Essential Nepal 2024 Trip Notes

Trip Overview

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Nepal beckons with its alluring charm, ancient heritage, and abundant natural beauty. This unforgettable 9-day journey through Kathmandu, Pokhara, Ghandrung, Dhampus, and Chitwan National Park promises an enchanting exploration of Nepal’s diverse offerings. Kathmandu, the vibrant capital, captivates with its rich tapestry of cultural treasures. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambience of Swayambhunath Stupa and explore the medieval architecture of Patan Durbar Square. Gaze in awe at the majestic Annapurna and Machapuchare peaks in Pokhara. Ghandrung and Dhampus, nestled in the Annapurna region, present an authentic cultural experience amidst lush landscapes. Discover the warm hospitality of the Gurung community, their traditional dances, and intricate handicrafts. From ancient heritage to serene lakes, from snow-capped peaks to lush jungles, Nepal’s treasures are bound to leave you with cherished memories of a lifetime. So, pack your bags, and get ready to be spellbound by the wonders of Nepal with the Essential Nepal 2024 tour.

Duration : 9 Days

Destination : Nepal

Start/Ends in : Kathmandu / Kathmandu

Group Size : 13-35 People

Age Req. : 18+

Trip Theme : Classic, Overland

Hotels : 4 & 3 Star Hotels & Local Lodges

Departs : All Year Round

Why you will love this tour

  • * Nepal’s timeless heritage and vibrant history unfolding a 9 day adventure starting in Kathmandu, where cultural gems like Swayambhunath Stupa and Patan Durbar Square offer a profound glimpse into the past.
  • * Witness the breathtaking Annapurna and Machapuchare peaks as they grace the horizon in Pokhara, a city blessed with serene lakes and mountain vistas.
  • * Immerse yourself in the heartwarming hospitality of the Gurung community in Ghandrung and Dhampus. Engage with their traditions, dances, and intricate handicrafts for an authentic cultural experience.
  • * Ghandrung and Dhampus, nestled amid the lush landscapes of the Annapurna region, offer a tranquil retreat where you can connect with nature and the local way of life.

  •  *Explore the exotic wildlife and stunning landscapes of Chitwan National Park, where lush jungles and diverse flora and fauna create an adventure-filled oasis.
  • * From ancient cultural heritage to picturesque lakes, from awe-inspiring mountain peaks to verdant jungles, this tour guarantees you’ll create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Arrival Details

The group welcome meeting with your guide and other travelers is held around 18:30 at the hotel lobby on Day 1 of your tour unless otherwise notified.

Meeting Point:

The meeting point for the tour is :

Kantipur Village Boutique Hotel – Kathmandu – 4 Star

Address: Kathmandu 44600, Nepal

Phone : +977 1-5901667

Emergency Number: +44 203 14 99 200

Airport Transfers

A complimentary airport transfer from Kathmandu airport to the Travel Talk Hotel will be provided on Day 1 of the tour (the arrival day of the tour) between 07:00 am & 22:00 pm and a departure transfer from the Travel Talk hotel to airports on the departure day of the tour. Please note your accommodation starts at 13.00 on Day 1 and so early arrivals will be required to book pre-tour accommodation if early check-in is required.

To arrange your airport transfer please email us the following information at least 2 weeks before your departure date. [email protected]

Highlights

Kathmandu: The capital of Nepal, Kathmandu is the historic, cultural, and artistic center of the country as well as the traveler’s launchpad to the Himalayas.

Pokhara: Pokhara is the second city of Nepal, casually sprawling on the shore of the dazzling Phewa Lake. It is a tourist attraction with spectacular views of the Annapurna.

Chitwan: Chitwan National Park is listed as a World Heritage Site and consists of a diversity of ecosystems including the Churia hills, Ox-bow lakes, and the flood plains of the Rapti.

Itinerary

Please note that the itinerary may be subject to small changes depending on the conditions during the tour. Alternative accommodation of similar standards may be used depending on the group size and hotel availability.

