Before you go to Nepal

Visa

Most visitors get a tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport. Fill in the online form on the Department of Immigration site shortly before you fly, to save time at the airport.

At the time of writing the fee is US$30 for 15 days, US$50 for 30 days and US$125 for 90 days. Bring the fee in cash, in US dollars or euros, in case the card machines are not working.

Trekking permits and guides

Treks in the national parks and conservation areas need permits, and since 2023 trekkers in most of them must be accompanied by a licensed guide. We arrange both.

Money

The currency is the Nepalese rupee. Cards work in hotels and larger shops in Kathmandu and Pokhara; outside them, carry cash. Cash machines are common in towns but rare on the trails.

Health

See your doctor or a travel clinic six to eight weeks before you leave. Drink bottled or filtered water.

On treks above about 3,000 metres, we plan rest days so your body can adjust to the altitude. The air in Kathmandu can be hazy and dusty in the dry months; a mask helps if you are sensitive.

Temples and customs

Walk clockwise around stupas and prayer wheels. Take your shoes off where others do, and ask before photographing people or ceremonies.

Some Hindu temples, including the main shrine at Pashupatinath, are open only to Hindus; your guide will show you where to watch from.

Getting around

Roads are slow: Kathmandu to Pokhara takes six to eight hours by car, or 25 minutes by plane. Mountain flights depend on the weather, so we leave a spare day before your flight home.

Plugs and power

230 volts, round-pin plugs (types C, D and M). Power cuts are now rare in the cities; hotels have generators.

Time

Nepal is 4 hours 45 minutes ahead of Paris in winter and 3 hours 45 minutes in summer.