Nepal

Nepal is a remarkable country, nestled in the heart of the Himalayas between India and China. It is a place where ancient traditions blend harmoniously with breathtaking mountain landscapes, offering travellers a truly unique experience. Nepal is renowned for the world's highest peaks, including the legendary Mount Everest, and is the cradle of a centuries-old culture deeply rooted in Hinduism and Buddhism.

The nation's capital, the colourful Kathmandu, is a veritable open-air museum. Here, ancient temples, majestic stupas, and historic palaces are found at every turn, with Kathmandu Durbar Square being one of the most brilliant examples. Beyond the hustle of the capital, travellers are drawn to the picturesque city of Pokhara, nestled at the foot of the magnificent Annapurna mountain range and famous for its serene lakes. The atmosphere in Nepal is a unique combination of deep spirituality, sincere hospitality, and a spirit of adventure, whether trekking along legendary mountain trails, rafting down swift rivers, or practising peaceful meditation in secluded monasteries. When visiting religious sites, it is advisable to dress modestly, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered, out of respect for local customs.

Nepal's climate is strikingly diverse, ranging from humid subtropical conditions in the southern Terai plains to a harsh alpine climate in the high-altitude regions. This climatic variety allows for visits to the country almost all year round by choosing the most suitable region based on the purpose of the trip and personal preferences. For Muslim travellers, halal food options and prayer facilities are available in major tourist cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. Nepal leaves a lasting impression with its pristine natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and the remarkable warmth of its local people, making every journey here an unforgettable event.

The national currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (international code NPR). Banknotes of various denominations are in circulation, often featuring the country's iconic landmarks, mountains, and diverse local wildlife, such as yaks or rhinoceroses. Coins are also used but are mainly for small transactions.

You can exchange foreign currency, including the UAE Dirham (AED), for Nepalese Rupees at banks and licensed exchange offices, which are widely available in tourist centres such as Kathmandu and Pokhara. It is advisable to avoid exchanging money with street money changers due to the risk of fraud or receiving an unfavourable exchange rate. Credit cards (mainly Visa and Mastercard) are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas. However, for purchases at markets, in small shops, and during treks in remote regions, it is preferable to have a sufficient amount of cash on hand.

Travellers from the UAE, including both citizens and residents, require a visa to visit Nepal. However, the good news for many is that a tourist visa can be easily obtained on arrival. UAE passport holders are eligible for a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and at certain land border crossings. Alternatively, you can apply for a visa in advance online through Nepal's official immigration portal to save time at the airport, or by visiting the Nepalese Embassy in Abu Dhabi.

To enter the country and apply for your visa, you will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity from your date of entry. It is also recommended to have your return flight tickets, hotel booking confirmation, and travel insurance details on hand. As visa regulations can change, it is always best to check the latest information on the official website of Nepal's Department of Immigration or contact the Nepalese Embassy in the UAE before your trip.

When planning a trip to Nepal, you will not have to worry about changing time zones within the country. A single time zone, known as Nepal Standard Time (NPT), is observed across the entire nation. It is 5 hours and 45 minutes ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+5:45). For travellers from the UAE, this means Nepal is 1 hour and 45 minutes ahead of your local time.

This unique time zone, which differs from the standard hourly offsets used by most countries, means you will only need to adjust your watch once upon arrival. This simplifies planning transfers and activities, as the time in Kathmandu will be the same as anywhere else in Nepal.

There are several ways to get to Nepal, the land of the majestic Himalayas and ancient culture, but for most international tourists, flying is the most common method. The country's main gateway is Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), located in the capital, Kathmandu. For travellers from the UAE, there are convenient direct flights available. Airlines such as flydubai, Emirates, and Himalaya Airlines operate services from Dubai. Additionally, Air Arabia offers direct flights from both Sharjah and Abu Dhabi. Nepal Airlines also flies directly from Dubai to Kathmandu. Direct flights are also available from other countries in Asia (including India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore), the Middle East (such as Qatar), and some European cities. For travellers from other regions like North and South America or Australia, convenient connecting flights are usually offered through major Asian or Middle Eastern hubs.

