The Basics
Country: Nepal
Where is it?: Nepal is in southern Asia, between China and India.
Why do people go here?: People visit Nepal for all sorts of reasons. One of the biggest areas of interest and trekking and exploring the little communities is that of the Himalayas. It’s a fabled land that has so much to offer.
What are the main entry points?: International Airport, Kathmandu; Kakarbhitta, Jhapa (Eastern); Birgunj, Parsa (Central) ; Kodari (Northern Border, Central);Belhia, Bhairahawa (Rupandehi, Western); Jamunaha, Nepalgunj (Banke, Mid-Western); Mohana, Dhangadhi (Kailali, Far Western); Gadda Chauki, Mahendranagar (Kanchanpur, Far Western)
Currency used: Rupee
Country Code for Phones: 977
Area codes for Major Cities: Kathmandu 1
Religion: Hinduism 86.2%, Buddhism 7.8%, Islam 3.8%, other 2.2%
Population: 29 million
Ethnic Groups: Brahman, Chetri, Newar, Gurung, Magar, Tamang, Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, Tharu
Government: Parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy
Languages: Nepali
Tips for Visiting
Major Cities: Kathmandu
Attractions: Kathmandu Valley, Annapurna Region, Bhaktapur
Accommodation: Nepal Tourism Office
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Daman
Health Issues: Altitude sickness, hepatitis, malaria
Tips for Visiting
When to go: Given the many mountainous regions of Nepal, it’s very important to check with weather conditions first. Broadly speaking, October through November and and late January through April are the best periods for trekking and exploring the mountain regions. Always be prepared for snow.
Common Phrases: Welcome= swagatam, Hello/Goodbye=Namaste, Pleased to meet you= tapaaiilaaii bhettera khushii laagyo, Good morning= subha prabhat, Good afternoon= namaskar, Good evening= subha sandhya, Excuse me/Sorry= maapha ganus
Specific Events/Holidays: Holi: March, Maha Shivaratri: March, Chaitra Dasain: April, Gai Jatra: August Dasain: October, Tihar: November, Mani Rimdu: November, Haribodhini Ekadashi: November
Getting Around: You can fly into many regions of Nepal, but due to extreme weather conditions, there are many canceled flights. Buses and walking are your next best option.
Good to know: Although no tourists have been hurt, Maoists insurgents are striking the capital and are demanding change. Keep your wits about you.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airport to fly into Nepal is the Tribhuvan International Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the Nepal travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