Greetings to Nepal! Look out for the Travel Talk sign upon arrival at the terminal, as we’ll be there to receive you from the airport and transport you to our hotel in Kathmandu. Join us at 6:30pm in the hotel lobby for a casual gathering with the tour guide and fellow group members. Following the meeting, you’re welcome to participate in an optional group dinner.

  • Accommodation
    Kantipur Village – 4 Star
  • Included Activities
    Welcome Meeting
  • Optional Activities
     Group Dinner

We commence the day by discovering Kathmandu City, Swyambhunath, and Patan. Our initial destination will be Swayambhunath, an age-old religious edifice situated atop a hill within the Kathmandu Valley, featuring a Buddhist Stupa believed to exceed 2000 years in age. This hill also encompasses an array of small Chaityas and Pagoda-style temples. Our subsequent visit will be to Kathmandu City, renowned as Kantipur. During this visit, you will explore the residence of the Living Goddess, who acknowledges devotees’ greetings from her temple balcony and Kasthamandap temple that lends its name to Kathmandu.

In the afternoon, we venture to the historical city of Patan, formerly a kingdom of its own. The Patan Durbar Square showcases exceptional Newari urban architecture and boasts temples dedicated to Shiva, Krishna, Ganesh, and Vishnu, all frequented by worshippers. In the late afternoon, you have leisure time to explore the city.

  • Accommodation
    Kantipur Village – 4 Star
  • Meals
    Breakfast
  • Included Activities
    Sightseeing of Kathmandu
    Sightseeing of Swayambhunath
    Sightseeing of Kantipur
    Sightseeing of Patan
  • Entrance Fees
    Kathmandu : USD 10.5
  • Swoyambhunath : USD 2.20
  • Patan : USD 11.5

We have an early start to drive for about 6 hours to reach the Pokhara after breakfast which is the second largest city in Nepal and enjoy the landscape on the way to Pokhara. Meet your trekking guide get prepared for the next day once all done you’ll be able to wander around the beautiful lake city known for its superb mountain views. It is an enchanting city nestled beneath the snow-crested Annapurna Massif in a tranquil valley and is the starting point for many of Nepal’s most popular trekking destinations. The atmosphere on the shore of Phewa Lake is one of excited vitality as backpackers crowd the many bars and restaurants. At an elevation lower than Kathmandu and generally a few degrees warmer, Pokhara has a tropical feel to it and has the diversity of beautiful subtropical flora.

  • Accommodation
    Aabas Pokhara – 4 Star
  • Meals
    Breakfast
  • Entrance Fees
    Trekking Information Management Card ( TIMS) : USD 21

The day starts with a drive to Kande, where the trek to the Australian Camp begins. The camp offers spectacular views of the Annapurna ranges Himchuli, Fish Tail, Lamjung Himal and Manasla. We then continue to Pothana and arrive to Pritam Deurali where we will have lunch. Overnight say in Tolka.

  • Accommodation
    Tolka Tea House – Or similar
  • Meals
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Annapurna Conservation Area Project – USD 32

Today marks the start of our trek’s descent, treating you to vistas of the majestic Annapurna mountain range. As you journey onward, you’ll traverse additional Gurung villages, affording you glimpses into their expansive farming communities. Continuing along the path, you’ll arrive at the charming settlements of Pothana and Dhampus. Among the renowned tourist villages in western Nepal, Dhampus boasts awe-inspiring panoramic sights of the Annapurna and Manaslu Himalayan mountain ranges. The evening entails dinner and an overnight stay at a local lodge.

  • Accommodation
    Dhampus Teahouse
  • Meals
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Trekking to Dhampus

Embarking on an early morning departure, you’ll have the opportunity to relish the vibrant sunrise casting hues upon the Himalayas. Subsequently, an uncomplicated downhill trek leads you to Phedi, traversing through rice fields and quaint cottages along the way. Upon your arrival in Phedi village, our vehicle will be ready to transport you back to Pokhara and onward as we continue our journey to Chitwan.

