Find answers to frequently asked questions about trekking in Nepal such as visa, trip grade, fitness level, a typical day, accommodation, food, etc.
Q. How can a person apply for a Nepalese visa?
One can apply for a Nepalese Visa by two different procedures: upon arrival in the country or via the Nepalese diplomatic missions or embassies across the world.
– A tourist visa will be valid for a maximum of three months and bears multiple re-entry facilities. Upon your arrival at the entry/exit points of Nepal, you can fill a form to procure a Nepalese Visa. These entry-exit points are located at the Nepal-Tibet and Nepal-India land border or at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
– You can also get the Visa from Nepalese Diplomatic Missions or embassies which are located abroad. This is valid for only six months which means you will have to enter Nepal within six months to validate this Visa.
– Refer to the information available at the official website of Department of Immigration of Nepal at http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/page/tourist-visa.
Q. What is the best time of the year to trek in Nepal?
The best time to trek in Nepal depends on your preference and trekking destination. Many argue that the best time for trekking is spring (March to May). This season welcomes with pleasant weather accompanied by flowering plants. So, you can enjoy your trek at lower and higher altitudes.
If you are looking for clear skies and moderate trekking days then you can also choose to trek in autumn (September to November). It is perfect for trekking in the high altitudes of Nepal as the sun shines overhead on most days. The view of the Himalayas and surroundings is also good during this season.
If you want to meet fewer people on your trek, then monsoon (June to August) and winter (December to February) are your best choices. There are trekking destinations like Mustang, Dolpo which can be trekked in monsoon. Similarly, you can trek in the lower areas of Annapurna, Everest and Langtang in winter. However, beware of adverse weather conditions that you may encounter on your way.
Q. What is the day and night temperature in Nepal?
In Nepal, the temperature varies according to the altitude. Nepal has three geographical divisions namely Tarai, Hills and Himalayas.
Terai region is hot and humid throughout the year except winter. During winters, the average temperature here is 15 degrees Celsius and it drops even at night. In summer, the temperature can rise up to 40 degrees Celsius.
Areas below 3500 m altitude are classified as temperate zones. The temperature here can range from 8°C in December to 22°C in mid-July. In Kathmandu alone, it goes below 1 degree Celsius in winter, while it can rise up to 25 degree Celsius in summer.
Temperatures in the Himalayas above 3500 meters can drop below zero at night. The daytime sun can bring you some warmth. On average, the temperature drops by 6 degrees at 1000 meters altitude. In winter, the temperature drops below zero degrees Celsius.
Q. What are the difficulty level of treks in Nepal and the level of physical fitness to do those treks?
There are easy, moderate and challenging trekking routes in Nepal that you can do according to your taste. The level of physical fitness also depends on the trek you choose. Easy treks explore mountain trails that are smooth and don’t involve long periods of trekking. It can be done by any age group. Moderate treks also cover difficult trails and high altitudes. It requires the person to be in decent physical condition. They also include a long walking period at around 6 to 8 hours on average. Finally, tough ones are those who need trekking expertise and mental strength. A good physical condition is essential as the trails cover 5000 meters.
Q. Which type of trekking is better? (Tea house/lodge trek or camping trek)
As most of the trekking routes are hot spots for trekking, you can find tea houses and lodges in abundance. Tea house trekking can give you the advantage of not having to worry about accommodation and food. Trekkers can stop and rest at teahouses available at strategic locations along the trekking trail. Therefore, teahouse treks is the most famous trekking in Nepal.
However, you can also opt for camping treks. These treks allow you to enjoy nature and the originality of the Nepalese community from a distance. Most of the time, you need a team to help you set up tents, cook food and carry your stuff. This can make camping trekking more expensive than the famous teahouse trekking.
Q. Should I carry extra money for personal expenses and how good are the ATM facilities in Nepal?
Nepali currency, rupees, is the best option to keep with you while traveling in Nepal. You can easily exchange Nepali currency at the prevailing rates at money exchanger outlets in cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara. However, you should be cautious about currency exchange and the validity of the current exchange rate. To check the daily exchange rates, you can visit the official website of Nepal Rastra Bank https://www.nrb.org.np/fxmexchangerate.php.
It is useful to carry extra cash with you when traveling to high altitudes as you may need it in case of emergency or for casual shopping. ATM are widely available in major cities; However, this is not the case when traveling to remote areas. While ATMs may be available, they may not always work properly. Therefore, it is wise to withdraw enough money when in areas that offer reliable ATM access.
