Nepal
The Everest region experiences four main seasons, each offering a distinct trekking experience. Spring (March to May) is one of two popular trekking periods. Weather generally remains stable with clear skies, providing excellent mountain views. Temperatures are moderate, making daytime trekking pleasant. As you ascend, temperatures naturally decrease. At lower altitudes (around Lukla and Namche Bazaar), daily temperatures span 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). However, as you climb higher, especially towards Everest Base Camp, temperatures can range from -10°C to 5°C (14°F to 41°F) during the day, dropping below freezing at night. Rainfall is minimal, typically occasional light snow at higher elevations or brief afternoon showers in lower valleys. Humidity is generally low.
Autumn (September to November) enjoys wide recognition as the ideal trekking season. After the monsoon, the air stands clean, providing unparalleled clarity and crystal-clear views of the Himalayas. The weather is stable, with comfortable daytime temperatures. Similar to spring, temperatures at EBC can range from -10°C to 5°C (14°F to 41°F), while lower regions experience warmer conditions. Precipitation remains very low, and humidity also keeps a low profile. Winter (December to February) offers a quiet and starkly beautiful experience for trekkers prepared for extreme cold. Skies usually stand clear, providing excellent mountain views. However, temperatures drop significantly, especially at higher altitudes. Daytime temperatures at EBC can fall below -20°C (-4°F), with nighttime temperatures plummeting even lower. Heavy snowfall may obstruct trails, rendering some sections impassable without appropriate gear and expertise. Many teahouses above Namche Bazaar close for the season, restricting accommodation and food choices. While the trails see fewer crowds, the cold renders the trek more physically demanding.
The Everest region is not typically impacted by hurricanes. However, other specific weather considerations are present for trekkers: Monsoons (June-August) bring significant increases in landslide and rockfall risks on mountain trails. Rivers swell, and bridges may face damage. Flights to Lukla become highly unreliable due to low cloud cover and poor visibility. Trekkers choosing this season must ready themselves for major disruptions and hurdles. High altitudes always mean colder conditions. The wind chill factor can make even moderate temperatures feel freezing. Trekkers must ready themselves for temperatures dropping well below freezing, particularly at night and at higher camps. Adequate layering, including a high-quality Down jacket and suitable sleeping bag, stands as a condition. Frostbite and hypothermia are genuine risks if not ready.
While heavy snowfall is common in winter, it may occur unexpectedly in late spring (April/May) or late autumn (November) at higher elevations. Such snow can temporarily block trails, make navigation difficult, and raise avalanche risk in certain areas. It may also lead to flight delays. Lukla Airport holds renown for its weather-dependent operations. Cloud cover, strong winds, and rain may cause flight delays or cancellations for hours or even days. This remains a recurring issue, regardless of the season, though more prevalent in monsoon and shoulder periods. Building buffer days (at least two) into your itinerary in Kathmandu before and after the trek is a simple yet wise strategy to absorb such delays. This flexibility prevents missing international flights and lessens stress. For photography, Autumn (late September to mid-November) typically offers the clearest air after the monsoon washes away dust, resulting in unparalleled visibility for mountain photography. The light often appears crisp and dramatic. Late February/early March or late November/early December present a balance. You will experience colder temperatures but also greater solitude and potentially lower costs. Trekking in January suits those seeking extreme cold and quiet, accepting that many teahouses will be closed. For those interested in the atmosphere of the climbing season at Everest Base Camp, mid-April to late May is when expeditions are active, with tent cities set up at EBC. This adds a distinct aspect to the trek, though it also means a very busy trail.
Managing visa and entry procedures is an useful step for any international journey, and visiting Nepal is no different.
Nepal presents relatively straightforward visa processes for most nationalities. The most common visa type for tourists is the Tourist Visa. Many nationalities gain a tourist visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. This offers a convenient option for many travelers. You will proceed through a specific visa-on-arrival counter at the airport. You can also gain this visa at various land border crossings, such as Sunauli, Kakarbhitta, Birgunj, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, and Mahendranagar. If you prefer to have your visa sorted before you travel, apply for a tourist visa at a Nepalese embassy or consulate in your home country or country of residence. This often receives a recommendation for peace of mind, or if you are from a country that does not qualify for a visa on arrival (a short list, but confirm your specific nationality). Nepal’s Department of Immigration presents an online visa application form. While completing this in advance saves time at the airport, it typically needs printing and submission upon arrival with payment. The online form is present on the official Department of Immigration Nepal website. This pre-filled form streamlines the airport process by reducing data entry time for immigration officials. However, having filled it out online does not guarantee approval; the final determination rests with the immigration officer upon review of documents and payment.
