Things To Keep in Mind Before Visiting Nepal
Nepal is on the bucket list for every travel fanatic out there. It has a soft spot among travelers mostly due to its exuberant culture and natural wonders. Before venturing into foreign lands, voyagers must comprehend the situation and condition of their destination. Nepal is calm and welcoming to travelers but there are some vital things that you should know before exploring this mythical land.
Various Aspects You Need To Know Before Visiting Nepal:
1. How To Enter Nepal?
The first and foremost thing that needs to be catered to is ‘How to enter Nepal?’ The most facile way is through an online visa application. It can be done before 15 days of your arrival in Nepal. Documents like a valid passport, a passport-sized photo, and a properly filled application are a must. Or, you can opt. for a Visa on Arrival. It is available on the Tribhuvan International Airport and various border crossings. The Visa fee depends upon the days you decide to reside in Nepal.
Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal and is often labeled as to its cultural capital as well. The UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Patan Durbar Square, and the Pashupatinath temple are located here. The capital is delicately balancing modernization and cultural preservation. Apart from culture, Kathmandu is the financial hub of Nepal too. Numerous business houses and organizations reside here.
2. Having Proper Knowledge of Altitudes of Visiting Places
Many travelers fall victim to the notion that Nepal is only Kathmandu. As a result, they miss out on a latitude to dwell on other fantasies that Nepal has. Apart from Kathmandu, sites like Janakpur, Palpa, Pokhara, Dharan, and Gorkha have been garnering attention too. As you explore, you’ll get to meet a vast array of people and get to learn more about the meaning of life. The Janaki temple portrays the influence of Hinduism in the Terai plains and the Rani Mahal at Palpa will educate you about the meaning of love. During your time in Nepal, why not go a bit further then?
3. Favorable Seasons To Visit Nepal
If you are looking for the perfect moment to visit Nepal, then it is highly recommended that you visit Nepal during the Spring and Autumn season. At this time, the trekking season also starts plus you get to enjoy great deals that save some bucks. Also, the weather clears and you’ll get to enjoy tantalizing views of the snow-laden mountains. If you despise crowds, then there are options for touring in the off-season.
4. Entry Fees
Sightseeing will be your major task in Nepal. To enter these sites, you need to pay a certain amount of entry fee. The entry fee for foreigners and locals are different. In some cases, foreigners need to pay upward of 5 times the local price. This can be unfair and at times frustrating for those traveling in a budget. However, most of the entry fee goes towards the conservation and protection of these sites.
Speaking of budget, you might be wondering if you can afford to explore it. Well, the good news is that Nepal is counted amongst the most affordable countries to explore. A decent meal will cost you approximately 7-8 USD and the accommodation are also affordable.
5. Proper Knowledge of Urban Areas Transport, Environment
Life in urban areas tends to be hectic. The major cities are constantly going through development activities and you can observe traffic congestion during rush hours. Air pollution is also rampant nowadays so be sure to carry a mask. It can be easily purchased in local stores. The internet connection in Nepal is amongst the slowest in the world. So, if you have to upload vlogs, then don’t be angry if it takes more than 20 minutes.
Moving from one part of the city to the other part can be done through private and public transportation. Public transportation tends to be a bit congested and can take some time. Taxis are readily available and will take you to the intended spot. It doesn’t hurt to do some bargaining as well. In recent years, startups like Pathao and Tootle are providing transportation services. You can use them too.
6. Compulsory or Needed Clothing
During your stay in Nepal, be sure to not wear any sort of revealing clothes. This may garner unwanted attention. Wear common clothing like shirts and jeans. When you visit temples, refrain from doing any sort of disrespectful activities. Before entering houses and temples, it is advised to take off your shoes. It is shown as a sign of respect. Nepali is the most common language spoken in Nepal. English is mostly spoken in urban areas. In rural areas, the different ethnic groups speak their language.
These are the basic things that you need to know before visiting Nepal. There are other things too which need to be looked but it is better that you find it out by visiting Nepal.
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