Things To Know While Traveling To Nepal

Things to know while traveling to Nepal are vital for your journey to this captivating country. Nepal is undoubtedly well-renowned for its diverse ecosystem, cultural norms, and the Himalayas. However, before starting your trip to a country blessed with nature, this blog covers everything you need to know to make a never-to-be-forgotten experience and avoid pitfalls.

Nepal is a genuine heaven blessed with every aspect, whether about nature, cultural heritage, spiritual significance, adventure, or tradition. With elevation ranging from 59m at Mukhiyapatti Musharniya to 8,848m at Mount Everest, the country has a unique feature in its geography, offering something for every kind of traveler. However, before stamping the visa on your passport for this enchanting country, know the following things:

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Facts About Nepal Trip

Nepal is all about mystery, with every city delivering new and surprising facts. From the stunning Himalayan peaks to its unique cultural heritage, this tiny nation is a treasure of wonders, waiting to be discovered by travelers worldwide. Whether it’s sky-touching peaks or the unique tradition of the diverse ethnic groups, Nepal never fails to amaze its visitors. Here are some interesting facts about Nepal that one should know while traveling to Nepal.

Home of Mountains

Let us not forget that Mount Everest’s highest peak lies in Solukhumbu, Nepal. Besides, the country has 8 of the highest peaks in the world, out of 14. With pride in being a country with eight thousand above peaks, Nepal is often referred to as the “Home of Himalayan.” Each peak offers an iconic trekking route, including Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, Manaslu Circuit, Kanchenjunga Base Camp, and many more.

Unique festivals

Nepal is a multi-ethnic, multi-religious, and multi-lingual country, and its unique festivals reflect its unity in diversity. The nation has over 80 diverse ethnic groups, each with a different culture, tradition, and festival. Dashain, Tihar, Holi, Indra Jatra, Biska Jatra, Maha Shivaratri, Buddha Jayanti, Chhath, and Sonam Lhosar are significant festivals celebrated nationwide. The uniqueness of the Nepali and the festival they celebrate is that they even worship animals like dogs, crows, and cows in the festival of Tihar. Likewise, worshipping a young girl as a living goddess, known as “Kumari,” showcases the country’s unique festival.

Birthplace of Lord Buddha

One of the proudest things for Nepal is that the country is the birthplace of the founder of Buddhism, Gautam Buddha. The birthplace of lord Buddha is in Lumbini, which is also a holy place in Nepal. Lumbini is also a major tourist area where thousands of travelers visit and pay respects to the light of Asia/ enlightened one (Lord Buddha).

Unique Flag

Nepal’s national flag also represents the nation in the world. The flag of Nepal is the only one with a non-rectangular shape worldwide. The two stacked triangles in the national flag, with the moon and sun in a crimson color on the background and a dark blue border, make it unique.

Rich Biodiversity

Nepal occupies only 0.1% of the global area; despite its small size, it has diverse ecosystems. The country is also rich in flora and fauna, with 3.2 % of the land being flora and 1.1 % being fauna. With 13 buffer zones, 12 national parks, six conservation areas, and one wildlife reserve, Nepal is the ideal hotspot for ecosystem lovers. Chitwan National Park and Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve are two conservation areas where you can closely witness the rare flora and fauna.

UNESCO Heritage Sites

Nepal has 10 UNESCO Heritage sites, which is a thing to talk about. Among 10, 8 are cultural heritage sites. Likewise, seven of the sites are within the Kathmandu Valley, and three are outside the valley. Thus, even if you only plan to visit the Kathmandu Valley, you’ll have many options for visiting the heritage site here.

Friendly Locals

Nepalis are well-known for their hospitality and friendly behavior. No matter where you are or what religion you belong to, Nepalese will greet you with a warm smile and welcome you, saying “Namaste.” In Fact, Nepali people treat visitors as God as they believe in an old saying – “Atithi Devo Bhava,” meaning “Guest is God.”

A multi-ethnic country

Nepal is a multi-ethnic country with 125 distinct ethnic groups, each with its own culture, tradition, and languages. The diversity of the multi-ethnic community has shaped the nation’s identity. Indo-Nepalese, Tibeto-Nepalese, and Indigenous Nepalese are the three major ethnic groups into which Nepalese are classified.

Historic Sites

Nepal has numerous historic sites representing rich cultural heritage and ancient history. Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambbhunath, Boudhanath, and Changunarayan Temple are some of the well-known historic sites within Kathmandu. Similarly, Lumbini, Gorkha Durbar, and Muktinath temple are historic sites outside the valley. Those sites showcase Nepal’s history, making them a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

Holder of Numerous Records

Nepal boasts a high profile worldwide for holding several records. Its foremost record is for being home to the world’s highest snow-capped peak, Mount Everest (8,848m). Likewise, Nepal also holds the record for being home to the highest altitude lake, Tilicho (4,800m); the deepest lake, Shey Phokshunda, with 145m height; the deepest gorge, Kali Gandaki (1,200m); and the highest valley on Earth, Arun Valley.

Some other facts about Nepal one should know of while traveling to Nepal include:

• Nepal is a landlocked country in South Asia, between India and China.
• The country has 147,181 total area and is the 93rd largest country by land worldwide.
• Nepali is the official language.
• Nepal is known as Brave Gurkhas.
• In the 1960s, Nepal was a hotspot for weed lovers.
• Nepal is a primarily agricultural country.
• The Newari people are the local inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley.
• The national dish of Nepal is dal bhat (a combination of lentils, rice, and vegetables).
• A mysterious yeti scalp exists at Khumjung monastery in the Khumbu valley of Nepal.
• Nepal is a religious and spiritual nation.
• Nepal has five climatic zones.
• Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park is a popular spots for safari tours.
• Nepal has an abundance of water resources.
• Pokhara is the capital city of Tourism.
• Nepal has 77 districts, seven provinces, and 14 administrative zones.

Why should you plan your trip to Nepal?

A country that has a unique blend of astonishing landscapes, rich culture, peacefulness and adventure opportunities, accessibility, budget-friendly, and warm hospitality would be the dream country. Exactly! If you want to get all-in-one opportunities in one country, Nepal is for you. Whether you are an adventure seeker or a traveler who wants to experience something new, Nepal has something to offer everyone. If the nation is fulfilling all your travel needs, then why not make a plan for such a country’s visit?

Here are some points that describe why you should plan your trip to Nepal:

• To experience diverse Landscapes: Nepal is famous for its varied landscape, from the towering peaks of the Himalayas to the lowlands of Terai and lush jungles and soothing lakes of the Hilly area. Thus, Nepal is a must-visit destination for experiencing diverse topography.
  For adventure Opportunities: Nepal is a hub for adventure enthusiasts, offering diverse options from trekking to rafting to paragliding to bungee jumping to peak climbing.
• To feel the Himalayas: Nepal is the ultimate destination for feeling the majesty of the Himalayas. As the home of numerous snow-capped peaks, the country offers a chance to see the glory of mountain peaks that leave everyone in awe.
• Cultural Heritage: Nepal is not only about nature’s paradise; it has a surprising history that draws the attention of history enthusiasts. The ancient temples, stupas, and palaces throughout the country tell the story of ancient Nepal. Kathmandu Valley, the prominent hub of Nepal, is home to some of the most impressive historical and religious landmarks like Pashupatinath, Durbar Square, and many more.
• Budget Friendly: Nepal is the perfect destination for budget travelers seeking adventure activities without breaking the bank. Accommodation, food, transportation, and places you visit are all under budget in Nepal.
• Nature and Wildlife: Nepal is one of the best destinations for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. The country is home to 13 buffer zones, 12 national parks, six conservation areas, and one wildlife reserve, providing a huge opportunity to connect with the country’s wildlife and nature.
• Spiritual Experience: No other country is better than Nepal for Spiritual experience. Nepal is home to many spiritual sites and monasteries, offering a chance for reflection and peace. Being the home of the lord Gautam Buddha, the country is the best spot for travelers seeking Spiritual growth.
• Accessible: Nepal is generally easy to reach from most of the countries from the world. Additionally, obtaining a visa for Nepal is a straightforward process, making it convenient for travelers to get to Nepal.
• Family-friendly destination: Nepal is a family-friendly destination that offers activities for all age groups. In the country, families can spend quality time in nature. Moreover, families can participate in local festivals, and children can get educational experiences.

