Nepal travel tips for first-timers: what to know

Nepal isn’t just about the mountains—though, of course, they’re hard to ignore. What really makes it stand out is the mix of people, culture, and landscapes. With over 100 ethnic groups, each with their own languages and traditions, it’s like a patchwork of cultures. From the jungles in the south to the snowy peaks in the north, here are the Nepal travel tips you should know while planning your trip.

When is the best time to visit Nepal?

Nepal has pretty distinct seasons, so when you go can really shape the type of trip you take. October to November is a popular time—it’s post-monsoon, so the air tends to be clearer, the temperatures are comfortable (around 60–77°F / 15–25°C), and it’s a good time to hit the trails if you’re planning to trek.

March to May is another good window. The weather’s still warm and it’s less crowded, plus you’ll see rhododendrons in bloom. Just know the views might be a little hazier than in the fall.

From June through September, it’s monsoon season. That means heavy rain, muddy trails, and a good chance of landslides, especially in the mountains. If you’re hoping for clear views or smooth travel days, this stretch can be tricky.

If you’re planning to visit national parks like Chitwan or Bardia, spring and fall tend to be the best times to see wildlife. Animals are more active and easier to spot when the weather’s not too hot or wet. For more thorough info, see our guide to the best time to visit Nepal.

Is Nepal expensive?

Nepal isn’t too expensive. Compared to nearby countries like Bhutan and Tibet, it’s pretty affordable. Even compared to India, day-to-day costs are often lower. Of course, this depends mostly on what you plan on doing during your trip. 

• Budget (NPR 2,500–4,000 / $20–30 per day): If you’re staying in basic guesthouses, eating simple meals like dal bhat, and getting around on public buses or shared jeeps, it’s easy to keep your costs low. Trekking on this budget usually means teahouses and carrying your own pack.
• Mid-range (NPR 4,000–8,000 / $30–60 per day): This range covers comfortable stays with hot showers and Wi-Fi, a mix of local and restaurant meals, and occasional private transport. It’s what most independent travelers tend to spend.
• High-end (NPR 15,000+ / $120+ per day): If you’re planning to stay in upscale hotels in places like Kathmandu or Pokhara, hire private guides, or take a helicopter ride to a remote area, things can add up. The same goes for safari-style stays in the jungle or fully supported treks with porters and nicer accommodation. 

Is Nepal safe for travelers?

Nepal is generally a low-stress place to visit, especially when it comes to safety. Violent crime targeting tourists is rare, and most locals are friendly and protective toward travelers. What you’ll want to watch out for are environmental risks — things like altitude sickness in high-altitude regions, winding roads where traffic can be unpredictable, and landslides during the monsoon season.

In Kathmandu,Thamel can get crowded, and that’s where petty theft is more likely. Just keep your bag zipped and don’t flash valuables.

Most solo female travelers say they feel comfortable here. That said, you might get some unwanted attention in the cities — it’s more annoying than threatening, but it helps to stay aware. If you're planning to trek, go with a guide or group, register your route with a local permit office, and carry a basic first aid kit. It's not about being overly cautious — it just makes things smoother.

Avoiding trekking scams

Trekking in Nepal is a big draw, but not every guide or agency is legit. In recent years, some unlicensed guides have started selling cheap packages that seem like a deal upfront but end up cutting corners — with bad equipment, hidden fees, or guides who don’t have proper training or insurance.

To avoid that, check if the company is registered with the Trekking Agencies' Association of Nepal (TAAN). Ask about your guide’s qualifications, and don’t be afraid to dig into the details. If something sounds too cheap, there's usually a reason.

Get everything in writing — what’s included (like meals, accommodation, permits) and what isn’t. A reliable company should be upfront about emergency plans, guide ID, and how cancellations work. People handing out deals on the street in Thamel often disappear as fast as they show up.

Understanding Nepal’s laws

Nepal’s laws can be strict in ways that aren’t always obvious. Drugs are a good example — marijuana might be easy to find in some places, but it's still illegal and can lead to long prison sentences.

