Nepal Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What Is Hiking?
Answer: Day trekking does not stay overnight is called Hiking and it’s organized for fun and to return to the same starting point or different places.
2. what kind of facilities you can get in tea houses?
Answer: Except for the high altitude you can get private rooms with soft clean beds in most of the tea houses but the toilet and shower room need to be shared. They have hot shower and cold shower facilities. For cold showers free of charge but for Hot showers, you need to pay around US$ 1 to US$ 5.
3. is it safe to eat during trekking?
Answer: The big concern in trekking is food safety. Mission Himalaya treks take it very seriously. Our guide chooses the best clean comfortable and hygienic lodges or teahouses during your stay in Nepal.
4. what is trekking?
Answer: Trekking is not mean hiking. Trekking means walking on foot up and down for more than 1 day. Each and every day for more than 3 hours.
5. what are the drinking water sources supplied in trekking?
Answer: Each and every lodge and tea house has boiling water for trekkers. Someplace on the trekking route, have a mineral water bottle for drinking. In some places, it is not allowed to sell water bottles so they provide a safe drinking water station for selling water. we provide water or information on water sources through our guide in trekking.
6. Do I need trekking permits?
Answer: For all these reasons you need Trekking information Management permits(TIMS) as policy. and you will need national park permits or conservation area permits. some area needs special permits issued by Immigration through a trekking agency.
7. What are the Best trekking times in Nepal?
Nepal Trekking can be undertaken the whole of the year. Mostly there are four seasons in Nepal. Each season has its different attractions to offer tourists. Nepal trekking season is as follows:
AUTUMN (September to November)
The Autumn season is defined as the best time for trekking in Nepal, which offers excellent weather and clear mountain views with blue skies. Moderate temperatures, and a clear sky with panoramic views, make it the best time to do any Nepal trek. Occasional short storms may happen and snow at high altitudes.
WINTER (December – February):
Winter season is the time for occasional snowfall at higher elevations in the Himalayas. Nevertheless, it gets coldest at night but it offers a clear day and blue sky and perhaps fewer trekkers on the trail. But it is not the best time for climbing and high passes trekking. Trek like Everest base camp and Annapurna sanctuary can be done even in winter.
Spring (March-May):
Varieties of flowers, especially Rhododendrons make the hillside a paradise during this season. It is a mildly warm season at lower elevations and at higher elevations, the mountain views are excellent and similar to a season like autumn.
Summer (June-August):
The summer season from June till mid-September makes travel wet and warm but it is raining and clouded. This season is blessed for the keen botanist as the higher valleys blossom with flowers and vegetation. Trekking in Upper Mustang and Dolpo could be an ideal trek selection for this season. Mostly it is not the best time for trekking in Nepal.
Most of the Nepal treks like Everest base camp or Annapurna Sanctuary can be done in autumn spring and winter whereas Dolpo, Upper Mustang trek is good even in summer. Because there is not much rain even in summer.
8. Do I need a visa to visit Nepal?
Answer: Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Nepal. Tourist visas are available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and at various land entry points. You can also apply for a visa at Nepalese diplomatic missions abroad. It’s advisable to carry cash (preferably USD) to pay for the visa fee.
9. What are the must-visit places in Nepal?
Answer: Nepal is filled with a variety of attractions suitable for all kinds of travelers. Key places include:
- Kathmandu Valley, which houses several UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the historic Durbar Squares of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur.
- Pokhara is known for its tranquil lakes and stunning views of the Annapurna range.
- Chitwan National Park for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Lumbini is the birthplace of Buddha.
- For trekkers, the Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley offer remarkable trekking experiences.
10. What are the best activities to do in Nepal?
Answer: Nepal offers a wide range of activities:
- Trekking and hiking in the Himalayas are the most popular activities.
- Adventure sports such as bungee jumping, paragliding, and white-water rafting.
- Cultural tours in the cities exploring temples, monasteries, and markets.
- Wildlife safaris in the national parks.
11. Is it safe to travel to Nepal?
Answer: Nepal is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s always good to follow basic safety precautions, especially in crowded areas. Be aware of your belongings and respect local customs and traditions. Also, travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking is highly recommended.
12. What is the currency of Nepal and where can I exchange money?
Answer: The currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Currency can be exchanged at the airport, banks, and authorized exchange counters in the city. ATMs are widely available in urban areas but less so in remote regions.
