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Do I need a visa to enter Nepal, and how can I obtain one?
All foreign nationals, except Indian citizens, must obtain a valid visa before entering Nepal. The citizens of Afghanistan, Iraq, Cameroon, Ghana, Somalia, Swaziland, Palestine, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Liberia cannot obtain a visa on arrival. They must apply for their visa in advance through a Nepalese embassy or consulate.
How to Obtain a Nepal Visa
On Arrival Visa (most common option):
You can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu) or at one of several land border entry points, including Kakarvitta, Birjung, Belhiya (Bhairahawa), Nepalgunj, Dhangadhi, Mahendranagar, Kodari, and Pokhara International Airport.
To apply for your visa on arrival, you will need to complete the application form at the airport, or preferably, complete the online application form in advance via the official Department of Immigration website. You will then need to present this application form along with the following items for processing of your visa on arrival:
- A valid passport with a minimum of 6 months' validity.
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- The visa fee (cash only, either in USD or other convertible currency).
- Online visa application (for easier processing):
- Fill out the application on the Department of Immigration website.
- Upload a digital passport-sized photograph
- After you submit your application, you will receive a confirmation receipt via email, which you must print and present to Immigration.
Nepalese Embassy/Consulate (before traveling):
- You can also apply at a Nepalese embassy or consulate in your home country before departure.
Visa Fees (Tourist Visa)
- 15 days – USD 30
- 30 days – USD 50
- 90 days – USD 125
- SAARC nationals – Free visa for up to 30 days
- Indian nationals – Visa not required (must carry passport or citizenship certificate if arriving by air)
- Children under 10 – No visa fee, but still need a valid visa
Visa Extensions
- Can be extended up to 150 days in a calendar year.
Cost:
- USD 30 for extensions up to 15 days
- USD 2 per day for extensions beyond 15 days
Transit Visa
- If you are stopping in Nepal due to a layover or emergency landing, you can obtain a 1-day transit visa for USD 5.
What currency is used, and can I use VISA cards in Nepal?
The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). VISA cards can be used in larger hotels, restaurants, travel agencies, and larger shops, particularly in urban centers such as Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan. Many ATMs in cities will accept international cards, allowing you to retrieve cash in NPR; however, in rural areas, trekking regions, smaller towns, and local markets, cash is the preferred currency, and card facilities may not be available at all. It is advisable to carry sufficient Nepalese Rupees for everyday expenses in these areas. Also, some locations may charge a small service fee if you are paying by card, so please confirm before making the payment. Finally, always inform your bank of your travel plan to avoid complications with your bank card when traveling abroad
Is Nepal safe to travel alone?
Yes, Nepal is safe for solo travelers, including solo female travelers. With so many guests from around the world visiting the country each year, there are very few safety issues. The people are very welcoming and helpful. People who visit popular tourist areas, such as Kathmandu, Pokhara, and the trekking areas in Annapurna or Everest, find them very safe.
Nepal's tourism industry has a lot of experience with supporting independent travelers. There are numerous guesthouses, hotels, and tour operators where you can go by yourself, and you'll also find a good environment for solo female travelers. Nevertheless, you should always be careful and follow generally safe practices, like not walking alone later at night, dressing modestly while in rural settings, and keeping valuables close to you.
What are the must-visit places in Nepal?
Nepal has a multitude of experiences for travelers. The most recognized way to experience Nepal is through trekking, as the country is known for its glorious Himalayas. Trekking in Nepal involves some well-known experiences such as the Annapurna, Manaslu, and the Everest Base Camp trek. Other travel experiences include luxury tours, cultural experiences, wildlife safaris, and adventure experiences.
Some must-visit places in Nepal include:
- Annapurna and Manaslu regions: Well-known trekking regions with breathtaking views of mountains and traditional communities in stunning valleys.
- Everest Base Camp: The most famous trekking route, with a tough trek to the world's highest mountain.
- Kathmandu Valley: This area encompasses three cultural cities (Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur) that each have an abundance of culture, ancient temples, and traditional arts.
- Chitwan and Bardiya National Parks: These parks provide excellent wildlife safaris and sightings of endangered animals such as rhinos, tigers, and elephants.
- Lumbini: The birthplace of Lord Buddha and a significant religious and cultural site worth visiting.
- Nagarkot: A place known for spectacular sunrise views of the Himalayas.
- Pokhara: A beautiful, lakeside city that has adventure sports, mountain views, and a relaxed culture to enjoy.