  • Accommodation
    Green Mansions Jungle Resort – 3 Star
  • Meals
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Trekking to Phedi

We have full day of exciting jungle activities today. The best way to reach the national park is by a jungle safari where you’ll end up at Chitwan National Park. This is considered one of the richest wildlife areas in Asia and boasts the last and largest remaining area of tall grassland habitat. Not to be compared with the wide open spaces of Africa, the intimacy of the search and discovery of Asian wildlife in its dense habitat is considered by many travellers to be equally rewarding and exciting.

  • Accommodation
    Green Mansions Jungle Resort – 3 Star
  • Meals
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Included Activities
    Visit of Chitwan National Park

Following breakfast, we return to Kathmandu by vehicle, leaving you with the afternoon at leisure for shopping and exploration.

  • Accommodation
    Kantipur Village – 4 Star
  • Meals
    Breakfast

Our trip will end after we say goodbye to our new friends over breakfast, bid you safe travels, and check-out of the hotel at 11:00am.

Meals Included : Breakfast

TREK PROGRAM & FAQ

  1. Trek itinerary with walking details

    The three days of trek we are operating for travel talk is a moderate trek. It’s a mixed trek, climbing and descending through stone steps, rocks, as well as walking through the unpaved roads.

            Day 1: Drive from Pokhara to trek starting point – 45 minutes
                        Trek approx.. 13 km (8 miles) – Approx 4 hrs trek.
            Day 2: Trek approx. 9 km (6 miles) – approx. 4 hrs trek

            Day 3: Trek approx. 3 km (1.8 miles). Drive back to Pokhara after trek ending (approx. 45 minutes drive)

            Maximum elevation gain will be 521 m

            Kande to Australian camp is 1:30 min hike and is all up hill except the initial approx 10 min walk.

  1. Update on the roads
    Road expansion work is taking place for most part of the highway for Kathmandu/ Pokhara, Chitwan/ Pokhara specially 80 kms of the road from the place call Aabu Khaireni to Pokhara. 

    When guide meet the guests and provide the briefing about the whole trip, we take below points as the major topic of briefing, so that they are well prepared about the road condition and driving hour  

    Bumpy and Uneven Surfaces: Construction zones often have uneven road surfaces, potholes, and gravel, which can make driving uncomfortable. 

            Traffic Delays: Construction activities periodically require lane closures and detours, causing traffic congestion and delays. Long queues of      vehicles may form, extending travel times.

            Reduced Speed Limits: Lower speed limits are usually enforced in some part of construction zones for safety reasons. This can extend the time   required to complete the journey.

  1. Experience of trekking in Annapurna foot Hill during Monsoon
    Trekking in the Annapurna foothills during the monsoon season offers a unique experience for adventurous travelers. The rain-soaked landscapes come alive with vibrant greenery, cascading waterfalls, and mist-covered trails, creating a magical and serene atmosphere. While the paths can be slippery and leeches are a common challenge, the rewards are immense: fewer crowds, intimate interactions with local villagers, and breathtaking views of the Annapurna range as it peeks through the clouds. For those willing to embrace the elements, this trek provides a profound connection to nature and a deeply enriching adventure.
  1. NOTES FOR TREKKERS

            Firstly, we recommend that you travel light. A good sized duffel bag with a top length zipper that can lock is best, together with a day pack for carrying          personal items on the trek. An extra smaller bag would be handy to carry back your souvenirs after the trip.

 AFTER ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU

TREK BRIEFING: 

On your arrival in Kathmandu, we will arrange to meet for a pre-trek briefing. Full information on all aspects of your trek, questions and doubts will be discussed. On trek your guide will give you more details about the route, villages, people and other information regarding the trek.

