Nepal General Information

Overview

Area: 1, 47,181 square kilometers

Geography: China is in the north and in other three directions is India. Nepal is divided into three main geographical regions: Himalaya Region, the altitude of 4,877 meters to 8,848 meters is included in Himalayan region. Mountain Region, the altitude down from 4,877 meters to lower Churia range is included in mountain region. Tarai Region, the low land of Nepal is called Terai region

Capital: Kathmandu

Population: 27.80 million

Official Language: Nepali

Currency: Nepali Rupee

Political system: Federal Democratic Republic, Multi Party System

Religion: Nepal is a secular country. Majority of Nepali are Hindu but other religions, including Buddhist, Muslim and Christian, also equally exist in Nepal

History: Before 1768 AD, there were more than 200 small kingdoms in Nepal. The Kathmandu valley was ruled by Malla dynasty. In 1768 AD, there was a campaign of national integration lunched by King Prithivi Narayan Shah who unified and made modern Nepal. The monarchy exists no longer in Nepal.

Entry and exit points in Nepal

International airport, Kathmandu
Kakarbhitta, eastern Nepal jointed with India
Birgunj, central part of Nepal Jointed with India
Kodari, central part jointed with Tibet China
Belhia, western part close to Lumbini and jointed with India
Jamunaha, mid-western part, jointed with India (on the way to Bardiya National Park)
Mohana, far-western part, jointed with India (on the way to Bardiya National Park)
Gadda Chauki, far-western part, jonted with India (on the way to Bardiya National Park)

Some Do’s & Don’ts in Nepal

‘Namaste’ is the form of gretting in Nepal. Namaste is performed by joining two palms together. The first word our guests would hear in Nepal is ‘Namaste’.
We take off the shoes before entering the Nepalese homes, temples and monastries.
Touched food/drinks is considered as impure in Nepal. Do not use the same spoon,fork and hands in Nepali people’s food or plate which is already used by you. Do not eat from their plate and drink from their bottle or glass.
In village area, please avoid skimpy outfits.
Get a permission before entering the Hindu temples as westerners are not allowed to enter and take photographs in some Hindu temples.

Nepal – Complete Detailed Information

1. Introduction
Nepal, officially known as the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a small yet culturally and geographically diverse nation in South Asia. Positioned between two global giants—China to the north and India on all other sides—Nepal serves as a unique cultural crossroads and natural wonderland.
It is globally recognized as the home of Mount Everest, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, and a land of ancient traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and incredible biodiversity.

2. Geography of Nepal

Nepal has an area of 147,516 square kilometers and stretches approximately 885 km east to west and 145–241 km north to south. Despite its small size, Nepal’s landscapes vary drastically within short distances—from lowland jungles to the highest peaks on Earth.

Geographical Zones
Nepal is divided into three major geographic regions:

A. Himalayan Region (15% of total area)

Elevation: 4,000–8,848 meters+

Contains 8 out of the world’s 14 highest peaks, including:

Mount Everest

Kanchenjunga

Lhotse

Makalu

Cho Oyu

Climate: Alpine to Tundra

Population density: Very low

Key Areas: Khumbu, Mustang, Manang, Dolpa

Economy: Tourism, yak herding, medicinal herbs

B. Hilly Region (68% of total area)

Elevation: 600–4,000 meters

Characterized by green hills, valleys, rivers, terraced farms

Major cities located here: Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Dharan

Climate: Mild, temperate

Economy: Agriculture, tourism, commerce

C. Terai Region (17% of total area)

Elevation: 60–600 meters

Flat fertile plains of the Ganges Basin

Known as Nepal’s farming and industrial hub

Climate: Hot and humid

Key Cities: Biratnagar, Janakpur, Birgunj, Nepalgunj

Economy: Agriculture, industry, trade with India

3. Climate

Due to extreme altitude variation, Nepal has diverse climatic zones:

Climatic Zones of Nepal
Tropical (Terai)

Subtropical (lower hills)

Temperate (mid-hills)

Subalpine (upper hills)

Alpine (mountain region)

Tundra (high Himalaya)

Seasons

Spring (March–May): Clear skies, flowers bloom

Summer/Monsoon (June–September): Heavy rain, humid

Autumn (October–November): Best weather; peak trekking season

Winter (December–February): Snow in mountains, cool in hills

4. Population

Approximate population: Around 30 million

Ethnic groups: 125+

Languages spoken: 120+

Major ethnic groups: Chhetri, Brahmin, Magar, Tharu, Tamang, Newar, Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, Gurung

Urbanization is rising rapidly, especially in Kathmandu Valley.

