Nepal Travel FAQ for First-Time Visitors

Planning your first trip to Nepal? It is one of the most rewarding destinations on earth, but a few practical questions come up again and again. Here are clear, honest answers to the things first-time visitors most often ask, drawn from years of looking after travellers around Pokhara and the wider country.

Nepal travel quick facts

• Visa: most nationalities get a visa on arrival at Kathmandu and Pokhara airports
• Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR); carry cash outside the main towns
• Best seasons: autumn (Oct–Nov) and spring (Mar–May)
• Language: Nepali; English is widely understood in tourist areas
• Getting around: private car with driver is the most comfortable option
• Time zone: Nepal is UTC+5:45

Do I need a visa for Nepal?

Most visitors can get a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, at Pokhara International Airport and at land borders. Bring a passport valid for at least six months, a passport photo and the fee in cash (US dollars are widely accepted for the visa fee). Check your own country’s current requirements before you fly, as rules can change.

When is the best time to visit?

Autumn (October–November) and spring (March–May) are the classic seasons — clear skies, comfortable temperatures and the best mountain views. Winter is cooler but still pleasant in the lowlands and Pokhara, while the monsoon (June–September) is green and quiet but wet and often cloudy over the peaks.

How do I get around Nepal?

Domestic flights link the main cities quickly but depend on the weather. Tourist buses are cheap but slow and fixed. For comfort and flexibility, most visitors hire a private car with a driver — you set the pace, keep your luggage with you, and leave the winding roads to a local expert. We arrange exactly this from Pokhara for airport transfers, sightseeing, treks transfers and long-distance trips.

Is the money easy to manage?

The currency is the Nepalese Rupee. ATMs are common in Kathmandu and Pokhara, and cards work in larger hotels and restaurants, but once you head into the mountains — Mustang, Manang or remote trailheads — carry enough cash, as ATMs and card facilities become scarce or unreliable.

Do I need to worry about altitude?

In Pokhara (about 820 m) and the cities, no. But trips to Muktinath (3,710 m), Manang (3,519 m) or Annapurna Base Camp (4,130 m) reach real altitude, so ascend gradually and mention any health concerns when booking so we can pace the route sensibly. On jeep trips we build in acclimatisation time rather than rushing to the top.

Is Nepal safe for travellers?

Nepal is generally very welcoming and safe for visitors, with famously friendly people. The main practical risks are road conditions in the mountains and altitude — both managed by travelling with an experienced local driver and a sensible itinerary. Use normal precautions with valuables, and drink bottled or filtered water.

What should I pack?

Layers are key, as temperatures swing between warm days and cool mountain nights. Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a light windproof jacket, any personal medication, and a power adapter. For treks and high jeep routes, add warm layers even in the warmer months. Pack light — you can buy or rent trekking gear in Pokhara and Kathmandu if needed.

Still have questions about planning your first Nepal trip? We are always happy to share honest local advice, whether or not you have booked yet.

Book This Trip with Pokhara Vehicles

We are a family-run car, jeep and taxi service based in Lakeside, Pokhara, driving guests safely around Nepal since 2008. Tell us your dates and group size and we will recommend the right vehicle and give you an honest, all-in quote — no surprises at the end of the day. Book your Nepal trip online, or message us any time on WhatsApp (or call +977 984-6737781) for a quick, no-obligation quote.