Nepal Travel Guide

Sitting in the lap of the majestic Himalayas, Nepal is an enchanting destination for hikers and trekkers of all types, many venturing to the famous Everest Base Camp. Over the years, Nepal has also managed to become a popular destination for nature, wildlife, culture, and adventure, thanks to its rich natural beauty, vast cultural heritage, and diverse terrains. No wonder a trip to Nepal is featured high on many people's travel bucket list.

Dal Bhat is a Nepali meal which basically means cooked lentil soup and steamed rice. The platter ideally also includes a type of vegetable curry, leafy greens, at least one type of pickle, and a meat dish (which is optional). On average, a Nepali consumes two meals of dal-bhat every day, which amounts to 90 kg of rice every year. If you are wondering what makes the dish so appetizing, here is a list of restaurants in Kathmandu you can try for a plate of lip-smackig and finger-licking dal-bhat, to find out the answer yourself. Make sure to try these dishes on your Nepal trip.

You cannot escape dal bhat when you are visiting Nepal. The same goes for the unofficial national food called momos. Anyone who has ever been to Nepal will tell you that momo is the must-try food here. Skipping the two famous Nepali foods, we give you a list of some of the underrated Nepalese food that will leave you wanting more.

If Kathmandu is known for its culture and heritage, Pokhara is the gateway to adventure in Nepal. The picturesque valley features shimmering lakes lined by cafes and restaurants ranging from quirky to luxurious. Surrounding the city are hills, home to local villages, and beyond is the lofty snow-capped Himalayan range and some of the highest peaks in the world. Whether you are a thrill-seeker, an adventure sports junkie or just someone looking for a chilled-out atmosphere, a trip to Pokhara is for you. To give you a taste of the options available, here are our top 15 recommendations for things to do in Pokhara.

Like gyoza in Japan, gnocchi in Italy, Momo is the Nepali version of dumplings. With an average Nepali consuming at least 4 plates of momos per week, i.e. 40 pieces of momos, it has been declared as the unofficial national dish of Nepal. Hole-in-the-wall eateries serving only momo are as ubiquitous as temples in Nepal. Any comparatively decent restaurant in Nepal will undoubtedly have momo in their menu. Available in several fillings with accompaniment of various types of soups and sauce, and done in different ways, momo is for everyone. A trip to Nepal is incomplete without having a plate of momo. Let us spare you from the ‘okay-ish’ momos and fill you in the top 9 momo places in Kathmandu. Don’t expect swanky eateries, if you want the authentic Nepali momo experience then you need to go where the locals go (oh yeah, carry a hand sanitizer). Many of these eateries don’t have a name, but like Shakespear said, “What’s in a name?”

Normally Nepal is all about Mt. Everest and trekking in the Himalayas. But did you ever pause a moment and think about Nepal's rafting tours? If you're going rafting in Nepal, you will be up for some of the best river rafting trips in the world. The rafting rivers of Nepal descend faster and further than most rivers on the planet, ensuring the presence of thrilling rapids that are perfect for rafting. Without further ado, please below find the top 10 best river rafting tours in Nepal that are sure to give you everything you’re looking for, from easy and lazy rapids for newbies to some of the most difficult and memorable rafting tours in Nepal!

May is the end of one of two high seasons in Nepal and one of the best times to explore. As it’s pre-monsoon season, the weather in Nepal in May is favorable and the long days and clear conditions make it an excellent time to go on a trekking holiday, especially if you’re hitting up the Himalayas and Annapurna Circuit. Want to know what to expect from a Nepal trip in May? Read on and let’s find out.

With the monsoon season long over and winter yet to set in, Nepal in November flaunts clear skies, moderate temperatures, and excellent mountain views. Take on a trek to the famed Annapurna or Everest regions of the Himalayas, or enjoy the vivid festivities of Kathmandu. November is an ideal time to explore Nepal and visitors will find a wide range of activities for all interests.

July is an interesting month to travel to Nepal, precisely because it is a low season. You might have to deal with rains while you are in the country at this time, but there are advantages too. The month of July offers an excellent opportunity to soak in the cultural highlights of Kathmandu and Pokhara minus big crowds and get the best possible deals on hotels and resorts. If you are game for adventure, trekking in Nepal in July is possible too—again without having to encounter the crowds that some of these trekking routes see during peak tourist seasons.