9 Unique Things to know while Traveling to Nepal

Nepal offers unique experiences at every turn, and the journey is for a lifetime. A visit to Nepal will surely be the journey you’ll cherish for a lifetime. However, if you are first time visiting Nepal, you may get panic. But worry not; we’ve got you covered; go through the points below and prepare yourself for your seamless trip to Nepal fearlessly:

Travel Tips

To ensure a memorable journey through the beautiful land of Nepal, you must consider some essential travel tips:

• Take care of your belongings: Nepal is generally a safe country. However, it is better to be cautious with your belongings. Sometimes, your items may get displaced by others, so caring for your items by yourself avoids the risk of your belongings getting lost.
• Avoid traveling solo: If you are going to trek in Nepal, traveling solo is not recommended. If you want peace and to stay away from people, it is okay to visit alone, but it would be better to travel with your loved one or hire a trekking guide for your company and safety purposes.
• Dress Properly: Dressing appropriately is essential in Nepal, especially if you are going to the Himalayas. The weather in the Himalayas varies significantly; thus, carrying warm clothes is necessary. Also, if you visit temples, monasteries, or any cultural site, it is better to wear a dress covering your knees and shoulders.
• Have all necessary permits: If you are hiking in the Himalayas or any historical places, remember to collect all the necessary permits. Your visit will be legal only if you take all required permits.
• Exchange Nepali Currency: Only Nepali rupees are acceptable in Nepal. Thus, it would help you to exchange Nepali currency right after arrival in Nepal. After your landing, you can exchange currency at the currency exchange center in Kathmandu or the airport.
• Keep your documents safe: Your documents, including passports, visas, and tickets, should be safe for a smooth and stress-free journey. Keep those documents in an accessible and secure place. It would be better to make copies of the essential documents and keep the original ones separately.
• Acclimatization: Acclimatization is the key, especially if you plan to trek in Nepal. Take care of your body and take time to acclimatize. And listening to your body is most important.
• Pack light: Packing light for your trip to Nepal is vital. A heavy backpack can affect your overall experience. Take only the necessary gear and make the backpack as light as possible.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout your trip. However, be sure you are drinking safe water (either mineral or using a water purification tablet).
• Try local Cuisine: Instead of international dishes, try local dishes like dal bhat, dhindo, and momo. Places where local dishes are found offer a more authentic experience.

Currency Information

Nepalese local currency is rupees, the price tag of which denotes Rs. The Nepalese rupee notes are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000. While traveling to Nepal, you must have Nepali rupees to buy something and take service from anything. Thus, exchanging the money right after you arrive in Nepal is better. Likewise, you can exchange foreign currency at an authorized money exchange center or at Tribhuvan International Airport, where the money exchange service service is open 24/7. ATMs are also available in the city area, including Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Cultural Diversity

Nepal is a melting pot of cultural diversity and is known as a culturally prominent nation. Although the country is small in terms of geography, it is exceptionally big in cultural diversity. The nation is the home of 125 ethnic groups with major including Brahmin, Chhetri, Tibetan, Sherpa, and Newars. Nepali is the national language of the country but many other languages are spoken here respectfully, including; Tibeto-Burman, Maithali, Bhojpuri, Tharu, and many others. Nepal is a secular country and everyone has the freedom to practice the culture and religion they are okay with. Thus, the nation has cultural diversity and everyone here follows the concept of “Unity in diversity”.