Religious and cultural sites are taken seriously here. Dress modestly at temples, follow posted rules, and always ask before taking photos.

A few other things to keep in mind:

• Drones: You need a permit from the Civil Aviation Authority to fly one, and there are big restrictions around airports, temples, and national parks.
• Wildlife products: Don’t buy anything made from endangered animals — that includes souvenirs. It’s illegal to export and comes with serious fines.
• Cultural items: You can’t take anything over 100 years old out of the country without special permission.
• Same-sex relationships: Legal since 2007, but public displays of affection — by any couple — might draw attention, especially in smaller towns.

Do I need a visa for Nepal?

Most people do, but it’s a pretty simple process. You can get a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or any land border. Just bring a passport photo and some US dollars in cash. It’s $30 for 15 days, $50 for 30, or $125 for 90 days. The line can get long during busy times, but it’s usually straightforward. There’s also an e-visa you can fill out online before your trip—it speeds things up a bit, but you’ll still need to pay and get it stamped when you arrive.

Staying longer

If you're planning to stay past 90 days, you’ll need to visit the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu to extend your visa. You can stay up to 150 days total in a calendar year. Extensions cost $3 a day, plus a small service fee. Bring your passport, passport photos, and the filled-out form. It usually takes a day or two to process. If you’re staying longer for school, work, or volunteering, you’ll need a different type of visa and some extra paperwork—like sponsor letters or official documents related to your plans.

What happens if I overstay my visa?

There’s a daily fine if you overstay—$5 a day for the first month, and it goes up after that. When you leave, you’ll need to go to the immigration office, pay the fine, and explain the situation. If you’ve overstayed by a lot, it might affect your chances of coming back. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on your visa dates and sort out any extensions ahead of time—especially around festivals, when offices might be closed or have shorter hours.

What cultural etiquette should I know before visiting Nepal?

There are a few things you'll want to know about Nepal culture and etiquette. Always take your shoes off before going into temples or sacred sites. Some Hindu temples don’t allow non-Hindus inside—there’s usually a sign, but if you’re unsure, just ask someone nearby. When walking around stupas or prayer wheels, go clockwise—that’s the traditional direction.

Even if you see tourists in tank tops or short shorts, it’s best to dress more conservatively—especially outside the cities or when visiting religious places. Covering your shoulders and knees is a good rule of thumb. Women in particular may want to avoid shorts unless they’re out trekking

If you want to photograph people—especially in rural areas or during ceremonies—it’s always a good idea to ask first. Some temples don’t allow photos at all, or they might charge a fee, so look out for signs or check in with someone nearby

In Nepal, people use their right hand for eating, giving, and receiving things. The left hand is usually kept for bathroom-related tasks, so it’s seen as unclean. When handing someone money, food, or anything else, use your right hand or both hands together—it's a small gesture, but it shows respect.
 

How can I stay healthy while traveling in Nepal?

If you’re trekking, altitude is the biggest thing to watch out for. Try not to climb more than about 500 meters (1,640 feet) per day once you’re above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). Drink plenty of water, pay attention to how your body feels, and don’t ignore symptoms like headaches or nausea. A slow pace helps. It’s also worth bringing water purification tablets or a filter bottle since tap water isn’t safe to drink.

Keeping your hands clean makes a big difference—especially before eating. Hand sanitizer is handy to have around. If you’re heading into the mountains, make sure your travel insurance includes emergency evacuation. Helicopter rescues are expensive and sometimes necessary.

Air pollution can get pretty bad in Kathmandu during winter, so you might want to wear a mask if you’re there that time of year. For more on this, be sure to check our Nepal health tips.

Are there any vaccinations needed for Nepal?

There aren’t any vaccines required unless you’re arriving from a country with yellow fever. Still, there are some recommended ones worth getting before you go:

• Hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus-diphtheria
• Japanese Encephalitis (if you’ll be in rural areas or staying a while)
• Rabies (especially if you’ll be trekking or staying longer-term)
• COVID-19 (check current guidelines before travel)

Altitude sickness prevention

Altitude sickness can affect anyone, no matter how fit they are. It usually starts with a headache, nausea, or trouble sleeping. If it gets worse and you keep climbing, it can become serious.