Q. Are there any safety issues while traveling in Nepal?
Nepal is one of the safest destinations in the world for traveling and trekking. Of course, natural disasters and unexpected situations can occur but Nepal’s trekking routes are well equipped to deal with most problems. Recently, a police branch called Tourist Police has been deployed to assist tourists in Nepal. They assist travelers and ensure their safety while in Nepal.
However, depend on how you carry yourself on the trek. You need to be alert for adverse weather and natural conditions and keep tabs on changes by knowing the details of the place you are visiting. You should also be careful about what you wear, as you may be at risk of hypothermia or other conditions associated with cold weather. You should keep yourself well equipped with emergency housing needs as well as food and water. The most useful tip is to keep a slow pace as climbing to high altitudes in haste can give you extreme cases of altitude sickness.
Q. What are the chances of domestic flight delays or cancellations and buffer days?
Domestic flights in Nepal are often delayed due to differences in climate and geography. Autumn and spring are the best travel times when flights are less delayed as the weather is mostly stable. Winter and monsoon are different conditions as flights are delayed due to heavy rain and thick fog. This is especially true in the Himalayan region and airports in areas like Lukla Airport, Jomsom Airport, Jufal Airport, Phaplu Airport, Simikot Airport.
Given these unpredictable conditions, it is best to travel with a buffer of two or three days. In case flights are canceled due to unpredictable weather, it’s a good idea to have some free days and travel insurance. It can help you charter a helicopter in case of dire need or claim for refund.
Q. Do I need international travel insurance while traveling in Nepal?
International travel insurance is an important document if you are planning to trek Nepal. Before going to Nepal for trekking you should also ensure that you are covered for adventure activities and travel above certain altitude while choosing travel insurance. It is also essential to have insurance that covers medical issues and emergency evacuations. This can save you from your health as well as bank account costs.
Q. What kind of food should I eat during the trek and is clean food and accommodation available during the trek?
Care should be taken to eat raw vegetables and uncooked food while trekking. As the risk of gastrointestinal disease is very high, you are advised to pay attention to you eat. Eating heavily colored food and unwashed fruits should also be prohibited during the trek to avoid food poisoning. Also, your main accommodation during the trip will be teahouses and lodges. As these are designed to meet the needs of travelers, they are comfortable and clean as well. Here, most of the food you consume is mostly vegetarian or vegan food. Extra precautions should be taken when eating meat at high altitudes, as the meat may be raw or unhealthy. Overall, the food and accommodation is healthy and clean when you trek at high altitude.
Q. Is safe drinking water available during the trek?
You are advised to drink boiled, filtered and purified water instead of tap water or tap water while travelling. You can request that your accommodation be provided with boiled or mineral water. It will be helpful to have purification tablets or filters with you, or you can also use UV light treatments. Carrying a life straw can be crucial for any hiking adventure. Since life straws are portable and can be easily used in any situation, you should have one in your backpack.
Q. Is electricity available during the trekking?
Major trekking trails are always well equipped and have electricity. Hydropower and solar power are the two major sources of electricity in Nepal. However, electricity may only be available for lighting purposes when you go to higher altitudes. So, you should bring your portable chargers with you. A solar charged battery can also be useful during the trek. The voltage in Nepal is 220-240 volts, so you cannot use electrical appliances of different voltage specifications. Also, flat holes are hard to find on trekking routes, so having a power socket is a big help.
Q. What types of hotels are available in Kathmandu and do they store our luggage?
As Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal, various types of hotels are available here. Most of the big and spacious hotels are located here. Small hotels also have water, electricity and internet facilities, while some have arranged transportation. From 1-star hotels to 5-star hotels, travelers have many options to choose from.
Yes, Hotels in Kathmandu offer you the facility to store your luggage. Most tourists stay in a hotel for a few days and then keep extra luggage at the hotel they are staying at. Hotels keep luggage for free or at a minimal charge but you must stay in the same place when you return. Separate luggage storage spaces are also available in Kathmandu if your hotel is not ready yet or you want to look around before finding one. Whereas, we recommend our customers to keep AlpineTrav Treks and Expeditions
Q. Which mode of private transport should I use on Nepal?
The best options for private transport, after tourist buses, are jeeps and land rovers. Since the geography of Nepal is diverse and most of the roads are unpaved, it is more effective to use a four-wheeled vehicle for trekking. They are mainly used to reach the starting point of the trek and are convenient to travel around. These vehicles also have AC which is great during the drive.
