Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Nepal Travel
Find out the frequently asked questions (faqs) about Nepal Travel by many travelers who want to do travelling in Nepal.
Where is Nepal?
Nepal is a small landlocked country situated in Southeast Asia. It lies between India and China, with India on its south, east, and west borders and China on the northern border. Located in the lap of the Great Himalayan Range, Nepal is also a part of the indo-Gangetic plains.
What can I do after arrival in Nepal?
The list of things you can do after arriving in Nepal is unlimited. You can enjoy relaxing activities like small cultural trips inside the capital or visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Likewise, trekking, hiking, peak climbing, and expedition are also popular adventures in the Himalayas. Alternatively, you can also choose to indulge in activities like meditation and yoga. If you are more of an adventure seeker then you can also enjoy various adventure sports such as bungee jumping, paragliding, zip-lining, white water rafting, rock climbing and so much more.
Can I get a visa on arrival in Nepal?
Yes, there is a provision of Nepal for Visa on arrival in Nepal. Tribhuvan International Airport, the only international airport of Nepal, along with other land entry/exit points provides Visa on arrival. You will have to fill up a Visa application form and pay the fee according to your time of stay also informing the reason for your stay in Nepal. For more information regarding Nepalese Visa, you can head to the official website of the Department of Immigration at http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/page/tourist-visa.
Are the hotels in Nepal safe?
Like most countries, Nepal also sees a fair share of petty theft, robberies, and fraud cases. Thus, hotels in Nepal have taken it a step further regarding the safety of the clients and their belongings. These hotels even provide services that allow you to safely store your personal belongings for a certain time duration whilst the travelers are away on their trips. In recent times, hotels provide their own trusted tour guides along with chauffeurs for pick up and drop off. Likewise, the staff members in the hotels are also friendly and charming.
As of the trekking and travel destinations, there are minor factors that might affect the safety of the travelers. To prepare for such situations, travelers must be cautious when traveling and make ample preparations for their trip.
Are you a government-authorized trekking agency?
Yes, we are officially registered as a travel and tour operator by the Government of Nepal. Likewise, we are also registered by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN). Moreover, we are also affiliated with many other national and international associations.
Do you have airport pick-up and drop-off facilities?
Yes, we have excellent airport pickup and drop-off facilities which can be provided as per your necessity. You can request for the ride beforehand and we will send a delegated driver to pick you up or drop you off at the airport.
What is a trek?
Trekking or simply a trek in Nepal refers to traversing along well-made or off-beat trails to reach a destination. In a sense, trekking in Nepal is a challenge; it requires not only a level of physical fitness but also endurance as well as mental capacity. Treks in Nepal are not only a journey but also a chance to experience the nature, culture, and lifestyle that you meet within your route.
Treks in Nepal vary on numerous aspects; however, the most distinguishing factor is the mode of accommodation. Teahouse treks and camping treks are the two famous trekking modes in Nepal.
What is the average duration of a trek?
The duration of treks can range from a couple of days to around a month-long. Some treks are more demanding than others, which is why they require more days than normal. Treks in higher altitude take longer time to acclimatize and eliminate the chances of acute mountain sickness. Treks in lower altitudes can be short, especially small treks around Kathmandu which are less physically demanding. As such, the length of the treks depends on the trek destination and trekking trails.
What are the health requirements to trek in Nepal?
Travelers need to have a moderate level of physical fitness, even if you want to be involved in short treks. Especially, while traveling to higher altitudes, it is necessary to have some sort of experience and a level of physical fitness so that your fatigue doesn’t ruin the whole mood of the trip. There are some lower altitude treks with leveled routes which can be enjoyed by children and elders as well.
It is better to consult with your doctor and take proper vaccines for diseases that can be prevalent in Nepal. Health insurance is also a must-have, especially if your trekking destination is at a height above 5000m. Also, be prepared with your prescribed medications beforehand if you have any as it is possible that medication provided outside the country may not be available in Nepal.
What kind of food are available during the trek?
