Things To Know Before Arriving in Nepal

Overview

The cultural and historical center of South-East Asia is Nepal, the land of the Great Himalayas and the birthplace of Buddha. It borders northerly China and west, southerly and eastward India. A dozen big ethnic groups are residing together in this community, speaking a hundred distinct languages and dialects, while the two main faiths in the country, Hinduism and Buddhism, intertwine and merge. Nepal is a desirable place to be, due to its philosophical treasures, spiritual way of living, ancient literature and majestic mountains.

Nepal offers sightings of Medieval palaces, monasteries and Hindu shrine as a cultural and historical destination in Asia. Trekking, rafting, and mountaineering are offered by the endless adventure options in high Himalaya and mighty rivers.

Geography

It is hardly surprising to find that Nepal has been dubbed the most multidimensional country on earth, as it has an attractive diversity, from snow-capped mountains to tropical rain forest, from crustic old bazars to chichi designer boutiques, calm temperatures to festivals, from rural settlements to techno-favoured urban hubs. Nepal is geographically sandwiched between China and India, spread through various picturesque landscapes. The total area of Nepal is 147 181 sq. Nepal. Km from north to southern Himalayans at latitude 26 ° 12' to 30 ° 27' North and at longitude 80 ° 4'-88 ° 12' Southern Indo-Gangetic lowlands.

Nepal has lowlands in the south, relatively low mountains and mountains in the west and mountain area in the north. Topographically, Nepal has lowlands in the South. Regions in Terai, Siwalik (Chura Bhavar), Middle Mountain, High Himalayas is separated on the basis of a range of environmental conditions. Terai is situated in the northern section of the Indo-Gangese plain, almost 800 km east-west.

Siwalik is also classified as the Churia Hills and ranges from 700 and 1500 meters. The Middle Mountain is also known as the range of Mahabharat, which extends from 1,500 to 2.700 meters over 65 percent of the total land area. The great rivers of Nepal, Kosi, Gandaki, Karnali and Mahakala, at many junctions cross the middle range. High altitudes vary from 2,200 and 4,000 meters, including schist and quartzite natural resources. The soil here was not very weather resistant.

In the high Himalayas, the total land area of Nepal occupies 16%, with a height of between 4,000 and 8,848 m. This region accommodates the eight of the highest peaks in the world; Mt. Everest[ (8848 m], Kanchanjunga[ 8586 m], Lhotse[ 8516 m], Cho Oyu[ 8201 m], Dhaulagiri[ 8167 m], Mt. Makalu[ 8463 m], Manaslu[ 8163 m] and Annapurna I[ 8091 m].

CLIMATE & WEATHER

Nepal has two distinct seasons, a dry period from October to May and a mountainous season of June to September. There are two different seasons. October to May is the typical walking season. The nights in the mountains may be very cold during hiking season, but the sun is bright and provides pleasant temperatures up to about 25 ° C, falling to 5 ° C at night, 1000 m to 3500 m. Temperatures at higher altitudes range from around 20 ° C to -10 ° C. Mornings are usually clear and then afternoon clouds can build up to show spectacular stern skies in the evening.

Summer (June, Jul and Aug) is monsoon after May and rain and visibility are a problem. Mornings are usually clear with sometimes afternoon gloomy cloud build-ups. Treks may last from 2 days to one or more months, and the first thing you should do is choose a journey that fits your time and physical condition. You also need to combine trekking for the region in which you want to trek with the best time and avoid the crowds that attract good weather.

Social Conventions & Custom of Nepal

Be careful to respect local customs: never walk over a individual's feet; never give food and drink you tasted or bit; never take anything left hand, or use your right hand or both. You can do anything with your left hand. It's unheard-of referring to a leg (or even a foot) human or statue.

It often says ' yes ' as you shake your head. As entering homes, especially kitchens or shrines, footwear should be removed. Don't bend around anyone who feeds. Shaking hands is not a traditional way to greet, but rather bringing hands together in a motion that is like reverence (Namaste).

