Looking for trekking and travel guides from UK to Nepal? You have come to the right place. Our Nepal travel guide will provide you with all the fundamental information you will need for Nepal travel.
Nepal is the land of high mountains, rich natural beauty, diverse culture, ancient monuments, and religious harmony. It is a paradise for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. The birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha is also the choice for those seeking to get connected with their spirituality. The warm hospitality you will experience in Nepal is unlike anywhere else in the world. Whether you need an adventure or spiritual closure, traveling to Nepal is sure to offer some memorable experiences.
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There are so many reasons why you will fall in love with Nepal. There are many trekking and hiking destinations for adventure seekers. Likewise, there are many sightseeing and tours you can do while in Nepal. There are different activities like paragliding, bungee jumping, rafting, canoeing, and many more for thrill seekers. So there is something for everybody here in Nepal.
It is difficult to sum up everything in a few words. So make sure you read till the end. The best way to understand Nepal is to experience it but we will do our best to provide information with our little guide. So, without further delay, let us begin our trekking and travel guide from UK to Nepal!
Documents and Paperwork For Nepal
There are a few essential documents and paperwork needed for trekking and travel from the UK to Nepal. These include visas and passports.
The first one is the visa to Nepal. Generally, foreign travelers take tourists to visit for trekking and travel in Nepal. It allows you to freely explore and take part in different activities. You can apply for a tourist visa from the Nepal embassy situated in your country. But you can also get a tourist visa on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport.
The price for a visa looks like this:
- USD 30 for 15 days in Nepal (single-entry visa)
- USD 50 for 30 days in Nepal (single-entry visa)
- USD 125 for 90 days in Nepal.
For the visas, you will need a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining before expiry. Similarly, you will also need a passport-size photo. The steps for a visa on arrival at the Tribhuvan Airport are:
Fill out the “Arrival Card” at Nepal’s Immigration.
Fill out the ”Tourists Visa” form online. You can fill out this form before arrival. After filling out the online form, you will receive a barcode which will be required for the Nepal visa. Note that the barcode remains valid for 15 days. If you have not filled out the form online, you can use the Kiosk machine at the airport.
Make the payment for the visa at the counter. You can use the bank card but make sure you carry cash with you. Sometimes the card may not work.
Get the receipt and pass through passport control by showing your visa and receipt.
USD is acceptable in Nepal. But other major currencies are also acceptable. If you are thinking of entering the country from the land border, you will need USD for cash payment. It is best that you bring enough USD to cover your expenses during your stay in Nepal.
Travel Insurance For Visiting Nepal
It is always the best idea to get travel insurance. After all, there is no harm in taking safety precautions as you will be visiting unfamiliar places. Travel insurance provides coverage for unexpected situations like natural disasters or emergencies. It is highly recommended for trekkers as well.
Travel insurance provides medical coverage, trip postponement, cancellations, loss or stolen belongings, etc. For example, if you are trekking at some mountain routes in Nepal and you get injured. An immediate helicopter rescue took you to the hospital in Kathmandu. Travel insurance helps to cover medical expenses.
While taking the travel insurance, read the terms and conditions thoroughly. At difficult times, it can prove to be life-saving.
Currency in Nepal
The official Nepalese currency is the Nepalese Rupee. So, when you travel to Nepal, carry some Nepalese Ruppes with you. The American dollar is also accepted. While there are plenty of ATMs available in cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, their availability is limited in rural regions.
Most of the hotels, restaurants, airlines, and shopping centers in tourist areas accept credit cards. But the charges are applied. There are money exchange offices available in major tourist areas like Thamel, and Boudhanath. However, the exchange rates can be competitive. Walk around to see which money exchange is providing the best rate. It is also worth negotiating.
Major currencies are accepted in Nepal. But if we have to name them then, the American dollar, Pounds, and Euros are the best.
Best Time to Visit Nepal For Tour and Trek
Nepal is beautiful all year around but for trekking and travel purposes, spring and autumn seasons are the best. The spring is pre-monsoon season in Nepal while autumn falls in post-monsoon. So there is very little chance of rainfall during these seasons. Similarly, the weather and climate are warm and stable. The trekking routes during these times are well-defined with less risk of landslides or avalanches. The visibility is also excellent so you can enjoy the views clearly without any obstruction.