Q. Can I rent or buy trekking equipment in Kathmandu?
If your plan is to trek only once or twice then you can rent the necessary equipment. Jackets, pants, and sleeping bags are available to rent for a limited time. It is less expensive if your plan is to trek only for a short period of time. However, for longer treks, you can also buy your own personal equipment in Kathmandu. There are many branded stores in Kathmandu to buy equipment and they are also available in different price ranges. Nepali branded products are equally suitable for use. So, you can choose to buy or rent according to your needs.
Q. What procedures should I follow at the airport?
Tribhuvan International Airport is the only entry and exit point of Nepal by air. The first thing you do when you get here is to get your visa, on-arrival visa, or visa approved if you already have one. As the airport is usually busy and you have to stand in long queues to collect your luggage, it is advisable to have the tag handy when carrying your luggage. There are exchange counters near the arrivals terminal where you can exchange some money to pay for a taxi that will take you to your destination. Return journey is same but will have to go through immigration check on return.
Q. What are the required permits for traveling in Nepal?
Most of the famous trekking routes in Nepal fall under protected areas like National Parks, Conservation Areas, Restricted Areas and Wildlife Reserves. So, you need a permit to trek in such areas. Whether you are traveling on your own or with a guide, you must obtain permission in advance and carry a copy of your passport. Permit fees for various trekking destinations and protected areas in Nepal can be found on the official website of the Immigration Department at http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/page/trekking-route.
Q. What are local customs and culture of Nepal?
Nepal is a mixture of different ethnicities and tribes with a tradition of treating guests like God. You will meet people from all cultures during your travels. All these ethnic communities are welcoming in nature and offer excellent hospitality. Similarly, Nepali society is a mixture of old-fashioned adults and modern generation. Similarly, the society still has traditional beliefs. Travelers should not wear clothing that shows too much skin except in city areas. Similarly, you should always respect people’s privacy and follow instructions when visiting religious places of pilgrimage.
Q. Are your guides, porters and drivers qualified of trip?
At AlpineTrav Treks & Expeditions, we ensure to provide you with experienced and trained guide and porters as per your requirements. They are skilled and highly experienced in trekking. They are also good at English and promote teamwork during the trek.
A small amount of tips to drivers, hotels, restaurants, and tea houses or lodges is also required. However, you can tip guides and porters more as you wish.
Q. How to enter the Nepal?
Tribhuvan International Airport is the only entry/exit point to Nepal from Hawaii. There are many international flights that will bring you to Nepal. Similarly, there are many land entry and exit points. Kakarvitta, Nepalgunj, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Dhangadi, and Mahendranagar are the land entry points at the Nepal-India border. Similarly, Kerung is the entry/exit point at the Nepal-Tibet border. A rail and bus route from Jayanagar in India to Raxaul in Nepal also connects Nepal and India. Since Nepal is a landlocked country, there is no other way to enter/exit.
Q. What is the average walking distance/hour?
Walking distance/hours varies according to client’s fitness and due to altitude, terrain, and walking pattern. In general hiking terms, walking distances are measured in hours rather than miles. On average, you will walk for around 6 hours every day on our trekking trip in the Himalayas. Morning walk, which will be 3 to 4 hours until lunch, and after two hours in the afternoon we reach our overnight place.
Q. What luggage should I bring with me?
It should include all your duffel bag with Sleeping bag, clothes and gear for your trekking trip and the duffel bag will be carried by the porter. Second, you should bring a daypack or small rucksack large enough to carry your valuables, water, energy bars, cameras, waterproof jacket, and fleece.
Q. Do I need trekking poles?
Trekking poles are not essential, but are especially beneficial on long day hikes, where the terrain is steep and uneven. Trekking poles are of great help if one has knee problems. Keeping trekking poles while walking downhill will reduce the stress on your knees and help you descend more easily.
Q. What to do with extra free time after the trek?
Nepal is full of natural scenery and tranquility so a perfect choice would be relaxation and sightseeing. You can visit major cities like Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Lalitpur where you can enjoy our cultural monuments. You can also visit other places like Pokhara, Chitwan, Lumbini. If you are an adventurous person who loves adventure sports, you can enjoy your time with paragliding, bungee jump, rafting or mountain biking.
Q. Are there any multi-country tours?
Asian countries like Tibet, Bhutan and India are the countries closest to Nepal. Most of these places are connected by land and are easily accessible both by land and air. If you are looking for a multi-country tour, you can easily check out our packages. This package includes Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, India. All these countries share some cultural and religious beliefs. You can enjoy a trip to the high mountains and cultural splendor. You can easily customize trips and make necessary changes to your itinerary on multi-country trip.
