Plan
your trip with this essential Nepal travel guide covering visas,
safety, weather, and cultural insights. Discover when to visit, where
to go, and how to explore Nepal’s mountains, temples, and wildlife
with confidence.
Country: Nepal
Continent / Region: Asia / South Asia / Himalayas
Capital City: Kathmandu
Government Type: Federal Democratic Republic
Population: Approx. 30 million
Official Language(s): Nepali
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: ~35% (higher in Kathmandu & tourist regions)
Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT+5:45
Driving Side: Left
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type C/D/M – 230V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 100 (Police), 102 (Ambulance), 101 (Fire)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 11–14 hours (1 stop via Middle East/India)
Best Time/Months to Travel: October–December and March–May
Main International Airport:
- Visa Requirements: Visa required for most nationalities
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Yes — Visa on Arrival available
- Visa Duration / Cost: 15/30/90 days (from $30–$125 USD)
- Vaccinations Needed: Hepatitis A, Typhoid recommended; consider Rabies & Japanese Encephalitis for rural trekking
- Embassy Information (UK Embassy in Nepal):
Average Daily Costs: £15 / £30 / £80+
Tipping Culture: 5–10% expected in tourism services
Public Transport Options: Taxis, buses, rickshaws, tourist coaches, domestic flights
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: NPR 20–30 (local bus)
Internet / SIM Availability: Good 4G in cities; Ncell and Nepal Telecom
Main Climate Type: Ranges from subtropical to alpine
Average Temperature: Varies widely by altitude
Major Cities: Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Chitwan
Natural Attractions: Himalayas, lakes, jungles, rivers, national parks
Popular Destinations: Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara, Everest region, Chitwan, Lumbini (Buddha’s birthplace)
Main Religions: Hinduism and Buddhism
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Dal bhat, momos, chow mein, thukpa, Newari dishes, masala tea
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath, Boudhanath Stupa, Durbar Squares, Pokhara lakeside
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe; trekking hazards exist
Common Scams: Taxi overcharging, trekking permit scams, fake guides
Health Risks: Altitude sickness, food hygiene issues, uneven roads
Recommended Clinics: CIWEC Clinic (Kathmandu), Norvic Hospital
Insurance Recommendation: Essential — must include high-altitude trekking cover
Internet Speed: Good 4G in main cities; weaker in mountains
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Everest scenic flights, Pokhara lakes, Chitwan safaris, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath
Unique Experiences: Trekking (Everest Base Camp, Annapurna), meditation retreats, homestays, rafting & paragliding
Hidden Gems: Bandipur village, Khaptad National Park, Gorkha, Tansen, Rara Lake (far west)
Popular Areas to Stay: Thamel (Kathmandu), Lakeside (Pokhara), Patan, Bhaktapur, Chitwan lodges
Average Hotel Prices: £10 / £25 / £80+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Thamel (Kathmandu), Pokhara lakeside bars
Local Drinks: Chiya (milk tea), raksi (local spirit), Everest beer
Entertainment: Live music, yoga sessions, cultural dance shows
Car Rental: Not recommended (traffic & road quality)
Domestic Flights: Common for long distances
Buses: Tourist coaches available between major cities
Taxi / Ride Apps: Taxis negotiable; Pathao & InDrive in major cities
Best Markets: Thamel, Asan Market, Bhaktapur craft shops
Popular Souvenirs: Pashmina, prayer flags, singing bowls, handicrafts, spices
Local SIM Card Providers: Ncell, Nepal Telecom
Typical Business Hours: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (Sun–Fri)
Tap Water Safety: Not safe to drink; bottled/filtered water only
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
Nepal has 8 of the world’s 14 highest mountains, including Mount Everest, the tallest on Earth.