The summer season falls during the monsoon period in Nepal. Most of the regions experience heavy rainfall. Similarly, the roads and trails can get blocked due to landslides or mudslides. Trekking during this season is highly not recommended. Winter is a beautiful season to enjoy the snow-capped peaks of Nepal. However, the higher altitudes receive heavy snowfalls. The temperature can also drop below minus. Not exactly the right time to enjoy traveling. Additionally, the visibility is also poor. So, if you are thinking of visiting Nepal, opt for spring or autumn.
Travel Guide in Nepal
Here is a short trekking and travel guide from Uk to Nepal:
- Carry some Nepalese Rupees with you. ATMs are not available in rural areas.
- Get a travel insurance.
- Be respectful of the culture. Act and dress appropriately as Nepalese society is reserved and modest.
- Choose the best time for traveling and trekking for the best experience.
- Be a responsible traveler and trekker.
- Do not partake in animal tourism.
- Be a part of sustainable tourism. Avoid using plastic products and do not leave litter while trekking.
- Trek in a group and always hire an experienced guide.
- Immerse in the culture and do not hesitate to taste local specialties.
Land at Tribhuvan International Airport
The Tribhuvan International Airport is the primary international airport in Kathmandu Nepal. It is a hub for international flights. After arriving at the airport, you will have to go through customs and immigration. So make sure you have all the documents and paperwork ready. You can get them on arrival visa at the airport as mentioned before.
Once you clear the immigration, you will proceed to the baggage claim area. There you will retrieve your luggage and head towards the exit. There are also currency exchange counters and SIM card counters at the airport. There are many taxis and private cars available at the airports. You can make your choice based on your preference.
Thamel is a major tourist spot in Kathmandu. There are many accommodation facilities from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels around the area. The typical price for hotels in Thamel is around USD 30 to 35. Similarly, many restaurants serve authentic Nepali cuisines as well as international ones. There are also many travel agencies around the area.
Things to Do in Kathmandu, Nepal
Our trekking and travel guide from Uk to Nepal would not be complete without Kathmandu. Kathmandu is a melting pot of different cultures, traditions, and ethnic groups. While most travelers visiting Nepal picture mountains and Himalayan ranges, Kathmandu is an ancient city that has so much to offer. The capital city of Nepal is chaotic, to say the least. The streets are bustling with people and shops. On the other hand, the city has many historic and religious sites. It is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage.
There are ancient cities of Patan and Bhaktapur that you can explore to get a glimpse of their cultural heritage. The Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, and the Bhaktapur Durbar Square are enlisted in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In these old cities, you can witness age-old architecture, pagoda-styled temples, artworks, and handicrafts. Similarly, you can also visit Buddhist religious sites like Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath Stupa (also known as Monkey Temple). The holiest site for Hindus worldwide, the Pashupatinath Temple is also situated in Kathmandu.
While exploring Kathmandu, do not be surprised to see small temples around every corner. The Nepalese people are very spiritual and despite their religious background, they all coexist peacefully. There is a sense of respect and harmony. So, while traveling to Nepal, make sure you respect their values and culture.
Aside from sightseeing, you can also take a short hike around Kathmandu. There are many places nearby where you can escape the city noise and get some peaceful vibes. Nagarkot Hike is popular among tourists for its gorgeous sunrise views. Similarly, the other hiking spots around Kathmandu are Shivaouri Nagarjun National Park, Champadevi Hike, Pulchowki Hike, and Namo Buddha Hike. These short hikes around Kathmandu are perfect for travelers with limited time in Nepal. You can enjoy the natural beauty of Nepal without having to travel miles.
Also, do not forget to try the local authentic cuisines and street foods while in Kathmandu. Many restaurants serve international cuisines. But do not hesitate to try the local street foods and delicacies. They are delicious and cheap. You can explore around the city and come across hidden gems. Dal Bhat is the staple Nepali food. But you find that almost at every eatery, momo is on the menu. It is called the soul food of Nepalese. So, make sure you try the Nepalese food during your stay.
