Nepal Travel Tips
Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
From visa applications to altitude sickness prevention — your comprehensive guide to trekking in Nepal.
Nepal Visa Requirements
Visa on Arrival
Most nationalities can get a Nepal visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu). The process takes 15–30 minutes.
Visa Fees
15 days: USD $30 | 30 days: USD $50 | 90 days: USD $125. Bring exact USD cash or pay by card.
Required Documents
Valid passport (6+ months validity), 2 passport photos, completed arrival form, payment. Some nationalities require a prior visa — check with your nearest Nepal embassy.
TIMS Card
Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS) card is required for all treks. Cost: USD $10–20. We arrange this for you as part of your package.
Travel & Trekking Insurance
Why You Need It
Altitude rescue by helicopter can cost USD $5,000–10,000. Without insurance, this is your personal cost. Never trek in the Himalayas without comprehensive coverage.
What to Look For
Emergency evacuation (helicopter rescue), altitude up to 6,000m, medical treatment abroad, trip cancellation, gear loss. World Nomads and True Traveller are popular choices.
Our Inclusion
All Poonhill Treks packages include emergency evacuation insurance for your guide and porter. However, you must have your own personal travel insurance.
Gear & Packing List
Essential Clothing
Moisture-wicking base layers, fleece mid-layer, waterproof jacket, trekking trousers, warm hat, gloves, buff/neck gaiter. Layer system is key.
Footwear
Broken-in waterproof trekking boots (most important!), lightweight camp shoes/sandals, merino wool trekking socks (3+ pairs).
Equipment
Trekking poles (highly recommended), 30–40L daypack, 4–5 season sleeping bag (we provide for camping treks), headlamp with extra batteries, sun protection.
What to Leave Behind
Expensive jewelry, excessive cash, heavy items. You can rent/buy gear in Kathmandu and Pokhara at very reasonable prices.
Best Time to Trek
Spring (March–May) ⭐ Best
Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, comfortable temperatures (5–20°C at altitude). The most popular season for Poon Hill and Annapurna treks.
Autumn (Sep–Nov) ⭐ Best
Crystal clear mountain views after monsoon, stable weather, ideal temperatures. Slightly busier on popular trails but for good reason.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Cold but stunning — snow-capped peaks, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Poon Hill is accessible but higher routes may be closed. Best for lower altitude treks.
Monsoon (Jun–Aug)
Heavy rain and leeches on lower trails. Not recommended for most treks, but the Mustang and Dolpo regions (rain shadow) are excellent during monsoon.
Altitude Sickness Prevention
Acclimatization
"Trek high, sleep low" is the golden rule. Never ascend more than 500m per day above 3,000m. Always include rest days in your itinerary.
Symptoms to Know
Headache, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath are early symptoms of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Tell your guide immediately — never tough it out.
Medications
Diamox (Acetazolamide) is effective for prevention. Consult your doctor before travel. Ibuprofen for headaches. Avoid alcohol and sleeping pills at altitude.
Emergency Protocol
If severe symptoms (confusion, chest tightness, inability to walk straight), immediate descent is mandatory. Our guides are trained in altitude first aid and will arrange evacuation.
Getting to Nepal
Main Airport
Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu is the main entry point. Airlines include Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad, Turkish Airlines, and Air India.
Domestic Flights
Pokhara (for Annapurna treks) is 25 min by domestic flight from Kathmandu or 7 hrs by bus. We arrange airport transfers and domestic flights.
Arrive Early
Plan at least 1–2 days in Kathmandu before your trek for gear checks, acclimatization, permits, and exploring this incredible city.
Still Have Questions?
Our trek experts are available 7 days a week to help you plan the perfect Nepal adventure.