Culinary Experience

Culinary experience in Nepal is the best way to understand the nation and Nepali people. Being a multi-ethnic and cultural country, it offers unlimited cuisines in diverse climatic conditions and religions. The trip to Nepal is incomplete without tasting the local Cuisine of the area you visit. Traditional Nepali dishes that are well-known among trekkers and visitors exploring Nepal include Dal bhat, Momo, and Thukpa. Likewise, Tibetan Cuisine, Indian Cuisine, and Newari cuisine are also famous. Furthermore, Tea, traditionally known as “Chiya,” and local alcohol “Raksi,” are well-known beverages in Nepal.

Altitude Sickness and Remedies

While traveling to Nepal, especially at high altitudes, being aware of altitude sickness/ acute mountain sickness (AMS) is crucial. Altitude sickness may occur to anybody so awareness can help in such cases. The low oxygen level in the air causes altitude sickness. As you ascend to an elevation above 2,500m, and your body can’t adjust to the changed temperature, the symptoms of AMS start to appear. Headache, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, and dizziness are common symptoms of altitude sickness. If you experience such symptoms, consider the following remedies:

Ascend Gradually: While trekking or hiking at a higher elevation, consider ascending gradually to allow your body to acclimatize. Follow the rules of no increase in altitude of more than 1,000m.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help your body adjust to the altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Descend: As soon as the symptoms of altitude sickness start to occur, descend immediately or stop where you are.
Rest: Take breaks from time to time and avoid ascending fast.
Travel Insurance

Prevention is better than cure, so having travel insurance while traveling to Nepal is mandatory. Get insurance as soon as you plan to take a trip to Nepal. Remember that no companies in Nepal provide foreigners with travel insurance. Thus, you must be insured by your country before arriving in Nepal. Buy insurance that covers medical emergencies, helicopter rescue, trip cancellation, and baggage loss. Additionally, choose a reputable insurance company and look for your 24/7 assistance.

Best season to travel to Nepal

The best season is a vital thing to know while traveling to Nepal. However, the best season to travel depends on the intended activities you will be involved in.

If you plan to trek or be involved in mountaineering activities, March, May, and September to November are ideal.
If you are planning to watch wildlife, October to March is best. The weather is dry during this time, and you can spot animals easily.
September to June is perfect for water rafting as the water level is high.
For the cultural and heritage tours, each season/ month is suitable.

Note: Avoid traveling to Nepal during the monsoon season, as heavy rainfall and landslides during the month affect the overall journey.

Connectivity Solutions

Staying connected is foremost for communication, navigation, and sharing experiences while visiting Nepal. Buy a local SIM card as soon as you land at the Kathmandu airport for a mobile network connection. You may get free Wi-Fi access at your hotel in Kathmandu and should buy data packs if you travel to a remote location. Additionally, download offline maps and apps that work offline for navigation, travel tips, and language translation.

Nepal Travel Guide

A visa is foremost while traveling to Nepal. One must obtain a visa for their stay in Nepal. Obtaining a visa is easy and hassle-free. Travelers can apply for a tourist visa online or get one upon arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport or the immigration entry point. Likewise, considering the best time to visit is another essential aspect of travel in Nepal. Packing wisely, choosing the best accommodation that fits one budget, making sure for the activities to be involved in, taking care of one’s health, and using a connectivity solution are essential for a safe and memorable journey.

Places to Visit in Nepal

Nepal is an unmatched destination with exceptional beauty and numerous opportunities for adventure, from high mountain trails to peaceful temples and bustling towns. With destinations like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, scenic lakes of Tilicho and Rara, bustling cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara and the birthplace of Buddha in Lumbini, it offers the perfect mixture of nature, culture, adventure and excitement.

