General FAQs

Most people travel to Nepal by aeroplane. International flights arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, which is located in Kathmandu. You can take direct flights from Asia, the Middle East, and some European cities. Also, overland entry is possible from India.

Yes, most nationalities need a visa except for Indian citizens. Visa on arrival is available for most nationalities at Tribhuvan International Airport itself or at the land borders of India and China (for Chinese citizens). You can apply for an online visa before arrival, and these tourist visas can be issued for 15, 30, or 90 days.

Nepal follows Nepal Standard Time (NST). The time zone of Nepal is UTC +5:45,just 15 minutes ahead of India (+05:30). Our country does not observe daylight saving time, meaning no seasonal clock changes. So, even if you visit Nepal today, it will remain the same after six months!

Some cultural customs and etiquette that you should know as a traveller include:

• Greeting people with Namaste.
• Using your right hand for giving and receiving items, as well as when eating food.
• Dressing modestly, especially when visiting temples.
• Removing shoes before entering homes or temples.
• Walking in a clockwise direction around stupas.
• Avoiding affection in public, such as kissing and hugging.
• Asking for permission before clicking pictures of people and religious sites.
• Being respectful towards elderly people.

According to the Global Organized Crime Index, Nepal’s resilience score is 3.88. That’s considered a low crime rate, and hence ranks 137th out of 193 countries in the world. Still, theft can occur in crowded areas, and pickpocketing is possible in tourist zones. So, for tourists, basic awareness is needed!

Nepal lies in an earthquake-prone zone, so small tremors occur occasionally. But major earthquakes are rare, and there hasn’t been one recorded since the infamous Nepal Earthquake 2015. While you may still notice destroyed houses when travelling through the countryside, buildings in the cities have improved safety standards.

Yes, Nepal is generally safe for women travellers considering its respectful culture. However, travellers have to be wary about clothing when visiting rural areas and temple regions.
While not a major concern, we still recommend you be extra cautious at night in cities (which is the case in almost every country). Rest assured, most female travellers have expressed positive and comfortable experiences in Nepal.

Nepal is definitely a safe country to visit, not just now but throughout the year. Considering the fact that tourism is a major industry here, we make sure not even a single political conflict affects your travel. Local people are friendly and helpful, so you won’t have any issues roaming around this beautiful country of the Himalayas.

Nepal is generally politically stable, but strikes or protests can happen. Political events rarely affect tourists, which can be related to the recent 2025 Gen-Z Protest. The local people ensure that you’re treated friendly and respectfully. In fact, even during demonstrations, travel services continue as normal, and tourist vehicles are given way, ensuring your experiences aren’t ruined

Our work reflects positively on society. Many local people have received jobs through our company, and some fresh workers have grown into independent entrepreneurs. We help with rescue support during difficult situations too. Over the years, we have also grown and become well established through honest and responsible work.

We support local communities through volunteering programs (especially in schools). During critical situations, we have donated clothing and food too. Relying solely on our company funds, we have helped build six to seven schools in different areas, too.

First and foremost, Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal is a family-run business, so we can make decisions quickly without waiting for approval from any third-party personnel. And our family is our strongest asset that makes us better than other travel companies in Nepal.

Moreover, we also provide basic climbing training (targeted for beginners), which allows them to know how to use the equipment correctly. Not just the ones who are travelling or climbing with us, even clients from other agencies can clearly see the difference once they are in the field. And if you’re reading this after someone recommended you this company, we’re sure even you know about our positive feedbacks.

The #1 reason clients keep recommending our company is thanks to our honest work. We do not do unethical practices or fake rescues that you might be heating in news these days. Instead, we are more transparent with clients, especially when it comes to budgeting and services. 

Honestly, many clients find us on their own instead of us having to market our products. So, ask yourself: why would someone contact us directly? Certainlty, because of our reputation, right?

In fact, the very popular Lonely Planet have also recommended our company in their book, which has helped build strong trust over time.

We want travellers to remember that Nepal is a beautiful destination, mixed with adventure and culture. We want to ensure that we represent our country by offering trips that are genuine, trustworthy, flexible, and well managed.

We are most proud of the relationship that we have managed to maintain with our clients. There are countless guests who remain connected with us even after their trips, and that’s something we are really very proud of. So, when you’re travelling with Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal, it won’t just be a vacation; we will remain connected for life.

We make proper preparation for the trip as soon as you book our package. Whether you’re a professional mountaineer or simply a beginner coming for the first-ever trek, we ensure that you are given training before.

