Kathmandu, Nepal Travel Tips

Travel Tips for Tourists in Kathmandu, Nepal

Before You Go

  • Visa: Check if you need a visa to enter Nepal and apply in advance.
  • Vaccinations: Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations, such as Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Rabies.
  • Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.

Getting Around

  • Airport Transfer: Book a reputable taxi or shuttle service from Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) to your hotel.
  • Walking: Kathmandu is walkable, but be mindful of uneven sidewalks, traffic, and pedestrian congestion.
  • Taxis: Use licensed taxis with meters or negotiate fares in advance. Avoid using unlicensed taxis.
  • Rickshaws: A fun way to explore the city, but agree on the fare beforehand.

Staying Safe

  • Pickpocketing: Be cautious of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like Thamel and Durbar Square.
  • Traffic: Always look both ways before crossing roads, as traffic rules are not always followed.
  • Altitude Sickness: Acclimatize to Kathmandu’s high altitude (1,400m) by taking it easy on the first day and staying hydrated.

Cultural Etiquette

  • Dress Modestly: Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples and monasteries.
  • Remove Your Shoes: Before entering temples or homes, remove your shoes as a sign of respect.
  • Use Your Right Hand: When eating or giving/receiving items, use your right hand as the left is considered unclean.

Health and Hygiene

  • Water: Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
  • Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid undercooked meat, raw vegetables, and untreated dairy products.
  • Toilets: Be prepared for squat toilets and limited toilet paper availability. Carry hand sanitizer and toilet paper with you.

Money Matters

  • Currency: The Nepalese Rupee (NPR) is the local currency. You can exchange currency at banks or money changers.
  • ATMs: Available in tourist areas, but be aware of your bank’s international withdrawal fees.
  • Credit Cards: Accepted at larger hotels and restaurants, but cash is preferred.

Respect Local Environment

  • Littering: Keep Kathmandu clean by disposing of trash properly and recycling when possible.
  • Energy Conservation: Be mindful of energy consumption, as power outages are common.
  • Respect Wildlife: Do not touch or feed stray animals, including monkeys and dogs.

Additional Tips

  • Learn Some Nepali: Greet locals with “Namaste” (hello) and “Dhanyabaad” (thank you).
  • Haggle: Expect to haggle when shopping at markets.
  • Power Adapters: Bring a universal power adapter for charging your devices.

Enjoy Your Time in Kathmandu!