Do I need to get travel insurance before traveling to Nepal?
Yes, travel insurance is strongly recommended when traveling in Nepal. It covers medical emergencies, accidents, altitude sickness, cancellations, and rescue costs, including helicopter evacuation in the Himalayas. Traveling in high-altitude areas and trekking regions can be risky, so insurance ensures you have support if something goes wrong. Travel insurance also covers financial losses through lost luggage, flight delays, and other unforeseen travel circumstances. This helps with the peace of mind you will need while traveling in Nepal.
How difficult is trekking in Nepal?
Trekking in Nepal can range from easy day hikes to high-altitude treks, so there is something to suit every level of adventure. For example, easy treks, like the Shivapuri Nagarkot Hike, cover beginner-level terrain with flat, well-defined paths and at relatively low altitudes. Moderate treks, like Langtang Valley and Helambu Trek, still require reasonable fitness levels but involve some acclimatization. Both hard and strenuous treks, including the Annapurna Circuit and the Everest Base Camp Trek via Gokyo Lakes, require strong fitness levels and are very demanding, even with mental preparation. Very strenuous treks, like Everest Three Passes or Island Peak, demand high-altitude climbing experience and capability. The grade of difficulty depends on elevation, terrain, and the length of the trek.
What should I pack for Nepal?
When packing for Nepal, you'll need to consider the season and the activities you have planned; however, some essentials for your trip include:
- Clothing: Layered clothing for warmth, a waterproof jacket, trekking pants, t-shirts, and thermal wear if you're on a high altitude trek.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes, trekking boots, and sandals.
- Accessories: Hat, sunglasses, gloves, and scarf or buff.
- Gear: Daypack, trekking poles, water bottle, and a sleeping bag if you are camping.
- Health & Safety: Sunscreen, first aid kit, personal medications, insect repellent, and water purification tablets.
- Travel essentials: Passport, visa, cash, credit cards, travel insurance, and power bank.
For trekking in Nepal, pack lightweight, layered clothing and supportive footwear to keep you safe and comfortable while taking on Nepal's varied terrains. If you need a detailed guide for packing, take a look at the packing and equipment list for Nepal trekking 2025/2026, which highlights clothing, footwear, gear, accessories, health and safety essentials, and travel documents to support a stress-free and wonderful trekking experience.
What are the cultural Do’s and Don’ts in Nepal?
Cultural Do’s in Nepal:
- Always remove your shoes while entering someone's home, and dress modestly when entering temples or religious sites.
- Greet people respectfully with a “Namaste” by pressing your hands together.
- Ask permission before taking photos of locals, especially monks or those in traditional attire.
- Be polite, calm, and patient in all social interactions.
- Participate in festivals or cultural events respectfully if invited.
Cultural Don’ts in Nepal:
- Never touch someone’s head, as it is considered sacred.
- Avoid public displays of affection.
- Do not point your feet at people or religious objects.
- Never criticize local religion or culture.
- Avoid littering or damaging nature, especially in sacred areas.
What are the best luxury travel experiences in Nepal for couples?
For the adventurer, the Everest Heli Tour is a luxury outing that will blow your mind with spectacular aerial views of the Himalayas, along with a champagne breakfast at the highest peak in the world. If you're a couple seeking luxury in trekking, the Annapurna Luxury Trek will take you on gentle trails while featuring high-end lodges, both comfortable and spectacular mountain views. If your preference is a bit of culture, relaxation, and light adventures, a Kathmandu - Chitwan - Pokhara - Bhaktapur luxury package is the way to go. You can explore heritage cities, stay at boutique hotels, and see wildlife safaris all at premium resorts and lodges.
How can I travel responsibly in Nepal and make sure my trip is sustainable?
You can travel responsibly in Nepal by respecting local culture, minimizing waste, and supporting community-based tourism. Carry reusable bottles, avoid plastics, stay in eco-friendly lodges, and hire local guides so your trip directly benefits local people.
At Footprint Adventure Pvt. Ltd., sustainability is behind every trip. We engage in awareness campaigns, cleanliness programs in trekking areas, and initiatives such as the Carry Me Bag Campaign to help reduce plastic waste in the Himalayas. We also put forth a large effort to support local businesses, local skill development projects, and community development so tourism can be a meaningful benefit for communities, while ideally developing a sense of protection for Nepal’s nature and culture.
By traveling with us, you will help to protect the Himalayas and support sustainable tourism in Nepal for the future.
