Nepal Travel | Nepal Travel Information
Why Travel in Nepal? | Tourist Visa in Nepal | Trekking Permit in Nepal | Climbing Rules in Nepal | Major Festivals in Nepal | Shopping in Nepal | ATM Banks, Currency in Nepal
Why Travel in Nepal?
Nepal a landlocked Himalayan country, lying between India and Tibet Autonomous Region of China, Nepal contains Mount Everest (29,035 ft; 8,848 m), the tallest mountain in the world. I would like to offer family Tours and treks, many trekking routes, ( Everest Trekking, Annapunra Trekkings, Langtang treks, Doplo treks, Manaslu, Mustang Trekking, (speical region) and many more) adventure activities, hiking, National park visiting program, peak climbing, expedition, easy culture tours, Mountain flight, sightseeing program, rafting in Nepal, soft and hard tours, short and long torus and treks, connected Tours & Treks to Tibet, Bhutan, Sikkim and many more, you can enjoy your adventure, cultural and spiritual holiday with us! We are attention at your service and needs to make worthy your money and time.
Along its southern border, Nepal has a strip of level land that is partly forested, partly cultivated. North of Nepal is the slope of the main section of the Himalayan range, including Mt. Everest, Amadablam, Annapurna, fishtail and many other peaks higher than 8,000 m. You will be welcomed by the historical and cultural city called Kathmandu. It has lots of different things to offer such as many old and ancient temples in different cities like, Swyambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Kathmandu Durbar Square where you will visit Kumari - the Living Goddess of Nepal, Legendary Kasthamandap Temple, Hanuman Dhoka Palace and many other shrines. Patan City to have a look and study many beautiful and interesting arts and architecture and historic and cultural phenomena. Bhaktapur City is just a 14 kms east of Kathmandu. Bhaktapur means the city of devotees and is a center of potter and intriguing masks. The major sight seeing places are, Durbar Square, of 55 windows, Nyatapola, Bhairavnath Temple, Dattatreya Temple etc. Pashupatinath Temple the holiest Hindu Temple on the bank of Bagmati River. Cremation services take place on the banks of Bagmati River. Buddhanath is the biggest of the Buddhist Stupa architecture. Erected in the 17th century and is believed to be a "must visit" pilgrimage site for Buddhist in their lifetime. Boudhanath area is densely inhabited by Tibetan refugees and carries the name as Little Tibet. Beyond Kathmandu, its another world altogether. Most travelers to Nepal want to check out the truly spectacular Himalayas along with the higher hills. A few go there to scale the high mountains, but many are nature lovers who trek along landscapes filled with deep valleys, lush forests, snow trails, terraced fields, and above all, the most hospitable people. Travelers to Nepal also love making a safari trip to one of the National Parks in Nepal. The most popular one is the Chitwan National Park in the southern plains which hosts a diverse wildlife reserves including the rare Asian one-horn rhino.
Pokhara, Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, Lumbini, Chitwan, Gorkha, Daman, Tansen and many more beautiful places. Draped along the spine of the Himalaya, Nepal is a land of sublime scenery, time-worn temples, and some of the best hiking trails on the earth. which meander through scenic riverbanks, intricately terraced fields and the forested ridges connecting picturesque hamlets and mountain villages.The rhododendron forest, green, dark and deep forests with different seasonal flowers blossoming can catch anyone's eye as can the scattered residential cottages, domestic and forest animals, variety of birds, both Hindus and Buddhist temples, mountains, breath-taking landscape and above all warm greeting from smiling local people. Trekking is kind a of experience of your life which can make you physically fit and makes your life longer. It's a poor country, but it is rich in scenic splendor and cultural treasures. It has lots things to offer such as excited white water Rafting, wildlife safari, many different national parks, bird watching places, cultural Tours, historical places to visit. Lots of greenery, rivers, snow capped mountains, beautiful lakes. The Himalayan kingdom of Nepal is a land of scenic mountains, time-worn temples and some of the best walking trails on Earth. It's a small country, but it's rich in scenic splendor and exotic cultures. The people of Nepal are as diverse as their country and represent distinct cultures and races. Though they speak a variety of tongues and practice different religions, they are the friendliest people that you would ever meet.
Move to Top
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tourist Visa
Foreigner who intends to visit Nepal must hold valid passport or any travel document equivalent to passport issued by the Govt. for visiting a foreign country prior to apply for visa.
