About Country

Nepal is, officially, the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal. The multiethnic, multi-religious, multi-lingual landlocked country is most famous for its giant snowcapped mountain ranges including the Mount Everest (8848m) and being birth-place to Lord Gautam Buddha (founder of Buddhism). Enriched with both cultural as well as natural diversity, Nepal is one of the best destinations for travelers.

Key Facts

Location: Southern Asia, In between China and India

Geography: 64% of the country is covered by the Himalayas in the northern side, 17% by Terai (flat) plain in the south, and other 19% by central hilly region

Capital: Kathmandu

Area: 147, 181 sq. km

Population:  31 million (as per 2016)

Political System: Republic

Major Religion: Hinduism

Time zone: GMT + 5:45 hours

Official Language: Nepali

Working hours: 8 hours (10 to 5)

Electricity: Electricity is available throughout the country. Remote areas also use electricity generated using solar energy.

Visa Information

A visa is provided at Tribhuvan International Airport on arrival. A passport and passport-sized pictures are required. Tourist Visa is basically provided in 3 different categories i.e. for 15, 30, and 90 days. They cost 25, 40, and 100 USD respectively. Indian Nationals do not require any kind of visa; however, they must possess a passport and an election card.

For additional details about the visa procedures in Nepal, head to the official website of the Department of Immigration at http://www.nepalimmigration.gov.np/page/tourist-visa.

How to Reach Country

Nepal, being a landlocked country, can be reached only by air or land. The country has a single international airport but, the international flights, to and fro the airport, are regular.

Different entry points at Kakarvitta, Nepalgunj, Birgung, Bhairahawa, and Gaddachauki located at the borders can also be used to enter the country. The entry point at Kodari is located at the Nepal-Tibet border, whereas the remaining ones are at the Nepal-India border.

Popular Destinations to Visit

The country provides you with most beautiful and entertaining destinations, different from anywhere else in the world. From soothing historical exploration to adrenaline-charged adventures, Nepal is definitely the center of attraction to millions across the world. Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lumbini, Chitwan, Everest Region, Annapurna Region, Manaslu Region, Upper Mustang, Langtang Region, and Dolpo are few of the prominent tourist attractions in the country.

Internet and Communication

The Internet is widely available in most parts of the country. Wi-Fi is also available across the country to help visitors get easy access to the internet.  Besides, there are telecommunication corporations like NTC and Ncell which provide Sim cards and cellular data services at reasonable prices. Other common sources of communication include Telephone, Radio/Television, and Newspaper.

Local Currency and Foreign Exchange

The local currency of Nepal is called Nepalese Rupee and is available in form of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 rupee note.  1 and 2 rupee coin are also available.

Talking about Foreign Exchange, Nepal has different options. There are many money exchangers in the country including, one in the airport itself through which you can exchange the cash. Also, the money can be exchanged in different banks across Nepal.

Weather and Climate

The climate varies as per change in elevation. It is tropical in Terai region, Alpine in mid-hills and polar in high mountains. Here, summer begins in May and lasts till August. Monsoon begins in mid-June and ends at beginning of September.

Similarly autumn lasts from September to November. After autumn, winter begins which usually lasts till February whereas spring starts from March and lasts through April.

People Culture and Festivals

People from different religion and ethnicity live here all around the country. Hindu and Buddhists compose the major part of the population. These people have their own cultures and festivals. Some of the famous festivals include Dashain, Tihar, Holi, Lhosar, Shivaratri, Buddha Jayanti, Eid, and Christmas etc.