13. What are the communication options available?
Answer: Nepal has a reasonable network of telephone and internet services. Mobile SIM cards are readily available for purchase at a very reasonable price and can be topped up for data and calls. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafes in urban areas.
14. What are some cultural etiquette tips I should know?
Answer: When visiting temples, always remove your shoes before entering and dress modestly. It’s polite to greet people with “Namaste” holding your palms together. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or religious sites. Also, the left hand is considered unclean, so use your right hand when eating or giving and receiving items.
15. How do I get around in Nepal?
Answer: Nepal offers various modes of transportation:
- Domestic flights are widely used for traveling between cities and are especially useful for reaching destinations like Lukla for the Everest Base Camp trek.
- Tourist buses provide services between major tourist destinations such as Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan.
- For shorter distances, taxis and rickshaws are readily available.
- Renting a motorbike or a bicycle is also a popular option, especially in places like Pokhara.
16. How can I ensure responsible tourism while visiting Nepal?
Answer: You can practice responsible tourism by:
- Staying in locally-owned hotels and eating at local restaurants.
- Using resources like water and electricity sparingly.
- Respecting local customs and traditions.
- Not littering, especially in natural areas, and participating in eco-friendly activities.
- Supporting local artisans by buying authentic handmade products instead of mass-produced souvenirs.
17. Are there any health risks I should be aware of in Nepal?
Travelers to Nepal should be aware of altitude sickness, particularly when trekking in the Himalayas. It’s essential to acclimatize gradually, stay hydrated, and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, and fatigue. Vaccinations for diseases such as hepatitis A, typhoid, and Japanese encephalitis may also be recommended, so it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before traveling.
18. Can I trek independently in Nepal, or do I need a guide?
While it’s possible to trek independently in Nepal, hiring a licensed guide is highly recommended, especially for remote or challenging treks. A guide can provide valuable assistance with navigation, accommodation, and safety, as well as insights into local culture and customs.
19. What are some local delicacies and must-try dishes in Nepal?
Nepali cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with dishes ranging from hearty lentil soups (dal bhat) to savory momos (dumplings) and spicy curries. Other must-try dishes include sel roti (traditional rice flour bread), dhido (a type of maize porridge), and Newari specialties like bara (fried lentil patties) and yomari (steamed dumplings filled with sweet fillings).
20. What are the emergency contact numbers and medical facilities available in Nepal?
In case of emergencies, travelers can dial 100 for police assistance, 101 for fire emergencies, and 102 for medical emergencies. Kathmandu and Pokhara have several hospitals and medical clinics offering emergency medical care, but facilities may be more limited in remote areas. It’s advisable to carry a basic first-aid kit and any necessary medications when traveling in Nepal.
Note: Please get in touch with us for more ideas and information whatever your interests.
21. What is there to do in Kathmandu?
Top Things to Do in Kathmandu:
- Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): Explore this iconic stupa with panoramic views of the city.
- Explore Durbar Square: Discover historic palaces, temples, and courtyards in the heart of Kathmandu.
- Boudhanath Stupa: Visit one of the largest stupas in the world and a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
- Pashupatinath Temple: See this sacred Hindu temple and witness traditional rituals along the Bagmati River.
- Thamel District: Enjoy shopping, dining, and nightlife in this vibrant tourist hub.
- Garden of Dreams: Relax in this beautiful neo-classical garden in the city center.
- Narayanhiti Palace Museum: Tour the former royal palace turned museum.
- Patan (Lalitpur): Visit the nearby city known for its arts, crafts, and Patan Durbar Square.
These activities provide a mix of cultural, historical, and leisurely experiences in Kathmandu.
22. Is Kathmandu dangerous?
Kathmandu is generally considered safe for tourists, but like any major city, it has certain risks. Here are some key points to consider:
Safety Tips:
- Petty Crime: Be cautious of pickpocketing and bag snatching, especially in crowded areas like Thamel and Durbar Square. Keep your valuables secure.
- Traffic: The traffic in Kathmandu can be chaotic. Be careful when crossing streets and consider using taxis or arranged transport for safety.
- Natural Disasters: Nepal is prone to earthquakes. Familiarize yourself with safety procedures and be aware of your surroundings.
- Health: Stick to bottled or purified water and be cautious with street food to avoid foodborne illnesses. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers health.
- Local Laws: Respect local customs and laws. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
By taking these precautions, you can enjoy a safe and pleasant visit to Kathmandu.