Entry:
(a) : No foreigner is entitled to enter into and stay in the Kingdom of Nepal without valid visa. Tourist entry visa can be obtained for the following duration from Nepalese Embassy or Consulate or other mission offices or immigration offices located on entry points in Nepal.
(b) : Chinese citizen are requested to apply in Nepalese Embassy or other Nepalese diplomatic missions as there is no provision of on arrival visa for them.
(c) Visa Fee :
* Visa Fee required to obtain Tourist Visa from Nepalese diplomatic agencies and entry points.
* US $ 25 or equivalent foreign currency for Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry for 15 days.
* US $ 40 or equivalent foreign currency for Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry for 30 days.
* US $ 100 or equivalent foreign currency for Tourist Visa with Multiple Entry for 100 days.
* Regardless of the provision stated in 1(a) and 1(b), tourists with passport from South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) nations aren't required to pay visa fee for 30 days.
(d) : Fee required to extend duration of visa or renew visa:
* US $ 2 or equivalent Nepalese currency per day for extension.
* Additional US $ 20 or equivalent Nepalese currency on visa fee as per 2(b), if Multiple Entry facility is required for the extended period.
* If foreign visitors that haven't renewed their visa want to renew their visa, they have to pay additional Nepalese currency equivalent to US 3$ on the regular visa extension fee.
* Foreign visitors who have overstayed the visa period of 150 days without extension are required to pay visa fee as per provision in 2(c) and punishment as per Clause 10 sub-clause 4 of Immigration Act 2049.
* Regardless of provision stated in 2(a), 15 days is counted as minimum extension period and visa fee is charged accordingly. For extension period more than 15 days, visa fee is charged as per the provision of 2(a).
Move to Top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trekking Permit in Nepal (TIMS Card)
Nepal, aptly, has been called 'a Trekkers' Paradise'. Its high standing mountains, scenic hills and the luxuriant Terai offers some of the most spectacular trekking routes in the world. Passing through the diverse culture and nature, trekking in Nepal is a life-time experience which involves a certain degree of physical risks owing to the rugged topography.
With the distinction of Nepal as a trekking destination and its growing charm, a provision of Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) has been implemented to control illegal trekking operations and ensure safety and security of the trekkers in general trekking areas through the mechanism of Prompt Information Service as and when required .
The past experiences have shown that difficulties have been faced while carrying out rescue operations promptly during the times of accidents and natural calamities. Because of lack of proper record system of trekkers, their exact whereabouts and the information about trekking routes, rescue and search missions used to face difficulties in spotting the trekkers missing.
The provision of Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) has come into force from Jan 01, 2008. Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) and Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) have started recording trekkers detail and issuing TIMS Card to trekkers.
Where & how to obtain TIMS Card ?
The visiting tourists, who are interested to general trekking areas of Nepal, are required to receive TIMS Card through any one of the following:
* Kathmandu (NTB Office, TAAN Office, and Government registered trekking Companies), and
* Pokhara (NTB Office, TAAN Office, and Government registered trekking Companies)
Opening Hour/s:
* TIMS counter at Government registered trekking Companies will remain open 12 hours a day all the seven days a week round the year,
* TIMS counter at TAAN/NTB Office will follow government working hour/days.
* To obtain TIMS Card you need copy of Passport and two copies of Passport-size Photographs.
Why is TIMS Necessary?
The following considerations have been taken into account in the process of issuing TIMS:
1. All important details of trekkers and trekking routes shall be maintained on a computerized Database Management System that may be useful for safety and security of trekkers. To help carry out search and rescue operations for trekkers in case of natural calamities and other accidents by means of Authentic Information Service . To maintain a record system that includes personal details of trekkers, trekking area, trekking routes, handling agencies, duration, etc. The data generated from the system will be useful to all stakeholders:- tourism organizations, Government agencies, diplomatic missions, tour operators, research institute, etc.
2. Unauthorized trekking operations will be controlled, thus, resulting into better management of trekking service and in benefit of all concerned :- trekkers, agencies, field staff, Government, etc. and also occasional untoward incidents will be better prevented.
3. To upgrade the service standard and contribute for better management of sustainable mountain tourism development of Nepal.
TIMS REGULATORY PROVISIONS
1. Every trekkers has to compulsorily obtain a TIMS Card before they enter any of the prescribed trekking regions and routes.
2. A Free individual trekker (FIT) or organized group trekkers are required to keep TIMS along with them throughout their treks.
3. TIMS has to be shown to TAAN / NTB authorities, national park check posts, conservation area check posts and police check posts on demand.