The best way to avoid it is to go slow. Spend a couple of nights at 2,500–3,000 meters (8,200–9,800 feet) before heading higher. Try to follow the “climb high, sleep low” rule, and include rest days every 1,000 meters (3,300 feet). Some people use Diamox to help prevent symptoms, but check in with your doctor before using it.
If you do feel sick, don’t keep climbing. Rest, or head down. Many reputable trekking guides carry oxygen or portable altitude chambers in case of emergency.

Food and water safety

Food safety can vary a lot. Some places are great, others not so much. A good general rule is: if it’s been cooked thoroughly or you can peel it, it’s probably fine. Dal bhat (lentils and rice) is a good go-to—hot, filling, and usually safe. Be a bit more cautious with meat, especially if there’s been a power cut and refrigeration is uncertain. A lot of travelers eat vegetarian during their trip.

Tap water isn’t safe to drink. Stick to sealed bottled water, or use tablets, a UV pen, or a solid filter. Teahouses along trekking routes usually sell boiled water you can use to refill bottles. Ice in tourist areas is often fine, but it’s worth asking before using it.

Is Nepal a good destination for families?

Nepal works well for families who want something different—something that feels like an adventure but is still manageable with kids. There’s more to it than just the mountains. You’ll find places where kids can see rhinos up close, explore ancient cities, and experience a culture that’s genuinely welcoming to families. 

The country’s small enough that you can see a variety of landscapes—jungle, hills, high mountains—without needing to take long, exhausting trips every day. It’s not a place where you just show up and wing it, but with a little prep, it can be a really memorable trip for everyone. Don't miss our guide to Nepal with kids.

Best family friendly destinations

The Kathmandu Valley is a good place to start. There’s a lot to see, but it’s all pretty close together. The Garden of Dreams is a nice break when the kids need to run around, and the Patan Museum has some hands-on exhibits that can keep them interested without being too much.

Pokhara has a slower pace. You’ve got a big lake with boats you can paddle around in, short hikes with mountain views, and a museum focused on climbing and the Himalayas that’s set up with kids in mind.

If you're curious about wildlife, Chitwan National Park has jeep safaris where you might spot rhinos and, if you're lucky, a tiger. Some people still do elephant rides, but that’s a personal call—more folks are choosing jeeps now.

If trekking in Nepal sounds fun, the Annapurna region has shorter routes like Ghorepani-Poon Hill that are doable for kids around 7 and up. You’ll get the mountain views without needing to go super high. For younger kids, the Everest region isn’t the best fit—altitude can hit hard, even for adults.

Essentials for parents

Packing takes a bit of thought. Bring any medications your kids might need—especially for things like altitude or stomach issues—since it’s hard to find those locally. Sunscreen, too—go for a high-quality one from home.

Clothes need to cover a lot of weather in one day, so quick-dry layers work best. Good shoes are key—sidewalks and paths can be uneven, and even in cities, you’ll be walking a lot.

In more remote areas, running water isn’t always a given, so hand sanitizer and wet wipes help. Roads are bumpy and travel can take longer than expected, so plan ahead with downloaded shows, games, or whatever keeps your kids occupied.

If you’ve got toddlers or preschoolers and want to hike, bring a proper child carrier. Strollers don’t get you very far outside the main cities. And don’t forget a few comfort items—familiar snacks or a favorite blanket can help with the adjustment, especially in homestays or simple teahouses where things are more basic.
 

How long do I need to spend in Nepal?

If you're struggling to pick how long your trip should be, often looking at a sample Nepal itinerary can help. Generally though, if it’s your first time heading to Nepal, 10 to 14 days is usually enough. 

You’ll have time to explore the temples and backstreets of Kathmandu, relax by the lake in Pokhara, do a short trek in the Annapurna region, and maybe spend a couple of days in Chitwan checking out the wildlife. It’s a good mix of city life, mountain views, and nature without needing to rush. This route — Kathmandu, Pokhara, the Annapurna foothills, and Chitwan — is what most travelers stick to. It’s all relatively easy to get between and gives you a clear sense of how much variety there is in such a small area.