Although June marks the start of the monsoon season in Nepal, trekking and hiking—two of the most popular activities for visitors in the country—are still possible. Head to the rain shadow areas such as the Annapurna and Manaslu regions to enjoy the stunning mountain views and landscapes. True, you may not be able to explore the full range of Nepal’s beauty in June, but you will have the advantage of the lush greenery, low tourist crowds and cheaper accommodation. Read on to find out what your holiday to Nepal in June can look like.

If you are looking for the best time to visit Nepal, you need to factor in things like weather, trekking seasons, national festivals, and more. The fall season, between mid-September to November, is the best time to travel to Nepal when the conditions are cool and dry. The time is ideal for a trekking adventure in the Annapurna Circuit or the famous Everest Base Camp trek. These periods offer the driest conditions, and the winter snows that make the trails perilous have not kicked in yet. The fall season is also a perfect time to go whitewater rafting and canyoning in the monsoon-fed rivers and waterfalls. Plan your Nepal trip from March to May or September to November to visit national parks in the southern plains. You can book a safari tour in Chitwan National Park to spot various animal and bird species, including the one-horned rhinoceros and Bengal tiger. The summer months of May to September see lots of rainfall in Nepal, making it the least ideal time to visit. The weather in the chart is based on Kathmandu.

Nepal is a treasure trove for travelers, not just for its incredible Himalayan peaks but also its medieval city squares, beautiful temple architecture, colorful cities and sprawling forests. During winter in Nepal, which starts in December and ends in February, the upper reaches of the mountains can become inaccessible because of heavy snowfall, but lower-elevation trekking in winter (such as in the lower Everest region and near Pokhara) is a magical experience, often with clear skies, outstanding views, and few people. Winter is also a great season to tour the Chitwan and Bardia National Parks and gorge on temple art in the durbar (royal) squares. Keep reading to find out more about winter tours in Nepal.

The fall season is the best time to visit Nepal. No surprise that the country draws a huge number of tourists in October. The weather conditions are great for trekking and sightseeing and the country celebrates its two major festivals—Dashain and Tihar—during this time. Traveling to Nepal in October does mean that you will have to deal with peak crowds and prices. But that is a small price to pay to see this beautiful country in the best condition. Just make sure to book your tours early and you will be all set.

With the end of the winter season and the beginning of the popular spring season, Nepal in March is where we see temperatures and crowds starting to rise. March is a good month to visit Nepal, but not as good as April, however, there are more tourists during April. The only caveat to visiting Nepal this month is that some high-altitude trekking and camping trails may not be open yet. But regions like the Terai start heating up around this time and the mountain district of Mustang also reopens for tourists. Some of the top things to do in Nepal this time of the year are the cultural and religious festivals celebrated across the country.

Monsoon rains gradually dissipate all over the country by the beginning of fall, which means that you can enjoy captivating views of the snowy peaks of the Himalayas combined with the luscious greenery of valleys during your trip to Nepal in September. However, a visually pleasing aesthetic is not the only thing that you can enjoy during this month. From exhilarating trekking routes that take you to the base camp of some of the highest mountains on earth to festive celebrations and wildlife safaris, a visit to Nepal in September offers a wide range of places to discover and activities to indulge in.

Looking for a great month to trek the Himalayas? April is one of the best times to visit the mountain region of Nepal due to warm, dry weather and good visibility. Obviously, popular time means one thing: crowds—and lots of them. But if you plan ahead, trekking in Nepal this month can be a wonderful experience. The best way to avoid crowded trekking trails when exploring Nepal in April is to check out the lesser-known routes, away from Everest and Annapurna.

Known for its high mountain peaks and spectacular views, Buddhist monasteries, and vibrant cultural heritage, Nepal is the ideal place for those wanting to immerse themselves in a unique culture. August in Nepal is monsoon season, characterized by warm temperatures and high chances of precipitation, but if you know where to go, you will be able to avoid the rain and take advantage of the low season. With stunning cities such as Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Janakpur, breathtaking natural landscapes in the Upper Mustang Region, and lush rice fields scattered all over the country, a trip to Nepal should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

While visiting Nepal in December might not be a popular option, this month can be a surprisingly good time to visit the country. It is early winter in Nepal, which means that some areas will be cold. However, on the plus side, the country is mostly dry during this time of year. High in the mountains, night-time temperatures can go well below zero. But down in the plains, as well as in Kathmandu, you will experience pleasant weather during the daytime. December is therefore still a good time to explore the valleys and national parks of Nepal, without having to face high-season crowds.

