This article answers the most common questions you may have when planning your trip to Nepal. It will be regularly updated to help you prepare your departure in the best possible conditions!

General Information

Do I need travel insurance when visiting Nepal? While not mandatory, travel insurance is absolutely recommended for any trip. You could face substantial medical bills in case of hospitalization or health issues. It's also important to know that in Nepal, search and rescue helicopters won't take off unless they're certain they'll be paid for their services.

This is why, if you book a trek through an agency, insurance will always be required—ensuring your journey unfolds under the best possible circumstances.

How do I get to Nepal? Traveling from Paris to Nepal is straightforward. Multiple airlines serve Kathmandu daily. Expect round-trip fares around €600 in low season, with slightly higher prices during peak periods in spring and autumn. Shopping around for both price and flight duration is worthwhile. You can also reach Nepal from India or Tibet, entering through various border checkpoints scattered around the country.

Do I need a visa to enter Nepal? Yes, but obtaining one is remarkably simple. You can apply online at www.consulat-nepal.org or directly upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. You'll need a passport valid for at least 6 months, an identity photograph, and funds depending on your stay's length. For detailed information, consult our article on visas!

What's the arrival process at Tribhuvan Airport? After clearing immigration, collecting your luggage, and passing customs, you'll exit the terminal. A representative from Bluesheep Journeys will be waiting with a nameplate. They'll escort you to a vehicle heading to your hotel or our office, where you'll receive a briefing on your stay and its organization. If you prefer not to use agency transport, taxis await outside the airport—be sure to negotiate the fare, typically around 300 rupees to reach central Thamel.

What do I need for my electrical devices? Nothing special! Nepal uses 220V–240V current with Type C outlets (Type D are less common). While infrastructure in Kathmandu Valley has improved significantly, power cuts remain possible, especially in remote regions. If you have rechargeable devices (camera, phone, etc.), consider bringing a power bank or solar charger. Learn more in our dedicated article on electricity!

What communication options are available in Nepal? While the country continues developing, telecommunications infrastructure lags in remote trekking areas. Most villages do have phone access.

Internet is available in cities near Kathmandu Valley, becoming scarcer the further you venture. Some lodges offer satellite-based connectivity—you can even access the internet at Everest Base Camp this way!

Is it easy to find food and water in cities? Absolutely. Food is abundant, delicious, and very affordable. Discover Dal Baht, Momos, and many other specialties blending Indian and Chinese cuisines.

Water is readily accessible, but tap water requires caution. Follow basic hygiene rules to stay healthy:

• Never drink tap water, and avoid fruits or vegetables washed in it unless peeled. Skip raw salads too.
• When buying bottled water, verify the seal is intact.
• If forced to use tap or river water, boil or purify it with tablets beforehand.

What about food during treks? Finding meals during treks is equally straightforward. Most villages you pass through have small restaurants, usually in teahouses. Lodges also offer meal options. With Bluesheep, three daily meals are included in your total trip cost. If you prefer self-catering, meals are payable on-site in Nepali rupees.

What climate and temperatures should I expect? Weather isn't predictable, especially at altitude! Still, Nepal's climate generally follows consistent patterns: harsh, very dry winters; mild, dry springs and autumns; hot, rainy summers. Altitude will influence conditions, but the best visiting periods are spring (March–May) and autumn (mid-September–November).

What souvenirs should I bring home from Nepal? Countless authentic Nepali items make memorable souvenirs! In all tourist neighborhoods you'll find Khukuris (curved knives), Thangka (Tibetan paintings), jewelry of all kinds, Buddha statues, prayer flags, tea, and spices. Consider Indian-inspired clothing like Saris and Pashmina shawls, or instruments such as Bansuris and Madals. Thamel has shops stocking everything—always negotiate and reject overpriced offers, as tourist scams are common.

Booking & Services

Can the agency book my international flights? No, but we provide all the tools to find the best flight at the best price. However, if you need flights to India, Bhutan, Tibet, or domestic flights within Nepal, Bluesheep can arrange those on request.

Can I do an activity not listed on Bluesheep's website? Absolutely! During registration, you'll provide a Skype address. We'll use it to communicate and personalize your journey to match your desires, schedule, and preferences. Feel free to suggest unlisted activities—we'll do our best to accommodate subject to feasibility and availability. The earlier you request, the better your chances of securing your preferred activity at the best price.

Is it possible to add extension trips or excursions? Bluesheep Journeys adapts to your wishes. Want more? Just ask! We can arrange bespoke cultural stays for the curious or extreme activities for adventurers. Contact us for details. Interested in exploring Tibet, India, or Bhutan? We can organize your stay there too.

Do I need permission to trek? Yes, you'll need a trek permit, priced by destination. Treks in Annapurna or Sagarmatha National Park (home to Everest) include permit costs in your booking. Remote, sensitive regions like Dolpo or Mustang require special permits.

During Treks

Can I trek alone? It's possible but highly inadvisable, especially on difficult or rarely-traveled routes. Many people face difficulty in Nepali national parks annually due to poor knowledge of paths, terrain, and weather. Competent guides and porters ensure your safety navigating Himalayan landscapes. They know what to do during natural disasters or health crises and make sound decisions so you enjoy your trip stress-free. They're also essential for treks requiring special permits, like Mustang Valley.

Do I need trekking experience? No formal training required if you're reasonably fit. If you're not athletic, some cardiovascular conditioning helps. Simple habits—skipping elevators or walking short distances—build fitness easily. Remember: you'll walk 4–6 hours daily for one or two weeks depending on your itinerary, covering significant elevation gain at altitudes that can be challenging. Good physical conditioning lets you enjoy your Nepal trek to the fullest!

What equipment is necessary for my Nepal trek? You'll need specific, appropriate footwear and clothing, plus health and hygiene essentials. Depending on your trek, Bluesheep Journeys can rent bags containing necessary gear (sleeping bag, down jackets, trekking poles, oxygen, etc.). Camping treks include equipment bags in the price.

You'll need three bags:

• A main trek bag with essential equipment (rentable). A porter carries this.
• A personal bag for your belongings (sunscreen, camera, water, snacks, etc.).
• A bag staying at your hotel in Kathmandu or Pokhara, holding items unnecessary for trekking.

What if I have health issues? There's nothing to worry about with a competent guide and solid insurance coverage. For minor problems, your guide can provide appropriate medication. Bring your own medications if you have allergies. If you can't continue—broken leg or severe diarrhea, for example—a helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu can be arranged.

What is altitude sickness? If you're breathless, develop a headache, or feel dizzy, alert your guide immediately—these could signal altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), occurring when ascending too quickly above 3,000m. Take a break and drink plenty of water. If symptoms persist, descend a few hundred meters and let your body acclimate. Should symptoms intensify or continue despite descent, your guide will arrange helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu for medical care.