Nepal is a truly remarkable country, with breathtaking mountain walks and a culture deeply rooted in spirituality and tradition. If you are a first-time visitor to Nepal, take a moment to read our Nepal travel tips to ease you into the local culture and help you know what to expect.
Dining in Nepal
Dining in Nepal offers a rich culinary journey that blends tradition with refinement.
- Expect beautifully spiced yet mild dishes created with fresh, local ingredients, like the national staple dal bhat (lentils, rice, and vegetables) and flavourful momo dumplings.
- In upscale restaurants and boutique lodges, traditional meals are elevated with gourmet presentation and quality.
- The country’s diverse food culture ranges from elegant takes on street favourites to curated tasting menus featuring regional specialties.
- Paired with fine teas, local spirits like raksi, and exceptional hospitality, Nepal’s food scene provides a culturally immersive yet comfortable dining experience.
- Dietary requirements are easily catered for, however foods like nuts and dairy are often used in production, so please ask if you are unsure
Image below, the warm dining space at The Pavilions Himalayas Lakeview, Pokhara.
Visiting Shrines and Temples in Nepal
When visiting temples and shrines in Nepal for the first time, it’s important to observe local etiquette to show respect for the country’s deep spiritual traditions.
- Always remove your shoes before entering, dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees). Carrying a scarf or shawl and wearing socks (if uncomfortable barefoot) are small but helpful preparations for a smooth and respectful temple experience.
- Walk clockwise around stupas and shrines and avoid loud talking, public displays of affection, and touching religious objects or offerings.
- Photography is often restricted inside temples, so ask for permission before taking photos, especially of people or rituals.
- In some Hindu temples, like Pashupatinath, non-Hindus may not be allowed inside the inner sanctum, though you can usually observe from outside.
- Greeting others or acknowledging the sacred space by pressing your palms together in a prayer gesture is welcomed.
If you are ever unsure, your guide will assist to ensure you have a pleasant experience.
Image below, Namo Buddha Monastery, near Kathmandu.
Cultural Tips for first-time visitors to Nepal
When visiting Nepal, it's important to be mindful of local cultural etiquette to show respect and connect meaningfully with the people. Respect for elders, religious traditions, and personal space is highly valued, and a humble, friendly attitude will be warmly received throughout your journey. Tips to remember:
- Greeting others with a respectful Namaste is customary in Nepal and is widely used in both formal and informal contexts. This greeting, accompanied by the traditional gesture of pressing the palms together at chest level, is appropriate and respectful for individuals of all genders and ages.
- It is customary and expected to remove your shoes before entering homes and religious sites, such as temples, as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
- When giving or receiving items, using the right hand is considered polite and proper.
- Public displays of affection are generally regarded as inappropriate and are discouraged, particularly in more conservative or rural areas.
- Physical contact with others should be approached with caution, and it is considered disrespectful to touch or step over people, especially within sacred spaces such as temples, where maintaining reverence and personal space is important.
Image below, prayer flags near Muktinath, Mustang Valley.
General Nepal Travel Tips
Tipping
Whilst tipping is not compulsory in Nepal, it is greatly appreciated especially within the tourism sector. As a general guideline it is recommended to tip the following amounts:
- USD$5-10 per day for guides
- USD$4-$8 per day for porters
- USD$4-$8 per day for private drivers
Currency and Cash
Nepal’s official currency is the Nepali Rupee (NPR), and cash remains the most widely used form of payment throughout the country, especially outside major cities. While larger hotels, upscale restaurants, and some shops in Kathmandu and tourist hubs like Pokhara may accept credit or debit cards, many smaller businesses, markets, and rural areas operate on a cash-only basis. ATMs are available in cities and popular tourist spots but can be scarce in remote regions and trekking areas, so it’s wise to carry enough cash when travelling outside urban centres. Currency exchange is easy to find at banks, authorized exchange counters, and airports, but always ensure you use official services to avoid counterfeit notes. Overall, having Nepali Rupees in hand will make your travel smoother and help you navigate daily transactions with ease.
Wi-Fi and Mobile Data
Wi-Fi is widely available in Nepal, especially in urban areas and popular tourist destinations like Kathmandu and Pokhara. Most mid-range to luxury hotels, cafes, restaurants, and guesthouses offer free Wi-Fi to guests, making it easy to stay connected. However, the quality and speed can vary, connectivity might be slower or intermittent in remote or mountainous regions, including many trekking routes. If you will be needing consistent internet access, purchasing a local SIM card or ESIM with a data plan is a popular option, as mobile networks like Ncell and Nepal Telecom provide good coverage across much of the country.
Power Outlets and Plugs
In Nepal, the standard voltage is 230 volts and the most commonly used power plugs are Type C, Type D, and Type M:
- Type C: Two round pins (common across Europe)
- Type D: Three large round pins in a triangular pattern (often found in India and Nepal)
- Type M: Like Type D but with larger pins, often used for heavy appliances
Many hotels and guesthouses in tourist areas may have sockets compatible with multiple plug types, but it’s advisable to bring a universal travel adapter if you’re traveling from countries with different plugs (like North America or the UK).
The Nepal Tourism Board offers a helpful First-Time Visitor Guide if you’d like to learn more ahead of your journey: https://ntb.gov.np/. We are also here to help with any questions you may have.
Walk into Luxury’s Nepal journeys combine hand-selected luxury lodges and boutique hotels with immersive cultural experiences, guided treks in the Himalayas, and authentic dining. Discover our Luxury Tours of Nepal below.