4. Trekkers are required to keep their copies of passports along with them for verification during trekking.
5. TIMS shall be non-transferable, non-endorsable and valid only for single entry.
TIMS will not be required for:
1. The expedition members permitted to climb the mountains.
2. The visitors in the controlled areas permitted by the Department of Immigration.
3. The foreign guests invited by the Government of Nepal.
4. The authorities from different diplomatic missions in the country, who is holding official letter/s and traveling own risk .
5. Visitors on certain mission recommended by the concerned department of the Government.
6. Foreign Nationals having the residential visa.
Move to Top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Climbing Rules in Nepal - (Effective August 6, 1981)
In exercise of the powers conferred by Government of Nepal, Nepal Mountaineering Association has made the following rules to be observed for the climbing of the peaks of Nepal Himalaya listed in Appendix '1'. These rules will come into force at once.
Definition:
Where applicable definitions for these rules will be the same as those for Government of Nepal Mountaineering Expedition Regulations 1979 and its first Amendment 1984.
Permission:
Any person or mountaineering team desirous of climbing the peak listed in Appendix '1' must receive permission from Nepal Mountaineering Association. Application to climb the peak must be made in the form as prescribed in Appendix '2'. Permission to climb the peaks will be granted for a period of one month only. Permission may be extended, if necessary, for another period of two weeks. The period of permission granted relates to time spent for climbing above the base camp. The trek to and from the base camp is not included. Application for climbing permit may be made at any time by the concerned mountaineering team. Permit will be granted on a first come first serve basis. The right to give permission to another party for climbing the same peak during the same period is reserved by Nepal Mountaineering Association. Nepal Mountaineering Association will recommend to Immigration Office of Government of Nepal for obtaining trekking permit of the area to the team members.
Payment of fee:
The climbing fee structure of NMA 18 Trekking Peaks listed in Appendix "1" is as follows:
Group Size Rate US$ Additional P/P US$
1-4 Persons 350.00 Only
5-8 Persons 350.00 Plus 40.00 (Per person)
9-12 Persons 510.00 Plus 25.00 (Per person)
For extending permission, an additional 25% charge of the total amount of the initial fee will be made for each extra week. The leader or climbing member of the team must collect the permit in person from Nepal Mountaineering Association. The maximum number of person in a group is 12 pax.
Refund:
In the event of cancellation of the permission by NMA or the failure of the expedition to materialize due to some other reasons, the feels already paid will not be refunded. Every individual or party granted a climbing permit shall be accompanied by a Sirdar/Guide, who must be registered with NMA.
Functions and duties of the Sirdar/Guide :
- To assist the climbing party with recruitment of porters and other staff, control of porters, local purchase of food, etc. And to solve any problem that may arise to the best of his ability.
- To report to Nepal Mountaineering Association in case the party spends more than the prescribed time limit in the mountain.
- To ensure that the climbers comply with the terms of their permit.
- To ensure that the climbers (trekkers) follow the specified route.
- To ensure proper disposal of waste materials.
- To report to NMA any infringement of the climbing rules
- To report any serious incidents to the nearest police post. The Sirder Guide shall be employed from the day the climbing party begins the trek until the trek is finished.
The Sirdar/Guide will be provided with the following facilities:-
- Minimum daily allowance to be paid as per the rules of Government of Nepal, Ministry of Tourism, and Civil Aviation.
- Food and tent accommodation.
- Climbing equipment and necessary clothing if required to go above the base camp.
- Insurance: - All employees going above the base camp must be insured for personal accident to the value of Rs. 200,000.00.
Nomination of representative in Kathmandu:- Each party granted climbing permit will nominate representative in Kathmandu to act as liaison between NMA and the climbing party. The representative may be an individual or an organisation registered with NMA. The nominated representative will be responsible for making necessary arrangements for the climbing party in case of accidents or any other unforeseen circumstances.
Submission of report: - On the conclusion of the climb and on return to Kathmandu, the party will submit a report to NMA. in the form prescribed in Appendix '4'. Power to cancel the permit:- NMA may cancel or withdraw the climbing permit any time with or without showing any particular reason. Non-compliance of the regulation:- Where any trekking party acts in contravention to the climbing permit or indulges in acts of unsocial or outrageous behavior contrary to the customs and culture of the people of Nepal, NMA may recommend to Government of Nepal to take necessary measures in accordance with the article 37 of Mountaineering Regulations 1979.
