Nepal
Nepal info
Practical info about travelling to Nepal. What you need to know before going.
Things to do in Nepal
What you can see and what you can do during your trip with us to Nepal
Nepal tours & treks
Our customized tours and treks in Nepal at a glance.
A Guide to Nepal
Beyond the Peaks, Into the Heart of Nepal
Nepal. The name itself conjures images of majestic Everest, a crown jewel of the Himalayas. But imagine a Nepal that extends far beyond the well-trodden paths, a land where vibrant cultures, serene landscapes, and genuine connections await. Yes, Everest holds a powerful allure, but what if you could experience its grandeur while directly contributing to the well-being of its surrounding communities and minimizing your environmental impact? Check here how you can engage in the Everest Base Camp Trek with a unique perspective.
Nepal, a land where the Himalayas pierce the sky, and ancient traditions whisper through terraced fields. But beyond the iconic summits and well-trodden trails, lies a Nepal waiting to be discovered – a realm of hidden valleys, vibrant communities, and profound ecological wonders. At Himalayan Ecotourism, we believe in journeys that resonate, that regenerate, and that empower. We invite you to explore Nepal with a different lens, one that honors the land and its people.
Did you know Nepal is home to the Kumari, a living goddess? These young girls, revered as incarnations of the Hindu deity Durga, reside in temples, embodying a unique blend of tradition and faith.
The modern traveler seeks more than just a snapshot; they crave authentic encounters, sustainable practices, and experiences that leave a positive footprint.
This guide is crafted for those who yearn to delve deeper, to venture beyond the familiar, and to connect with the soul of Nepal. Here, you’ll find pathways to :
Hidden Valleys and Untouched Landscapes :
- Discover the serene beauty of the Rupa Tal, where tranquil waters reflect the surrounding hills, a world away from the bustling tourist hubs.
- Journey to the mystical Shey Phoksundo Lake, a turquoise jewel nestled in the remote Dolpo region, where ancient Bon traditions thrive.
- Explore the Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, where wild landscapes and diverse wildlife create an unforgettable experience.
Cultural Immersion and Community Empowerment :
- Experience the rich cultural tapestry of Tansen, a historic Newari town where time seems to stand still.
- Explore the spiritual heart of Janakpur Dham, and experience the rich cultural and religious importance of that area.
- Engage with local communities, learn about their sustainable practices, and contribute to their economic well-being.
Regenerative Travel and Ecological Exploration :
- Explore the lush tea gardens of Ilam, where sustainable agriculture and breathtaking landscapes intertwine.
- Witness the pristine beauty of Rara Lake, a natural sanctuary that embodies the essence of Himalayan tranquility.
- Experience the unique culture of the Mustang region, and learn about the efforts to preserve its fragile ecosystem.
How to reach Nepal ?
Reaching Nepal by Air
Travellers can plan to fly to the Tribhuvan International Airport in Nepal. Being a small airport, it is not directly connected to major global airports. The ideal way to reach Nepal is to fly to Delhi, India and then take a flight to Nepal. Travellers from the US, UK and Europe have the option to take a connecting flight from the UAE to Nepal if that suits you better. Major Indian cities, including Varanasi, Bengaluru, Mumbai and Kolkata, have good connectivity to the Tribhuvan International Airport. The Delhi to Kathmandu flight is a 1 hour 35 minute journey. Travellers planning to travel during the peak season of October – November should plan their trip well in advance.
Reaching Nepal by Road from India
India and Nepal share a long, open border, facilitating relatively seamless road travel for tourists and locals alike. This accessibility makes it a popular and often economical choice for those looking to experience Nepal’s diverse landscapes and rich culture.
Landscape of Nepal
The landscape of Nepal is marvelous, with picturesque valleys and the mighty Himalayas.
Here’s a breakdown of the key border crossings and travel considerations :
1. Sunauli Border (Near Bhairahawa, Nepal) :
This is often considered the most convenient crossing for travelers originating from Delhi, Varanasi, and surrounding regions in North India. Direct, daily air-conditioned buses are readily available from Delhi and Varanasi to Sunauli. Private car rentals offer flexibility and personalized travel. Sunauli is a major entry point, well-connected to key Nepali cities, including Pokhara and Kathmandu.
2. Raxaul Border (Near Birgunj, Nepal) :
Ideal for travelers heading from Patna, Bihar, and West Bengal. Bus services and hired cars are available from Patna and surrounding areas.
3. Panitanki Border (Near Kakarbhitta, Nepal) :
Best suited for those traveling from Northeast India, including Gangtok and Sikkim, and also from Siliguri.
4. Banbasa Border (Near Mahendranagar/Bhimdatta, Nepal) :
Convenient for travelers from Uttarakhand and those coming from the Delhi region via Uttarakhand. Mahendranagar/Bhimdatta provides access to western Nepal. This route offers scenic views of the Himalayan foothills.
Map of Nepal
Map of Nepal and routes you can take to reach Nepal
As you fly from Delhi to Nepal, you will see the majestic Himalayas. There are still many trails that are least crowded. This map provides a brief insight on the overall landscape of Nepal. Our pages on specific tours and treks in Nepal will give you a better insight into the terrain mapped to a smaller and relevant trail.
Permits required for Nepal
Restricted Area Permit :
- Certain areas, like Upper Mustang, Manaslu, and Tsum Valley, are restricted and require a special permit.
- Individual trekking in Restricted Areas is strictly forbidden. There should be a minimum of two trekkers.
- Trekkers should trek only on the specified or designated route as per the Trekking Permit. They are not allowed to change the route.
