Pokhara Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Essential Preparations

Planning Timeline

Follow a chronological timeline to complete all required tasks before departure.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Plan your trip systematically with these suggested timeframes.

1

Months Out

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months). Research visa requirements for your nationality.

Flights & Research

Book international flights to Kathmandu. Begin researching major activities and accommodation in Pokhara.

Health Check

Schedule a general health check-up and discuss travel vaccinations.

2

Month Out

Visa & Domestic Travel

Apply for Nepal visa if needed. Book domestic flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

Accommodation & Insurance

Secure accommodation, especially for high season. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

Itinerary & Permits

Plan a rough itinerary for Pokhara. Obtain trekking permits (TIMS/ACAP) if trekking.

3

Week Before

Reconfirm & Pack

Reconfirm all bookings. Pack your bags according to climate and activities.

Finances & Connectivity

Inform your bank of travel plans. Arrange for local SIM card or check roaming options.

Documents & Home

Gather all digital and physical copies of important documents. Secure your home.

Required Advance Bookings

Plan ahead for a smooth travel experience.

Reservations

International Flights: Book well in advance for best prices.
Domestic Flights: Book flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara, especially during peak season.
High-Season Accommodation: Reserve preferred hotels or b&bs if traveling during peak tourist times.
Popular Trekking Permits: Obtain your TIMS bank card and ACAP permit in advance, either within Kathmandu or Pokhara, if you plan a trek.

Pre-Trip Research

Empower your journey with knowledge.

Recommended Research Areas

Trekking Routes: Research your chosen route thoroughly, including daily itineraries, elevation gains, and required gear.
Cultural Etiquette: Review area etiquette for considerate dealings.
Travel Advisories: Check recent travel advisories from your government for any safety or health updates.
Home Preparation: Secure your home, arrange pet care, and manage mail/bills.

Home Preparations

Attend to home matters before you depart.

Security Measures

Secure your home by locking all doors and windows.
Use timers for lights to deter unwanted attention.
Activate any home security systems.
Entrust a spare to a trusted neighbor.

Household Management

Arrange for pet care during your absence.
Organize plant watering schedules.
Set up a mail hold or ask a neighbor to collect mail.
Empty all trash bins to prevent odors.

Financial & Utilities

Pay any bills due during your absence.
Unplug unnecessary electronics to save energy.
Adjust thermostat to an energy-saving setting.
Turn off main water supply if away for an extended period.

Important Reminder

Always check the latest travel advisories and health recommendations before your trip.

Arrival Checklist

These initial steps facilitate your smooth entry into your Pokhara adventure.

First Steps in Nepal

1
Kathmandu Airport (KTM)
Complete visa-on-arrival, clear immigration, and collect luggage. Proceed to the domestic terminal if connecting to Pokhara.
2
Pokhara Airport (PKR)
Take a pre-booked taxi or find one at the stand outside the terminal to your accommodation.
3
Orientation
Upon reaching Pokhara, get a local SIM card, exchange currency, and orient yourself with a map of Lakeside.

Immediate Needs

Currency Exchange
Exchange enough currency for taxi fares, food, and initial purchases.
Essential Purchases
Buy bottled water and any immediate snacks you need.
Transportation to Accommodation
Use a pre-booked airport transfer or a licensed taxi for a hassle-free journey to your hotel.

Arrival Information

Kathmandu Process

Upon arrival at KTM, efficiently complete your visa and immigration process before collecting your luggage.

If you have a connecting domestic flight to Pokhara, locate the domestic terminal promptly.

Pokhara Welcomes You

From Pokhara International Airport (PKR), taxis are available to take without an intermediary to your accommodation.

Pre-arranging your transfer can save time and for a smooth start to your stay.

Getting Oriented

Grab a local map of Lakeside to get your bearings and find nearby restaurants and attractions.

Consider getting a local SIM card early to assist with route planning and communication during your stay.

Traveler's Tip

Keep all travel documents, including passport, visa, and flight confirmations, readily accessible upon arrival.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to make a stress-free exit from Pokhara and Nepal.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs well in advance of your departure.
If you have large items, inquire about shipping options from local shops or postal services.
Nepal does not have a formal VAT refund system for tourists.
Verify that all your travel documents are in order for your departure.

Departure Timing

Domestic Flight Check-in1 hour prior
Bus Departure Check-in30 minutes prior
International Flight Reconfirmation24-48 hours prior
Airport Transfer BookingDay before departure

Final Checks

A few last minute considerations for your exit.

Luggage & Valuables

Check baggage allowanceAirline guidelines
Protect your valuablesCarry-on bag
Remove any prohibited itemsBefore airport security
Keep liquids accessibleFor security checks

Return Trip Preparation

Reconfirm your international flight details and departure time.
Arrange transportation from Pokhara to Kathmandu Airport if flying out of KTM.
Verify passport and visa requirements for your next destination or home country.
Confirm all travel documents for a smooth international departure.

Seamless Departure Tips

Double-check your flight status and allow ample time it takes to get to the airport, especially during peak hours.

Keep a small amount of local currency for last-minute purchases or airport necessities.

Pokhara Travel Checklist

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