Only after you have proper knowledge and are mentally ready do we move towards the climbing or trekking trip. With us, you will learn how to use your gear and how to stay safe in difficult situations. This approach has made our trips safer and more successful every time!

Clients usually contact us through word of mouth, email, WhatsApp, and social media. So, if you’re willing to book any trip mentioned on the website (or wish customization), contact us wherever you like, and we shall be at your service.

The trekking/touring guide is the main point of contact during the trip as they are the ones representing Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal.

It’s our guides and assigned support staff who take care of you during any trip that you book with us. You can contact our office team 25/7, and they shall provide support based on your requirements.

Problems at Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal are handled quickly and directly by our operations team. Decisions are made based on client safety and comfort, so you don’t have to worry much after booking any trip with us.

Yes, we stay in touch with clients even after the trip is completed. You won’t believe us when we say this: our business runs mostly by word of mouth. Meaning, we’re getting requests every single day primarily thanks to our satisfied clients.

Yes, we arrange airport pickup and ground transportation. We ensure that you’re safely transported to your hotel with minimal hiccups.

Yes, vehicles are arranged based on group size. These can be either jeeps, vans, or even buses, depending on the location and group size.

Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal was first formed in 2004, but we made it actively operational from 2007. If you check our official registration documents, the company was actually established around 2011.

However, our services started way back in the 90s as our founders started from the bottom, and now in 2026, we are the leading trek operators.

This company, Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal was started to provide genuine, flexible, and cost-effective trekking services in the country, and even after more than two decades, we live by the same principles

Yes, Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal is officially registered with the Nepal Government and the Tourism Board.

We can work across every place in Nepal based on the client's interest. We plan your trip based on arrival time, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness.

The main office of Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal is located in Chaksibari Marg, Kathmandu District, Bagmati Province. Check our location here.

The company was founded by Anil Bhattarai and Sujan Bhattarai, brothers with a strong vision in the travel and tourism industry. To be precise,

• Anil Bhattarai is an experienced trekking guide and mountaineer himself who started his journey as a guide and porter, today a tour operation professional.
• Sujan Bhattarai, on the other hand, also a former trek guide, was encouraged by clients to start an independent trekking company.
• Credit even goes to Dave Bunting, who supported and inspired us in this journey.

Yes, we have private and customized trips. Trips are designed according to the client's skills, physical condition, and available time. Shorter or easier trips are highly recommended when suitable. All trips are guided, so you can be totally relaxed.

The name was suggested by one of our first clients and foreign friends, Dave Bunting.

According to Dave, an Everest expedition leader and ex-British Forces mountaineering specialist, ‘Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal’, represents joy, excitement, and deep feeling people experience while traveling in the Himalayan mountains. You see, our company is more client-focused than us-focused.

Our most popular trekking and tour packages at Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal include the Island Peak Climbing (18 days), Everest Base Camp Trek (16 days), Gokyo, Cho La Pass & EBC Trek (17 days), Everest Three Passes Trek (19 days), Annapurna Base Camp Trek (13 days), and Himlung Expedition (31 days) for 2026.

Yes, we also organize one day hikes, city sightseeing tours, wildlife safaris, and complete travel packages. We offer school volunteering programs, workshops, and backpacking courses for teenagers.

The cancellation and refund policies depend on the type of trip and the timing of the cancellation. Full details are explained clearly before booking.

For mountaineering trips, approximately 30% of the total amount is required as an advance payment. For trekking and tour trips, 20-25% advance payment is required.

We take as many trips as we get and do not say no, unless there is a natural disaster or a serious political situation.

A group of 8 to 12 people is ideal and easy to manage. Groups of 12 to 20 people are possible with extra guides and assistants. Larger groups can be managed with advance booking. Groups of up to 40 people are possible where teahouses allow, and our company has led groups of up to 57 people. 

The trip cost includes airport transfers, accommodationand meals as listed in the itinerary, and required domestic flights where needed. It also includes a licensed guide, support staff, porter service, staff insurance, trekking permits, and a basic first-aid kit. Other services are included only if clearly mentioned in the itinerary of the package.

Trip costs can vary based on the trek route and altitude. Lower-altitude treks and shorter routes have simpler arrangements, while higher-altitude treks require more equipment, food planning, and staff support. Trek difficulty (easy, medium, or extreme), number of days, required equipment, and available facilities along the route all affect the cost. Client comfort level, trek duration, and budget also make a difference.