Casual wear is appropriate except for the most formal or social meetings. However, you may not appreciate bikinis, shorts, bare shoulders and backs. When bathing, men just remove their shirts. Open public relations, particularly in the vicinity of religious sites, are unacceptable. Before entering the temple, seek permission and do not bring leather goods in.

Photo: Always first request permission. In general, temples and festivals are outside allowed, but not in religious ceremonies or temples; but the only way to be certain that the offense is not committed is to ask first and accept the answer.

Several religions and faiths in Nepal have been fused and exist at the same time. Nepal is a "Unity in Diversity" nation. Nepal is unique in the world with many diverse customs and traditions owing to this richness of community. Traditions and rituals are an integral part of daily life in Nepal. Nepal's culture is a major attraction for the tourists.

A Nepalese tends to practice various customs and traditions right from birth to death. It has a ceremony almost any time in Nepal (born, engaged, married, deceased and so on).

Following are some of the Nepalese customs:

Birth Ceremony

A ritual for naming the infant is performed immediately after the birth of a child. A priest says that the name of the infant will begin with in the first alphabet.

Traditional Welcome

Nepaleses believe in the word ' Atithi Devo Bhava,' which indicates that a visitor represents Him. The guest is garlanded on the traditional reception and a tika (million) is placed on his / her front. Even the Ministry of Tourism of Nepal started the campaign for' Atithi Devo Bhava' to raise awareness of Nepal's rich culture and traditions.

Wedding Ceremony

Marriages adopt numerous practices and traditions in Nepal with great fanfare. The wedding in Nepal is not only one day's business; it requires 3-4 days or more.

Namaskar/Namaste

Namaste with hands united on the chest is the most popular way of salutation, especially for seniors. It is also used when you say goodbye.

Lighting Lamp/Diyo

A fire / diyo is lighted before the altar of God in almost every Nepalese household. In the evening, several citizens even light the light.

Prostrating Before Parents and Elders

Nepalese prostrate by touching their feet before their parents, elders and teachers. On the other side, the elders put their hand on the head of the prostrators and praised them.

Death Ceremony

After a person dies, the cremation is conducted according to some traditions. Certain days when death, the practices begin.

Only some of Nepal's customs and traditions were mentioned in the above lines. The Nepalese festivals are also important opportunities to follow different customs and rituals. Come visit Nepal to learn more about the other fascinating aspects of the customs and rituals of Nepal.

Electrical Plug/Outlet and Voltage Information for Nepal

The power of its equipment, as well as different plugs, is 220-240 volts and 50 MHZ. Some other nations are using only 110-120 volts of electricity. You will need a travel connector adapter in order that your connection will not suit the outline of these sockets. Adapters for travel plug simply change the shape of the plug to suit whatever kind of socket you need to attach to. If it is important that you can plug in anything, bring a adapter for both kinds.

Rules of Thumb for Appliance Voltage Compatibility

There is no "ordinary" electrical input / output for electric appliances, it's important to realize. The information below is simply a guideline for your individual brand and model and may or may not be correct. You can only check for your particular device.

In Nepal, electric plugs are two to three round shafts but not flat shafts as used in the U.S. or other countries.

You will require a Travel Plug adapter to plug in when your appliance plug does not match the shape of these sockets. Travel connector adapters simply change the configuration of the connection for your computer to suit either sort of plug. Carry an adapter for both styles if it's important to be able to plug in anything.

In such cases you will have either a tight-turn adapter (electric converter), or a plug adaptor for your journeys, most of the time, if you plan on taking a hair dryer, electric raspberry, curling irons, laptop computer or other electrical devices on your journey. Most of the moving voltage adapters transform 220-240 to 110-120, which can be used by the US and similar devices. On the other hand, a plug adapter allows you to connect to an external outlet.

You may only need one or two (volt converters or link adapters) in certain nations, but you may need both in Nepal. Note: If you travel to more than one country, you may need many different plug adaptors, but one voltage adapter is all right in one country.

If you plan to use many electronics, we recommend you to use a universal adapter and converter kit. It is sold in many retail, transportation and online shops. Nearly any laptop and some electric razors are supplied with uniform voltages. To be sure, test your computer. You can consider purchasing another model which takes universal voltage, to avoid carrying a heavy and bulky voltage adapter. If you have an electrical shaver that is your only device with you. Please make the proper use and upgrade with the device manufacturer.