5. Language

Official Language: Nepali
Written in Devanagari script

Spoken nationwide

Other Major Languages

Maithili

Bhojpuri

Tharu

Newari (Nepal Bhasa)

Tamang

Magar

Gurung

Limbu

English is widely used in business, education, and tourism.

6. History of Nepal

Ancient Period
Nepal’s history traces back to ancient Kirat, Gopal, and Mahispal dynasties.

Lumbini is the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha) around 563 BCE.

Medieval Period
Ruled by Malla kings who built magnificent temples and palaces.

Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan were independent kingdoms.

Unification

King Prithvi Narayan Shah united Nepal in 1768.

Monarchy & Democracy
Ruled by Shah dynasty for centuries

Transitioned to democracy in 1951

Became a Federal Democratic Republic in 2008, ending 240 years of monarchy.

7. Government & Administration

Government System
Federal Democratic Republic

Executive: Prime Minister

President: Ceremonial head

Administrative Division

7 Provinces

77 Districts

753 Local Units

Metropolitan Cities

Sub-Metropolitan Cities

Municipalities

Rural Municipalities (Gaunpalika)

8. Economy of Nepal

Key Sectors
A. Agriculture (Main sector)
Employs majority of population

Major crops:

Rice

Wheat

Maize

Millet

Vegetables

Tea, Coffee, Spices

Livestock: Cattle, buffalo, goats, yaks

B. Tourism

One of Nepal’s largest industries

Attractions: Trekking, mountaineering, safaris, cultural heritage

Popular regions:

Everest

Annapurna

Langtang

Mustang

Dolpo

C. Hydropower

Nepal has huge hydropower potential (~80,000 MW)

Many rivers like Karnali, Koshi, Gandaki

D. Remittance

A major contributor to Nepal’s GDP

Millions of Nepalis work abroad in Gulf countries, Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, Europe, and beyond.

E. Industry

Small and medium industries:

Textiles

Carpets

Cement

Steel

Food processing

Handicrafts

9. Culture of Nepal

Nepal’s culture is one of the world’s oldest, deeply influenced by Hinduism and Buddhism.

Festivals

Nepal celebrates dozens of festivals every year.

Major Festivals:

Dashain – 15-day Hindu celebration

Tihar – Festival of lights

Holi – Festival of colors

Buddha Jayanti

Teej – Women’s festival

Maghe Sankranti

Chhath (mainly in Terai)

Losar – Tibetan & Himalayan New Year

Traditional Music & Dance

Madhesi folk music

Newari masked dances

Sherpa traditional dance

Instruments: Madal, Sarangi, Bansuri

Clothing

Daura Suruwal, Dhaka Topi – Men

Gunyu Cholo, Sari – Women

Sherpa, Newar, Gurung clothing vary by culture

10. Architecture

Nepal’s architecture is world-famous for its beauty and detail.

Styles

Pagoda Style – temples with tiered roofs

Stupa Style – Buddhist domes (e.g., Swayambhunath, Boudhanath)

Shikhara Style – tall temple towers

Newari Architecture – wood carvings, courtyards, red brick buildings

UNESCO Heritage Sites

Kathmandu Durbar Square

Patan Durbar Square

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Swayambhunath

Boudhanath

Pashupatinath

Lumbini

Changu Narayan

11. Tourism in Nepal

Top Tourist Attractions
Mount Everest
Highest mountain on Earth (8,848.86m)

Located in Solukhumbu district

Lumbini
Birthplace of Buddha

Spiritual center with monasteries from many countries

Pokhara
Lakeside city

Gateway to Annapurna region

Popular for paragliding, boating, sunrise views

Chitwan National Park

UNESCO site

Home to tigers, one-horned rhinos, elephants

Bhaktapur and Patan
Ancient cultural cities with temples, palaces, and festivals

Mustang

Known as “the last forbidden kingdom”

Desert-like landscapes, ancient caves

Adventure Activities

Trekking

Peak climbing

Mountaineering

Paragliding

Rafting

Bungee jumping

Mountain biking

12. Biodiversity

Nepal is ranked among the most biodiverse countries in the world.

