Practical Information: Annapurna Circuit Trek

Local SIM Cards & Mobile

Ncell and Nepal Telecom (NTC) are main providers. Ncell often shows better data coverage on trails.

Acquisition & Usage

Purchase SIM at Kathmandu airport or city shops.
Passport photo and photocopy needed for registration.
Signal at higher altitudes is sporadic. For eSIM options, explore Airalo.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi widely available in cities. On trek, tea houses offer Wi-Fi for a fee.

Availability & Speed

Cities have reliable Wi-Fi in hotels, restaurants, cafes.
Trek Wi-Fi: slow, unreliable, often for a fee (NPR 200-500/day).
Do not depend on Wi-Fi for time-sensitive tasks at high elevations. For portable Wi-Fi, visit Solis Wi-Fi.

Language & Translation

Nepali is the official language. English is spoken in tourist areas.

Aid & Learning

Google Translate with offline Nepali pack is a helpful tool.
Learning basic phrases greatly improves interactions. For language learning, try Rosetta Stone.
Nepali locals value efforts to speak their language.

Basic Nepali Phrases

These phrases ease interactions with locals.

Essential Greetings & Words

Hello/Namaste: Nah-mas-teh
Thank you: Dhanyabaad
How much?: Kati paisa?

More Useful Phrases

Dining & Quality

Food: Khana
Good/Okay: Ramro
Delicious: Mitho
Please: Kripaya

Addressing Issues

Sorry: Maaph garnus
Excuse me: Hatta
Caution: Hoshiyar
Walk slowly: Bistari hidnu

Communication Insight

A few words in Nepali make a positive impression and build connections.

Business & Travel Schedules

Information on typical operating hours and airport services.

Typical Operating Hours

City shops generally open 10 AM - 8 PM, seven days a week. Tourist shops have extended hours.

Tea House Operations

On trek, tea houses open early (5 AM for breakfast) and close late (9-10 PM for dinner), fitting trekker schedules.

Airport Lounge Access

For frequent travelers, Priority Pass offers independent airport lounge access globally.

Banking & ATMs

Banks open 10 AM - 4 PM (Sun-Fri). ATMs are 24/7 in cities.

Cash on Trek

No ATMs after Besisahar/Pokhara until Jomsom.
Jomsom ATMs can be unreliable.
Carry enough cash for your entire trek duration.

Flight Compensation Services

Services for delayed, cancelled, or denied boarding flights.

Compensation Aid

Flight disruption assistance.
Help to claim compensation.
Visit Compensair for assistance.

Holidays & Seasonal Notes

Public Holidays

Religious and public holidays (Dashain, Tihar, Holi) affect services.
Government offices, banks, and some businesses may close.
Transportation can be busier during festivals.

Seasonal Closures

Higher-altitude tea houses may close January-February due to snow.
Thorong La Pass can close from late November/early December to March/April.
Check current conditions before attempting the pass in winter.

Airport Services

Airport services, including lounges and compensation, can enhance your travel.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Cultural exchange is a rewarding part of travel. Approach it with respect.

Greeting Customs

Namaste is the common greeting. Press palms together, bow slightly, and say 'Namaste'.

Usage

Used for hello, goodbye, thank you, and reverence.
A versatile and respected greeting.
Practice with locals for a warm response.

Appropriate Attire

Modest dress is appreciated, especially outside major tourist areas.

Dress Code

Cover shoulders and knees at religious sites.
Remove shoes before entering temples, monasteries, or homes.
Avoid overly revealing clothing.

Dining & Tipping Practices

Cultural norms for eating and showing appreciation.

Mealtime & Gratitude

Use your right hand for eating and giving/receiving items.
Avoid putting used utensils back into communal dishes.
Tipping guidelines for guides, porters, and tea house staff apply.

Photography & Taboos

Be mindful of local customs regarding photography and behavior.

Guidelines

Always ask permission before photographing people or ceremonies.
Do not show the soles of your feet towards people or religious objects.
Avoid public displays of affection.

Sensitive Topics & Conduct

What to Avoid

Avoid discussing politics, religion, or social issues unless invited.
Do not step over people or their belongings.
Do not give candy or pens directly to children (fosters begging).

Gender & LGBTQ+

Public displays of affection are rare for any couples.
LGBTQ+ rights have progressed (same-sex marriage recognized 2023).
Public acceptance varies; discretion is often advised in rural areas.

Accessibility & Guidelines

Mobility Challenges

Infrastructure is very limited for mobility impairments.
Uneven pavements, stairs, and crowded areas create difficulties.
Trekking trails are rugged and unsuitable for wheelchairs.

Sensory Impairments

Limited specialized services for visual/hearing impairments.
A personal guide or companion is essential.
Consult specialized travel agencies for accessible options.

Shoe Removal Reminder

Always remove your shoes before entering any home or religious site.

Practical Information