An ideal destination for every kind of traveler, Nepal provides vast options to explore its majesty. Suitable for children and older ones, the country is perfect for roaming around with your loved ones. Wait, are you wondering which area of Nepal is worth visiting? Well, that’s not a thing to worry about as every corner and turn of the country will appeal to your eye. Throughout Nepal, wherever you go, you’ll not regret it. However, here are some famous tourist destinations you should add to your bucket list if you are about to travel to Nepal.

Kathmandu

Kathmandu is a well-developed city where ancient traditions and culture meet technological advancement. Located at 1,400m above sea level, Shivapuri, Phulchoki, Nagarjun, and Chandragiri hills surround Kathmandu. The city is the gateway to tourism and the nerve center of Nepal’s economy. There are multiple tour packages, such as the 7-day Kathmandu Valley Tour, that will allow you to explore the beautiful city of Kathmandu. Some of the well-known destinations to visit in Kathmandu include:

• Kathmandu Durbar Square
• Bhaktapur Durbar Square
• Patan Durbar Square
• Pashupatinath Temple
• Boudhanath Stupa
• Thamel
• Chandragiri Hills
• Kopan Monastery
• Nagarkot
• Narayanhiti Palace

Pokhara

Pokhara, at an elevation of 822m, is a picturesque capital city of Tourism. Located 200km west of Katmandu, the town is easily accessible from Pokhara. One can get to Pokhara by air and bus. The city is developed and has numerous tourist attractions. Some well-known destinations of Pokhara are:

• Phewa Lake
• Bindhyabasini Temple
• International Mountain Museum
• Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave
• Tal Barahi Temple
• Sarangkot
• Devi’s Fall
• Mahendra Cave
• Gurkha Memorial Museum
• World Peace Pagoda
• Bat Cave (Chamero Gufa)
• Tibetan Refugee Camp
• Begnas Tal

Lumbini

Located in the Rupandhani district, Lumbini is the world’s most well-renowned tourist destination and, more than that, a spiritual site. Well-known for being the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautam Buddha (commonly known as Lord Buddha), the area is a prominent hub for Buddhist pilgrims worldwide. Air travel and road travel are the most accessible options to get to Lumbini. Mayadevi temple at the Lumbini Garden and the Buddhist monasteries built by different countries are attractions in the temple surroundings. Generally, the Mayadevi temple is the major attraction of the area; however, some other attractions include:

• World Peace Pagoda
• Myanmar Golden Temple
• Thai Monastery
• Lumbini Museum
• Bodhi tree
• Lumbini Monastic site

Rara Lake

Rara, also known as Mahendra Lake, is the largest freshwater lake in Nepal’s Himalayas. The lake is part of Rara National Park and lies 2,975 m (9,760 ft) above sea level. Besides being the largest freshwater, the lake is becoming a popular trekking destination in Nepal. Located in the Mugu district, the lake is a hidden gem and an underrated trekking trail in Nepal.

The trip to Rara Lake starts with a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Nepaljung and Simikot. After landing at Simikot, the journey passes through a poorly maintained yet beautiful trail. Traditional villages, grasslands, forested lands, riverbanks, and several ascends and descends with a view of smiling mountain peaks are the major highlights of the trek to Rara Lake.

Mount Everest

Mount Everest is the foremost thought in everyone’s mind when talking about Nepal. Mount Everest is a highly recommended destination if you are in Nepal. Visitors don’t need to climb Everest to witness the beauty of the peak. The Everest Base Camp Trek, helicopter flight to Mount Everest, and airplane flight to Everest are ways to bless your eye with an iconic view of Mount Everest. Lukla serves as the gateway to the iconic peak.

Conclusion

Traveling to Nepal is the journey of a lifetime. Understanding all the aspects and travel destinations while voyaging can enhance your journey and experience in the best way about what Nepal offers. The country offers endless opportunities for exploration. So what are you waiting for? Get ready to become acquainted with Nepal’s diverse landscape and warm hospitality and create ever-lasting memories.