--- title: "Travel-Guide-for-Nepal" url: https://stacklist.com/card/01b8fc62-2ba7-47aa-8da5-6b0480c8829d stack: https://stacklist.com/stack/3a32aa1a-970a-45cd-9abe-b9f27ca43d3f summary: "Travel Guide for Nepal is a comprehensive resource covering Nepali culture, greetings, religions, festivals, cuisine, and travel logistics for visitors. The guide highlights Nepal's diverse ethnic groups, major festivals like Dashain and Tihar, traditional dishes, and practical travel information for trekkers exploring this Himalayan destination." tags: "nepal, travel-guide, culture, trekking, festivals, cuisine, tourism" key_entities: "Nepal (location), Himalayan Mountains (location), Namaste (concept), Dashain (concept), Tihar (concept), Buddhism (concept), Hinduism (concept), Buddha (person), Dal-Bhat-Tarkari (concept), Momo (concept), Sel Roti (concept), Yomari (concept), Asia (location), Tika (concept)" classification: "reference" content_hash: "sha256:8ac42f25eac314152b43ffe312789985059d2fca0d489be0b03ac67efaa1449e" acp_version: "0.2" token_counts_approximate: 3689 visibility: public agent_accessible: true status: "final" --- # Travel-Guide-for-Nepal A TREKKERS' PARADISE Travel Guide for Nepal KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Greeting & Culture Religion & language Festivals Cuisine Best time Experience Souvenirs Itinerary visa Flight Travel Tips GREETING & CULTURE GREETING The Nepali greeting, Namaste (“I salute the god within you”), where your palms are held together as if you are praying, is one of the best of Nepalese customs. Along with the Namaste comes a warm greeting to guests who are regarded as gods and are treated with great respect. If you want to show great respect, namaskar is a more formal or subservient variant. CULTURE Many different ethnic groups coexist in Nepal, each with their own complex customs. Nepal's rich and diverse culture is reflected in the proud showcase of its music, dance and language. The three ethnic groups Indigenous Nepalese, Indo-Nepalese and Tibeto-Nepalese are based on the diverse geography of the country. Culture in Nepal is a symbol of the nation's wealthy, harmonized and diversified society RELIGION & LANGUAGE Nepal, often described as the Switzerland of Asia, is a small but diverse nation. The Himalayan Mountains are the highlight and full of awe- inspiring scenery. Besides the Himalayan mountains the so called “Heaven on Earth” offers other fascinating landscapes like the birthplace of Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. RELIGION As a secular country, Nepal welcomes new religions as it enhances the diversity of culture. Hinduism and Buddhism are the main religions in Nepal and they have co-existed in harmony through centuries. They both worship the Buddha and many of their religious sites are interconnected or combined. Nepal’s harmony of diverse religions is inspiring. LANGUAGE The national language of Nepal is Nepalese or as the locals say Nepali. Nepali is spoken throughout Nepal with only a few parts of Nepal left, where it is not spoken. Because of the multi-ethnic background of Nepal, there are about 123 languages and many of them remained unexplored. FESTIVALS Adding color to the lives of Nepalis are festivals the year round which they celebrate with much pomp and ceremony. Most of the festivals in Nepal are tied to cultural and traditional values. The Nepalese culture of putting Tika (a mixture of red colour and rice grains) is a compulsion in most of the festivals. DASHIAN The most auspicious festival of Nepal is considered to be Dashain, which is celebrated for ten days. People return home to their families, and it is also known as the festival of reunions. This festival marks the victory of good over evil, and it is celebrated grandly. TIHAR The festival of light is celebrated for five days in which every day has its particular significance. This festival thanks animals for their services and on the last day sisters worship their brothers, who in return receive gifts. This strengthens the bond between them. On the fourth day, Newari people also worship themselves calling it 'Mha puja'. Buddha Jayanti is also observed in the Nation to mark Buddha's birthday. CUISINE The Nepalese cuisine is a culmination of Indian and Tibetan culinary and differs from region to region. The Newar people have their unique cuisine which is vast and nutritious. The Thakalis also have a distinct cuisine although the staples are the same daal and bhat which most Nepali people eat. Dal is a soup made of lentils and spices, served over boiled grain, bhat— usually rice but sometimes another grain - and a vegetable curry, tarkari. DAL-BHAT-TARKARI Nepalese dumplings are usually filled with steamed vegetables or meat and encased in flour-based dough that is then steamed or fried. Commonly eaten as snacks, momo are served with a delicious dip that can be strong and spicy. MOMO The traditional homemade, sweet, ring-shaped rice bread is quite famous in the festivities. SEL ROTI A Yomari is a flavorful Nepalese rice flour dumpling stuffed with molasses. It is prepared in a triangular (or teardrop) shape which is then steamed and served hot. YOMARI BEST TIME