It's worth noting that time also works a little differently in Nepal. People aren’t glued to the clock, and things tend to move at their own pace. That can mean delays or last-minute changes, but it also opens the door to unexpected experiences. Rolling with it usually leads to a better trip.

If you’ve only got a week, it helps to focus. You can either spend your time between Kathmandu and Pokhara or do one short trek, like Poon Hill. You won’t see everything, but you’ll still come away with a meaningful experience.

Trips shorter than five or six days are tricky. Between the flight time and getting your bearings (especially if you’re adjusting to altitude), there’s not much room to settle in before you have to leave.

Here are a few things to think about when planning:

• Are you most interested in trekking, culture, or nature and wildlife?
• How comfortable are you with long travel days or hiking at altitude?
• Would you rather dive deep into a few places or get a broader overview?
• What season are you going in, and how could weather affect your plans?

A good general guideline is: 

• 5–7 days: Stick to the Kathmandu Valley — maybe squeeze in a visit to Pokhara. Skip the trekking this time.
• 8–12 days: You’ve got enough time to see Kathmandu and Pokhara, plus either a short trek (like Poon Hill) or a few days in Chitwan.
• 14–21 days: This gives you time for a longer trek like the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp, plus some cultural stops and time to rest in between.
• 22+ days: With three weeks or more, you can get off the beaten path a bit more. Combine different regions, take on a more remote trek, or spend time in places that aren’t on most itineraries.

What's the best way to plan a Nepal itinerary?

Planning your itinerary is something you'll want to do in stages, all while trusting the process. This isn't the sort of thing you can knock out in an afternoon but is an ongoing process that becomes more clear as time goes on. See our step by step guide to how to plan a trip to Nepal for more tips.

Make a wish list

You don’t need a full plan from day one, but it helps to write down a few places or experiences you’re curious about. Think of this as a rough draft—a couple of “musts” and a few “maybes.” From there, look at how far apart things are and start to get a feel for how it could fit together. You’ll shape the rest of the trip around those key stops.

Factor in travel time

Getting around in Nepal takes longer than you might expect. The roads are often winding and narrow, and delays are pretty common—especially during monsoon season or if you’re heading into the mountains. Short domestic flights (like Kathmandu to Pokhara or Lukla) are helpful but weather-dependent. 

Buses between major cities are affordable but slow. For example, Kathmandu to Pokhara usually takes 7–8 hours, and Kathmandu to Chitwan around 5–6. In more remote areas, shared jeeps or local buses are the main way to get around, and that adds even more time. It’s a good idea to build in buffer days, especially at the end of your trip, in case plans shift.

Can I drive in Nepal?

Driving yourself is technically possible, but not recommended. The roads can be chaotic, with a mix of cars, motorbikes, animals, and unpredictable conditions. Plus, traffic rules tend to be more informal than official. If you really want the flexibility of a car, it’s safer and much more manageable to hire one with a driver. That usually costs around $40–80 a day, depending on the car. In cities, apps like Pathao work well for short trips and are pretty straightforward to use.

Book essentials first

There aren’t any direct flights to Nepal from North America or most of Europe, so you’ll usually connect through cities like Doha, Delhi, or Bangkok. Airlines like Qatar, Thai Airways, and Singapore Airlines fly this route regularly. Flights can get expensive during trekking season (October–November and March–April), so booking a few months ahead helps. If you’re flying a budget airline like IndiGo or Air India, just watch for stricter baggage rules and longer layovers.

When it comes to places to stay, Kathmandu and Pokhara have a wide range—from basic guesthouses to more comfortable hotels in restored buildings. In trekking areas, teahouses are the standard. They’re simple but usually clean and friendly. 

Nepal travel tip: During the busy months, it’s worth booking ahead in the cities—especially for mid-range hotels with more character. For treks, you can usually just show up and find a spot, except at the most popular stops, where booking in advance can make things easier.
 

How can I slow travel in Nepal and experience it fully?