  • PACKING: 

For trek we request you to try and limit your baggage to maximum 15 kgs including your day back pack/rucksack. You may leave behind part of your luggage in your hotel or our locker room before the trek, in Kathmandu or in Pokhara. All baggage’s are to be clearly marked and locked. Kindly refrain from carrying or wearing valuables on the trek. You may leave them behind at the safety deposit box at your hotel or with us

HOW TO PACK:

Your clothes and equipment should fall into the following 4 categories: 

1. What you are going to leave behind in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

2. What you are going to wear on the trail.

3. What you are going to carry in your day pack.

4. What you would like the porters to carry for you.

Excess clothes and luggage can be stored in your hotel’s storeroom, and valuables in the safety deposit box. Please label your luggage and make sure to take a receipt from the front desk of your hotel for all the things you would like to leave behind while you are away.

ON TREK / FAQ’s

1. FOOD AND DRINKING WATER ON TREK 

On the trek the food will consist of the food available at the lodges. Menu will be available at the lodges and the guest will have a choice of the food they like or as per the guides choice /suggestion. (We recommend vegetarian meals on treks as the mode of transportation of meats are not hygienic in these areas) 

You can get a variety of beverages during your trek. Most of the teahouses and hotels serve a wide range of coffee, tea, hot lemon, hot juice, hot chocolate, milk, etc. Some hotels offer cappuccinos, Americanos, and cafe lattes. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, drinks with milk and smoking during your trip. (these drinks are on direct payment basis)

Please bring water bottles for the trek (01 litre). These can be filled in all local lodges /shops on the way.

Boiled water is preferable as you go to high altitudes, and it is also safe and convenient. As you go up, altitude sickness might take place, so keep yourself hydrated and have a sip of water from time to time.

* For water, beverages and extra food the clients need to pay directly to the lodge. Boiled water cost about $ 2

2.MONEY ON TREK:

You may want to buy drinks at wayside shops and souvenirs from the natives. Money for the extra food and drinks also needs to be carried. For Everest trekking, you need local currency (Nepalese rupee). However, some stores also accept payment in American dollars.

ATMs are available in Pokhara and Kathmandu, but it’s difficult for you to use them as there will be many trekkers on the line. Sometimes, it doesn’t work as well. So, you can’t rely on them completely.

Therefore, visit money exchanges in Kathmandu and get the amount in Nepalese currency. Also, it’s difficult to convert your Nepali rupee back to your currency. So, exchange your currency as per your needs.

As customary, we can help discuss in detail in the pre-trek briefing. 

3.INSURANCE:

There are no medical insurance policies in Nepal for foreigners. We strongly recommend you to take comprehensive holiday insurance in your own country covering adventures involving some elements of risk. This should include helicopter evacuation

Please leave a copy of the document with contact person’s name with us so that we can coordinate with the Insurance company in case of emergency. 

4.WIFI / INTERNET ON TREK

Yes, you can get internet and Wi-Fi facilities on your trek journey. Mobile network is also accessible in most places but the network may not be working as the network in this region depends on weather, maintenance of towers etc. However, during trekking season there is maximum chances that it will be working. 

When you arrive in Nepal, get a Nepalese SIM card in Kathmandu and buy tourist data packs. (passport size photos and passport copy is required)

Besides, most of the lodges provide Wi-Fi services, charging $ 2– $ 3 for an unlimited package, and some of them also provide free Wi-Fi services.

5. BATTERY CHARGING

The battery gets drained quickly at high altitudes because of the cold, so you need to charge your devices more. You can charge your phone and other electronic gadgets at the lodge, but you need to pay an extra fee for the lodge you stay in. The cost also varies from place to place.

6.SHOWER ON TREK

Hot water is available in most showers. They charge extra for this and is payable directly. Average cost will be between US $ 5.00 – $ 8.00. 

During briefing more will be discussed about showers on the trek. 

7. YOUR STAFF ON THE TRIP:

Will consist of one English speaking Guide who will be wholly responsible for the execution of the trip once it hits the trail. reliable porter(s) will assist him. 

