Jurisdiction Guide

October and November are best for trekking thanks to mild weather and clear skies. March to May is also pleasant, especially in the hills and mountains, though the Terai can get hot.

Cash is king outside Kathmandu and Pokhara, though ATMs are common in cities. Tipping isn't required but is appreciated, usually 5-10% in tourist settings. You can buy a local SIM card with your passport at the airport or in major towns. Public buses are cheap but slow; taxis should be negotiated before departure. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but basic Nepali phrases go a long way.

Greet with 'Namaste' and palms together. Always remove shoes before entering homes or temples. Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially near religious sites. Avoid touching others on the head; the feet are considered unclean. Use your right hand to give and receive items.

Watch for traffic in cities; roads can be chaotic and poorly maintained. Street crime is rare but pickpocketing can happen in crowded tourist spots. Altitude sickness is a real risk on treks above 2,500 meters. Always check local advice for weather and landslide issues in the monsoon period.

Bandipur is a quiet hill town with old architecture and few crowds. Rara Lake in the far west offers clear blue water and remote hiking. The village of Panauti near Kathmandu has ancient temples and peaceful walks, but sees very few tourists.

Most travelers can get a visa on arrival at the airport or border points for 15, 30, or 90 days. Fees vary by length of stay and are payable in cash. Nationals of some South Asian countries get special access. Nepal doesn't currently offer a digital nomad visa, and long-term residency is difficult unless you have family ties or investment.

Domestic flights connect Kathmandu with Pokhara and remote regions, saving days of road travel. Buses and microbuses are cheap and reach most towns, though rides can be bumpy and crowded. Taxis operate in cities, and apps like Pathao work in Kathmandu. There are no major train lines.

Dal bhat, rice with lentil soup and vegetables, is the staple and found everywhere. Momos, steamed dumplings with meat or vegetables, are a must-try snack. Newari dishes often contain buffalo or spicy flavors; ask if you're vegetarian. Tap water isn't safe to drink, buy sealed bottles or use purification tablets. Tea (either sweet and milky or black with spices) is the standard drink.

Budget travelers can live on $20-30 per day, with basic hotels and local food. Mid-range rooms in Pokhara and Kathmandu usually start around $40 nightly. Remote areas are often cheaper except for flights and guided treks. A cup of tea costs 30-50 rupees, while a plate of dal bhat is about 200–300 rupees.