About Nepal and Culture
Nepal is a diverse country and home to different ethnic groups. These groups have their own culture, traditions, and language. Similarly, there is also religious diversity. The majority of Nepalese are Hindus followed by Buddhism. There are also other religions like Christianity, Islam, and local religions. There are many ancient temples, stupas, and palaces all over the country. The country has a rich cultural, historical, and architectural heritage.
Since there are diverse ethnic groups in Nepal, the attires, music, dance, and handicrafts are also diverse. The ethnic groups in the Himalayan regions have some influence from Tibet. Likewise, there is also some influence from India. All year round, the Nepalese people celebrate different festivals. Dashain and Tihar is the biggest festival celebrated in Nepal.
The Nepali arts and crafts are also something of cultural significance. You can witness different handicrafts in the form of thangka painting, wood carvings, pottery, and other intricate traditional craftsmanship. You can buy such handicrafts as souvenirs back home. Despite the cultural and religious diversity, everyone respects each other. They coexist peacefully and are tolerant of each other’s backgrounds. As a result, you will find them very friendly and hospitable to their guests.
Tour and Trekking Packages
If you are confused about touring or trekking in Nepal, fret not. NAATA Treks & Tours has perfect packages for you. We have designed packages but if you want to customize them, we will happily do so.
The most popular tour package is the Chitwan Jungle Safari. Meanwhile, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular trekking destinations. Here is a sneak peek at both of the packages.
Chitwan Jungle Safari
The Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage designated site. The Chitwan Jungle Safari takes you into the inner parts of the national park. It is among Asia’s best-preserved conservation areas where you can witness the single-horned Asiatic rhinoceros or get a glimpse of the Bengal tiger. It is home to many diverse flora and fauna. There are also over 5500 species of birds taking shelter at the national park. Likewise, you can see hundreds of marsh mugger crocodiles basking in the sun. It truly is an amazing wildlife experience. If you are interested to know more, check out our Chitwan Jungle Safari for more details!
Annapurna Base Camp Trek
The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a popular choice for many trekkers due to its moderately difficult terrain, scenic beauty, mountain views, and cultural exploration. It is one of the popular trek routes where you can explore the Annapurna region. Similarly, you can witness one of the best sunrise views from the top of Poon Hill View Tower. Trekkers will get to walk through the rhododendron forests which are in full bloom during springtime. Likewise, the route goes through the Annapurna Conservation Area, so you can witness a variety of biodiversity while on the trek. The highlight of the trek is the mountain views. You can witness Mt. Annapurna, Machhapuchhre (Fishtail), Dhaulagiri, Himchuli, and many more. Trekkers will also get a chance to hike through the picturesque and traditional villages of Gurung and Magar ethnic groups. For more information, you can check our Annapurna Base Camp package.
Helicopter Tours in Nepal
Helicopter tours in Nepal are a luxurious way of getting around Nepal. It is ideal for those tourists who have limited time in the country or are unable to physically trek to the destination. It is also the best way to enjoy the landscapes of the region.
In Nepal, the Everest Base Camp (EBC) Heli Tour and the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) Tour are the most popular ones. Here is a sneak peek of what to expect during the EBC and ABC Heli Tour.
Everest Base Camp Heli Tour
The Everest Base Camp Heli Tour is a luxurious trip to the Everest region. You will fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and then straight towards the Everest Base Camp. The view is as majestic as it can get. Once you land on the base camp, witness the panoramic mountain views of some of the tallest mountains. These include Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Amadablam, etc. Similarly, you will also stop by Kalapatthar which is situated at an even higher altitude than the base camp. The aerial view during the heli tour is something straight out of a novel. Check out our Everest Heli Tour for information!
Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour
The next popular helicopter tour is the Annapurna Base Camp Heli Tour. You will get the chance to explore the beautiful landscapes of the region. You will fly over the hills, jungles, rivers, and villages to land on the base camp of the world’s tenth-highest mountain, Mount Annapurna. Additionally, you can witness the majestic mountain views of the entire Annapurna Massif.