Home to the mighty Himalayas and the vibrant Chitwan National Park, Nepal is a destination for a diverse range of activities and tour types. Summer in Nepal, in June, July and August, marks the monsoon season, where warm daily rains mingle with humid sunshine. This means it’s a great time to check out the country’s temples, cities, and indoor attractions. As the outdoors tends to get wet and muddy, taking refuge in Basantapur’s favorite restaurants might be a good idea to check out the expansive food scene or visit the National Museum of Nepal at the base of Swayambhunath. A trip to Nepal in the summer might also be a good time to experience white water rafting or kayaking in the popular adventure capital of Pokhara.

As February enters, the woes of winter start to melt away in Nepal, making way for excellent low-season conditions. Pleasant weather and low tourist crowds are the perfect combinations for a short getaway in Nepal in February. While adventure activities like mountain biking and low-altitude hiking take the spotlight, you can also look forward to exploring the culture and wildlife of Nepal. Here is a look at everything you need to know about Nepal as winter draws to a close and the outdoors beckons.

January is the middle of winter and the coldest month in Nepal. But the temperatures are pleasant enough to explore cities and temples, visit national parks and go on low-altitude treks. Since hotel tariffs are low, you can spend more days touring Nepal in January without hurting your wallet. Enjoy gorgeous temple art and architecture in Kathmandu Durbar Square, spot one-horned rhinos and Bengal tigers in Chitwan National Park, and go trekking in Poon Hill in the Annapurna region in January.

From jaw-dropping mountain vistas to brightly colored temples, a trip to Nepal brings together adventure and spirituality in a unique blend that you’ll be yearning to return again and again. Hike through the Himalayas and take a flight over Mount Everest one day and go on a steamy jungle safari in search of tigers the next. Want something a little different? Visit temples in the birthplace of the Buddha or go parasailing with an Egyptian hawk! With its stunning natural landscape and unique culture, these itineraries will help you decide how many days to spend in Nepal for your next trip.

For many travelers, Nepal is synonymous with the world’s tallest mountains. But it is also home to lush jungles, mighty rivers, and beautiful Buddhist stupas — and 4 days in Nepal is an excellent introduction to all these sides of this Himalayan nation. Whether it’s marveling at the stunning mountain landscapes of the Annapurna region and enjoying stunning sunrise views during the Poon Hill trek or spotting tigers and rhinos in Chitwan National Park, you can pack in a lot during a 4-day trip to Nepal.

Traveling to Nepal but short on time? Don’t worry, there is a lot you can see and do in just 5 days in Nepal. From multi-day treks in Poonhill to wildlife safaris at Chitwan National Park and more, there are plenty of mini-expeditions and adventures you could embark on. Here are some things you could see and do during your 5-day trip to Nepal.

Most travelers touring Nepal plan a fortnight-long stay in the country in order to trek to the base camp of either Mount Everest or Mount Annapurna. However, the country also has a lot to offer, even to those planning to spend just 7 days in Nepal. For hike lovers, there are treks to the Langtang Valley and the lower foothills of the Everest region that can be done in around a week. Alternatively, you can also combine destinations like Pokhara and Nagarkot with wildlife reserves like Bardia and cultural hotspots like Lalitpur and Bhaktapur Durbar Squares during your one-week stay in Nepal. Check out our pick of 7-day travel itineraries to Nepal below.

Those looking to spend 10 days in Nepal can soak up its towering mountains during one of the shorter treks like Mardi Himal or Poon Hill, then travel down to its plains where nature reserves abound. Try spotting tigers on a jeep safari in Chitwan or head for Bardia instead. Visit the Buddha’s birthplace in Lumbini. Alternatively, go for a 10-day long trek to Annapurna Base Camp. Unwind with a boat ride in Pokhara or scour the streets of Kathmandu for ancient temples and bargain finds.

Whether you're drawn to the towering Himalayan peaks, ancient temples, or the vibrant city life, 2 weeks in Nepal provides ample opportunity to experience it all. Explore diverse itineraries, from immersing yourself in the charm of Kathmandu and Pokhara to trekking the iconic Annapurna Circuit. For those eager to cover more ground, a multi-destination tour across the country's picturesque landscapes could be the ultimate experience on your 2 weeks trip to Nepal.