EXPERIENCE Nepal is blessed with immense natural wonders even though it only covers 0.1% of the world. it certainly is any nature lover’s dream destination. Culture Religion Nature History Hiking BHAKTAPUR Adjoining Kathmandu are other two ancient cities of Patan and Bhaktapur which are full of temples and rich architecture which are just amazing and seriously breathe taking. These three historic cities make the Kathmandu valley, home to ethnic Newars community of businessmen, farmers and artists. The UNESCO has enlisted the Kathmandu valley it in its world cultural heritage site. NAGARKOT Nagarkot is known as the top spot for enjoying the Himalayan panorama from the comfort of your hotel room. On some days all eight ranges are visible (Annapurna, Manaslu, Ganesh Himal, Langtang, Jugal, Rolwaling, Everest and Numbur). There is no guarantee that they are not disappearing behind clouds but the best time for clear skies is October to December and March to April. Culture KATHMANDU RThe capital city Kathmandu is an ancient cultural city full of time-worn temples and the center for Tibetan Buddhism, offering all kinds of tours and trekking to temple areas and to the Himalayas. Wildlife CHITWAN NATIONAL PARK Being the first protected area of Nepal, it has a long history of over three decades in park management and rich experiences in nature conservation. Chitwan was a big game area for the royal families, Rana rulers and their guests. The UNESCO World Heritage Site (1984) is especially renowned for its protection of One Horned Rhinoceros, Royal Bengal Tiger and Gharial Crocodile. BARDIYA NATIONAL PARK The largest national park in the Tarai, is a beautiful, unspoiled place for wildlife. The area around the Karnali River is largely unpopulated and has almost no commercial development. The national park is home to the endangered Royal Bengal tiger and Nepal's famous One-horned rhinoceros, but also to rare animals like the Bluebull. Ride through the silent jungle and catch wildlife by surprise. EVEREST BASE CAMP THE HELICOPTER CHANCE A grandiose high mountain panorama, crowned by the ice cones of the eight- thousanders, makes the way to the goal here. We hike past monasteries and Sherpa villages to the foot of the highest mountain on earth. Ama Dablam, Lhotse, Nuptse and Everest are our constant companions. From the summit of the Kala Patthar (5,620 m), we probably enjoy the most spectacular mountain panorama in the world: Mount Everest is within reach! ANNAPURNA A SUNRISE OUTDOOR BREAKFAST The Annapurna Massif is located in the center of the Nepalese Himalayas between the Marasyangdi River in the east and the Kali Gandaki River in the west. Surrounded by a hint of mysticism with its hundreds of mediation caves and numerous monasteries it is often called the Shangri-La. This wonderful trek in the Annapurna area leads through dense jungle and over mountain ridges with a wonderful view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Adventure LANGTANG AN ACCESSIBLE HIKE Langtang is perfect for a short trekking itinerary that offers the same excitement of the Himalayas. Here, the trail is less crowded and therefore more rewarding. This is one of the most accessible trekking regions near the Kathmandu Valley with short day hikes or week-long ventures into the lake district. An ideal region if you are short on time but still want to trek the Himalayas and experience the wonderful cultures of the native Tamangs. Adventure POKHARA Pokhara offers spectacular scenery, wonderful activities and great food options. The Lakeside of Pokhara is the perfect place to get ready for the coming adventures. JOMSON Jomsom is a great place to start trekking. The diverse landscape and culture found along this trekking route give marvelous insight into the way of life of Nepali people of various ethnic groups. The highlight is a trek through the deepest gorge in the world carved by the Kali Gandaki River, which originates in the Tibetan plateau to eventually flow into the Ganges in India Action KARNALI RIVER Go white-water rafting on the Karnali, the longest river in Nepal, where you can watch the Gangetic dolphin's surface or gharials lazing in the sun. Meet the charming Rana Tharu and Dangora people of southern Nepal and learn about their colorful culture. SUNKOSHI Sun Koshi in Nepali means “River of gold”. This name might have stuck with this river because small quantities of gold is panned from its sand. The rapids in this river, except for few cases, gradually become more complex. Hence, it is suitable for the first-time rafters and for those who want to brush up their rafting/kayaking skills. SOUVENIRS We all want our travel memories to remain fresh forever. But if only memories were left alone. It is human nature to possess material belonging as a reminder of their cherished memories. Whether you splurge on your travels, buy a cheap souvenir, pick a free memento or just take lots of photos, there is always something to look back to after your return. Singing Bowls Khukuri Satues and Masks ITINERARY Frankly speaking, Nepal’s culture is rich in harmony and diversity and the scenery is uncomparable. Nepal is a country one must visit in their life time, because exploring Nepal is to explore oneself. 