International flights, Nepal visa fees, travel/medical insurance, and emergency evacuation costs are not included. Personal expenses, extra meals, drinks, hot showers, internet, laundry, and electricity charges are not included as well. Personal trekking gear, tips for staff, and any service not mentioned in the itinerary are also not included.

Travel insurance isn’t compulsory, but strongly recommended for visiting Nepal for all travellers. It should cover medical treatment, emergency evacuation through helicopter, and high-altitude (over a specific range), along with altitude sickness medications. Travel insurance is especially important for trekking and climbing activities.

Yes, we have handled many serious emergencies, with past cases including altitude sickness, frostbite, and injuries. Long-line helicopter rescues have also been done not once or twice, MULTIPLE TIMES!

Many trekkers and climbers have been safely evacuated, and we always receive a THANK YOU. This experience has helped us direct multiple other local trekking agencies across the country. Just one message for you: in serious situations, act calmly, and our responsible guides will take care of the rest!

No, travel insurance is not mandatory for trekking, but we highly recommend getting it done. Be sure that your insurance covers all medical treatments (even ones related to altitude sickness over the specific elevations) and most importantly, helicopter evacuation. This is totally for your own safety, so don’t look into the price when it comes to travel insurance.

No vaccinations are officially required to enter Nepal, but it’s still recommended to have been vaccinated for Tetanus, measles, Hepatitis A, and Typhoid. Regarding the certificate of full vaccination against COVID-19, you no longer need it as of 2026. No mandatory vaccinations are required.

Yes, we do provide helicopter evacuation services whenever they are needed. However, tourists should have valid insurance from their home country to cover the cost of being rescued by a helicopter in case of any emergency, because the cost of helicopter rescue is a little high.

There are multiple international travel insurance companies that provide reliable coverage for trekking, expeditions, and climbing. The most reliable ones are from your own home country because you can claim the insurance more easily. Kindly note that climbing and expeditions require separate special mountaineering insurance, which is very different from general treks. Always choose reliable insurance companies. Some reliable ones that we recommend are:

• Alpen Verein (Austria)
• BMC Insurance (UK)
• ASC360 (India)

Yes, the guides assigned to you (by Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal) carry a basic first-aid kit, which contains most-needed medicines like Diamox, Nifedipine, Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, pain relief spray, etc. But they won’t have every medicine, so it’s best that you carry your personal medications with you. Moreover, trek guides don’t usually carry portable oxygen, but during peak climbing and expeditions, oxygen is definitely carried.

If someone gets sick during a trek, first and foremost, you’re supposed to tell your assigned guide. He/she shall then monitor your symptoms and act immediately. If it’s just mild symptoms, you are treated with rest and hydration. But in case the symptoms worsen, the guide shall help you descend to a lower altitude. In serious cases, helicopter evacuation may be arranged, but the cost will be covered by the trekker’s insurance.

Guides carry basic first-aid kits on all treks. This includes medicine for altitude sickness and common injuries. Extra staff are available for emergencies. In some areas, two people or horses/mules/donkeys (pack animals) may be used to help carry an injured trekker.

Our guides are equipped with satellite phones and can communicate with us at places even when the network is unavailable. In these remote locations where even satellite phones do not work, they coordinate well with the locals. And when serious situations unfold, helicopter evacuation is arranged. Travellers must have insurance from their home country. Our team acts quickly to ensure emergency communication and keep clients safe.

Safety is our major priority on all our treks. Routes are planned and include rest and acclimatization days. Also, guides check weather and trail conditions on a daily basis. Unlike others, our Himalayan Ecstasy members examine every trekker’s health throughout the journey. This way, it becomes easy for us to keep you updated with safety measures and instructions.

The cost of hospitalization is low in Nepal compared to other countries. Even so, for the locals, it’s not considered affordable, but for travellers, it’s reasonable. In public hospitals, the hospital fees are nominal, and that’s why many locals prefer them. But for more advanced treatments, it’s best to choose a private hospital. When it comes to emergency treatments (like altitude sickness), it can still be very costly. So, it’s best that you opt for reliable travel insurance.

Altitude sickness remains one of the most prevalent risks in the high-altitude mountains. Usually, above 2,500 m, symptoms like headache, nausea, dizziness, and loss of appetite may occur to travellers who have not acclimatized well to the surroundings.
The best way to prevent altitude sickness is not through special medications like zolamide, but rather to take precautions beforehand and ascend as slowly as possible.
It’s always best to go with professional licensed guides who monitor your health and decide whether to continue or descend to a lower region once symptoms appear.