Nepal is an ultimate destination for travelers passionate about culture, spirituality, and adventure. A 9-day journey in the land of the Himalayas promises a myriad of experiences—from trekking in breathtaking landscapes to immersing in diverse cultural activities. Spending 9 days in Nepal allows you to explore historical parts of Kathmandu Valley, enjoy thrilling adventure sports in the lake city of Pokhara, go wildlife safari in Chitwan, and even plan a short trek in the Everest region. Whether you choose to anchor your trip in a few destinations or travel across the country, Nepal guarantees an unforgettable escape. Dive deeper into some exciting Nepal 9-day tours to make the most of your trip.

Whether you're aiming to tackle the best trails in the Himalayas or dive deep into the spiritual heart of Nepal, spending 8 days in Nepal offers a perfect balance of adventure and cultural immersion. You can choose to spend your 8 days in Nepal either exploring multiple iconic locations or focusing on a couple of destinations in depth. From vibrant city tours to breathtaking mountain landscapes, awe-inspiring architecture and wildlife viewing, Nepal 8-day tours provide countless memories to cherish.

Home to the magnificent Himalayas, Nepal offers a multitude of breathtaking trekking opportunities for adventurers of all levels. From the legendary trek to Everest Base Camp to the enchanting Annapurna Circuit, as well as lesser-known (but no less spectacular) trekking trails, such as the Nar Phu Valley trek, Nepal has something to captivate every trekking enthusiast. We have curated this list of the best treks in Nepal.

All things considered, April might be the best month to trek to Everest Base Camp. The month falls in the middle of spring and the weather is as nice as it can get in the Himalayas. This is peak trekking season and the main routes to Everest Base Camp in April can get crowded. But this is only understandable since the views along the route are particularly beautiful and the sights of mountain peaks are clearer than ever during this time.

Most people do the Everest Base Camp hike in October, but November can be an even better time to embark on this trek. This is despite the fact that by November-end, it gets fairly cold. A trek to Everest Base Camp in November has some distinct advantages over almost every other month: it is one of the driest months of the year; the air is clear, offering splendid views all around; and you are not going to encounter as much snowfall as the peak winter months.

The cost to hiking the Everest Base Camp depends on whether you do it independently or with a guide. Besides, the route you take, your food and accommodation, and many other factors also come into play. A classic trek that most trekkers end up doing (starting from Lukla) can cost around *USD 1,500. Luxury treks to Everest Base Camp may cost around USD 3,300–4,500 per head.

If you are planning to take on the Everest Base Camp trek in May, the weather will play a key role. While the first half of May falls under spring and the crowds are high, the month’s end will start bringing monsoon rains. But the intensity of rain is not as high as in June to affect your trekking experience. May is still a good month to do this popular Himalayan trek

Trekking is generally very rewarding and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. While trekking is not dangerous, health and safety should always be a top priority. Whether you're going for the Everest Base Camp trek in Nepal, the Inca Trail in Peru, or wanting to trek Kilimanjaro in Africa, all tour companies on Bookmundi will always have been carefully selected, to ensure that you get an as good and safe trekking experience as possible. We still recommend, however, that you always prepare yourself as much as possible and go through the below information on health, safety and altitude sickness while trekking. They may come in handy.

The thought of the Everest Base Camp hike seems like a lengthy, arduous affair—the one that goes on for weeks on end. While there are plenty of trekking itineraries that last over 14 days, you can also do short Everest Base Camp treks. Here are our guides on accomplishing the coveted trek that will take you all the way to the foothill of the world’s highest peak within 8 to 10 days.

In order to fully enjoy your trek in the Himalayas, Peru, Tanzania, or any other trek in the world, having the right trekking equipment is essential - both safety and comfort-wise. The trekking equipment necessary depends on the type of trek, and on the time of year, weather conditions, terrain, and maximum altitude. However, the list below includes many essential things that would be wise to bring on most treks. A properly packed trekking backpack is light and includes multipurpose clothing items. Moreover, please make sure that you bring sufficiently warm clothes, especially during winter (Dec – Feb). Not having the required trekking equipment and clothing will not only significantly decrease the pleasure of trekking, but could in a worst-case scenario be life-threatening. Below is a list of Trekking Equipment Needed while Trekking around the World:

For every trekking season below we list the average temperatures in Kathmandu, which lies at an altitude of 1300 m. If wanting to calculate the potential temperatures during your trek then please note that for every 100 meters of ascend the temperature will fall 0.5 degrees. Thus, when doing for example the trek to Everest Base Camp and reaching Kala Patthar which lies at an altitude of 5,400 m, then the temperature will have fallen additionally 27 degrees, compared with sea level. Please also note that the below are average temperatures only and therefore lower temperatures are possible, and, additionally the chill factor may make it considerably colder. Please therefore always choose equipment which can cope with sufficiently low temperatures during the season in which you're trekking. (Equipment lists provided further below also).