The types of food you will get during treks depends on the trekking destination. If you are planning to trek at places around Kathmandu, then you will have no problem finding proper traditional meals and also other snacks along the way. If your trek destination is at a higher altitude then you will be getting home-cooked meals that include Dal, Bhat (rice), and Tarkari. Food from homestays and tea houses are of good quality and also nutritious so you do not have to worry. But, it is better to be wary while eating meat products and alcohol while in higher altitudes.
What is the best weather for trekking in Nepal?
The best weather for trekking in Nepal is during autumn and spring. These are the time when the skies are clear and the trekking trails are pleasant. While autumn is the time when the weather for trekking is perfect, the spring season boasts a vibrant environment with blooming flora. These seasons are the times when there is less chance of rain which is why the tracks are dry and less dangerous. It is also a bonus that the trekking routes are well equipped as the weather is loved by many tourists so there is a high turnover of travelers in most of the trekking destinations.
What kind of clothes are needed for trekking?
While trekking in lower altitude, you will require soft cotton clothes that don’t let sweat be trapped inside and also lets some air in. It is better to have thin fleece jackets and also waterproof trekking gears if you are traveling to areas which are prone to unexpected drizzles.
While trekking to higher altitudes, make sure to dress warmly. It is better to have warm jackets, thermal tops, and trekking pants along with good quality hiking boots. Woolen hats that cover your ears and waterproof gloves are a must, especially if your trek includes colder heights.
What kind of shoes should I have?
Good quality hiking and trekking boots will take you a long way while trekking in Nepal. Make sure to get yourself a pair of good trekking boots with good ankle support and comfortable sole. It is better to avoid heavy boots which will only weigh you down, quite literally. It should help you to stay away from leather shoes which have slippery soles with no grip and also too heavy to handle.
Is the flight to Lukla difficult?
The Tenzing Hilary Airport at Lukla is one of the most dangerous airports in the world thanks to its geographical location and short runway. Likewise, the weather conditions in the Himalayan region like Lukla change quite often. Due to this, the flights to an from Lukla are often delayed or canceled.
Another difficulty that travelers might face is health issues since Lukla is situated at an altitude of 2,840 meters. Since the symptoms of altitude sickness start to appear above the altitude of 2,400 meters, it is essential to recognize the threats of altitude sickness. Other than these conditions, the flight is smooth and without any major dangers.
What can I do if the flight is canceled?
The flights in the higher Himalayas are frequently delayed or canceled due to various weather conditions. In such situations, your only option will be to change your entire schedule. However, there are a few things you can opt for if you find yourself in such situations.
It is better to have a day or two separated in case of canceled flights. These extra buffer days can help you be on schedule and make proper arrangements for the trip as well. It is highly useful to have travel insurance in cases like these; you can charter a helicopter for your service and later claim the money through your insurance. Your other options can be catching a bus or your vehicle to drive to your destination.
Is there any tourist police during the trek?
Yes, there is a special unit of police namely tourist police working under the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB). These individuals are dispatched to ensure a safe and pleasant stay for travelers and to protect from theft, robbery, and misuse of natural resources.
You will find tourist police patrolling in most of the famous trekking destinations. Their main job is to patrol tourist destinations, provide information regarding those destinations, responding to complaints, taking action against those complaints and protecting travelers from security issues. You can find more information regarding the Tourist Police at the official website of the Nepal Tourism Board at https://www.welcomenepal.com/plan-your-trip/tourist-police.html.
How does your company organize the emergency rescue?
Rescue operations are organized once we have proper information about your whereabouts and severity of the danger. In situations where you have to acclimatize, we will organize either porter to carry you down or emergency helicopter evacuation. Also, for extreme conditions like accidents helicopter rescue operations can be organized, especially while you are traveling to higher altitudes. We only proceed forward with the request once our travel guides or our clients themselves have informed us about the critical condition. Make sure you have working travel insurance so that you can claim the money for the evacuation later on.
How many liters of water should I be carrying in our day pack?
The average requirement of water while you trek, in higher or lower altitude is four cups (roughly one liter) per hour. In colder regions, you only need to have two cups in an hour. As for how much you should be carrying, make sure you have at least one liter of water in your day pack.