Yes, major cities have hospitals and medical clinics for emergency situations. But when it comes to remote trekking areas, there are fewer medical facilities. In case of a serious mountain emergency, helicopter rescue remains the only option. So, you should be very aware when travelling in high-altitude regions of Nepal.

Food and water sickness can happen if you’recareless when travelling, mostly in the rural areas. We strongly suggest you drink bottled or filtered water at all times. Be sure to carry water purification drops/tablets too! Avoid raw and unwashed foods as far as possible, and rely more on freshly cooked meals from clean restaurants to avoid food and water sickness.

The best things you can do when visiting Nepal include trekking, cultural tours, wildlife safaris, adventure sports, peak climbing, and expeditions.

Amongst all, treks are what steal the spotlight and are one of the must-do activities when visiting the land of the Himalayas. Popular trekking areas include Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, and other regions.

Cultural activities like temple visits, vibrant festivals, and exploring local markets are also what most prefer. And not to forget about wildlife safaris that are quite popular in Chitwan and Bardia National Parks.

Some other adventure options for tourists include rafting, paragliding, jungle walks, bungee jumping, kayaking, and short hikes.

The best time to visit Nepal is in the spring and autumn seasons. Spring runs from March to May, while autumn runs from October to November. During this peak time, the weather remains mostly clear, and you also get spectacular mountain views. These are also the best times for trekking and city sightseeing. Still, we suggest checking the weather rather than just relying on the season because climate change and season shifting have caused a major issue for travellers in recent times.

Spending about 10 to 15 days is usually enough in Nepal for short tours and major treks. But if you plan to stay longer, it allows you to opt for high-altitude treks, peak climbing, and even mountaineering. Trekking routes usually need extra days for walking and rest, but your total stay depends on your interests, budget, and travel style. Honestly speaking, Nepal is never enough!

For trekking in Nepal, it is important that you pack comfortable trekking boots with warm socks (enough for the trekking days), layered clothing (base-mid-outer), a waterproof jacket with trousers, a day pack (for side hikes), a water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses (to prevent sun and snow blindness), basic toiletries, and personal medications.

Most trekking routes in Nepal require official permits before starting. National Park or conservation area permits depend on the chosen trekking location. You might also require restricted area permits in special locations that border with Tibet and need special permits issued only through registered trekking agencies. Authorized permit rules and costs can change, so checking beforehand matters.

Weather delays are very common in trekking regions of Nepal, especially because of season creep and climate change. That’s the reason we inform every guest about the weather conditions beforehand. What we seek in return is your flexible dates for your Nepal visit. If not possible or you’re already in Nepal with limited visa time, we’re sure to suggest an alternative trek based on your paid fee while taking full responsibility for operating the entire tour as promised in case of weather delays.

Yes, we can arrange domestic flights when required (upon request or as presented in our price inclusion section). Generally, flights are arranged for Everest and Annapurna treks to avoid physical exhaustion before starting treks. But to save money, road options are also provided, so just contact us!

Private cars, vans, and tourist buses, everything can be arranged when you book your travel package with Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal. Even we help you arrange domestic flights to Pokhara, Lukla, and other destaintions, from where you trekking journey begins. 

In remote mountain areas, it’s best to opt for local jeeps as they have better ground clearnace. Basically, the mode of your transportation varies depending on the route, season, type of trek, and number of people traveling together. Even sharing basis can be arranged if you feel the price is a little heavy on your wallet.

Particularly for a 5,000 m or higher altitude trek in Nepal, here are the must-have gears:

• Warm down jacket and thermal layers
• Good quality trekking boots
• Sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures
• A pair of gloves, a warm hat, and sunglasses
• Trekking poles and personal first aid items

Yes, luggage storage is available in hotels, and if not possible there, trekking agencies usually manage it. At least that’s the case with Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal: we make sure your items are safe with us, and you can be stress-free when travelling. 

Note that some places may charge a small fee, so you have to be prepared for that. You can store all the items that you won’t be taking with you on treks and get them back before departing Nepal.

A porter usually carries up to 20 to 25 kilograms, limited to two people. The weight limits depend on the trekking company's rules.  Trekkers are usually recommended to carry a small day pack for themselves.