Everest Base Camp sits at an impressive height of 5,364 meters but you don’t need to be a professional mountaineer or an experienced climber for this trek. That said, trekking to this height is no joke, and it’s critical to get acclimatized to the conditions. You’ll also need to know the best time to trek Everest Base Camp so you can avoid trekking in Nepal in the rainy season and ensure you’ll have mostly clear views of the stunning Himalayan range, glaciers, rhododendron forests, mountain villages, and the blue sky.

A trek to Everest Base Camp has long been a ‘must-do’ for adventurers from around the world with its jaw-dropping vistas and diverse terrain including forests, mountain passes and gorgeous valleys. The harsh conditions and altitude make it a physically and mentally challenging expedition, but it is also one that’s rewarded with spectacular views, friendly locals and an appreciation of Nepali mountain culture.

March is a transition period from winter to spring on the iconic Everest Base Camp hike. The trekking season picks up pace in the latter half of the month and continues till mid-May. The heavy rains are still a few months away, and a lovely spring bloom makes it a beautiful trek. With the snow starting to melt, larger numbers of people trek the Everest Base Camp in March.

If you are planning to trek to the Everest Base Camp in 14 days on your next trip to Nepal, it should more than suffice for you to fully acclimatize and enjoy the sweeping Himalayan vistas, valleys and villages along the way. Allocate anywhere between 12 to 16 days for the trek, and you will have the time of your life. Here are some recommended itineraries.

October is one of the most popular months to hike the Everest Base Camp. The monsoon season, which makes trekking in the Himalayas difficult, is all but over and the bitter cold of the winter has not arrived. Many people take advantage of this weather window to trek to Everest Base Camp in October. Since this is a popular trekking month, expect the routes to be somewhat crowded. But the trade-off will be more than worth it, for you will get a fantastic view of the Himalayas.

Altitude illness occurs due to changed pressure and oxygen levels. As the altitude increases the pressure levels drop and as a result oxygen levels drop accordingly. Altitude illness may kick in when reaching 3,000 meters and above as a result of the body being unable to adapt to the new pressure and oxygen levels.

Every year around 210,000 tourists spend their holidays trekking in Nepal. In this Guide for Trekking in Nepal, we will guide you through 7 preparatory steps which answers the most common questions that we receive from people who are coming to Nepal for trekking. The overall aim? To help you get a fantastic trekking tour in Nepal! If you are going trekking in Nepal, you are very likely to go through most, if not all, of the following steps during your planning phase (you can click at each of the links to quickly jump to a favourite section of yours):

Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, surrounded by glaciers, forested valleys and some of the largest mountains on the planet, the base of Everest is a bucket list item for many. So how do you get to the Everest Base Camp? Let us find out.

If you’re thinking about visiting Nepal, this snapshot overview of some of the best treks that the country has to offer is everything you’ve been searching for. From the most popular trekking destinations to hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered, from grueling encounters to short and scintillating journeys, this guide of the best short treks in Nepal has everything that you could possibly imagine. Nepal attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists each year and more than 200000 of these visitors come to the country to become a part of one if its magnificent treks through the Himalayan region. If you’re still wondering which trek suits your preferences and your lifestyle, take a look at some of the most popular trekking adventures below. We believe that choosing the ultimate short trek in Nepal ultimately boils down to answering a few basic questions and then finalizing a trekking experience that offers everything you’re looking for. Here are some of the questions you need to be asking yourself before taking a plunge into the Himalayas. The level of difficulty that you’re most comfortable with. There are easy, moderate and difficult treks you can choose from, so choose carefully. The number of days you’d like to spend on a trek in Nepal. Short treks usually range from 5 to 10 days. The remoteness you’re looking for. Some treks can be incredibly remote, but others are fairly commercialized. Remember, the remote treks might not offer luxury lodges and fully developed accommodation options either. The amount you’re willing to spend on a trek. The season you choose for trekking. Most treks in Nepal usually feel the best between September to November and March to May. Whether you’re traveling alone or in a group. Some treks have restricted permits, which means that you need at least 2 people and a guide to do that trek. Here are the six best short treks in Nepal to choose from. Each of these treks offers a wide range of options, ensuring that you always have something perfect right in front of you.