To obtain your tourist visa, whether upon arrival or in advance, gather the following documents: Your passport must maintain validity for at least six months from your intended entry date into Nepal. Confirm it holds at least one blank page for the visa stamp. You will need at least one, often two, recent passport-sized photos. These photos should show a light background, ideally white, and present your full face. Carrying a few extra copies proves useful, as they sometimes undergo requests for various permits or applications within Nepal. The visa fee is payable in cash upon arrival. Accepted currencies typically include USD, Euro, GBP, or Nepali Rupees (NPR). Credit cards usually do not receive acceptance for visa fee payment at the airport. Have sufficient cash in one of these accepted currencies. As of recent data, typical tourist visa fees stand as: 15-day multiple-entry visa: US$30; 30-day multiple-entry visa: US$50; 90-day multiple-entry visa: US$125. These fees may change, so verify the official Department of Immigration Nepal website before your trip for the most current information. The IVisa and VisaHQ services can assist with visa applications.
Upon leaving your flight, find the "Arrival Card" counter or fill out the card given on the plane. Complete this form precisely. If you have not pre-filled the online form, proceed to the visa application kiosks. These touch-screen terminals let you input your details, which then print a receipt. If you pre-filled the form online, confirm you possess the printed confirmation. Take your printed slip (from the kiosk or online pre-fill), passport, and cash to the payment counter. Pay the visa fee and collect a payment receipt. Finally, present your passport, payment receipt, printed visa slip, and passport-sized photo (if asked) to the immigration officer. They will check your documents and place the visa stamp in your passport.
Cost Nrs. 2,000 (~US$17-20). Obtain in Lukla or Monjo.
Cost Nrs. 3,000 + 13% VAT (~US$30-35). Obtain in Monjo or Kathmandu Nepal Tourism Board office.
No specific health entry requirements for Nepal, unless from a yellow fever risk country.
Always carry original permits; checkpoints are along the route.
Many trekking agencies assist with permit acquisition.
Comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking up to 6,000 meters (approximately 20,000 feet) and, crucially, emergency helicopter evacuation. Standard travel insurance policies often exclude high-altitude activities or only cover up to a certain altitude (e.g., 2,500m or 4,000m). Read the policy documents carefully to confirm coverage. Your policy must cover general medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption (for flight delays, illness), and lost or delayed luggage. Without proper insurance, a helicopter rescue may cost tens of thousands of dollars, an expense you would bear personally. World Nomads, SafetyWing, and Insubuy offer suitable options.
Confirm your travel insurance policy covers high-altitude trekking up to 6,000 meters and emergency helicopter evacuation. Standard policies may not include these high-altitude activities. Thoroughly review policy documents to verify coverage. Coverage for general medical expenses, trip cancellation, interruption, and lost or delayed luggage also serves a purpose.
Lukla Airport holds renown for its weather-dependent operations. Cloud cover, strong winds, and rain may cause flight delays or cancellations for hours or even days. This is a recurring issue, regardless of the season, though more prevalent in monsoon and shoulder periods. Building buffer days (at least two) into your itinerary in Kathmandu before and after the trek is a simple yet wise strategy to absorb such delays. This flexibility prevents missing international flights and reduces stress. AirHelp can assist with flight compensation claims.
Keep your passport and visa safe throughout your trip. Make several photocopies and store them separately. Also, keep digital copies on your phone and in cloud storage (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox) for ready access in case of loss or theft.
Costs differ significantly based on your travel style, from budget-conscious to luxury. The official currency of Nepal is the Nepali Rupee (NPR or Rs). The exchange rate fluctuates, but generally, 1 US dollar is approximately 130-135 Nepali Rupees. It is wise to check the current exchange rate closer to your travel date.
For the best rates, exchange major foreign currencies (USD, EUR, GBP) at authorized money exchange counters in Kathmandu. The airport offers exchanges, but rates are typically less favorable. ATMs stand ready in Kathmandu and Namche Bazaar. However, as you ascend higher along the trek, ATM access becomes non-existent, and reliable access to cash disappears. It is wise to carry sufficient Nepali Rupees for the entire trek from Namche Bazaar upwards, as higher villages only accept cash. Plan your cash withdrawal carefully in Kathmandu or Namche Bazaar. Credit cards receive acceptance in major hotels, shops, and some upscale restaurants in Kathmandu and Namche Bazaar. Beyond Namche, credit card payments are almost non-existent in teahouses or local shops. Cash is king on the trek.
~$45-80 USD/day (trek only)
~$85-150 USD/day (trek only)
~$170-270+ USD/day (trek only)
This breakdown offers an estimate of daily costs during the trek, excluding the significant expense of your international flight to Kathmandu and internal flights to Lukla, which are fixed costs for all styles.