In Nepal, many trekking routes are filled with teahouses which offer drinking water to the travelers. If you are traveling to higher altitudes where water resources are rare, you can carry more than one liter. But, be aware to keep your travel baggage light so that it is not a nuisance during the trek. Also, make sure the water is boiled or filtered properly. You can also carry portable water purifier and other purifying tablets to make sure that you can consume safe drinking water.
Where is the Langtang valley?
Located about 30 kilometers north of Kathmandu, Langtang Valley is one of the nearest destinations for adventures like trekking and mountaineering from Kathmandu. Bordered by Tibet to the north, the Ganesh Himal range to the west, and the Gauri Shankar range to the east, Langtang Valley is also known as the Valley of Glaciers. Langtang Valley sits in the lap of the Langtang Lirung (7227m).
What currency should I take during the trek?
Since Nepalese Rupee is the official currency of Nepal, you must have an ample amount of cash with you when traveling to Nepal. You can easily exchange foreign currency into Nepalese at the exchange counters in the Tribhuvan International Airport or various authorized dealers in the major cities. While trekking in higher altitudes, you might not be able to find exchange counters as easily; so, you must carry enough Nepalese Rupees.
What are the symptoms of altitude sickness?
The symptoms of altitude sickness include dizziness, nausea, and difficulty in sleeping, fatigue, and headache. You can also experience loss of appetite, rapid pulse, and shortness in breath. If you feel any of the mentioned sickness then immediately inform your tour guide or someone responsible and start climbing down to lower altitudes if you can.
The symptoms can have a varying effect on different people. Most commonly felt symptom is shortness of breath. So, be mindful and keep out for these symptoms.
Can I go to Manaslu trekking without any hiking experience?
It is advised not to trek in higher altitudes like the Manaslu trekking route without any prior experience in trekking. While you don’t have to be a professional athlete to climb up the Manaslu trail, you do need some level of physical fitness and awareness.
Trekking without any prior experience can lead to fatigue and tiredness. This can cause you to not be able to adapt to the surroundings and can also result in altitude sickness. On top of that, you will have to walk for an extended period (at least 15 days) covering 10- 12 km per day which can be tiring for non-trekkers and can seriously dampen your mood for the trip.
How many kilos to carry for potter?
A porter can carry a maximum load of 30 Kg depending on the individual. Some will carry less but the weight of the load can vary as per the trekking route, destination, and the porter himself. Most porters carry loads around 15 to 20 Kg but make sure to have a talk with them beforehand and inform them about the weight they are supposed to carry. The official guideline given by Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) is 25 Kg per porter.
Making people carry more than 30 Kg, even if they are willing to, can be taken as rude or inconsiderate so, be mindful of this fact.
What can I expect on a teahouse trek?
Teahouse trek is one of the best ways to enjoy the ravishing nature along with the rich culture and traditions of the people in Nepal. The simple food and lodging on the teahouse treks allow travelers to experience a simple lifestyle. You also get a chance to witness the unique lifestyle of people living in and around the teahouses. These people offer genuine, down-to-earth, and surreal hospitality.
All in all, teahouse treks are the best way to enjoy the natural beauty and remoteness of Nepal while gaining the best experiences in the world.
Is there any age limit for trekking in Nepal?
There is no age limit from the government of Nepal for trekking in Nepal. However, there can be considered or benefits from the travel agency if you are of below 7 years or over the age of 70.
Can I hire an extra porter on the trek?
You will have to provide us with prior information if you need extra porters. It is almost impossible to appoint new porters once you are already in the mountain regions or already in higher altitude. If you want, you can hire extra porters personally while still in lower altitudes. For example, if you are traveling to Mt. Everest then you will have to hire extra porters in Lukla.
Is a trekking permit needed?
While most of the popular trekking sites do not need trekking permits, there are many trek destinations which require permits. Most of the protected sites like conservation areas, national parks, and wildlife reserves need permits to enter and travel through. Likewise, there are destinations which require restricted area permits to travel as well.