Staffs Ratio are as follows: 

  1. Guide: in all treks 
  2. Porter: 02 clients (maximum weight limit is 28 kilograms per porter OR 14 Kilograms per guest) 

8. A TYPICAL DAY:

A normal day on trek would start at about 6:30 / 07:00 am with a wakeup call. (Pls inform guide if a wakeup call in required). Breakfast will have to be ordered before one goes to bed and the breakfast will be served at the dining room (common) and we advise guests to pack their bags so that the staffs can load them on the porters baskets or animals depending what has been arranged. 

The morning part of the trip would begin after breakfast and last about three to four hours when a stop for lunch would be made. The afternoon part of the trip will be another two to three hours to camp. Relax through the evening until dinner time. 

9.DAILY WEAR:

Your guide can help you plan your daily wear before each day’s walk. Please carry an extra shirt or a T-shirt and a light jacket in your backpack. The mountain air is cold, so you can keep dry and warm after sweats and chills. Rain gear also need to be carried in your day pack. 

10.WHAT TO CARRY DURING THE TREK? 

Your daypack, preferably waterproof should be light, small and comfortable. All small personal items like toilet paper, water bottle, medicines, extra shirt, light warm wears, rain gear, gloves, head torch etc, that may be needed for the day’s trek should be packed. Your duffel will be carried by porters whom you will not meet till one reaches the lodge. 

TREK KIT LIST

WHAT TO WEAR: 

Light clothing are only for short treks up to seven days at altitudes up (1830 m) during fall (autumn) from September to November and in spring between March to May/June. The other months at all altitudes will be cold.

Footwear:

You will need hiking boots with ankle support, sneakers for flat trails and flip-flops or chappals for use around the camp.

Clothes:

Shirts, T-shirts (2-3), blouse, etc., for daywear and a full sleeve woolen shirt for evenings.

MEN:

Shorts, cotton trousers, jeans, sweatpants (recommended) etc.

LADIES:

Shorts (not too short!), long skirts are acceptable in well-trekked areas, Jeans or trousers if preferred. Sweat pants are recommended.

Warm Clothes for winter (December – February): 

A light sweater, a windcheater or light lined/padded jacket, Woolen cap and warm gloves.

Sun / Rain: 

Rain gear or poncho and a sun hat are essential. Global warming has led to freak weather conditions and it has become more and more difficult to predict weather conditions. 

Additional Items:

Anti-dazzle glasses or goggles with side attachments are recommended and food supplements (favorite snacks such as chocolates, energy bars etc.) if necessary.

Inclusions & Exclusions

The tour price covers the following services:

Accommodation : 4 & 3 star hotels and local lodge during trekking in Nepal

Airport Transfer : Arrival and Departure transfers on first and last day of the trip

Meals : 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners

Transportation : Air conditioned, modern coach or mini-bus

Guide : Services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licensed by the Ministry of Tourism, trekking guide, naturalist in jungle activities in Chitwan.

Sightseeing : Swayambhunath, Kantipur, Patan, Tolka, Dhampus & Phedi, Chitwan, National Park

What is NOT included in the tour price?

  • Any flights not mentioned above
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not stated above
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Tips & gestures
  • Entrance fees to the sights and museums
  • Optional activities
  • Other services not stated in the itinerary

Hotels & Accommodation

Please find below the 4 Star hotels used on our India trips. All accommodation is carefully hand-selected to satisfy our standards in terms of quality, authenticity, and location for you to enjoy a comfortable and unforgettable holiday.

Kantipur Village – KATHMANDU – 4 STAR

Kantipur Village Kathmandu offers a luxurious and comfortable stay with its exceptional amenities and services, making it a distinguished 4-star accommodation choice in the heart of Nepal’s capital city.

Aabas Hotel – POKHARA – 4 STAR

Aabas Pokhara hotel provides a serene and picturesque retreat in Pokhara, combining modern comforts with stunning natural surroundings for an unforgettable stay experience.

