US to Nepal Power Adapter: What Plug Do I Need? (2024)

Other FAQs about traveling in Nepal

• 1. When to Travel to Nepal?

  Nepal experiences four distinct seasons:
  Summer (June to August) is the monsoon season, which means higher temperatures and a relentless amount of rain. Although hiking is still possible, muddy trails and daily rainfall make it an unpleasant experience that most trekkers prefer to avoid. The showers only tend to last an hour or two, however, meaning the country is still open for business for those who don’t intend to hike.

  Fall (September to November) is Nepal’s peak trekking season, which mostly entails clear blue skies and a distinct lack of rain. You’ll have to share the mountains with loads of other tourists, however, and airfares and hotel rates will increase.

  The winter (December to February) sees heavy snowfall close the high altitude trails, thus rendering the best trekking off-limits. Nevertheless, you can still enjoy a few low-altitude routes, and the rest of the country is fine to visit. Spring (March to April) is another excellent time to trek as the weather is balmy and the vegetation is in full bloom. Note that the climate does tend to be a little more unpredictable than in Fall. Be sure to check current Nepal travel advisories before you go.

• 2. What is the weather like in Nepal

  In addition to the seasons, the altitude also heavily influences the climate in Nepal. The mountains and the highlands are known for warm sunny days and frigid nights, especially in winter. The lower-lying regions, on the other hand, feature a warm tropical climate with high levels of humidity.

• 3. What is there to do in Kathmandu

  Frantic and chaotic yet utterly entrancing, the historic city of Kathmandu lays on the charm despite its third-world pitfalls. And even though a 2015 earthquake leveled large swathes of the city, the ancient wonders that remain make Kathmandu a must-visit for any history buff. Most make a beeline for Durban Square, Nepal’s religious and historic epicenter where sadhu holy men rub shoulders with foreigners amid exotic millennia-old sites.

  Beyond the square, a labyrinth of alleyways comprises the city’s enchanting old town. Wander around on foot to marvel at the ancient Hindu temples and Buddhist stupas that pop up at every turn, being sure not to miss the highlights such as the Seto Machhendranath Temple, the Thahiti Tole, and the Kathesimbhu Stupa. Be sure to spend a few minutes absorbing the action at Ason Tole, the city’s most bustling junction which is traversed by a dizzying display of people every day.

  To the west of the old town, Swayambhunath is Nepal’s most famous stupa – watch out for the marauding monkeys en route. And to the east, the Hindu Pashupatinath Temple provides a grizzly glimpse of human mortality as families cremate their deceased on the Bagmati River. Nearby, the Boudhanath Stupa is the country’s largest, which is particularly enchanting during prayer times at sunrise or sunset.

• 4. Where should you go in Nepal?

  To marvel at awe-inspiring ancient wonders without the congestion of Kathmandu, make your way to the nearby villages of Patan and Bhaktapur. Each has its own temple-strewn Durbar Square that rivals the magic of the capital. Wildlife lovers should make their way downhill to the steamy lowlands of the Chitwan National Park. Throughout these lush grasslands live exotic fauna such as leopards, rhinos, sloths, and the elusive Bengal tiger, not to mention an array of colorful birdlife.

  Budding Buddhists would be mad to miss Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha and the site of several ornate temples funded by devout donors from around the world. Knock the adrenaline levels up a notch with a visit to the adventure sports capital of Pokhara. Despite being endearingly chill, this picturesque lakeside resort boasts ample opportunity to indulge in death-defying pursuits such as parasailing or white-water rafting. Of course, you could kick back and relax with the hippy community instead.

  Last but certainly not least, Nepal is a trekking mecca that’s famed for boasting the best mountain trails in the world. High altitude trekking opportunities abound, with some of the most famous multi-day treks including the Annapurna Circuit, the Everest Base Camp, and the Manaslu Circuit, to name a few.

• 5. How’s the best way to get around in Nepal

  Nepal’s underdeveloped infrastructure makes overland transport a chore, which is why many travelers prefer to take to the skies instead. National carrier Nepal Airlines has the most services, although competitors such as Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, and Simrik Airlines sometimes offer cheaper rates. Regardless of who you choose, cancellations and delays are common due to the unpredictable high-altitude climate.

  The bus is the other major means of transport, though be aware that vehicles are often run down and journey times can be excruciatingly long. Opt for a modern tourist bus on an express service to minimize discomfort.

  Private minivans or jeeps save a significant amount of time and are particularly cost-effective for those traveling in a group. Within the towns and cities, taxis and rickshaws are the best way of getting from A to B. Always haggle for a fair price before jumping in.