As Nepal is a landlocked country, arriving by sea is not an option. However, for those travelling from neighbouring India, it is possible to cross the border by land. Several border crossings are open to tourists, with the most popular being Sunauli (from India) – Belahiya/Bhairahawa (from Nepal), Raxaul (India) – Birgunj (Nepal), and Kakarbhitta (Nepal) – Panitanki (India). Buses run regularly across these points, and taxi services are also available. There is no direct international passenger rail service to Nepal. Regardless of your chosen method of travel, it is strongly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially if your trip falls during the peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn), to secure the best prices and availability.

For your reference, here is a summary of the main airports:

Nepal is a country that captures the imagination with its diverse range of destinations. Here, you can find bustling, vibrant cities as well as serene mountain villages offering incredible views and unique trekking opportunities. Travellers are drawn to its ancient temples, rich culture and, of course, the majestic Himalayas, which create an unparalleled atmosphere of adventure and spiritual discovery.

Among the most popular destinations, the capital city of Kathmandu holds a special place. This city is the true heart of Nepal, where ancient traditions blend harmoniously with modern life. You will find numerous historical monuments, lively squares, and impressive temple complexes that immerse you in an atmosphere of antiquity. For Muslim travellers, Kathmandu offers a variety of halal food options, particularly in the Thamel and Durbar Marg areas. When visiting temples and sacred sites, a modest dress code is recommended as a sign of respect; this generally means covering shoulders and knees.

No less appealing is Pokhara, picturesquely situated at the foot of the Annapurna mountain range. This city is famous for its tranquil lakes, especially Phewa Lake, and serves as the starting point for many renowned trekking routes. A good number of halal restaurants can also be found here, especially in the Lakeside area. For those wishing to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of medieval Nepal, a visit to Bhaktapur is a must. This ancient city-museum boasts magnificently preserved architecture and the unique culture of the Newari people. Also worth visiting are Janakpur, an important religious and cultural centre, and Jomsom, which is popular with mountain hikers and adventure seekers in the Mustang region.

Nepal, a country of rich culture and breathtaking landscapes, offers travellers a wealth of amazing places to discover. From ancient temples to picturesque lakes, there is something for everyone. For visitors from the UAE, Nepal is a fantastic nearby destination for a unique cultural and natural escape.

One of the most iconic sites is Kathmandu Durbar Square. This is the heart of the old city, featuring ancient palaces, courtyards, and temples that showcase the unique art and architecture of the Newar people. The square is a UNESCO World Heritage site, allowing you to immerse yourself in Nepal's history. When visiting this sacred area, it is recommended to dress modestly, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered as a sign of respect.

For lovers of nature and tranquillity, a visit to Pokhara Lakeside is a must. This scenic area on the banks of Phewa Lake offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, including the famous Annapurna. Here, you can go boating, stroll along the waterfront, or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere. The Lakeside area is well-equipped for tourists, and Muslim travellers will find several halal food options available.

Another important shrine is the Bageshwari Temple. Dedicated to the goddess Bageshwari, this ancient Hindu temple is one of the most revered places in Nepalgunj, attracting pilgrims from across the country. It is known for its unique architecture and spiritual atmosphere. Visitors should be mindful of local customs and wear respectful attire.

Also worthy of attention is Patan Durbar Square in Lalitpur. Like its counterpart in Kathmandu, this square is the city's historic centre, astounding visitors with its beauty and abundance of ancient structures. You can wander for hours, examining the exquisite wood and stone carvings. As this is a religiously significant site, modest dress is advised. For Muslim visitors, major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara have mosques and prayer facilities.

Choosing the best time to travel to Nepal largely depends on your plans. The high season traditionally falls into two periods: autumn (from October to November) and spring (from March to May). In autumn, after the monsoon, the sky becomes crystal clear, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas, and the weather is warm and pleasant – an ideal time for trekking and climbing. Spring also sees comfortable temperatures as nature comes to life and the mountain slopes are covered with blooming rhododendrons. However, during these periods, you should expect a larger influx of tourists and, consequently, higher prices for accommodation and services.