Tolka Tea HouseTOLKA

Tolka Tea House hotel offers a charming and authentic stay amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Dhampus Tea House – DHAMPUS

Dhampus Teahouse provides a cozy and welcoming haven perched in the hills, offering travelers a peaceful respite and captivating panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Green Mansions Jungle Resort – CHITWAN 3 Star

Situated just next to Chitwan National Park, the resort offers a perfect location to its guests.

Distances

Please find below the distances between the sites visited in India and the approximate driving times. We will always strive to take a short break every few hours to enable passengers to stretch their legs, purchase snacks and use wash facilities during long drives.

– Kathmandu-Pokhara : 4,5 hours

– Pokhara-Annapurna: 4 hours

– Kathmandu-Lumbini: 5,5 hours

– Chitwan-Pokhara: 2 hours

Budgeting

Please note that entrance fees to sights and optional activities are not included in the tour price.

Entrance Fees

Kathmandu Durbarsquire — USD 11

Patan Durbar Squire — USD 8

Boudth Nath Stupas — USD 2

Pashupati NathTemple — USD 11

Syambhu Nath Stupas — USD 2

Pokhara Entry fee with boating — USD 14

Cable Car Ride Pokhara — USD 20

Panauti — USD 3

Bhaktapur Durbar Square — USD 16

Optional Activities

Mountain Flight Over Everest — USD 200

Paragliding in Pokhara — USD 145

Nepali Dinner — USD 15

Shopping

In Nepal, shop till you drop” should be your motto during your stay as Kathmandu is a shoppers’ paradise. Funky, fashionable, chic, and sleek; shopping in Kathmandu is an experience like no other. Kathmandu offers everything from luxury boutiques and shopping centers to bargain outlets and local markets. It’s the experience that goes with making your purchases that make people want to return again and again. Shopping can be very rewarding and exciting in Kathmandu.

There are numerous tourist shops on the main streets and in the hotel arcades brimming with tempting jewelry, statues, and other typical Nepalese handicraft. Each place has its specialty product which is unique. Bhaktapur, for instance, is the place to buy pottery. The Traditional Craftsman’s Colony in Patan is a famous center for Nepalese handicrafts. You may get carved wooden items while at Patan. For a complete variety of products and brands in all price ranges, Kathmandu offers a unique shopping experience.

From glitzy malls to trendy boutiques, you can find almost anything and everything that caters to your shopping list. For premium brands and high fashion, Durbar Marg is a consumers’ Mecca. It has all the high-end fashion requirements. For fashionistas, there is no alternative to Durbar Marg. The Thamel area, in particular, is popular for souvenirs and handicrafts. Kupondole, Lazimpat, and Dillibazaar are famous for their popular boutiques. From affordable to extravagant design, all that is needed to achieve the traditional look is here. New Road caters to the budget-conscious shoppers, Jhamsikhel fulfils the gastronomical, whereas shopping malls like Civil Mall, NLIC City Center, Bluebird Mall, Times Square Mall, Kathmandu Mall, and UWTC make their locations famous because of their presence.

Essential Information: Nepal

Passport & Visas


This is to inform you that Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) will undergo significant operational changes starting November 8,2024 due to major upgrades.

The airport will close daily from 10 PM to 8 AM for five months to facilitate the expansion of the runway, taxiway, and parking areas. This closure will reduce TIA’s operational hours to 14 hours a day, down from the current schedule of 6 AM to 2 AM, with the adjustment in effect until March 31, 2025.

Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months after the last day of your trip as some countries may refuse entry if there is any less. All foreign nationals, except Indian citizens, are required to have a valid visa to enter Nepal. Visas can be obtained at your nearest Nepal Embassy or Diplomatic Mission. Most citizens can also be granted a visa on arrival at multiple border entry points. For up-to-date regulations, please check the link: http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/ content/tourist-visa.html

Travel Advice

We are closely monitoring the latest travel updates to Nepal, and following the advice of the UK Foreign Office (FCDO). For the latest travel advice from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, please visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/nepal

We recommend all travelers to check their Government National Travel Advisory prior to their departure:

Australia – https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/

Canada – https://travel.gc.ca/

New Zealand – https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/

USA – https://travel.state.gov/

Travel Insurance

All passengers travelling with Travel Talk are required to have personal travel insurance before participating in any of our tours. Your guide will collect your travel insurance details on the first day of your trip. It is your responsibility to make sure you have an adequate and suitable travel insurance for you in place, you may read more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/travel-insurance

Health & Safety

The health and safety of our passengers, staff and communities visited is of utmost priority. As we monitor and comply with the official advice from the UK Foreign Office, as well as World Health Organization and government authorities regularly, we have implemented several policies and precautions on our tours for your wellbeing. You may find our Safe Travels Protocols at https://www.traveltalktours.com/safe-travels

Travel Talk Adventures has received the Safe Travels stamp by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), which allows travelers to recognize companies around the world that have adopted health and hygiene global standardized protocols – so consumers can experience ‘Safe Travels’.

Please make sure to regularly check your Government’s travel advice before travelling and be well-informed of any requirements. Your tour guide will also notify you of the regulations and protocols to follow throughout your trip with us.

Please note that if any traveler is unable to complete the itinerary or possess a potential risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to remove them from all or part of a trip.

Please consult with your doctor for the latest medical travel information and any vaccinations you may need. We recommend that you bring any personal medical requirements and medications with you as these may be difficult to obtain while on tour.

Weather

Nepal has typical monsoonal conditions with two seasons a year. October-November marks the start of the dry season, which in many ways is the best time of the year in Nepal. With the monsoon only recently finished the countryside is green, lush, and beautiful. At this time of the year, the air is sparkling clean, views of the Himalayas are as near as perfect and the weather is not too hot, nor too cold. For obvious reasons, this is also the peak tourist season. December and January are also good months to visit but it can get cold at high altitudes. From February to April, the weather is warmer, and flowers are blooming but the visibility isn’t as good. May and the early part of June are not ideal months to visit Nepal as the country is extremely hot and dusty. From June to September it is the wet season and the least popular time to visit Nepal. For more, check out our Nepal weather guide.

Money Matters

Nepali Rupee notes come in Rs. 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100, 500, 1000 denominations. Coins come 5p, 10p, 25p, Rs. 1, 2, 5 denominations. Foreign currencies must be exchanged only through banks or authorized foreign exchange dealers. The receipts from such transactions are to be obtained and retained. Visitors can exchange foreign currency at the foreign exchange counter at the airport upon arrival, a good idea to keep everything safe.

Please remember that everyone has different spending habits, some prefer to spend more on souvenirs, some on experiences and others on a night out! Make sure to budget your trip to your spending habits for shopping, drinking, and tipping.

Tips are a common reward for service staff in Nepal. Your tour guide and crew will be especially appreciative and honored with this kind of traditional gratitude at the end of your tour.

Eating & Drinking

Nepal is a very diverse country when it comes to ethnicity and culture. One of the outcomes of this is that there is an impressive array of local cuisine. Nepalese food has been strongly influenced by both India and Tibet, and in places like Kathmandu, there is a growing interest in western dishes. Most of the local cuisine (particularly from the Himalayan region) can taste a bit bland if people are used to spicy or savory food, but the diet in Nepal receives a good deal of praise for its health factors.

The nearest thing to a national dish in Nepal would be Dal bhat. The meal consist of steamed rice and a lentil soup. This is a staple meal in Nepal and many Nepalese will eat Dal bhat twice a day. There are many different versions of this meal, but the most popular is Dal Bhat Tarkari which is served with vegetables and sometimes with a yoghurt or curry sauce. Modern Kathmandu is home to many ethnic groups, but the indigenous people of the Kathmandu valley are the Newar (Newa). The
Newar has their own cuisine which is said to consist of about 200 dishes, with a Tibet and Chinese influence evident in their cooking. They also have foods that are similar to western dishes such as Chataamari. Chataamari is a popular snack and is a rice crepe, served similarly to pizza.

For more, check out our Nepal food guide.

Essentials to Bring & Internet

-Face mask/cover and hand sanitizer enough for your personal use throughout the trip – See more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/safe-travels/

-Travel Documents: Passport, Visa (if required), flight or transport ticket (and photocopies)

-Travel Talk Tour Voucher (printed or digital)Travel Insurance Policy (and photocopy)

-Personal medical kit and medicine

-Money (cash, credit card, travelers’ cheques)

-Power Adapter

-Reusable water bottle

-Ear plugs and eye mask

-Sun protection – hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

-Comfortable, closed walking shoes

-Wind/water proof jacket

-Warm clothes, hat, and gloves for cold weather

-Sandals, swimwear, shorts for warm weather

Internet Access

Internet access is good across Nepal and many cafes, hotels and restaurants in cities of Nepal provide free Wi-Fi, but the connection may be spotty or slow. Wi-Fi coverage may be limited in remote areas. If you wish to use your own 3G/4G Data, be sure to enable data roaming on your mobile. Purchasing a Nepal SIM card for the duration of your tour may be a cost-effective alternative. Make sure that your phone is unlocked before you leave home so a local SIM will be compatible. Your local guide will be able to provide advice on where to purchase data SIMs in Nepal.

Religion, Etiquette, and How to Dress

While travelling to other nations as a foreigner, it is important to understand the traditions, cultures and religious beliefs of the populations and regions you visit. Nepal is known for its religious beliefs and practices such as Tibetan Buddhism, Kashmir Shaivism. While your guide will be able to provide further knowledge about these throughout your tour, here are a few important notes to remember.

It is common to remove your shoes as a sign or respect before entering a temple and indeed before entering into someone’s home. It’s not appropriate to walk around in skimpy clothing. Travel Talk strongly recommends all visitors dress respectfully while in Nepal with shorts or skirts that cover past the knee and shirts or blouses which cover the shoulders and chest region. More flexible clothing is possible on the trekking routes. Try to appear friendly and be open to have authentic interactions with the locals, though it’s always smart to keep your valuables safe and covered while travelling.

Solo Travelers

We have many solo travelers joining our tours. Solo travelers will be roomed with another traveler of the same gender. If you would like a private solo room, please contact us. You may see out solo travels page for more details.

Rules to Follow

We are committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. We do not tolerate any form of violence (physical or verbal), bullying or harassment involving customers, partners, Travel Talk staff or locals. Sexual relationships between a tour leader and a passenger are forbidden.

We will not tolerate any illegal activity, including but not limited to: use and possession of illegal drugs, trespassing, and disrupting public order. If you consume alcohol, please ensure that you drink responsibly and follow the local laws and regulations.

You must follow the advice of your tour leader and local officials regarding health and safety measures. We operate all tours under Safe Travels protocols for the wellbeing of our passengers, staff and communities visited. Please ensure that you have read the https://www.traveltalktours.com/safe-travels/ and are fully prepared for your trip.

If someone is acting inappropriately regarding these matters, please notify your tour leader immediately or contact us on the emergency contact number provided below.

Your tour leader has the right to remove from the group anyone not abiding by these rules, with no right of compensation or refund. See more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/booking-terms/

Please remember that our travelers come from different parts of the world and will have various needs and preferences. Be understanding and patient with your fellow travelers, and always strive to be on time.

Responsible Travel

We believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with you, we strive to make a positive impact on local people and economies, respecting the local culture, environment, social fabric and customs; encouraging respectful and meaningful cross-cultural exchange. Read more at https://www.traveltalktours.com/responsible-travel/

Open until midnight

+44 20 809 995 96
[email protected]

Monday - Friday: 09:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
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