TIMS Card :
- The Trekking Information Management System [TIMS] card is mandatory for all trekkers.
- It is a system to help authorities track trekkers and assist in emergencies.
Vehicle Permits :
- If you plan to drive your vehicle in Nepal or take a road trip from India, you’ll need to obtain a vehicle permit or “Pass” from the Nepal Customs.
Where to Obtain Permits from ?
- Authorized trekking agencies, including Himalayan Ecotourism, can assist you with the necessary permits
- The Restricted Area Permit can be procured at the Immigration office in Kathmandu, and we can arrange this for you
Nepal Weather – Best Time to Visit
TYPICAL WEATHER IN NEPAL
Nepal on a pleasant sunny day.
Nepal’s Himalayan Regions: Weather and Travel Considerations
Nepal, home to some of the world’s highest peaks, experiences a diverse range of elevations, from the Terai plains to the towering Himalayas, reaching over 8,848 meters (Mount Everest). The Himalayan regions, in particular, exhibit weather patterns similar to other high-altitude areas like Spiti and Ladakh, characterized by unpredictability.
It is advisable to check the weather forecast regularly if you are planning a long trek or an expedition in Nepal. The weather may often go quite opposite to the forecast, so always be prepared for drastic weather and carry appropriate layers and essentials.
Weather Patterns in Nepal :
Summer (June – August) : Generally warm and sunny, but also prone to monsoon influences. Expect frequent rainfall, especially in the lower and middle hills, and potential thunderstorms. Higher altitudes can still experience cold temperatures, particularly at night.
Winter (December – February) : Extremely cold, with temperatures dropping significantly below freezing. Heavy snowfall is common, especially in higher elevations, leading to road closures and trekking route disruptions. Sudden snowstorms are possible. Dec to Jan is ideal for adventurous souls who want to beat the crowd of the peak seasons.
Shoulder Seasons (March – May & September – November) :
Generally considered the best times to visit, offering pleasant and relatively stable weather. Clear skies and mild temperatures make trekking and sightseeing more enjoyable. However, unpredictable weather can still occur, so preparedness is essential.
Travel Considerations :
Elevation : Nepal’s varied elevations mean that weather conditions can change rapidly within short distances.
Route Accessibility : Road access to remote Himalayan regions can be affected by weather, particularly during the monsoon and winter. High mountain passes and trekking trails may become impassable due to snowfall or landslides. Many high-altitude trails and passes are only accessible during the shoulder seasons.
Best Time to Visit Nepal :
For trekking and exploring the Himalayan regions, the ideal time is during the pre-monsoon (March – May) and post-monsoon (September – November) periods.
These months offer the most stable weather and clear views of the mountains.
It is always a good idea to add buffer days to any itinerary, due to the unpredictable nature of the weather.
If you wish to avoid the crowd, trekking in Dec-Jan would be ideal, provided you don’t mind the extreme cold which of course can be tackled with proper layering.
JAN
VERY COLD
Off season treks
FEB
COLD
Off season treks
MAR
PLEASANT
Best time to go
APR
PLEASANT
Best time to go
MAY
PLEASANT
Best time to go
JUN
MONSOON
Avoid
JUL
MONSOON
Avoid
AUG
MONSOON
Avoid
SEP
PLEASANT
Best time to go
OCT
PLEASANT
Best time to go
NOV
COLD
Good time to go
DEC
VERY COLD
Off season treks
Nepal Tour Packages
Our Nepal tour will allow you the opportunity to immerse yourself in both the landscape and the culture of Nepal. Nepal is next explored through treks but some of you may want to simply do a road trip, or some of you may want to do a mix of both.
We have a few fixed itineraries for tours and treks that you can get a glimpse of here. We believe that each traveller has a unique perspective and they want to experience destinations in a different way, which is why we mostly offer customized tours after you share your tour expectations with us. If you are someone who wants to completely avoid the crowd but still wants to explore a majestic landscape and the vibrant colors of Buddhism while also creating a positive impact on communities, you can explore our tours to remote villages of Ladakh.
Forget the postcard images for a moment. Nepal is dust on your boots, the sharp scent of woodsmoke, the weight of prayer flags fluttering in the wind. It’s the simple meals shared in teahouses, the stories whispered in the flickering candlelight. It’s the way the mountains make you feel small, yet connected to something vast. It’s a place that strips away the noise and leaves you with the quiet truth of yourself.
Contact us for more details about offbeat places to visit in Nepal, your customized Nepal itinerary, and all-inclusive Nepal packages.
Accommodation in Nepal
Traditional Homestay
Less comfortable than a hotel, but such a good experience.
When travelling in Nepal, the accommodation options depend on which region you plan to visit. If you are trekking through the foothills of the Himalayas, you will have a more local and rustic experience as you will be staying in tea houses/homestays.
If you choose a road trip, you will have the choice between homestays and luxury accommodations.
Nepal Photos
Everest Base Camp
To quench your thirst for adventure
Buddhist monastery
The entire region is scattered with beautiful Buddhist monasteries.
Ruby Valley
A journey in to the offbeat region of Nepal
In a homestay
Your guide will help communicating with your host family.
Annapurna Trail
The Spiti river before reaching Tabo, the first village of Spiti.
Village Life
All the villages of Nepal are unique in terms of their landscape.
Looking for least crowded & exclusive trails in Himalayas ?
Check out the Great Himalayan National Park or remote experiences in Ladakh.
Treks in GHNP
A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Himachal Pradesh
Spiritual tour to Ladakh
Learn about Tibetan Buddhism and dive in to the ancient wisdom
Treks in Ladakh
Travel with a social enterprise that gives you the best experience of Ladakh
