FAQ is designed and intended to provide the answer for many queries of the people who are planning and preparing to visit Nepal. The questions listed here, and their respective answers are just meant only as a general guide to assist you to plan and organize your trip before you actually hit the road. They are not meant to be a detailed out on the road guide. For further details information and more on day to day travel guidance, get hold of one of many outstanding travel books that have been published over the years to help the traveler. Many of them are available in bookstores around the world but if you can’t find one in a store near you, don’t worry, you can get them in Nepal once you arrive here.
Nepal is a landlocked country located in southern Asia couched between two Asian giants India and China. Nepal is geographical, cultural and linguistically diverse. The capital city of the country is Kathmandu, commonly known as ‘city of temples’ where we can explore traditional artistic beauty. Draped along the greatest heights of the Himalaya, Nepal is where the ice-cold of the mountains meets the steamy heat of the Indian plains. Moreover, it’s a land of yaks and yetis, stupas and Sherpas and some of the best trekking on earth. The Himalaya’s most sophisticated urban cultures took shape here, in the three great mini-kingdoms of the Kathmandu valley- Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur – home to a world-class artistic and architectural heritage.
What is Nepal known for?
Nepal is Known for Mt. Everest, the highest peak in the world and Lord Buddha, who was the pioneer of the Buddhist religion. Besides, among 14 eight thousand meters cross mountains in the world, eight are located in this naturally beautiful country. Nepal has been the focus of outstanding achievements in the world of peak climbing expeditions with the identification of more than one thousand peaks above 6,000 meters. Trekking through the Everest region offers astounding mountain views, an opportunity to take a glimpse into the life of world heritage sites, discovering a variety of Himalayan flora and faunas, and an opportunity to explore the highest Buddhist monasteries in the world. Overall, Nepal is known for its hospitality and the local people believes in the mantra ‘Atithi Debo Bhaba’ (Guest are god).
Can I get Nepal visa on arrival?
Yes! Nepal visa is easily available upon arrival in the entry places. Make the process easier by downloading & completing the application form, having the correct USD cash and two passport photographs.
Is the country politically safe and stable?
Nepal is one of the new democratic countries in the world with many active political parties, ideas, ideologies, and leaders. As such there might be some disturbances in some parts of the country. But it does not and will not affect the daily life of the residents in the other parts. Life moves on, as usual, unperturbed.
I am going on a teahouse trekking in Nepal. What can I expect?
Teahouse trekking is a popular method of trekking in Nepal and has almost replaced camping trips. This style of trekking involves resting in teahouses or lodges scattered throughout the trekking route. Most of the time, the teahouse is opened by a local with facilities like accommodation and food. In several occasions, your teahouse may also provide you with internet facilities. Please read our blog titled Teahouse Trekking in Nepal: What to Expect? to learn more about teahouse trekking and what it entails.
How long will we walk on an average day’s trekking?
Each day you can expect five to seven hours walking, covering 10 to 14 km. However, above 3500m, the times will be the same but you’ll only cover 8 to 9 km. Importantly, all our itineraries are flexible and can be altered by weather, geographical and physical condition of the individual participant.
Does your company help to arrange domestic flight, international flight, hotel bookings, and other services?
We (Sahara Holidays Nepal treks) can take care of all domestic flights, hotel bookings, and other services. However, we suggest you to arrange international flights from your home country, but we can provide assistance.
Is Nepal safe? Is a woman traveling alone safe with your company?
Absolutely Nepal is safe for the traveler. Firstly, Nepal is considered as one of the peaceful countries in the world (chances are it’s safer here than your home country). Secondly, while you’re on one of our trips, we take personal responsibility for your well-being, a responsibility we commit very seriously.
What are the best times to come on a trek/tour/expedition?
The best tourist’s season in Nepal with the summer gone by and the winter to set is Autumn (mid September-November). The weather is highly pleasant so are the mountain views. While Spring season (March-May) is also considered as the good season. The temperature is mildly warm in low lands while moderate in higher altitudes with plenty of opportunities to have a tryst with the mountain views. It is also the time for flowers to blossom and the national flower of Nepal – rhododendron sweeps the ascending altitudes with its magnanimous color and beauty. Winter season (January-February) is also recommended for tours, safari and low altitudes trek below 4000m. But for some areas of Nepal, Tibet and India, Summer season (June- August) are the best months because these areas are ‘rain shadows’ and monsoon is much lighter here.
Can you assure me that your staffs are taken care of?
Exploitation of its workers is often overlooked and a darker side of the Nepal tourism industry and unfortunately it’s a serious issue. However, we are firmly committed to upholding the rights of trek workers; including guides, Sherpas, porters and cooking staff. We provide all our staff with award-rate salary, insurance, proper equipment, training, and excellent medical treatment. Also, we work in a partnership with the Himalayan Explores Connections (a porter’s advocacy project) and the International Porter Protection Group (IPPG).
Are there ATM facilities in Nepal?
There are many ATM machines in the Kathmandu and Pokhara Valley. ATM machines are slowly being introduced to other cities like Bhuwtal and Dharan.
For tourists, what is there to buy in Nepal to take back home?
Actually, there are so many things to take back home depending on your personal choice. Nepal is well known for its handicraft materials, pashmina, Nepalese art and craft, and Nepali musical instruments like Madal and Banshuri are the items to purchase. Moreover, Nepali carpets are also best known among tourist customers. And the best place to shop these goods is around the Thamel area.
What types of cards are accepted? Debit or Credit? Visas or Masters or Discovers or Dinners?
Most popular cards accepted in Nepal are VISA, MASTERCARD, and American Express. Both Debit and Credit Cards are accepted here.
Is there any tourist police in Nepal?
Of course, there is a tourist police located near the Nepal Tourism Development Board’s Office. Also, there are complaint counters at the airport and Basantapur Durbar Square. Tourist police are specially trained in English and have detailed local knowledge to assist tourists. For security and travel related assistance, you can reach any of the officers from telephone 4-247041, 4-4268969 during 11 a.m to 5 p.m.