetanus. Disinfect and cover wounds with a bandage. 

Center for Disease Control
World Health Organization

Weather

Monsoons occur in Nepal between the months of June and September and often result in floods. Because of its elevation, most of Nepal is brisk with the highest elevations being quite cold. Trekkers will want to visit Nepal from October to November and March to April to avoid monsoons and snow. Nepal's autumn is generally better for viewing than the spring when the air is hazy, but spring is still worth a visit. 

Tipping

In Kathmandu and Pokhara restaurants only, tip 10% (if a service charge is not already on the bill). If you go trekking, tip porters and guides (consult with the trek organizer for the proper amount).

Money & Credit Cards

Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card while traveling.

Shopping

Shop for prayer wheels, tea bowls, religious paintings, Tibetan articles, bronze and copper items, shoulder bags, wooden masks and statues, sweaters, bamboo flutes, carpets, hats and caps, block prints, violins, woven cloths, used camping gear, Be aware that you cannot export precious stones, gold or silver. Small jewelry items may pass if you're wearing them, but it's still risky.

Electricity & Power Adapters

230 volts. Plugs C & D. You will need a voltage converter and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit.

Learn more about electrical standards around the world.

Cell Phones & Internet

Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or wifi? Read up on using your cell phone abroad and the top 5 ways to get Internet abroad.

Did you know?
  • More than 100,000 Sherpas (members of ethnic groups that are skilled in mountaineering) live in Nepal.
  • Nepalese dumplings are called Momos, and usually contain some type of meat or vegetable.
  • The Yeti is the Himalayan version of The Abominable Snowman, and continues to be a legend in Nepalese folklore.
  • If you’re suffering from any dental pain, you’ll want to stop at The Toothache Tree. Locals and visitors alike nail a coin to a piece of wood from the famous tree, Bangemudha, in hopes of getting relief.   
  • Nepal’s population of Royal Bengal tigers has increased within the past 10 years. 
  • Nepal is brimming with social enterprises that not only enhance tourists’ experiences, but also support local Nepalese citizens. “Seven Women” is just one great organization that offers everything from tours, to cooking and language classes, all while supporting disadvantaged Nepalese women.

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Tours & Packages

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Small Group Tour A Taste of India Summer Special
Unbeatable price for a bucket list journey: Savor India's Golden Triangle, from Delhi & Agra to the Taj Mahal & Jaipur; plus Nepal optional extension
from $1499 w/ Flights 8 days
per person, double occupancy*
Small Group Tour A Taste of India Winter Special
Savor India's Golden Triangle: Delhi, Agra & the Taj Mahal, then the pink city of Jaipur; plus Nepal optional extension
from $1799 w/ Flights 8 days
per person, double occupancy*
Small Group Tour Best of India
Delhi, Agra & the Taj Mahal, the pink city of Jaipur, two jungle safaris in Ranthambore & Varanasi; optional extension to Nepal
from $3099 w/ Flights from $2199 Tour Only 12 days
per person, double occupancy*

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* Advertised prices may include an "Instant Savings" discount and/or sale discount, available for a limited time. Prices reflect these discounts. Advertised prices are per person, based on double occupancy; single occupancy rooms may be available for an additional charge. Advertised prices are the best available based on the least expensive travel dates, departure city, and other options, and do not include optional excursions or other optional items. Your total price will vary based upon the dates, flights, and other options you select during the booking process. For packages including flights, prices include Airline Taxes, Fees & Sept. 11th Security Fee, but do not include excess baggage fees or advance seat reservations. Prices and availability subject to change. More about our prices.

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