No, you don’t generally need a sleeping bag for general treks unless specified by your tour operator. With Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal, we rent sleeping bags ourselves, so at a low cost, we can arrange it for you (whenever it’s needed). This case is usually during peak seasons when crowd levels are high and in places where you need to camp.
Otherwise, teahouses provide enough blankets, which should be enough to keep you warm. You can check our packages in detail to understand the destinations that require a sleeping bag.

Yes, trekking gear is widely available for rent in both Kathmandu and Pokhara. You can rent all sorts of items, including sleeping bags, down jackets, trekking poles, and more! The advantage of travelling with Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal is that we have enough trekking items in our warehouse that we often provide for rent. We are in such high demand that trekkers who don’t travel with us somehow end up seeking our branded items.
Besides, you can also rent trekking gear in Thamel or Lakeside. Just be sure to check the quality before renting from Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Yes, we follow the Porter Welfare Guidelines provided by the Nepal government and stand strong with the Labour Act of Nepal 2074. But we are not limited to just that. We even respect international trekking standards and follow them well.

Yes, you can trek with children in Nepal on multiple routes. However, we suggest going for short and beginner-friendly treks at lower altitudes only. Your walking days should be flexible and relaxed. Special care must be given to the children. At Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal, we even organize school trips specialized for children! Trekking with children in Nepal is possible with proper support.

Yes, we do offer easy treks for seniors who are in good health. Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal doesn’t see your age but rather motivates you to come to Nepal and immerse yourself in the beautiful nature and mountains that this country offers. We generally recommend treks with short walking days so that elders can complete treks at a slow pace with enough rest days. However, medical fitness is something that you should consider yourself by consulting your physician before booking any trek.

Private and slow-paced treks are actually our specialties here at Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal. It allows you to choose your own pace and curate a customized itinerary. This way, you can increase or decrease walking hours based on your comfort, or create custom trips that fit the fitness level of all your family members (including seniors and those with special needs). However, note that private treks usually cost more than group or shared treks.

Porters are paid fair wages on time, and we also make sure each of our members is insured. Besides, our porters carry only a 20–22 kg weight limit, and we ensure they are in their best health before heading to the trails. Their safety is checked regularly during the trek by the same guide who accompanies you.

We treat our porters with respect and dignity. They are given proper clothing and equipment when needed. Their workloads are also kept reasonable and safe. During the trek, food and accommodation are on us!

We have guides and porters who have been working with us for over two decades, and even young members in our team have served at least 1–2 years. In fact, we hire new guides each season too, ensuring they get proper exposure to the mountain environment. They are usually sent as assistant guides for the first few years on trails that they have never been to. This way, you get help from two professionals on a single trip.

Yes, most of our guides are chosen from their own trekking regions, and there’s a solid reason behind this. When professionals come from their own homeland, they know the route much better compared to other trekkers.
Even when it comes to mountaineering guides, these are highly professional Sherpas who have lived and breathed in the mountain environment for years. This guarantees safety and assurance, and the #1 reason to choose Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal as your trekking partner. Our guides are the ones who define our brand through local expertise.

Yes, all our guides are government-licensed and have gained enough knowledge related to first aid and altitude sickness rescue. They have done multiple treks multiple times, which has helped them navigate even deeper trails. Their safety knowledge is what comes in handy the most during any type of adventurous activity.

The guides at Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal are selected on a freelance basis, but we only choose those with prior experience. If you peek into our team, they are generally the ones who take you out on treks and expeditions. The reason is because they have strong route knowledge, which becomes essential when it comes to emergency situations and times when crowd levels are high.

The guides we send you with treks, peak climbing, and expeditions are all government-licensed professionals who have completed multiple trainings. They have good communication skills in English, and most are even bilingual (so if you want a guide with a specific language, don’t hesitate to inform us). We even arrange female guides upon request. Regardless of gender and age, every professional guide at Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal is highly skilled and earns the highest salaries with regard to their top-notch services and years of experience.

Yes, you need a government-licensed guide on most trekking routes of Nepal. The guides help you with navigation, safety, finding the right accommodation, and permit-related duties. They are the ones who improve your overall trekking experience.
Even solo trekking without a guide is possible in certain regions. But still, we highly recommend hiring at least a local guide who knows the route well.
In restricted areas of national parks and conservation areas, foreign trekkers must travel with a government-licensed trek guide and must have dedicated permits, which is possible to get from TAAN-registered trekking agencies.