Nepal has no steady flow of electricity. Power frequently goes off. Fluctuation in voltage is very common and an adapter with a quality protection for your electronics is recommended.

During dry seasons, the power supply (load shedding) is out for hours, but hotels and companies cover their energy needs by fuel cells and generators, so that electricity cannot be adequately generated during Nepal to meet demand.

NOTE: You can find any of the transformers, plug adapter and converters to buy in Kathmandu and other major cities easily.

Primary Socket Types in Nepal:

Nepal/India, Euro plug, i.e. with round two prongs or three prongs

For Multi-voltage appliances (laptops, etc.) your need: A plug adapter

For 110-120V electronics your need: Plug adapter + step-down transformer

For Hair dryers, curling irons, etc your need: Plug adapter + voltage convert

Passport and Visa Requirements

A visa is required for all foreigners at access Nepal (except Indian citizens). You have to receive the visa for admission. You will arrive at a Nepalese Embassy abroad or in Nepal upon arrival. Upon entry to Kathmandu airport, most people receive their visas.

You will need one passport photo and the following fees dependent upon the duration of the multiple entry visa:

In Nepal you will require a visa which can be obtained in advance from the Nepalese Embassy from your country or you can get on arrival at the airport in Kathmandu.

Multiple entry 15 days US$ 25 or equivalent convertible currency

Multiple entry 30 days US$ 40 or equivalent convertible currency

Multiple entry 90 days US$ 100 or equivalent convertible currency

You will require visa fee in cash (this is payable in any major currency but NOT travellers cheques) and 2 passport photos to purchase a Nepal visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport or at the Nepal entry point.

Please note regulations and costs do change frequently so it is advisable to check the current rules with your nearest Nepalese embassy or consulate.

Travel Tips

(a) All baggage must be declared on arrival and departure.

(b) Certain goods including cameras, videos and electronic goods may only be imported duty-free if they are exported on departure. They may not be left in Nepal.

(c) Export certificates need to be obtained from the Department of Archaeology for the export of any metal statues, sacred paintings and similar objects.

Prohibited Exports

It is illegal to export goods over 100 years old.

Nightlife

In Kathmandu there is no wild-nightlife scenery, but around Thamel and the city's 5-star hotels are many late-life bars and nightclubs some with live music. Some restaurants offer traditional Newari dance shows for tourists and some casinos are available. Catch Hd video blockbuster at Thamel-round restaurants or seek Hindi film at movie theatres.

Shopping in Nepal

Whether you're looking for a shopping heaven, Kathmandu is a perfect place to blend modern and traditional stories. Visit the best accessory shops and exhibitions, exclusive items and works of art, to get people home from multi-ethnic development. In Nepal, the remarkable choices in craftsmanship are extremely popular worldwide. The excellent creative designs and workmanship was exceptional. Some crafts have religious meaning too, and many are actually intended for religious purposes.Nepal ranks high in producing iron, brass, silver or gold sculptures and statuettes. Exquisite wood sculptures are very challenging and whole beds made of wood are sold to the west at a snappy amount. The wood sculpted windows are extremely popular and regularly exported. Recently rice paper products were very popular and a huge number of funny hats are exported. The renowned Gurkha or Khukura, priests ' axes, stone statues, singing cups, masks made of paper, thangka and powdery, pashmina, tapestrys, ornaments, etc. Many souvenir items are known.

Trek/Tour advice

Walking the Himalaya advice to trekkers: use licensed guides and porters only; be careful about matches around wooded or grassy areas since forest fires can cause serious damage; be economical with all fuel, especially local firewood (campfires are not recommended); trekkers are strictly forbidden to cut any green forest reserve or kill any wildlife; use washing and toilet facilities provided or, if none are available,make sure to be at least 30 meters away from any water source; use biodegradable items as much as possible; when visiting temples or Buddhist shrines, respect local religious customs (see Social Conventions in the Travel Tips section); take necessary precautions when suffering from altitude sickness (for details, see the Health section).