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ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
South African passport holders require a visa to enter Nepal. Visas can be obtained, on Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu) or other official entry points. Or in Advance via online application through the Nepal Department of Immigration.
VISA INFORMATION
WEATHER
Nepal’s climate varies with altitude, from subtropical lowlands to alpine conditions in the Himalayas. The country has three main seasons: winter, summer monsoon, and post-monsoon. Weather can be unpredictable but offers clear skies for trekking in autumn and spring.
- Spring (March to May): One of the best times to visit, with warm daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The skies are clear, and rhododendrons bloom in the hills, making trekking routes especially scenic.
- Summer (June to September): This is the monsoon season, bringing heavy rainfall, especially in the Terai and hill regions. Trails can be muddy, and landslides are possible, though the mountains look lush and green.
- Autumn (October to November): Nepal’s post-monsoon season is ideal for trekking, with crisp, clear skies, and pleasant daytime temperatures between 21°C and 25°C. Nights and early mornings can be chilly, especially in higher altitudes.
- Winter (December to February): Winters are dry and cool. Kathmandu and the lower hills are comfortable during the day (around 20°C), but mornings and evenings can be cold. High-altitude regions experience freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall.
- Best Time to Travel: Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) are perfect for trekking and sightseeing. Winter is good for cultural tours in lower altitudes, while summer is less popular due to heavy rains.
GENERAL INFORMATION
| Country: | Nepal |
| Capital City: | Kathmandu |
| International Airports: | Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA) Pokhara Airport (Domestic and limited international flights) |
| Area: | 147,516 sq km (56,956 sq miles) |
| Population: | 30 million (2024 est.) |
| Time Zone: | UTC + 5 hours, 45 minutes |
| Religion: | Predominantly Hinduism Buddhist Muslim Other minority communities |
| Language: | Nepali (official), Various regional languages spoken |
| Currency: | Nepalese Rupee (NPR) – Units: 1 rupee = 100 paisa – Coins: 1 & 2 rupees – Notes: 5, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 rupees |
| Exchange Rate: | Please consult your local bank as exchange rates fluctuate. |
| Credit Card Payment Availability: | Availability: Major credit cards (MasterCard and Visa) are accepted by most local hotels, restaurants, and shops. |
| ATM Accessibility: | Available in major cities and tourist destinations; accepts all major cards. |
| Dialing Code: | +977 |
TRAVEL TIPS
| Electricity: | 220 V/50 Hz. Sockets may have either three round pins or two thick round pins. |
| Water: | Drink only bottled or treated water to avoid gastrointestinal issues. |
| Business Hours: | Government Offices:
– Monday – Thursday: 10:00 – 17:00 hrs (Summer) / 10:00 – 16:00 hrs (Winter) Shops: Typically close after office hours; tourist areas often have stores open late. Small towns may close around 20:00 hrs. Restaurants and bars have varied closing hours, usually around midnight. Coffee shops in five-star hotels are open 24 hours. |
| Banking Hours: | Sunday – Thursday: 10:00 – 15:00 hrs. Friday: 10:00 – 12:00 hrs. |
| Photography Restrictions: | Always ask for permission before taking photos inside temples or of local people. Many villagers may be uncomfortable with cameras due to religious or personal reasons. |
| Tipping: | General Tips: Around 10% of the bill total is usual. For establishments with a service charge, a separate tip may not be required.
Specific Amounts: – Porters: NPR 100 per piece of luggage |
| Vaccination Requirements: | Consult a vaccination centre before traveling. Check recommended inoculations at least a month prior. |
| Dress Code Restrictions: | – General: Wear adaptable, layered clothing. Cotton or cotton-blend fabrics are ideal. In cities, avoid shorts, miniskirts, and tank tops. Women should wear skirts below the knee or loose slacks; men should avoid going shirtless. – In Fall/Winter: Bring thick sweaters, fleece sweatshirts, and light jackets. A hat and collapsible umbrella are useful. |
| Peculiar Customs to Observe: | – Eating: Use the right hand for eating; the left hand is considered unclean. – Feet: Avoid pointing the soles of your feet towards someone or placing them on furniture. Apologize if you accidentally touch someone with your foot. Remove shoes when entering homes, places of worship, and burial sites. – Garlands: Remove flower garlands after a few minutes as a sign of humility. – Greetings: The traditional greeting is “Namaste” or “Namaskar,” with hands together in front of the chin and a slight head bow. |
FESTIVALS
- Dashain (October): A major Hindu festival celebrating the victory of good over evil.
- Tihar (October/November): Known as Deepawali, it is a five-day festival of lights and honours various animals.
- Holi (March): The festival of colours, celebrating the arrival of spring.
- Teej (August/September): A festival dedicated to women, celebrating marriage and fasting.
MAP
“Heaven is a myth, Nepal is real.”
– Unknown