Private trekking is absolutely possible in Nepal, especially if you book your trek with Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal. We’ll help you arrange a private guide and porter for a smoother and more private experience. This is mostly suitable for families, couples, or small groups. But do note that the costs are higher than general trek packages.

Most trekking days involve 5 to 7 hours of hiking. However, this isn’t always the case, as some days may be longer depending on the terrain. Just be sure to follow the guide’s instructions and keep a slow and steady pace for better acclimatization. Take breaks not just for meals, but to hydrate yourself often. Note that on difficult routes, your walking hours may increase.

Among our trekking packages, Everest Three Passes Trek, Kanchenjunga Circuit Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek, Everest 3 Peak Challenge, Annapurna 3 Peak Challenge, and other peak treks are the hardest ones.

The most popular beginner-friendly optionsinclude Ghorepani-Poon Hill, Annapurna Base Camp, Langtang Valley Trek, etc. These aren’t just easy but popular among beginners, too. With good accommodation and low altitudes, there’s less risk of sickness, so absolutely doable by first-time trekkers.

Basic fitness levels are enough for most popular treks, and you should be able to walk 5 to 7 hours a day. The routes in most regions have both uphill and downhill sections, but vary based on climate and terrain. To prepare yourself for any trek (including short hikes), regular walking or doing light exercises helps a lot. For difficult to strenuous treks, it’s essential to have good stamina as well as strong physical and mental endurance.

Prior trekking experience is not required for many treks, as you’ll be accompanied by a professional government-licensed guide in most regions when booking treks with registered trekking agencies.
Trails are well-paved, and markings are done appropriately to avoid confusion, even in high-altitude passes. Still, your previous experience becomes helpful in long-duration and high-altitude treks, which are more strenuous.

Meals are designed to give enough energy for walking rather than just tasting good. Since Dal Bhat is the most common, you’d be totally satisfied with its portion size. In fact, hotel staff are generous enough to provide you a free refill (with everything). What you should understand is that a high-carb diet is essential for trekking and expeditions rather than excessive protein or fat that’s slow in digestion.

Electricity supply in cities and towns is stable and reliable. Power cuts are now rare.

In remote trekking regions, electricity may be limited and often depends on solar or micro-hydro systems. Charging opportunities may therefore be restricted, so bringing a high-capacity power bank is strongly recommended.

Yes, staying in touch with your family while in Nepal is easy. Internet connection is available in all cities, as well as, major trekking routes. You can even buy a local SIM card (or rent from your tour operator like Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal) to purchase data package. 
Basically, Ncell and NTC are the main service providers in Nepal. While mobile signal can be weak in trekking regions, Wi-Fi remains accessible in most mountain lodges (up to certain points).

The local currency of Nepal is Nepalese Rupees (NPR or NRs.). Cash is still considered ‘king’ in Nepal considering its use in the rural areas. You also don’t have to worry much about converting from foreign currency, thanks to plenty of vendors available in Thamel, Kathmandu and other places in the capital city. 
Even ATMs are available in cities, but not in all rural areas and trekking regions. You can also utilize your credit cards in large hotels, restaurants, and tour agencies (like Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal ourselves). However, when dealing with small businesses, it’s best that you pay in cash.

Nepal is fairly inexpensive compared to many other travel destinations, excluding mountaineering expeditions. That doesn’t mean Nepal is completely budget-friendly. 
Aeroplane tickets are still expensive, although visa rates are low. And if you’re opting for luxurious activities, like a helicopter service, your costs rise accordingly. 
Anyways, when comparing normal sightseeing with European or North American countries, Nepal still remains an affordable option for travellers. From food and accommodation to local services and the market, everything is budget-friendly!

Wi-Fi is available in many teahouses, but the connection is often slow and may require a fee.

Mobile networks (NTC and Ncell) operate in many areas, but signal strength decreases at higher altitudes. 3G/4G works mainly in lower regions. Weather conditions can also affect connectivity.

Nepal’s standard voltage is 230 Vand the frequency is 50 Hz. The most common plug types are Type C, D, and M (similar to India and many European countries). A universal travel adapter is advisable.

Charging facilities are available in most teahouses. In mountain areas, electricity is often powered by solar energy or micro-hydro systems. Charging may require a small additional fee, especially for large devices or power banks. Power supply can be limited or slow, so carrying a reliable power bank is highly recommended.

Hot showers are available in many teahouses, even at higher elevations. They may run on gas, solar power, or electricity. However, hot showers usually cost an additional fee and are typically not included in trekking packages.

