Nepal, is known for trekking and the beautiful nature. A landlocked country between India and China, Nepal has a rich cultural heritage which has been hidden and not so often talked about. During my short trip I was able to discover its culture through festivals that happen in Nepal.
Here is a starter’s guide to someone who is looking to travel in Nepal.
General Facts about Nepal
Capital – Kathmandu
Currency – Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
Primary Language – Nepali
International Airport – Tribhuvan International Airport located in Kathmandu is the only major airport in Nepal.
National Flag of Nepal
Photo Source – Wikimedia Commons
Where to Spend Your Time
Culture – Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Patan
Spiritual – Pasupathinath, Boudhnath, Swayambunath, Lumbini
Trekking – Everest, Annapurna, Langtang
Nature – Pokhara, Daman, Nagarkot
Wildlife – Chitwan National Park, Bardia National Park
Nyatapola Temple in Bhaktapur
Getting A Nepal Tourist Visa
Indian’s do not need a visa to enter Nepal. They can stay for unlimited number of days.
Most of the countries get a Visa on Arrival.
Getting in and around
The one and only International Airport in Nepal, is Tribhuvan Airport in Kathmandu.
Buses in Nepal are very notorious. They are very old and not in good condition. Traveling in public buses in Nepal is not safe. On the other hand, tourist buses between Pokhara and Kathmandu are comfortable.
For short distance travel there are tuk-tuk. They are cheap and available in plenty in Kathmandu. Taxis are available and discuss the rates before boarding.
Accommodation in Nepal
The accommodation in Nepal is cheap. While trekking remember that the accommodation on the routes provide minimal facilities. There are also five star hotels and resorts in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Money in Nepal
The currency of Nepal is Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Approximately 1 USD = 98 NPR. Indian Rupee notes of INR 100 or lower are accepted everywhere in Nepal. Remember that carring Indian Bank notes of INR 500 or INR 1000 might land you in trouble, because of the large number of fake bank notes circulating there.
ATM’s are found in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Finding ATM in other places is very difficult. So, exchange all the money you need in Kathmandu. Currency ex-changers are found in plenty in Thamel part of Kathmandu. Credit cards are accepted only in a few restaurants in hotels.