11-Day Mountain, River, and Jungle Nepal Adventure Tour Am: After breakfast, proceed for a sightseeing tour of Kathmandu City. After lunch (not included) drive up to Swayambhunath Stupa situated atop a hill from where you could get a bird’s eye view of Kathmandu valley. The Swayambhunath Stupa is also known as the “Monkey Temple”. Day 2: Full day sightseeing in Kathmandu Upon arrival in Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, meet with your tour guide/driver, assist and transfer to the hotel. Day 1: Kathmandu Arrival Day 3: Drive to Kurinta After breakfast, start a 3-hours scenic drive to Kurintar, situated in the bank of Trishuli River. Short walk to River Side Resort for changing and Refreshment. Rest of the day is free to enjoy the surrounding beauty. After breakfast, get into the waiting vehicle and proceed to Cable Car station to board the Cable Car ride to famed Manakamana Temple “Goddess of wish-fulfilling”. After the excursion return back to the Cable car station and head to Chitwan National Park. After lunch, your naturalist will brief you about the wildlife activities that you will be participating. In the evening, the well-stocked bar caters to the needs of the thirsty and a hearty meal of continental or Nepalese cuisine will be served around the campfire. Day 4: Driver to Chitwan Day 5: Full Day Jungle Activities in Chitwan Jeep Safari or a jungle walk, to view the wildlife in their early repose. This is the best time of the day. At noon visit the elephant stables to get firsthand knowledge on elephants from senior naturalists. In the late afternoon, there is a choice to participate in the programs offered at the camp, which includes jungle drives, Canoe rides/ floats or an escorted nature walk and bird watching excursion. Upon arrival get into a waiting vehicle and drive to Suikhet Phedi (Trekking starting point), after a short preparation start trekking to Dhampus. There are magnificent views of the mountains from west to east of the Annapurna South (7,219m), Hiunchuli (6,441m), Mardi Himal (5,587 m) and Macchapucchare (6,993m) to the north. Day 6: Fly to Pokhara Wake up for a breathtaking sunrise view over the Annapurna Himalayas & enjoy an outdoor breakfast. Shortly afterward start trekking Maajgaun. After leaving the village, we continue on the trail going down a fairly gentle slope cutting into steps in the middle of the forest and then a short climb will bring us to the settlement of Pothana (2,000m) after an hour with magnificent views of the western Himalayas. Upon arrival check-in at a Mountain Lodge for lunch. Day 7: Trek to Maajgaun After breakfast, start trek down Birethanti. After short breaks continue to descend down to Modi Khola. After lunch get into the waiting vehicle and drive back to Pokhara. Upon arrival check-in at the lakeside Hotel. The rest of the day is free to stroll around the colorful Lakeside Bazaar. Day 8: Trek down to Birethanti and drive to Pokhara Spend a free day in Pokhara. You have options to go for some additional Adventure activities because Pokhara City is the Adventure Tourism Hub of Nepal. Some of the interesting activities are as follows. 1. Charter Helicopter flight to Mt. Annapurna Base Camp or Mardi Himal Base Camp. 2. Ultra-light flight. 3. Paragliding. 4.Zip Line. 5.Bungee Jump Day 9: In Pokhara Day 10: Fly to Kathmandu After breakfast, transfers to Pokhara Domestic Airport and take a scenic 25 minutes flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu transfer to hotel for Check-In. Walk around beautiful Thamel Bazaar. Free until final departure transfer to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport. Day 11: Kathmandu Departure From 1,990 USD / per person Note: Expats Holidays can arrange the tour according to your needs. The tailor-made tour price will change depending on your needs. VISA Visas are available on arrival at the international airport in Kathmandu and at all land border crossings that are open to foreigners, as long as you have passport photos on hand and are able to pay the visa fee. Your passport must be valid for at least six months and you will need a free page for your visa. FLIGHT TRAVEL TIPS In Nepal, the forehead is regarded as the most sacred part of the body and it’s impolite to touch an adult Nepali’s head. The cow is considered a Universal Mother, symbolizing motherhood, charity, and pity. The slaughter of cows is illegal in Nepal. Be aware that some temples are forbidden to non-Hindus. Be ready to take off your shoes before entering a temple or a house. The right hand is considered pure and should be used to eat, pay, give and receive. Do not go trekking alone. Be sure to exchange back all the Nepalese currencies before you leave.They are not accepted outside of Nepal. Besides, taking currency out of the country is against the law. Always have some tissue paper and hand sanitizer with you. Avoid displaying food around monkeys around temples, as they are used to snatching it. Support the NON-Plastic Initiative and limit your use of plastic items. Explore the colours of life! 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