Protection of Environment: - Base camp and other camps will be left perfectly c lean at the conclusion of the climb. No foreign materials, such as fix rope, pitons, etc shall be left on the mountain. All rubbish and waste material must be burnt or otherwise disposed off.
Revision of the Regulations:- any article of this regulation may be revised or amended by NMA with prior permission of Government of Nepal.
Move to Top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Major Festivals in Nepal
This day is celebrated to mark the birthday of the Lord Buddha which dates back in about 543 BC. It falls on Jestha Purnima (Full moon night-May/June).
Gaijatra
The festival of "Gai Jatra" (the procession of cows) which is one of the most popular festivals, is generally celebrated in the Nepalese month of Bhadra (August-September). This festival has its roots in the belief that the god of death, Yamaraj, must be feared and hence worshipped
Dashain (Bijaya Dashami)
During the month of Kartik in the Bikram Sambat calendar (late September and early October), the Nepalese people indulge in the biggest festival of the year, Dashain. Dashain is the longest and the most auspicious festival in the Nepalese annual calendar, celebrated by Nepalese of all caste and creed throughout the country. The fifteen days of celebration occurs during the bright lunar fortnight ending on the day of the full moon.
Tihar (Dipawali)
Tihar, the festival of lights is one of the most dazzling of all Hindu festivals. In this festival we worship Goddess Laxmi, the Goddess of wealth. It heralds the month of Kartik (October/November) starting with Kukur Puja-Narak Chaturdashi.
Shree Panchami
This festival falls in mid Magh (January/February). It is celebrated as the birthday of Saraswati, the Goddess of Learning. She is the lily-white daughter of Shiva and Durga in spotless white robe and seated in a full-blown lotus. This day is also dedicated to the martyrs of Nepal and hence celebrated as Martyr's Day.
Fagu Purnima (Holi)
The ancient Hindu festival of Holi falls on late February or on early March. Allegedly named after the mythical demon Holika, it is a day when the feast of colors is celebrated. The festival is of a week. However, it's only the last day that is observed by all with colors
Lhosar
Lhosar is the Tibetan New Year which falls on February/March. This festival is mast impressively observed by all the Tibetan-speaking populations. They organize folk songs and dances on this occasion. These dances can be seen in Khumbu, Helambu and other northern regions of Nepal and also at Boudhanath in Kathmandu
Shree Krishna Janmastami
Sri Krishna Janmastami marks the celebration of the birth of Lord Sri Krishna. This festival is also known as Krishna Jayanti or Janmashtami. Lord Krishna is regarded as the 8th avatar or 'incarnation' of Lord Vishnu. It falls on Saptami of Bhadra (August/September).
Indrajatra (Holiday Only in Kathmandu)
This festival falls in the end of Bhadra (August/September). Both Hindus and Buddhists unite to celebrate the festival of Indra Jatra with great enthusiasm.
Maha Shiva Ratri
This day is the celebration dedicated to the Lord Shiva which falls on the Trayodashi of the month Fagun (February/March). So many devotees are willing to worship in very much popular Hindus Temple Pashupatinath in Kathmandu. Every Year Thousands of Devotees arrive in Kathmandu for this Festival to celebrate & worship.
Ghode Jatra
Ghode Jatra, the Horse Racing Day falls on Darhsa Shrad Aunsi of the month Chaitra (March/April). A grand horse parade takes place at Tundikhel, the central point of the city reputed to have been in the former days the largest parade ground in Asia.
Rato Macchendranath Jatra
(Begins on the full moon day of Baisakh) This is the longest as well as the most important festival of Patan. It begins with several days of ceremonies and the fabrication of a wooden-wheeled chariot at Pulchowk, near the Ashoka Stupa.
Move to Top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shopping in Nepal
Nepal has many fine handicrafts to offer to visitors: hand-knotted woollen carpets, jewellery, pashmina shawls, woollen knitwears, embroidery, thangka paintings, wood carvings, metal works, ceramics and pottery, rice paper and stationary. Shopping in Kathmandu can also offer you wide variety of imported merchandise in quality and price. The Super Market, New Road and numerous department stores offer fine collection of imported products. On the other hand, Thamel treks shops have the best bargain when it comes to outdoor clothing and gear.
Nepalese handicrafts and Jewelleries:
Necklaces, bracelets, rings, traditional ankle chains etc can be found almost anywhere in Kathmandu. Tibetan jewellery also proves popular among tourists and don't forget to visit the colourful glass bead market tucked away near Indra Chowk.
