MileHacker Logo
Kathmandu Travel Resources

Kathmandu Travel Resources

Kathmandu Bagmati Province, Nepal Travel Guide

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for Patan

  • Pathao / Tootle

    Ride-sharing services (bikes and cars) for convenient transport.

  • Google Maps

    Download offline maps of the Kathmandu Valley for navigation without internet.

  • XE Currency

    A helpful app for quick currency conversion.

  • Google Translate

    Download the offline Nepali language pack for basic translation.

  • Nepal Tourism Board

    The official tourism body of Nepal, offering general tourism information.

Useful Websites

  • Department of Immigration, Nepal

    Official website for accurate and up-to-date information about visas, including online forms.

  • Reputable Travel Blogs/Forums

    Consult well-regarded travel blogs and forums for recent traveler experiences.

  • Social Media Accounts

    Search for official local tourism boards or a good travel agencies for inspiration and updates.

  • Podcasts & Digital Content

    Search for podcasts about Nepali culture, history, or travel experiences linked to the Kathmandu Valley.

  • General Travel Sites

    Review broad travel information for Nepal.

Print Resources for Insight

Guidebooks & Maps

Consider a comprehensive Guidebook for Nepal or the Kathmandu Valley. Detailed city maps of Patan are useful for navigating intricate alleys.

History & Culture Books

"Nepal" by John Whelpton provides a broad overview. "The Gurkhas" by Byron Farwell offers military history insights. Reading before your trip truly supports appreciation.

Local Publications

The Kathmandu Post and The Himalayan Times are English daily newspapers. They offer current events, local insights, and sometimes sections on tourism or culture.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 100
  • Ambulance: 102
  • Fire: 101
  • Tourist Police: +977-1-4226359 (They offer assistance for travelers)

Medical Facilities & Protocols

  • Patan Hospital: Major public hospital in Lalitpur, Nepal.
  • CIWEC Clinic Travel Medicine Center: (Kathmandu) +977-1-4424111.
  • CIWEC is recommended for travelers from abroad due to higher standards.
  • Contact your embassy for lost documents and emergencies.

Further Reading & Exploration

Visual & Auditory Content

  • Documentaries and films about Nepali culture or the Himalayas.
  • Explore traditional Nepali folk music.
  • Listen to classical Newari music.
  • Research Newari art forms like metalwork and thangka painting.

Online Communities

  • Online communities for travelers offer platforms to ask questions.
  • Specific subreddits for Nepal are useful.
  • Travel communities like TripAdvisor forums offer peer advice.
  • Share experiences with other travelers.

Language Learning

  • Consider using apps like Babbel to pick up basic Nepali phrases.
  • Duolingo and Pimsleur are other options.
  • Even a few words enhance interactions.
  • Basic phrases contribute to the the total experience.

Pre-Trip Checklist

Essential Preparations

-6 Months Before Your Trip

  • Research Visa Requirements

    Confirm specific visa policies for your passport. Apply for your visa if advance application is needed.

  • Book International Flights

    Secure your international flights, especially if traveling during Nepal's peak tourist seasons (Oct-Nov, Mar-May).

  • Research & Book Accommodation

    Begin researching and booking your accommodation in Patan, especially important for unique properties.

-2 Months Before Your Trip

  • Get Required Vaccinations

    Visit a travel health clinic or your doctor to discuss recommended vaccinations and get prescription refills.

  • Purchase Travel Insurance

    Obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation, cancellation, and lost baggage.

  • Inform Your Bank

    Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates.

Final Pre-Trip Actions

-4 Weeks Prior

Confirm all flight, hotel, and tour reservations. Make several copies (digital and physical) of your passport, visa, and insurance. Store these separately from originals. Begin planning your packing list, considering climate and cultural norms. Install and familiarize yourself with essential apps.

Week Prior

Finalize packing, including a TESSAN Universal Travel Adapter and a LifeStraw water filter bottle. Share your itinerary and contact information with a trusted person at home. Obtain some Nepalese Rupees or small US dollar denominations for initial expenses. Fully charge all your electronic devices and power banks.

Home Preparations

Secure your home. Stop mail and newspaper deliveries. Arrange for pet care and plant watering. Inform a trusted neighbor or friend of your travel plans.

Arrival Checklist

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • Clear immigration. Complete visa on arrival forms/payment.
  • Retrieve your checked luggage.
  • Exchange a small amount of currency or use an ATM for Nepalese Rupees.
  • Consider purchasing a local SIM card (Ncell or NTC) at the airport.

Orientation & Transport

  • Once settled, take a short walk around your immediate neighborhood.
  • Familiarize yourself with close-by shops, eateries, and landmarks.
  • Locate your pre-arranged transfer or head to the taxi/ride-share pick-up point.
  • Ensure you have enough small denominations of Nepalese Rupees for taxi fares and initial purchases.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

  • Plan for purchasing souvenirs during your entire trip, not just at the at the last moment.
  • If you buy large items, research shipping options (e.g., DHL, FedEx) in The kathmandu valley/Patan.
  • Inquire about shipping costs and customs procedures well in advance.
  • Check with your own country's customs regulations regarding bringing in certain goods.

Departure Timing & Return Trip Ready

  • Nepal does not have a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund system for tourists.
  • For international flights, arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) at least 3 hours before.
  • Allow for traffic delays from Patan to the airport, notably at busy times.
  • Confirm your return flight details and ensure all travel documents are in order and accessible.

Travel Insight

A well-prepared traveler experiences a smoother and more rewarding journey.

Kathmandu Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts