What Not To Do in Nepal: 22 Essential Nepal Tips

Last Updated on July 29, 2025

Nepal is home to busy cities, beautiful nature, markets, wildlife, and monuments, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, and Boudhanath Stupa.

I’ve traveled to Nepal three times. It’s a country I keep returning to because of the diversity of experiences there are to have there, from Nepalese cooking classes to trekking. 

So read on to discover essential travel tips for Nepal. You’ll learn about what you shouldn’t miss in Nepal, as well as important cultural customs, etiquette, and practical advice. 

Knowing what not to do in Nepal will help you have a smooth and memorable experience in this must-visit South Asian country. 

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What Not To Do in Nepal: 22 Important Tips To Know

Let’s dive into 22 must-know tips ahead of visiting Nepal.

1. Don’t Visit Nepal Without Knowledge of Current Events

Traveling to Nepal is an exciting experience for us as tourists, but it’s important to remember our privilege while there. Economically, life in Nepal is challenging for most local people. Nepal faces high inflation and economic strain post-pandemic, impacting daily life. 

Nepal also grapples with natural disasters. In 2024, heavy rains caused nationwide flooding and landslides, leading to 224 deaths, 24 missing persons, and significant damage.

In 2015, Nepal experienced a devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake that caused widespread destruction, killing nearly 9,000 people and injuring thousands more. 

The disaster destroyed homes, historical landmarks, and infrastructure, leaving a lasting impact on the country’s economy and rebuilding efforts, which are still ongoing in some regions.

While in Nepal, keep your travel privilege in mind, and do your best to give your tourism dollars to Nepalese businesses rather than foreign-owned businesses. This helps reduce economic leakage, ensuring that the money you spend in Nepal, actually stays in Nepal. 

2. Don’t Forget Essential Vaccines and Medications

There are specific vaccines that are recommended, as well as required, for visiting Nepal. However, the requirements vary depending on your home country, or where you are traveling to Nepal from. 

Ahead of your trip, visit your family doctor or a travel clinic to discuss what vaccinations may be needed or recommended. 

Parts of Nepal are considered an active malaria zone. You’ll want to discuss with your physician or a travel clinic whether taking anti-malarial medication is right for you. 

3. Don’t Forget To Check Entry Requirements

Before entering Nepal, check the entry requirements for your nationality. Citizens of many countries (including Canada) can visit Nepal for up to 90 days without a visa, but you will need to obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or through an e-visa application online.

If you are eligible for an e-visa, you can apply a few days in advance, which is quicker and more convenient than obtaining a visa on arrival.

For some nationalities, a visa on arrival is available, but it’s recommended to apply online beforehand to save time. Be sure to verify the specific requirements for your nationality before your trip to Nepal.

I believe you can pay for your visa using a credit card, but every time I’ve entered Nepal (including twice in 2024), I’ve opted to pay cash using USD. 

4. Don’t Only Visit Nepal to Go Trekking

Nepal is famous for trekking. People come from all over the world to trek to Everest Base Camp, or to trek in the Annapurna mountain range. The views while hiking in the Himalayas are absolutely incredible and worth experiencing. 

But! There is so much more to experience in Nepal beyond trekking. You can spend hours wandering busy markets in Kathmandu, go paddling out onto Phewa Lake in Pokhara, visit a homestay in the mountains, see wildlife in Chitwan National Park, or visit one of Nepal’s many UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Bhaktapur Durbar Square – which are part of what Kathmandu is famous for.

Visiting Nepal only for trekking in the mountains means you’ll experience only one part of Nepalese life. If you’re planning a trip to Nepal, try your best to add at least one extra week to experience other aspects of the country. 

5. Don’t Trek Without a Guide 

In Nepal, trekking without a licensed guide has been illegal since April 2023. The government introduced this into law for the safety of tourists, and to support local employment.

Guides ensure your trek is safe by navigating challenging trails, managing permits, and assisting in emergencies. 

Aside from the safety benefits, trekking with a guide gives you a chance to make a local connection. 

You’ll have the opportunity to chat with your guide, learn about their life and perspectives, and build a relationship. 

Hiring a trekking guide in Nepal helps you connect with the region on a deeper level (it’s a great approach to deep travel!) and provides a reliable safety net in Nepal’s unpredictable mountain terrain. Plus, it directly supports Nepal’s economy and the livelihoods of skilled professionals. 

Views on the Poon Hill Trek

6. Don’t Forget Your Trekking Permits

Trekking permits are required in Nepal to regulate tourism, ensure safety, and help protect the environment in popular trekking regions. They also support conservation efforts and local communities. 

The TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) permit is mandatory for all trekkers in Nepal to ensure safety and track trekking activity. 

Available in individual and group forms, it is valid for the entire trek and issued by the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN). Your TIMS card costs $10-$20 USD per person. 

You’ll likely also need to pay a national park fee for your trek. All high-altitude treks in Nepal occur within national parks or conservation areas. The fee is around $25 USD and paid one time.

While it’s possible to arrange all your permits and fees yourself, the trekking guide that you hire will be able to take care of it for you. 

Views on the Poon Hill Trek

7. Don’t Carry Large Bills 

Nepal’s currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Nepalese rupees come in various denominations, and you’ll most commonly encounter notes denominated in units of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 rupees.

While traveling in Nepal, you’ll often want to buy small items like street food, drinks, or souvenirs from local markets. You’ll also need cash for meals, taxis, and accommodations in many places.

Although credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and tour agencies, most shops, vendors, and taxis prefer cash.

It’s a good idea to carry small bills in Nepal, as daily expenses are affordable, and vendors often can’t provide change for larger denominations.

8. Don’t Barter for Unfair Prices

It’s okay to be budget conscious while traveling Nepal, as long as you don’t go overboard with your budgeting practices, and you follow best practices for responsible budget travel. 

In Nepal, bartering prices is a common practice, mainly in markets. Many shops have prices listed on items. 

What’s also common is the “tourist tax.” This is a colloquial term for when locals in a place charge higher prices when foreigners buy their goods versus other locals. 

For example, many taxi drivers in Nepal will quote a price for tourists that is higher than what a local would pay.

Some travelers are upset by the tourist tax. But I think that it’s fair that locals maximize their income by setting prices based on what a buyer can afford. 

If a person has the means to travel, and is benefiting off of the strength of their home currency, paying a slightly higher price is reasonable.

If you can afford to travel, then you can afford to pay prices that are fair. And yes, that fair price may be more than what a local would pay. 

In practice, it is good to barter in Nepal in the markets, but do so in a respectful and fair way. I recommend asking the initial price, and then barter down just once or twice from there. 

9. Don’t Photograph People

An important thing not to do in Nepal has to do with taking photos. 

As with traveling anywhere, it’s important to be intentional and respectful when taking pictures or videos, and to follow the best practices for creating and sharing responsible travel content.

In Nepal, be sure to ask for permission when taking photos of people. If you plan to share a photo of a person to your social media, or any online, public platform, it’s important to have explicit consent to do so. 

When you meet children, avoid the urge to take photos of them. Young children aren’t able to consent to having their photo taken like an adult is, and it’s inappropriate to take their picture without permission from the child’s parent.

When taking photos of the streets, markets, temples and countryside of Nepal, be aware of who might end up in the frame of the photo. Wait a moment until local people are out of the frame before snapping the image. 

It’s also important to think about what a photo depicts. Sharing images of poverty, children, or less developed communities for self-gratification is an unfortunate symptom of the White Saviour Industrial Complex. 

10. Don’t Disrespect Religious Sites

What not to do in Nepal? Disrespect religious sites. While in Nepal, you’ll have the opportunity to visit religious Hindu and Buddhist sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Boudhanath Stupa.

It’s important to be conscious of dress code when visiting religious sites. Show respect by following these practices – Note that some of these practices apply only to Hindu temples.  

All temples: 

• Dress modestly: Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
• Be quiet and respectful: Maintain a calm and quiet demeanor; avoid loud conversations.
• Follow photography rules: Always check if photography is allowed, and never take pictures during religious ceremonies without permission.
• Avoid touching religious items: Don’t touch statues, shrines, or other sacred objects unless permitted.
• Remove shoes: Look for signage instructing you to take off your shoes before entering the temple premises. When you do take your shoes off make sure they are facing the right way up (Nepali superstition!). 
• Respect prayer times: Give space to worshippers and avoid interrupting rituals or ceremonies.
• Carry small offerings: Bringing small offerings like flowers or incense is a thoughtful gesture but not mandatory.

When visiting Buddhist temples, be sure to walk clockwise around stupas or prayer wheels, as a sign of respect.

When visiting Hindu temples, ask before entering, as some temples are restricted to only Hindus. Sometimes there will be signage indicating this, but otherwise, check with a local.

11. Don’t Drink Tap Water in Npeal

It’s best to drink filtered or bottled water while traveling in Nepal. You don’t want to end up with a stomach bug that impacts your trip.

When eating at food stalls and restaurants, it’s best to buy bottled water, or bring your own filtered water. One solution is to bring a filtering water bottle with you to Nepal. 

Filtering your own water is a sustainable tourism practice because it will reduce how much plastic waste you generate.

There are various systems to choose from that suit different needs, but all systems have the same function: they filter contaminants out of water, making it safe to drink. 

There are tons of options to choose from. Lifestraw and Grayl are both popular ones.

12. Don’t Skip Local Nepalese Cuisine

Basically everywhere you go in Nepal you’ll find Western meal options. What not to do in Nepal, though, is eat Western food the whole time. 

Nepalese food is delicious and healthy, and so be sure to try it! To get you started, here are three local dishes or meals to look out for.

Momo (Dumplings): Momos are a popular Nepalese dish, often steamed or fried, and filled with minced meat, vegetables, or a combination of both. They’re typically served with a spicy dipping sauce called achar, making them a flavorful snack or meal. Don’t miss trying momo with traditional buffalo meat filling!

Dal Bhat: This staple dish consists of lentil soup (dal) served with steamed rice (bhat), accompanied by sides like vegetables, pickles, and sometimes meat. It’s a nutritious and satisfying meal that most local folks eat daily.

Sel Roti: A traditional Nepalese rice flour doughnut, sel roti is lightly sweet and crispy on the outside while soft inside. It’s typically served for special occasions, like during festivals or religious holidays. 

13. Don’t Ignore Dining Customs

There are a few dining customs that are important to know while in Nepal. 

Eating with your right hand: In Nepal, it’s customary to eat with your right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean. Use your right hand to pick up food, especially when dining on traditional dishes like dal bhat. Cutlery is often optional for traditional meals.

Sharing food etiquette: Avoid sharing food from your plate or drinking from someone else’s cup. It’s best to serve portions separately when dining with others.

Thankfulness and gratitude: Express gratitude for the meal by saying “Dhanyabad” (thank you). Compliments on the food are appreciated, especially when dining at someone’s home.

14. Don’t Skip Getting Mobile Data

Most hotels have wifi throughout Nepal, but having mobile data available is convenient for when you’re out for the day and don’t have wifi access.

You have two good options for getting mobile data while in Nepal. Your first option is to purchase a physical SIM card. 

To do this, you have to find a vendor selling prepaid local SIM cards, and then go through the process of purchasing and enabling the SIM. 

You can purchase a local SIM card when you arrive at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport. Both major providers, Nepal Telecom (NTC) and Ncell, have counters in the baggage claim area and just outside the customs exit.

Your second option is to purchase an eSIM. An eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card that you can load into your device. 

With an eSIM, there’s no need for a physical SIM. Esims work exactly like traditional SIM cards, enabling your phone to connect to cellular networks and access mobile data. And eSIMs come with many benefits!

Unlike physical SIMs, eSIMs can be remotely activated, allowing you to easily switch between mobile carriers or plans.

You don’t need to visit a storefront to buy an eSIM, you can purchase them online. The information needed to activate your eSIM is then sent to you over email or via an app.

You can get online easily with a quick-to-install eSIM through Airalo. What I appreciate most about Airalo’s eSIM is its simplicity. You can quickly select and activate an Airalo eSIM for whichever country you are headed to. Selecting, downloading, and activating your eSIM takes less than 5 minutes, and it’s easy to top up your eSIM if you run out of data.

You can get started with an Airalo eSIM, right here. 

Snacks for sale in a market in Kathmandu, and Swayambhunath

15. Don’t Forget to Pack the Right Clothes

Nepal’s climate varies because of its diverse geography, which ranges from the tropical lowlands to the cold Himalayan peaks. 

The best times to visit are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild, with clear skies that are ideal for trekking. 

Summers (June-August) are monsoon season, bringing heavy rain, especially in the lowlands, while winters (December-February) are cold, particularly in the mountains. 

Pack lightweight clothes for warmer regions, layers for varying temperatures, and a waterproof jacket for rain. If trekking, sturdy boots, thermal wear, and a hat are essential. Always check the weather for your specific destination within Nepal.

16. Don’t Forget to Tip Generously

Tipping in Nepal is a common practice in the tourism industry.

Nepal has faced challenges in recent years, from the aftermath of the 2015 earthquake to the economic impacts of the COVID pandemic. Although the country is recovering, many Nepali people still face economic difficulties, with inflation affecting daily life.

While tipping is not required, the average salary in Nepal is much lower than in countries like Canada or the US. If you have the means, tipping guides, drivers, and hotel staff is a great way to show appreciation for their service.

17. Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance

What not to do in Nepal? Visit without travel insurance! Travel insurance is essential to pack for every single trip. 

Insurance coverage provides support, compensation, and medical care when things go wrong while you’re abroad.

Policies for travel insurance vary, but they can provide support and compensation if your luggage is lost, if you slip and break a bone, or if you need to return home because of an emergency in the family. 

Travel insurance is an important financial safety net for your valuables and for emergencies, so don’t forget it when you go to Nepal. 

18. Don’t Skip Public Transport 

Nepal has a public transport infrastructure that leverages a network of buses and flights. 

There’s no need to book bus trips in advance, unless you’re particular about going with a specific bus company. You can simply go to the bus station or bus stand, and ask around until you find a bus heading to where you’re going. 

Domestic flights run all throughout Nepal, typically several flights a day. It’s always a good idea to book flights in advance just to be sure you get the time and route you want, however, we often booked our flights just one or two days in advance, and never had issues. 

19. Don’t Skip Learning Some Nepalese

You’ll find that many people throughout Nepal speak English. We found that we rarely had issues communicating with people we met. 

But, knowing some basic Nepalese is a nice way to show respect, and communicate with people who may not know English. Here are some basics words to get you started: 

• Namaste – Hello / goodbye.
• Dhanyabad – Thank you.
• Ho / Hoina – Yes / no.
• Kati Ho – How much is it?

Views on the Poon Hill trek, and on a boat in Pokhara

20. Don’t Skip Staying in a Homestay

A homestay provides an opportunity to do exactly what the name suggests: stay in someone’s home in Nepal rather than a hotel or hostel. And staying in them comes with many unique benefits!

In most homestays, you sleep in your host’s home, eat with them, spend time in their community, and learn from them.

Others are less involved. You live alongside your host, with the chance to observe their daily life. Regardless of the type of homestay you visit in Nepal, staying in one will give you insight into how the locals there live. 

On my last trip to Nepal, my partner and I visited Barang Village Community Homestay. This homestay is about an hour from the city of Pokhara, in a small village.

Had we not booked to spend a few days at this homestay, we wouldn’t have known to visit the village of Barang. The village isn’t a tourist ‘destination’ – it doesn’t have hotels or tourist infrastructure. It’s really only by booking into the homestay that you can visit Barang. 

During our stay with our host family in Barang, we helped with daily chores and activities. We learned about (and participated in) daily tasks, like collecting fresh leaves for the buffalo to eat, and cooking meals over a fire. 

Our stay included a walking tour of the village. Our local guide taught us about the village’s traditions and way of life. 

By the time we left Barang, we were sad to say goodbye to our host family. Despite a language barrier, we developed friendships, and lifelong memories from the time we spent with them. 

If you’d like to visit Barang Village Community Homestay, you can contact them, here. 

For more homestay options, check out the Community Homestay Network – They list homestays that are available all throughout Nepal.

21. Don’t Overlook Cultural Norms and Traditions

Depending on where you’re traveling to Nepal from, you might find that the culture and traditions are different from what you’re used to at home.

Take the time to learn about Nepal’s customs and traditions, and be respectful of them. For example, in Nepal, people traditionally dress modestly, especially in rural areas and at religious sites.

When visiting Nepal, you can show cultural respect by wearing loose-fitting clothing that covers the upper arms, knees, and back.

Another important custom in Nepal is dining etiquette. Many traditional meals are eaten with the hands instead of with cutlery, and it’s customary to use only the right hand for eating.

22. Don’t Culturally Appropriate

Cultural appropriation is when a person adopts elements of a culture that is not their own. It becomes controversial when members of a dominant culture appropriate from disadvantaged minority cultures.

Examples of cultural appropriation include when white people wear dreadlocks, or non-Indigenous people wear Indigenous dress as a halloween costume.

Cultural appropriation is a complex issue with lots of gray areas. And since much of travel revolves around experiencing and learning about other cultures, it can be tough to figure out what is and isn’t cultural appropriation while abroad.

But it isn’t impossible. When in Sri Lanka, consider the following to figure out if you are appreciating local culture, or appropriating it. 

• Consider whether you’re participating in a tradition, or wearing traditional clothing, out of honor or imitation.
• Consider whether you are aware of the significance, meaning, and history of the tradition or clothing. 
• Consider the situation: are you participating in a cultural tradition or wearing cultural clothing? Being invited to participate is key. 
• Think about whether you are participating to learn about a culture, or to perpetuate a stereotype.

Thinking about whether your actions in Sri Lanka are respectful, and considering the context you’re in, as well as your overall motivations, are all important when thinking about whether you are culturally appropriating.

Final Thoughts: What Not to Do in Nepal

I hope these tips for what not to do in Nepal help you plan a worry-free, memorable trip to this beautiful Himalayan country.

I wanted to share these tips because I truly believe that being an informed tourist is the best way to be a responsible tourist! Especially as Nepal’s tourism industry grows, these tips are important to keep in mind. 

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