Nepal naturally lends itself to slow travel. The mountains make it tough to move quickly anyway, but more than that, the pace of life tends to be unhurried. It just makes more sense to take your time.

One of the best ways to do that is by staying in a homestay (more about these in our guide to Nepal accommodation). These are common in places like Mustang, Helambu, and around Tharu villages near Chitwan. You’ll stay with a local family and get a sense of what daily life is actually like, from shared meals to casual conversation. It’s also a good way to make sure your money stays in the community.

Nepal travel tip: Instead of rushing around to see every famous site, think about spending a few days in one village. In Bhaktapur, for example, you can try traditional pottery—some workshops welcome visitors for hands-on sessions. In Dhampus, some families teach basic weaving techniques. The more time you spend in one place, the more you'll start to notice how the environment shapes everything—what people eat, how they build their homes, what their routines look like.

Nepal's regions are surprisingly diverse. There are jungle areas in the south and snowy peaks up north, and each place has its own rhythm. You’ll see and understand a lot more by slowing down and adjusting to the pace of the people who live there.

Local experiences

Nepal’s traditions are still part of daily life—not performances, just things people actually do.

In the Kathmandu Valley, head to Bhaktapur’s Pottery Square. Families there have been shaping clay with foot-powered wheels for generations. If you’re curious, many of them are open to showing you how it works, and you can usually join a short workshop. They’ll often explain how pottery connects to things like food storage, festivals, and rituals—so it’s not just about technique, but context too.

If you're hiking through eastern Nepal, Rai, Limbu, or Gurung villages sometimes welcome help with seasonal farm work. Planting happens in June and July, harvesting in October and November. You can take part in the work for a day, then share a meal or join in singing afterward. These are tight-knit communities, and visitors who show up respectfully are often included like neighbors.

In Patan, thangka painting is still taught in traditional ateliers. This is a form of sacred Buddhist art that involves meditation, natural pigments, and precise geometry. Some studios run intro classes that last several days, and you’ll learn a lot just by watching and listening. The Patan Museum is a good place to start if you're interested—they can point you toward reputable teachers.

In February, Losar (Tibetan New Year) is celebrated in Sherpa villages like Namche Bazaar and Thame. It’s mostly a family holiday, but with some planning, you might be able to visit during the festivities. People prepare special foods, visit monasteries, and hang prayer flags. There are also community events like masked dances and small competitions. If you go, it’s best to arrange something ahead of time through a local guide—it’s not the kind of thing you can just drop into, but it’s a rare chance to be present for something personal and meaningful.
 

What are the must-see religious sites?

Nepal is full of spiritual sites that carry a lot of history. The Kathmandu Valley alone is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage sites. It’s also the birthplace of Buddha, with Lumbini being a key pilgrimage site. Sacred temples like Pashupatinath, which dates back to 400 AD, highlight the country’s deep spiritual roots. Hinduism and Buddhism have coexisted here for centuries, shaping the practices and architecture that are so unique to Nepal.

Boudhanath Stupa

You’ll probably notice Boudhanath before you even get close—it’s one of the biggest landmarks, and best things to do in Kathmandu. The huge white dome with Buddha eyes watching in every direction is always surrounded by a steady flow of people walking clockwise, spinning prayer wheels as they go. It’s a calm, rhythmic kind of scene. Early morning is a good time to visit if you want to catch locals doing their daily kora (ritual walk), but the atmosphere around sunset is also worth seeing—lots of butter lamps, chanting, and a quiet sense of ceremony even in the busy crowds.

Pashupatinath Temple

This temple sits along the Bagmati River and is a key place for Hindu worship in Nepal. It’s a working temple, so there’s a lot going on—ceremonies, rituals, cremations by the river. Non-Hindus can’t go inside the main temple, but you can still watch the activity from across the river. It’s a good spot to get a sense of how spiritual practice is woven into daily life. Around the grounds, you’ll see shrines and wandering sadhus—many are used to visitors and might let you take a photo if you ask and give a small tip.

Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

This one’s up a hill west of the city. The stupa at the top has those familiar Buddha eyes and a forest of prayer flags surrounding it. It’s a mix of Buddhist and Hindu elements, which is pretty common in Nepal. You’ll need to climb 365 steps to reach the top—it’s a bit of a workout, but you’ll get wide views of the city and probably run into a few monkeys along the way. They’re part of the place, so just keep your snacks packed away and your camera handy.

Muktinath Temple

Muktinath is tucked into the mountains around 12,500 feet (3,800 meters), so getting there takes a bit of effort—some people hike in, others take a jeep. Either way, the journey’s part of it. The temple is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists, and people come from all over to walk under 108 icy water spouts and visit the small flame that burns next to a stream. It’s a simple site, but the setting and rituals give it weight. The air is thin, it’s quiet, and everything slows down.
 

What are the must-see natural sites?

Nepal’s geography is nothing short of extraordinary. It stretches from just 230 feet (70 meters) above sea level in the southern Terai plains to the towering 29,029 feet (8,848 meters) peak of Mount Everest—all within a 93-mile (150-kilometer) radius. This sharp contrast in elevation means that the country experiences a wide range of climates, from subtropical to alpine, and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including Bengal tigers, one-horned rhinoceroses, and snow leopards. The country’s biodiversity is just as impressive as its landscapes, with over 900 bird species and 650 types of butterflies. Exploring the nature of this country is one of the best things to do in Nepal.

Annapurna Circuit (14–21 days)

This is one of the most well-known treks in Nepal, and for good reason. It starts in lush, lowland forests and climbs through rice terraces, alpine meadows, and finally into a dry, high-altitude landscape near the Thorong La Pass (17,769 feet / 5,416m). The route takes you through villages where people speak different languages and follow different traditions, and you’ll pass by prayer wheels, old monasteries, and constant mountain views—including Annapurna I and Machapuchare, the fishtail-shaped peak that’s considered sacred. There are teahouses all along the way, so you don’t need to camp or carry much, which makes the whole thing more manageable if you’re going long-distance. 

Sagarmatha National Park (7–14 days)

This is where you’ll find Everest and a handful of other massive peaks, but the trek through the park is about more than just mountains. You walk through Sherpa villages, visit Buddhist monasteries, cross long suspension bridges over deep gorges, and follow trails used for generations—often by yaks carrying supplies. The scenery changes quickly: forests of rhododendron give way to rocky, high-elevation trails surrounded by glaciers. If you're lucky, you might spot wildlife like red pandas or snow leopards along the way. The path to Everest Base Camp gets a lot of attention, but there are other quiet routes in the park too.

Chitwan National Park (2–3 days)

Down in the lowlands, Chitwan is a total shift from the mountains. It’s warm, humid, and dense with jungle. This is one of the few places in Nepal where you can still see one-horned rhinos and possibly even a tiger. Most people explore by jeep, canoe, or on foot with a local guide, and there’s also a huge range of birds and reptiles. The surrounding villages are home to the Tharu people, who’ve lived here for generations and are involved in conservation work. It’s an easy way to get a feel for Nepal’s subtropical side.

Phoksundo Lake (3–5 days)

Tucked away in the Dolpo region, Phoksundo is known for its surreal blue color and the remote landscape around it. The lake sits at around 11,800 feet (3,600m) and is surrounded by cliffs and snowy peaks. Getting there takes a bit more effort—you’ll need a permit and a few days of trekking—but the path leads through Shey-Phoksundo National Park and passes small villages and ancient Bon monasteries along the way. It’s a quiet region, and the scenery shifts quickly from pine forest to bare rock. If you want something less traveled, this is a good one to keep in mind.
 

Wellness and spiritual retreats

Nepal’s spiritual traditions, quiet surroundings, and the natural energy of the Himalayas make it a great spot for wellness and spiritual retreats. The country’s long history of meditation, yoga, and Buddhist teachings means there are plenty of authentic opportunities to learn from monks and yogis. Many retreats are set in peaceful, remote locations, with mountain views or near sacred rivers, making it easy to disconnect and focus on inner peace away from the distractions of daily life. Yoga retreats in Nepal are particularly popular.