Gem:
Kathmandu boasts one of the widest selection of loose gems in the entire region as well as rare breeds mined in the high mountains of Nepal. These gems are also sold at comparatively low prices which makes it a worth buying.
Pottery:
A popular inexpensive souvenir, Kathmandu's potters make both terra-cota and glazed earthenware in the form of household utensils, small souvenirs and decorative items. Bhaktapur's potters square also provides a scene of the experienced potters in action.
Spices:
Since ancient times, traders have followed their noses to the spice markets of Asia. Kathmandu's markets, particularly, the spice market at Ason offer exotic ingredients mixed with the skills handed down from time immemorial.
Wood carving:
The expertise of Newar craftsmen in this field can be seen in the intricately carved windows, doors, pillars and latticed art-works fitted in temples throughout the Kathmandu Valley. Ornate picture frames, doors, windows, furniture, jewellery boxes, etc are produced and sold in the workshops of Patan and Bhaktapur.
Pashmina:
Pashmina, from the Persian word for wool, is popularly known in the west as CASHMERE, wool of Kashmir. The fine wool comes from the undercoat of the Himalayan mountain goat, which lives in the most remote regions of the Tibetan Plateau. Today most of the world's pashmina shawls are woven on handlooms in Nepal's Kathmandu Valley. Most are woven on a warp of spun silk for increased suppleness and strength. In recent years, the silk and Pashmina blend has become the darling of the western fashion world. Pashmina is the latest and fast growing Nepalese export sector.
Garments:
Shawls, woollen sweater, jackets, trousers and caps are functional as well as interesting articles to take back home. The exceptional embroidery of the Kathmandu tailors is also something to be mentioned.
Paubha/Thanka:
These are traditional paintings on cotton scrolls depicting deities and religious symbols from Buddhism. Many of the thankas are created by using ground stone pigment for the vivid colours.
Khukuri:
The curved metal knife, synonymous with the valor of Gurkha soldiers is a traditional tool that has become a well-loved memento for many people visiting Nepal.
Metal-ware:
The beauty of the traditional copper, brass and bronze engraved items are hard to ignore. Oil Lamps, water jars, statues and others. Such items can be found in the Mahaboudha area in Lalitpur.
Tea:
Nepal's eastern hilly districts, notably Ilam, produce a variety of excellent tea, most of which is exported. The teashops offer a wide selection of fine Nepalese tea in attractive packages, which make great gifts to take back home.
Woollen carpets:
Carpets made in Nepal are hand knotted using the traditional techniques of Tibet. The best of them are woven from a mixture of highland Himalayan sheep wool and New Zealand long staple wool.
Imported merchandise:
Perfumes ladies/Gents, cameras, Luggage, Cosmetics, toilet Items, watches, Cameras, Blankets, Baby care products, writing instruments, chocolates, optical goods, tobaccos and cigars, leather goods, musical instruments, house hold appliances, decorations, accessories, garments.
Move to Top
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Currency ATM Banks,Currency in Nepal
Nepali Rupee notes come in Rs. 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100, 500, 1000 denominations. Coins come in 5 paisa, 10p, 25p, Rs. 1, 2 and 5 denominations.Visitors can exchange foreign currency at the foreign exchange counter at the airport upon arrival. Visitors other than the Indian nationals have to make the payment in foreign currency (non-Indian currency) in hotel, trekking agencies or travel agencies. Money changers are open normally 8am to 8pm everyday. You can exchange your foreign currency at your Hotel, at Banks or your travel agent can help you.
Visa and Master cards are widely accepted in the cities, mostly Kathmandu and Pokhara. Bigger hotels and restaurants accept them but smaller hotels and restaurants will not accept them .If you are going for a trekking or remote area of Nepal, make sure you have enough Nepali cash for your personal expenses. Some lodges in the mountains may accept Cash US dollars but the exchange rate offered is very low.Indian currency works in Nepal except 500 and 1000 bills.
There are ATM machines at several places in Kathmandu, Pokhara and some other cities including some at Kathmandu airport. The credit card service charge is normally 3.5% in Nepal. You can also get Nepali Rupees against travelers cheques at banks.
Banks are open Sunday to Friday 9.30am to 3pm. Some Banks use to open for evening counters till 6-7pm in Major city such as Kathmandu, Pokhara, Narayanghat etc.. Here are many banks at customer service in the city. Public holiday and Saturday, they are open for short hours.
Move to Top
More Nepal Travel Information:
Nepal Visa Information
Nepal Travel Information
Nepal Trekking Information
Nepal Travel FAQ'S
