Nepal

Travel tips for Nepal: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Carry some cash. Locals widely use QR apps requiring a Nepalese bank account, leaving tourists reliant on cash. While cards work at tourist hotels, large supermarkets, and high-end restaurants, you need cash for local shops, taxis, and trekking tea houses.

Try the food

Dal Bhat (दाल भात): A hearty, traditional platter consisting of lentil soup served over boiled rice, accompanied by seasonal vegetable curries and spicy pickles.
Momo (ममो): Bite-sized steamed or fried dumplings filled with spiced minced meat or vegetables, always served with a tangy tomato-based dipping sauce.
Sel Roti (सेल रोटी): A sweet, ring-shaped rice bread that is deep-fried to achieve a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior.

Say it in Nepali

Hello: नमस्ते (Namaste)
Thank you: धन्यवाद (Dhanyabad)
Please: कृपया (Kripaya)
Excuse me: माफ गर्नुहोला (Maaf garnuhola)
How much is this?: यसको कति हो? (Yesko kati ho?)
Yes / No: हो / होइन (Ho / Hoina)
Goodbye: नमस्ते (Namaste)

Essentials

Voltage: 230V, 50Hz
Driving: Left side
SIM tip: Purchase an Ncell or Nepal Telecom (NTC) tourist SIM card at Kathmandu airport upon arrival; you will need your passport and a passport-sized photo.

Etiquette

Always remove your shoes before entering a Nepali home or a temple, and never point the soles of your feet at anyone or any religious object.