Will someone meet me at the airport?
Reputable operators send a representative with a signboard. Send your flight details in advance.
Can I get a visa on arrival?
Most visitors can, and it usually takes between twenty minutes and an hour. Check the rules and the fee for your nationality before you travel.
How long must my passport be valid?
Plan for at least six months on the date you enter Nepal.
What do I send after paying a deposit?
A scan or photo of your passport and your arrival flight details. Without them, the Lukla flight and permits cannot be booked.
Is travel insurance required?
It should be. Send your operator proof of cover before you arrive.
What kind of hotel will I stay in?
Centrally located tourist hotels in the Thamel area are typical. Ask which hotel your package includes.
Can I add extra nights in Kathmandu?
Yes. Ask in advance so the rooms are reserved. Arranging it through the operator can help if flights are delayed, because the booking can be moved.
What happens if the flight is cancelled?
Flights are usually rebooked for the next day. A helicopter may be possible at extra cost if the weather allows.
Where do I leave extra luggage?
At your hotel in Kathmandu, normally at no charge or a small fee.
Can I extend my holiday after the trek?
Yes. Day tours in Kathmandu and short trips to Chitwan are easy to add.
What clothes should I wear in Kathmandu?
Kathmandu is usually mild and can be warm and dusty in spring and cool in winter evenings. Light layers, comfortable walking shoes and a hat for the sun are suitable. Dress modestly when visiting temples and monasteries, covering shoulders and knees, and be ready to remove shoes. Keep your trek clothes in the duffel and wear something clean and comfortable for the city.
Is Kathmandu safe for tourists?
Most visitors have trouble-free stays. As in any large city, be careful with your belongings in crowded areas, use registered taxis or arranged transfers, and avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas. Traffic and air pollution can be challenging, so a mask may be useful. Ask your hotel or operator for advice on local conditions.
How do I get a local SIM card?
Shops and airport counters sell SIM cards for visitors, and you will normally need your passport, a photograph and a form. Ask your operator or hotel which provider has the best coverage for your route. Data packs are inexpensive, but coverage along the trail varies. Make sure the SIM is activated before you leave the city.
What is the best way to change money?
Authorised exchange counters in Thamel and at the airport offer reasonable rates, and banks are another option. Compare rates, keep receipts and count your money before you leave. Avoid exchanging on the street. Carry enough rupees for the trek, and keep some small notes for tips and snacks.
Can I leave valuables at the hotel?
Many hotels have a safe or a locked room for stored items. Ask about security, and keep a list of what you leave. Take your passport and enough money with you on the trek. Avoid leaving anything of great value, and consider using a small padlock on your stored bag.
What our guests say
Excerpts from guest reviews of Himalayan Wonders, our parent company, on Tripadvisor.
“Garba Rai was the best I could have hoped for.”