The low season, or off-season, includes summer (from June to September), when the monsoon prevails in Nepal, and winter (from December to February). In summer, heavy rains are frequent, especially in the foothills and the Kathmandu valley, which can make travel difficult and trekking less comfortable due to high humidity and washed-out trails. Nevertheless, it is during this time that nature is particularly lush and green, and there are significantly fewer tourists. In winter, it is cold in the mountains and snow falls at high altitudes, making some high-mountain routes impassable. However, in valleys such as Kathmandu and Pokhara, the weather can be sunny and pleasant during the day, although the nights are cool. The advantages of the low season are fewer travellers and lower prices.

When planning your trip, you should also consider important Nepalese festivals. The biggest holidays, Dashain and Tihar, take place in autumn and offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. The colourful Holi festival is celebrated in the spring. The climate in Nepal varies greatly depending on altitude: from subtropical in the southern plains (Terai) to arctic in the high Himalayas. Therefore, before your trip, it is recommended to check the weather conditions for the specific region you plan to visit.

Nepal is a country with a rich culture and ancient traditions; respecting them will make your journey more pleasant and meaningful. When greeting locals, use the traditional "Namaste" by placing your palms together at chest level and bowing slightly. This gesture expresses deep respect. In conversation, try to be reserved; direct and prolonged eye contact, especially with elders, can be perceived as a challenge. Nepalese people are famous for their hospitality; if you are invited into a home, a small symbolic gift, such as fruit or sweets, is appropriate, but your sincerity is what matters most. It is important to remember that the left hand is considered "unclean", so always use your right hand to pass objects, food, or money. Also, avoid pointing at people or sacred shrines with your finger—it is better to use an open hand or your chin. Try not to step over people's outstretched legs or touch anyone with your feet, as feet are considered the lowest and "dirtiest" part of the body.

When visiting temples, monasteries, and other religious sites in Nepal, dress modestly: both men and women should have their shoulders and knees covered. Before entering a temple or a private home, you must remove your shoes. Walk around stupas and other sacred structures in a clockwise direction. You should only photograph people, especially monks or during rituals, after asking for their permission. At the table, if you eat with your hands (which is common, especially for traditional dishes like dal bhat), use only your right hand. Among the main festivals are Dashain—the longest and most significant festival, symbolising the victory of good over evil, during which families gather, exchange gifts, and receive blessings from elders—and Tihar. The latter is a colourful festival of lights dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi, as well as to brothers, sisters, and animals such as crows, dogs, and cows. Knowing and observing these simple rules will help you avoid awkward situations and show respect for Nepal's unique culture, making your interactions with local people warm and open.

Nepal offers travellers a unique range of entertainment, dominated by active recreation against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas. It is a true paradise for trekking and mountaineering enthusiasts, with routes of varying difficulty, from leisurely walks to ascents to the base camps of the world's highest peaks. Besides hiking, popular activities include white-water rafting on turbulent mountain rivers, canyoning, paragliding, especially around Pokhara, and safaris in the national parks of the Terai.

The cultural programme in Nepal is rich and distinctive. Visitors can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of ancient Hindu and Buddhist traditions by visiting numerous temples, monasteries, and stupas, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites, especially in the Kathmandu Valley. When visiting these sacred sites, respectful and modest attire is required, with clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Museums and art galleries introduce the country's rich historical and cultural heritage. As for shopping, souvenirs from Nepal typically include handmade items: warm cashmere shawls (pashminas), Tibetan singing bowls, ritual masks, silver and stone jewellery, traditional clothing, and, of course, aromatic Nepalese tea. The main shopping streets and markets are concentrated in the tourist areas of major cities, such as the capital.

Evening entertainment in Nepal is most vibrant in the tourist quarters, such as the Thamel district in Kathmandu. Here you can find many restaurants with live music of various genres, from traditional Nepalese to modern Western hits, as well as cosy cafes. For Muslim travellers, a number of certified halal restaurants serving local and international cuisine are available in major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. The capital city also has several historic mosques for prayer. For family holidays, Nepal offers a calm and educational experience: shared walks through picturesque natural landscapes, learning about local culture through craft workshops, and visiting temple complexes, which is an exciting adventure for all ages.

Planning a trip? Excellent! To ensure the financial side of your journey doesn't come as a surprise, it is important to remember that currency exchange rates are constantly changing. Therefore, we strongly advise you to monitor the latest rates both before your departure and throughout your trip. You can use the data provided below for this purpose — we monitor currency exchange rates 24/7 and strive to provide the most up-to-date information.