Pokhara Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local SIM Cards & Internet

Staying connected and communicating effectively in Pokhara is easy with area resources.

Connectivity Options

Providers: Ncell and Nepal Telecom (NTC) are major mobile services.
Purchase: SIM cards at airport or shops; require passport copy and photo.
Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes in The lakeside.

Language & Communication Tools

Overcoming language barriers in Pokhara.

Essential Language Information

Official Language: Nepali is the official language.
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
Translation Apps: Google Translate app (with offline Nepali packs) is useful.

Business Hours & Banking

Operating Schedules

Shops: Generally open 9 AM to 8 PM, some in Lakeside stay open later.
Restaurants: Typically operate 7 AM to 10 PM or 11 PM in tourist areas.
Banks: Most open 10 AM to 4 PM, Sunday through Friday.

Cultural Norms & Etiquette

Practices

Greeting: "Namaste" or "Namaskar," hands pressed together with a slight bow.
Attire: Dress modestly, especially at religious sites (shoulders and knees covered).
Photography: Always ask for permission before photographing people.

Important Phrases & Cultural Sensitivities

Essential Nepali Phrases

Namaste/Namaskar: Hello/Greetings (nah-mas-teh/nah-mas-kar)
Dhanyabaad: Thank you (dhun-ya-baad)
Kati ho?: How much? (ka-tee ho)
Maaph garnuhos: Excuse me/Sorry (maaf gar-noo-hos)

Taboos & Considerations

Feet: Do not point your feet at people or religious objects.
Affection: Avoid public displays of affection.
Head: Do not touch someone's head; it is considered sacred.
Topics: Approach discussions of politics or religion with caution.

Traveler's Tip: Stay Prepared

Always carry some local currency and be aware of holiday closures. For seamless airport experiences, consider Priority Pass for lounge access, and Compensair for flight disruption claims.

Accessibility & Airport Services

Information to make the journey smoother regarding access and airport facilities.

Mobility Challenges

Infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is generally poor; sidewalks are uneven or obstructed.

Accessible Services

Limited accessible attractions and transportation. Some newer luxury hotels may feature accessible rooms.

Specialized Support

Specialized services for visual or hearing impairments are limited. Face-to-face with providers is advisable.

Public Holidays & Closures

Nepal observes numerous national and religious holidays throughout the year.

Impact on Services

Services may be limited or closed on major holidays like Dashain and Tihar.
Banks and government offices are usually closed on these days.
Check a local calendar for holidays during your visit.

Seasonal Considerations

Seasonal variations can influence service availability and travel plans.

Off-Season Travel

Monsoon season (June-August) may bring minimal amenities.
Remote guesthouses or trekking routes may have temporary shutdowns.
Always check ahead if planning off-season travel to remote areas.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Societal Context

Nepal is a conservative society.
Legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals exist.
Public acceptance and understanding can differ, specifically in rural areas.

Public Behavior

Public displays of same-sex affection are uncommon.
Cultural sensitivity and discretion are advisable.
Research local conditions further if this is a concern.

Travel Planning

For eSIM options, check out Airalo for convenient digital connectivity. For reliable portable Wi-Fi, explore Solis Wi-Fi solutions. Consider a language learning platform like Rosetta Stone to learn essential Nepali phrases.

Emergency & Health Information

Essential contacts and advice for health and safety.

Local Emergency Numbers

Familiarize yourself with useful contacts in an emergency.

Emergency Contacts

Police: 100
Fire Brigade: 101
Ambulance: 102

Medical Facilities

Pokhara has several hospitals and clinics for health concerns.

Healthcare Options

Major Hospitals: Western Regional Hospital, Manipal Teaching Hospital.
Clinics: Smaller clinics and pharmacies are common.
Pharmacies: Widely available for common medications.

Health Precautions

Preventative measures contribute to a healthy trip.

Stay Healthy

Water: Drink only bottled or filtered water.
Food: Eat at reputable establishments, avoid uncooked street food.
Mosquitoes: Use repellent, especially during monsoon.

Safety Tips

Maintain awareness of your surroundings for a secure visit.

General Safety

Valuables: Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
Solo Travel: Be cautious when traveling alone at night.
Transportation: Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.

Travel Insurance & Assistance

Insurance Coverage

Medical Emergencies: Coverage for illness, injury, and evacuation.
Trip Interruptions: For lost luggage, cancellations, or delays.
Adventure Sports: Ensure coverage for trekking, paragliding, etc.

Emergency Assistance

24/7 Helpline: Contact information for your insurance provider.
Claim Procedures: Understand how to file claims while traveling.
Consular Services: Know your embassy or consulate details.

Local Customs & Interactions

Dining Practices

Tipping: Appreciated although usually not mandatory; check for service charges.
Service Charge: Some restaurants include a 10% service charge on the bill.
Local Cuisine: Do not refuse food if offered, even if it is a small portion.

Community Engagement

Giving: If you wish to donate, do so through established NGOs.
Shopping: Support local artisans and businesses.
Questions: The residents are generally friendly; approach with courtesy for assistance.

Stay Safe and Healthy

Prioritize your well-being by being informed on health precautions and safety guidelines. Carry travel insurance and know how to access assistance in emergencies.

Transportation & Getting Around

Navigate Pokhara and its surroundings with ease using available transport options.

Local Transport

Options for getting around within Pokhara city limits.

In-City Travel

Taxis: Widely available, negotiate fare or use meter if available.
Motorbikes/Scooters: Available for rent, good for independent exploration.
Local Buses: Cheapest option, frequently crowded and less convenient for tourists.

Inter-City Travel

Connecting Pokhara to other major destinations in Nepal.

Long-Distance Options

Tourist Buses: Connect Pokhara with Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Lumbini.
Domestic Flights: Quick links to Kathmandu and Bhairahawa (for Lumbini).
Private Cars/Jeeps: Can be hired for comfort and flexibility.

Trekking Transport

Getting to and from trekking trailheads near Pokhara.

Accessing Trailheads

Shared Jeeps/Buses: Common for popular trailheads like Nayapul, Phedi.
Taxis: Directly to most starting points, more costly but convenient.
Walk: For closer trailheads, some opt to walk part of the way.

Rental Services

Independent travel with your own vehicle.

Vehicle Rental

Motorbikes/Scooters: Many rental shops in Lakeside, typically daily rates.
Cars/Jeeps: Can be rented with or without a driver, check licenses.
Bicycles: Available for shorter rides around Lakeside and nearby areas.

Airport Services in Pokhara

Pokhara International Airport

Serves domestic and limited international flights, located just beyond downtown.

Taxi Services

Taxis are readily available outside the airport for transfers to Lakeside or other areas.

Information Desk

An information desk can assist with queries about flights and getting around locally.

Seamless Journeys

Select the transportation options that best fit your spending plan and travel style for moving both within Pokhara and throughout Nepal. Always confirm fares or rental terms in advance.

Pokhara Travel Tips