Nepal is easy to travel in with a little preparation. Pack light and think ahead: most things you forget can be bought in Kathmandu.
Packing
- A daypack for outings and a suitcase or bag for luggage
- Layers: days are mild, mornings and evenings cool; a warm jacket from November to February
- Rain gear from June to September (cheap raincoats are sold locally)
- Quick-dry clothes for hiking, sandals for rafting
- Small binoculars if you're going to Chitwan
Electricity
230 V, 50 Hz. Sockets are mostly types C, D and M (round pins). Bring a universal adapter; they're also sold in Thamel. Power cuts are rare now, but spare batteries are useful for cameras.
Phones and internet
Foreign visitors can buy a local SIM card (Ncell or Nepal Telecom) with a passport and photo, at the airport or in town. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafés.
Health
Some visitors need a few days to adjust. Bring remedies for stomach upsets, colds and motion sickness, plasters and sunscreen. Don't drink tap water; bottled or filtered water is easy to find. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Money
The currency is the Nepali rupee (NPR). US dollars, euros and Chinese yuan can be exchanged at banks and licensed money changers in Kathmandu and Pokhara. ATMs accepting Visa and Mastercard are common in towns.
Tipping
Many restaurants add a 10% service charge, shown on the menu. For good service from drivers, guides and porters, a tip is appreciated.
Shopping
Nepal's souvenirs are mostly handmade: pashmina and wool, silver jewellery, handmade lokta paper, thangka paintings, singing bowls, Buddha statues and khukuri knives. Check your home country's customs rules before packing any blade.