Private rooms are available on many popular trekking routes. However, at higher altitudes and during peak seasons, limited availability may require room sharing. Booking early increases your chances of securing a private (usually twin) room.

Along the trekking trails, you will stay in small local lodges known as “teahouses.” Rooms are modest, usually with basic twin beds, pillows, and blankets (depending on the season and availability). Toilets are commonly shared and often squat-style, though some places offer Western-style toilets.

Meals are served in a shared dining area, which is usually the warmest and most social space in the lodge. Trekking in Nepal is a simple and authentic experience it teaches adaptability and offers a great opportunity to connect with fellow trekkers from around the world.

Yes, dietary requirements based on your medical needs can definitely be accommodated upon prior request. Vegetarian meals are widely available in Nepal, but for special medical needs, you have to coordinate with your guides, and they’ll ensure you get the right meals in every place you visit.

Nepali is the official and most widely spoken language of Nepal. Besides that, many ethnic languages tied to different ethnic groups are spoken across the country. 
Some of the most popular ones include Newari, Maithili, Tamang, and Sherpa. Many are bilingual, meaning they speak both Nepali and their local language. 
English is equally spoken, considering the growing tourism industry. And the majority of people can understand Hindi due to exposure to media and closeness with India.

Vegetarian food is widely available during treks as well as other destinations in Nepal. In fact, vegetable curry comes with dal bhat, which is the most popular dish. That’s best even for vegans. Just be sure to let your guide know about dietary requirements beforehand.

Honestly, direct consumption of tap water is not recommended. You may find bottled water in some trekking destinations, but not in all, and it can be a little expensive. The best thing to do is seek boiled water from different lodges that you pass by. They do charge a small fee, which is pretty reasonable. Carry your own bottle as well as purification tabs/drops with you. Staying hydrated is really important at higher altitudes, so always choose safe drinking water.

Simple trekking meals are mostly served. Common meals include dal bhat, noodles, pasta, rice, soup, potatoes, etc. To ensure you remain in the best health, food is freshly cooked in teahouses. Still, you can opt for menu choices. Just note that options at higher altitudes are limited.

Nepal offers local and international food in cities and tourist areas. Dal Bhat is the most common Nepali food.

Talking about accommodation, it ranges from budget guest houses to luxury hotels. Facilities are better in cities than in rural or mountain areas (where they are referred to as “mountain lodges” or “teahouses”).

Yes. Trips can be fully customized based on a client’s physical condition, skills, available time, and interests. All trips are guided, and shorter or easier options are recommended when appropriate.

Credit cards are rarely accepted on trekking routes, but in cities, cards are accepted in most places. But since trekking is in remote parts of the country, all tea houses and shops prefer cash. So, be sure to carry sufficient amount of Nepali rupees before your trek begins.

ATMs are available only in major cities and starting points of the trail (still not all). Most trekking routes do not have ATMs at all. Hence, you should withdraw Nepali cash before even starting the trek. For currency exchange, you can seek help from our team at Himalayan Ecstatsy Nepal directly.

You should tip your guides and porters at the end of the tour. Usually, guides receive more tips than the porters, but it’s totally up to you to decide how much you want to give. There’s no general rule of amount. It varies by the trek’s duration and difficulty. In case you’re low on budget, you can combine with the group, as group tipping is also equally common

Tipping is not compulsory but is considered the norm during a trek. This is because the culture of tipping has existed for decades. By tipping the guides and porters, you’re reflecting the appreciation received. So, our team at Himalayan Ecstasy Nepal encourages you to tip your guides and porters by at least 10% of what you have allocated for your trip.

Daily personal expenses depend on trek length and route. While our packages cover everything that we have included within the ‘Price Includes’ section, be sure to thoroughly check out the ‘Price Excludes’ section too. We, along with any other trekking agency, do not cover for drinks, snacks, charging, or showers. So, carrying Nepali cash is essential, and the exact amount of  money depends on the trekking region and duration.

English is widely spoken in Nepal, considering the growth of tourism. Trekking guides, tour guides, hotel staff, drivers, and every other professional in the hospitality industry speak good English (maybe not native, but they can all communicate well).

In fact, English is used as the primary language in schools across the country. Even in rural areas, English is widely popular, and every age group has understood the importance of even basic English communication. So, travellers rarely face language barriers, except in the extreme rural areas of the country.