Kopan Monastery

On the northern edge of the Kathmandu Valley, Kopan Monastery runs 10-day courses in English that introduce you to the basics of Tibetan Buddhism. You’ll get a mix of meditation, philosophy classes, and silent vegetarian meals. The pace is slow and intentional, with time to reflect in the quiet gardens overlooking the valley. Accommodations are simple but clean — it’s more about learning and being present than anything fancy. If you’re curious about Buddhism and want a structured environment to explore it, this is a solid place to start.

Neydo Tashi Choeling Monastery

Just an hour from Kathmandu, in Pharping, this monastery has a retreat center built right next to the main temple. You stay in comfortable, modern rooms, but the day-to-day rhythm still revolves around meditation, Buddhist teachings, and sometimes yoga. Some programs are led by senior monks, others by international teachers who come through. It’s in a pretty powerful spot too — Pharping is known for its sacred caves and peaceful surroundings, and it feels tucked away from the more crowded parts of the valley.

Pranamaya Yoga Retreat (Pokhara)

Set on a small organic farm overlooking Phewa Lake, this is a good place if you’re into yoga and want to spend a few days reconnecting. Retreats focus on Hatha and Kundalini yoga, with daily classes and plant-based meals made from ingredients grown on-site. You can stay in shared rooms or private cottages made with sustainable materials. They also bring in well-known teachers for special sessions now and then, and there’s the option to add Ayurvedic treatments if that’s something you’re interested in.

The Last Resort

About three hours from Kathmandu, The Last Resort sits right on the edge of a deep gorge. It’s a quiet, remote place where you can take part in wellness retreats that include Tibetan healing practices, meditation, and stress reduction. The setting feels far from everyday life — no roads, no towns nearby — and you sleep in safari-style tents with proper beds and private bathrooms. It’s calm and stripped back in a way that makes it easier to really unplug for a few days.
 

What are the best adventure activities?

Whether it’s trekking in the Himalayas, paragliding over Pokhara, or rafting on pristine rivers, there’s no shortage of things to do. Thanks to its varied geography, you can experience all kinds of landscapes and activities, from high-altitude treks to river rafting.

Paragliding in Pokhara

If you're curious about paragliding, Pokhara is a great place to try it. You take off from Sarangkot, about 5,250 feet (1,600m) up, with the Annapurna mountains behind you and Phewa Lake below. You don’t need any experience—just go tandem with a certified pilot. Flights usually last around 30 to 45 minutes and follow thermal currents that birds like eagles and hawks also ride. Conditions are usually best in the morning, and you can do it any time of year. Most people go for the scenic flight, but if you’re feeling bold, there’s an “acro” version with flips and spins.

Whitewater rafting on the Kali Gandaki

The Kali Gandaki is one of those rivers that sticks with you. It runs between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges—two of the tallest mountains on Earth—and the three-day trip takes you through an area that doesn’t have road access. You’ll paddle through Class III and IV rapids, then drift past quiet villages and old trading posts during the calmer sections. Nights are spent camping on riverside beaches, which are great for stargazing. You don’t need to be an expert, but you should be ready for some hard paddling now and then.

Ice climbing on Kyajo Ri

If you’ve done some mountaineering before and want something more technical without dealing with extreme altitude, Kyajo Ri might be a good fit. It’s a 20,295 ft (6,186m) peak in the Khumbu region, and climbing it involves glacier travel, some rock scrambling, and vertical ice sections. It usually takes about 10 to 14 days, including time to acclimatize. You’ll need solid fitness and some experience with crampons and ice tools, but you don’t need to be a pro. Most climbing companies based in Kathmandu can help you get prepped and guide the trip.

Mountain biking the Annapurna Circuit

Thanks to some road development along the route, the Annapurna Circuit has become a pretty unique ride for experienced mountain bikers. The full trip usually takes 10 to 14 days and starts in the green, low-lying areas before heading up to Thorong La Pass at 17,769 feet (5,416m). From there, it drops into the dry, open landscape of Lower Mustang. Expect a mix of technical trails and rough jeep tracks, with plenty of elevation changes and views the whole way. If you’ve done multi-day rides before and are up for a challenge, this one’s worth checking out. Some companies run supported trips with gear transport, which helps take the pressure off.
 

