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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Around The Kathmandu Valley, Nepal

Spring & Autumn Attire

Days are warm and pleasant in spring (March-May). Autumn (October-November) has mild and dry days. Layering is a good approach for these seasons.

What to Wear

Summer & Winter Attire

Summer/Monsoon (June-September) calls for lightweight clothing. Winter (December-February) requires warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings.

What to Wear

Footwear & Cultural Dress

Footwear for Terrain

Bhaktapur's cobblestone streets mean extensive walking. Choose shoes that are good for comfort and protection.

Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy Sandals are good. Waterproof shoes or quick-drying sandals for monsoon. Closed-toe shoes for winter.

Cultural Dress Code

Nepal is generally conservative. Modest dress receives appreciation, especially when visiting religious sites.

Avoid overly revealing clothing (short shorts, tank tops). Loose-fitting clothes covering shoulders and knees are recommended daily.

Religious Sites Attire

Before entering temples, remove your shoes. Dress respectfully.

Shoulders and knees must stay covered. A Shawl or scarf can be useful. Slip-on shoes are convenient for frequent removal.

Essential Documents

Travel Papers

Keeping your documents organized and secure is a top priority for international travel. Have both physical and digital copies.

  • Passport (valid 6+ months), visa documentation (print confirmation for online app), several passport-sized photos.
  • Photocopies of passport main page and visa/entry stamp (kept separate).
  • Digital copies on cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) or email.
  • Travel insurance policy details, including emergency contact numbers and policy number.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if self-driving outside core Bhaktapur.
  • Vaccination records (yellow fever certificate if applicable), list of prescription medications with dosages. Doctor's letter for controlled substances.
  • Printed and digital copies of flight tickets, hotel bookings, tour reservations, and transfer confirmations.
  • Emergency contact information for family/friends at home, embassy/consulate, and local emergency numbers (Police 100, Ambulance 102, Fire 101).

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Nepal uses 230V, 50Hz power. Plug types are typically Type C (two round pins), Type D (three round pins in a triangular pattern), and Type M (three large round pins).

Essential Items

  • A Universal travel adapter that includes Type C, D, and M plugs.
  • If devices are not dual voltage, a Voltage converter. (Most phone/laptop chargers are dual voltage).
  • Local SIM cards (Ncell, Nepal Telecom) are available at TIA or mobile shops. Passport copy and photo needed for registration.

Photography & Apps

Capture your memories and navigate with ease using these tech items.

Tech Recommendations

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Utilize Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud for backing up photos and digital copies of documents.

Physical Backup

Bring an External hard drive or large-capacity USB drive for photos, especially high-resolution images.

Camera Gear Protection

Use a Camera bag that offers good protection and easy access for your equipment. Lens cleaning kit is helpful.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

A well-stocked personal health kit addresses common travel ailments and keeps you feeling well.

First Aid Essentials

  • Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, Hand sanitizer, pain relievers like Ibuprofen.
  • Anti-diarrhea medication, Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS), antihistamines.
  • Topical antibiotic cream, sterile gauze, medical tape, Moleskin, small scissors/tweezers.

Medications & Hygiene

Bring sufficient supplies of all prescription medications in original packaging, with a doctor's letter for controlled substances.

Health & Hygiene Checklist

Water Purification & Personal Care

Water Safety

Hygiene Items

  • Your preferred shampoo/conditioner if specific brands needed.
  • Specific feminine hygiene products if preferred.
  • Plenty of hand sanitizer; travel-sized laundry soap.

Activity-Specific Equipment

General Sightseeing Gear

For exploring Bhaktapur's streets and squares.

  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Breathable clothing for comfort.
  • Small bag for daily items.
  • Camera for capturing sights.

Day Hiking Gear

If you plan day hikes to places like Changu Narayan or towards Nagarkot.

Rent vs. Bring

Choose wisely to avoid carrying bulky items.

  • Bring: Prescription medications, glasses, toiletries, main camera gear.
  • Rent/Buy Locally: Extensive trekking gear (sleeping bags, down jackets) in Kathmandu.
  • Rent/Buy Locally: Simple rain gear if you do not want to bring your own.
  • No specialty items are required for general Bhaktapur experiences.

Additional Activity Gear

Hiking Accessories

General Travel Comfort

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Security & Reusable Items

These often overlooked items enhance your comfort, security, and overall travel experience.

Smart Choices

Local & Difficult-to-Find Items

Consider packing these if they are essential to you, as local availability may vary.

Pack Thoughtfully

  • Specific prescription medications for your entire trip.
  • Certain brands of high-SPF sunscreen or insect repellent.
  • High-quality trekking gear (better to rent locally than buy lower-quality).
  • A small Flashlight or Headlamp for poorly lit areas or power outages.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste; refill at filtered stations.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For markets and souvenirs, avoids single-use plastic.

Travel Utensil Set

For street food and picnics, for hygiene and waste reduction.

Activity-Specific Attire

Walking & Sightseeing

  • Comfortable walking shoes are good.
  • Breathable clothing for extended exploration.
  • Day bag for essentials and camera.

Religious Sites

  • Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees.
  • Slip-on shoes for frequent removal.
  • Shawl or scarf for extra covering.

Pro Packing Tip

Layering for clothing is a good idea given Bhaktapur's varied seasons and temperature fluctuations. Being prepared with the right documents, tech, and health items will allow for a smooth journey.