A TIMS card is a must-have as a basic trekking permit for traveling in Nepal. You can get a TIMS card from the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu after filling the necessary application form.
Can I buy or rent a sleeping bag in Nepal?
Yes, you can rent or buy sleeping bags in Kathmandu. There are many shops located around Kathmandu, mainly in Thamel which provide you sleeping bags, travel bags as well as trekking equipment on rent. These sleeping bags are cheap and easily affordable and are available in different variations as well. In Nepal, buying your sleeping bags can be more fruitful because many travelers complain about getting rashes or allergies from used sleeping bags.
What types of insurance should I need to have before coming to Nepal? Can I get insurance there?
Travel insurance is a must if you are traveling to Nepal. These insurances help you to cover the costs of numerous travel issues on a trip. Your travel insurance must cover medical services as well as emergency helicopter services. Likewise, your insurance must also cover issues like theft, flight delays, and trip cancellations.
No, you will have to get insurance in your home country. This way, you can receive the maximum benefits of travel insurance and you also get to choose from several packages.
How long do I walk each day?
On average, a person should walk around 15 km in a day while on a trek to higher altitudes in Nepal. Although 15 km might seem like a small number, most of the treks in Nepal are very challenging so, it can be quite tiring depending on the trek destination and trekking route. Likewise, the duration of the trek is around 6-7 hours per day which also depends upon the trekking trail and destination. In some days, you might even have to walk for 9-10 hours.
Make sure to travel slowly and have ample time to acclimatize so that you do not fall prey to Acute Mountain Sickness.
What is the accommodation during the trek?
During most of the treks, your accommodation will be small lodges or teahouses. In higher altitudes, tea houses are cheaper and offer basic facilities. They provide a simple meal along with warm beds. These tea houses are known for their hospitality and good service even in such high altitudes.
In lower altitudes and places around Kathmandu, you will find proper hotels which provide quality service and accommodation facilities. In camping treks, you will have to sleep in camps and tents with the assistance of our guides and porters. During the peak seasons, it is better to have a prior reservation and in extreme conditions, you may have to share a room with strangers.
Do you arrange domestic and international flight tickets?
Yes, we do have provisions to arrange domestic and international flight tickets for you. All we will need is prior information from you along with your travel destination and other details that are required for a flight. After you provide us with all the necessary information, we will book the flights on your behalf.
Who will be our guide?
You will be provided with a licensed and well-experienced travel guide on your trip. All of our guides are highly skilled and are fluent in the English language. Additionally, some of the guides can also speak Hindi, Chinese, and Spanish among others. Likewise, most of our guides also have received numerous training and international certificates.
If you have had prior experiences with any of our travel guides and want to request them, we can also arrange that to the best of our ability.
Are there ATM facilities in Nepal?
Yes, ATM facilities are found almost in every major city in Nepal. In the major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, these services are available for usage 24 hours a day and are greatly reliable. However, you may not find many in rural areas or places on higher altitudes. Even if they are available, they might not be operational. So, we recommend all the travelers to make sure that they gather enough cash while they have easy access to ATMs in the major cities.
What does grading (Easy, moderate, difficult, strenuous) mean?
The grading of easy, moderate, difficult, and strenuous represents the difficulty level of the trek. Small treks which do not require much prior experience and can be done by people of low physical fitness as well are graded easy. Moderate difficulty levels are on higher altitudes and need a bit of physical fitness but not on the athlete level.
The difficult and strenuous level requires physical fitness and also prior experience as a compulsion. These are generally on higher altitudes than 5000m and consist of steep and rocky trails that cannot be crossed or is difficult to cross by an inexperienced trekker. In these treks, it is best if the trekkers have received training or gathered experience from prior treks.
Can you assure me that your staffs are taken care of?
We believe that our staffs are an integral part of our company and are our foremost representatives. As such, we make sure that all our staff members are satisfied with our treatment. Especially in our Himalayan adventures, we equip them with proper insurance services as well. From food and company benefits to a friendly work environment, we take care of every single matter to make sure our staffs are taken care of.