What's the best way to get around in Nepal?

Getting around Nepal takes a bit of patience, but it’s part of the experience. For longer distances, flying is the quickest way to go. Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines run short domestic routes—Kathmandu to Pokhara takes under half an hour by plane, compared to seven hours by road. Just keep in mind that flights can be delayed or canceled, especially during monsoon season.

On the ground, tourist buses are a more comfortable choice than local ones, especially on busy routes. Local buses tend to be overcrowded and unpredictable, while tourist buses are generally more organized.

In cities like Kathmandu, you’ll probably end up using a mix of taxis and ride-hailing apps like Pathao. If you’re taking a taxi, agree on the price before you get in or ask for the meter, though drivers might not always go for it.

Renting a bike around the Kathmandu Valley is a good way to get around, especially if you want to explore outside the main city areas. The traffic’s hectic, but bikes can actually be more efficient than cars in some spots. There are also old footpaths that connect villages—these can be more direct than the roads.

Once you’re in trekking territory, things change. Depending on where you’re going, you might find a shared jeep or a local bus, but in a lot of places, you’ll end up walking. It’s worth building extra time into your plans—delays are common.

How should I handle money and payments in Nepal?

Cash is the norm in most places, especially outside the main tourist hubs. The local currency is the Nepali Rupee (NPR), and you can’t exchange it outside the country. It’s easiest to change money at the airport or at licensed money changers in areas like Thamel. Avoid anyone on the street offering suspiciously good rates.

ATMs are easy to find in cities and bigger trekking towns like Namche Bazaar. Most have daily limits of around 10,000 to 15,000 NPR and charge a fee per withdrawal. In remote areas, ATMs are rare and the power supply isn’t always reliable, so it’s smart to bring enough cash before heading out.

Some hotels and higher-end restaurants in Kathmandu and Pokhara take cards, but there’s usually a 3–4% fee. You’ll still want cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases. Change can be hard to get, so try to keep small bills. If you’ve got larger notes, it’s easier to break them at a hotel than with a street vendor.
U.S. dollars are also accepted in some places, especially for bigger payments like trek bookings or visa fees.
 

Do I need a SIM card in Nepal?

Yes—getting a local SIM makes things a lot easier. NCell and Nepal Telecom (NTC) are the two main providers. NCell tends to have better speed in cities, while NTC usually works better in rural areas. You can get a SIM at the airport or from an official store in town. Bring your passport, and steer clear of pre-registered SIMs from street vendors—they can get deactivated without warning.

A typical data package runs around NPR 500–1000 ($4–8) for 5–10GB, good for 28 days. eSIMs are starting to pop up, but you won’t find them everywhere yet.
Wi-Fi is solid in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but less reliable once you head into the mountains. It’s a good idea to download what you’ll need before heading out—offline maps (like Maps.me), trail info, and the Nepali language pack on Google Translate. If you’re trekking, something like GAIA GPS with preloaded maps can be a real help when trails aren’t clearly marked.

What are the most common scams in Nepal?

Nepal’s generally a safe place to travel, but there are a few things to watch out for, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Thamel and Durbar Square. Sometimes people posing as students or monks will invite you to a show or a gallery, and it usually ends in a pushy sales pitch. Other times, someone might tell you a site is closed and then try to lead you somewhere else, often to a shop where they get commission.

When it comes to trekking, be wary of deals that seem unusually cheap—some agencies leave out key things like permits or food, or don’t use proper gear. At remote teahouses, always ask for prices upfront to avoid surprise charges.

Nepal travel tip: Taxis sometimes claim the meter’s broken, so it’s better to settle the fare before the ride. And with buses, don’t trust vague promises—some “luxury” buses are just standard local ones. Stick with companies that have real offices or online reviews. Avoid street deals that sound too good. If something feels off, it probably is.

Planning your trip to Nepal? See our trip idea gallery for sample Nepal trips for inspiration.