Complete Travel Guide to Nepal (2025): Hotels, Attractions, Food, Transport, Expenses
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This concise, expert-led guide is purpose-built to match your search intent: where to stay, what to see and eat, how to get around, and what it really costs—so you can plan with confidence.
Where to Stay (by area and vibe)
- Kathmandu: Thamel (budget and nightlife), Lazimpat (quiet mid-range), Patan/Durbar Marg (heritage and boutique).
- Pokhara: Lakeside for views and cafés; North Lakeside/Sarangkot for sunrise serenity.
- Chitwan: Sauraha for safari lodges near the park gate.
- Heritage stopovers: Bandipur (hilltown charm), Bhaktapur (living museum), Lumbini (pilgrimage). Tip: Choose properties with backup power, filtered water, and recent traveler reviews.
Unmissable Attractions
- Kathmandu Valley: Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, and the royal squares of Patan/Bhaktapur.
- Pokhara: Phewa Lake, World Peace Pagoda, Sarangkot viewpoint, caves and waterfalls.
- Nature & Culture: Chitwan (rhino and bird safaris), Lumbini (Buddha’s birthplace).
- Trekking highlights: Short—Poon Hill, Mardi Himal; Classic—Annapurna Circuit, Everest Base Camp, Langtang.
What to Eat (clean, local, satisfying)
- Dal bhat (fuel of trekkers), momo (try steamed and jhol), thukpa, chow mein.
- Newari cuisine: choila, bara, yomari; Bhaktapur’s juju dhau (king curd).
- Street-smart hygiene: pick busy stalls, eat fresh-cooked, drink filtered/boiled water.
Getting Around
- Domestic flights link Kathmandu–Pokhara–Bharatpur (Chitwan); weather can affect schedules.
- Tourist buses/private cars on main corridors; microbuses for shorter hops.
- In cities: taxis and ride-hail apps; confirm fare before starting.
- SIM cards (Ncell/NTC) are inexpensive; carry offline maps in the hills.
Realistic Expenses (per person)
- Shoestring: $30–50/day (hostels, local eats, buses).
- Mid-range comfort: $60–120/day (good hotels, activities, better transport).
- Trekking add-ons: permits, guide/porter, gear rental; budget $25–60/day extra depending on route.
- Adventure activities (paragliding/rafting): typically $60–150 per activity.
Trustworthy Planning Notes
- Best seasons: Oct–Nov, Mar–May. Carry layers and a rain shell.
- Permits vary by region (e.g., Annapurna, Everest); arrange through registered agencies.
- Cash is king outside cities; use ATMs in hubs and carry small NPR notes.
With thoughtful choices, Nepal delivers world-class mountains, deep culture, and excellent value.
