Nepal is one of the most welcoming countries in Asia, but a few practical tips will help you avoid common mistakes and make the most of your visit.
1. Visa on Arrival Is Easy
Most nationalities get a visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport. Bring cash (USD/EUR) and a passport photo. Read our full Nepal visa guide.
2. Cash Is King Outside Kathmandu
ATMs are plentiful in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but rare or nonexistent on trekking routes and in rural areas. Withdraw enough Nepali Rupees before leaving major cities.
3. Tipping Is Expected but Not Mandatory
For trekking guides, the general practice is NPR 500-1,000 per day. For porters, NPR 300-500 per day. Restaurant tips of 10% are appreciated in tourist areas.
4. Dress Modestly at Temples
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples and religious sites. Remove shoes before entering temples. Ask permission before photographing people, monks, or religious ceremonies.
5. Drink Bottled or Purified Water
Tap water is not safe to drink. Buy bottled water, use purification tablets, or carry a SteriPEN. Many teahouses sell boiled or filtered water — this is cheaper and reduces plastic waste.
6. Nepal Runs on “Nepal Time”
Nepal Standard Time is UTC+5:45 — one of the few countries with a 45-minute offset. Schedules are flexible. Flights, buses, and meetings may not start exactly on time.
7. Travel Insurance Is Essential
If you are trekking, ensure your policy covers helicopter evacuation above 4,000m. Standard travel insurance often excludes high-altitude activities — check the fine print.
8. Bargaining Is Normal in Markets
In tourist shops and markets, prices are often inflated. Polite bargaining is expected. Fixed-price shops and restaurants usually do not negotiate.
9. Load Shedding and Power Cuts Happen
Nepal’s electricity supply has improved dramatically, but power cuts still occur. Carry a portable charger for your phone and camera, especially on treks.
10. Dal Bhat Power, 24 Hour
The national dish — rice, lentil soup, vegetables, and pickles — is served twice daily across Nepal. It is nutritious, unlimited (refills are free), and costs NPR 300-600 in local restaurants. Try it at a Kathmandu food walk.
11. Left Hand and Feet Etiquette
The left hand is considered unclean. Use your right hand to eat, give, and receive. Do not point your feet at people or religious objects. Step over, not on, thresholds.
12. SIM Cards Are Cheap and Easy
Ncell and NTC offer tourist SIM cards at the airport and in Thamel. Data packages cost approximately NPR 500-1,000 for several GB. Coverage is good in cities and on popular trekking routes.
13. Internal Flights Are Small and Weather-Dependent
Flights to Lukla, Pokhara, and other domestic destinations use small aircraft. Delays and cancellations due to weather are common — always build buffer days into your itinerary.
14. Permits Are Required for Trekking
Most trekking areas require permits (TIMS card, national park entry, conservation area permits). Eco Holiday Asia handles all permits as part of our trekking packages.
15. Nepali People Are Incredibly Welcoming
“Namaste” (spoken with palms together) is the universal greeting. Nepalis are genuinely warm and curious about visitors. Learning a few Nepali words goes a long way.
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