Nepal

Travelers entering Nepal must present a valid passport. Below is a guide for visa policies:

Visa-Free Entry

Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa to enter Nepal:

• India (can also use a government-issued ID card)

Visa on Arrival

Citizens of most countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at designated land border crossings. A valid passport and a visa fee (paid in foreign currency) are required. The visa is typically valid for 15, 30, or 90 days, depending on the fee paid.

Visa Required

For a few select nationalities, a visa must be obtained prior to travel at a Nepali embassy or consulate. Always check the latest entry requirements before traveling.

Nepal does not allow entry with an ID card alone. All travelers are required to present a valid passport upon entry. However, citizens of India can enter Nepal using a government-issued ID card instead of a passport.

Toll Roads in Nepal

Nepal does not have a widespread system of toll roads. The country's road network is free to use, although certain areas may have small road maintenance fees or local charges, particularly in remote or rural regions.

Driving Tips in Nepal:

• Left-Hand Driving: Vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road in Nepal.
• Seat Belts: Wearing seat belts is mandatory for all passengers.
• Speed Limits: Urban areas: 40 km/h, highways: 80 km/h.
• Road Conditions: Road conditions can vary significantly, with mountainous regions often having poorly maintained roads. Landslides and roadblocks are common in the monsoon season.

Weather in Nepal

Nepal experiences diverse climatic conditions due to its varying elevation, ranging from tropical to alpine climates. The country has four main seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is one of the best times to visit Nepal, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 23°C (61°F to 73°F) and clear skies in many parts of the country, making it ideal for trekking.

Monsoon (June to September)

The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, particularly in southern and central Nepal. Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), and humidity is high.

Autumn (October to November)

Autumn is the most popular time to visit Nepal, with moderate temperatures ranging from 15°C to 24°C (59°F to 75°F), clear skies, and minimal rainfall. This season is ideal for trekking and sightseeing.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Nepal is cold, especially in the higher elevations, where temperatures can drop below freezing. In the Kathmandu Valley, temperatures range from 2°C to 12°C (36°F to 54°F).

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Autumn (October to November) and spring (March to May) are the best times to visit Nepal for pleasant weather and clear skies.
• Monsoon Season: If traveling during the monsoon, be prepared for rain, landslides, and roadblocks, particularly in the mountains.

Currency in Nepal

The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR), symbolized as Rs or रू.

Banknotes and Coins

Nepalese Rupee banknotes are available in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 NPR. Coins are less frequently used but are available in smaller denominations.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are available at banks, exchange offices, and major hotels in Kathmandu and tourist areas. ATMs are also widely available, especially in cities and tourist hubs like Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Credit and Debit Cards

Credit and debit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger businesses in cities. However, in rural areas, it is advisable to carry cash, as card payment options are limited.

Travel Tips

• Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid issues with card transactions in Nepal.
• Cash for Rural Areas: Carry enough cash if traveling outside major cities, as ATMs and card payment options may be unavailable in remote areas.
• Small Denominations: Carry small denominations of Rupees for local purchases, tips, and transportation.