Wildlife
Royal Bengal Tiger

One-Horned Rhinoceros

Snow Leopard

Red Panda

Himalayan Tahr

Gharial Crocodile

Asiatic Elephant

Flora

6,500+ flowering plant species

250+ endemic plants

Dense tropical jungles to alpine meadows

National Parks & Conservation Areas

Chitwan National Park

Bardiya National Park

Sagarmatha National Park

Langtang National Park

Annapurna Conservation Area

Makalu Barun National Park

Shey Phoksundo National Park

13. Nepalese Cuisine

Nepal’s food varies by region and culture.

Popular Dishes

Dal Bhat – Rice, lentils, curry

Momo – Dumplings

Thukpa – Noodle soup

Newari Cuisine – Bara, Yomari, Chatamari

Sel Roti – Sweet rice donut

Gundruk – Fermented leafy greens

14. Transportation

Modes of Travel
Domestic flights (due to hilly terrain)

Roads, buses, microbuses

Tourist coaches

Cable cars in some regions

International airport: Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu

15. Education & Literacy

Education system: School (1–12), undergraduate, postgraduate

Growing number of universities: Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu University, Pokhara University, etc.

Literacy rate improving steadily across the country.

16. Important Facts About Nepal

Only country with a non-rectangular flag

Contains the highest number of Himalayas in the world

Home to Mount Everest

Birthplace of Lord Buddha

Rich in hydropower potential

Among the world’s richest biodiversity zones

Known for warm hospitality and unique culture

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The initial price based on 1 adult with the lowest price in low season

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Backpack (50 liters) with outside pockets to keep smaller items
Trekking boots, well broken in and waterproofed. Gaiters to keep snow out of boots
Woolen sweaters and down jacket, gloves, wind proof outer garments, pants jacket, skirts, T-shirts, shirts, baggy pants and underwear
Several pairs of woolen and few pairs of nylon socks. A pair of sandals
Sleeping bag adequate for temperatures encountered
Hat with wide brim and sun lotion cream
One liter water bottle and some food for contingencies
Repair and medical kit
Head lamp with spare lithium batteries and bulbs
Handkerchief and toiletries
Verified phone number of your Embassy, consulate ,trekking agency and private phone number of your director
Pen, pencils and letterhead to write an emergency message
Pocket knife with opener and scissors
Sunglasses with spare eyeglasses or contact lenses if you wear them
Umbrella and rain coat
Camera

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Important Information Before Your Trip to Nepal

Payment: Down payment: 15% of total payment is required to confirm the reservation.

Payment of the Balance: Rest amount can be paid in our office after your arrival.

Arrival Point: You will be met at the Kathmandu international airport. Our office representative will be waiting for you holding play card of the Nepal Mountain Lovers Treks and Expedition. In case of your change plan, please let us inform.

Booking Air Ticket: If you don’t have regular travel agent, please visit makemytrip.com, www.kayak.com, www.vayama.com. They offer you very good price.

Room System: Normally we have two people in a room. Twin bed or single bed depends on the choice of guests and budget. If tourists want single room, s/he should pay single supplementary.

Trekking Leading Person: Our trekking guide will lead the whole trip with his/her helpers and porters.

Currencies: USD, AUD, EURO are major acceptable currencies in Nepal and visa and credit cards also accepted. There is ATM facility in city area.

Altitude Sickness: Altitude sickness will start from 3000 meter height. Trekkers should immediately inform trekking guide if faced any problems.

Drinking Water: We can get mineral water and boiled water in city area and in some trekking places. We use water purification tablet or liquid in some remote trekking sites.

Laundry Facility: Laundry facility are available in city area but not during the trekking.

Visa: You can get arrival visa at Kathmandu airport that cost 25 USD for 15 days and 40 USD for 30 days. Please bring 2 passport size photos. You can get your visa from the closest Nepali embassy.

Orientation Program: Before starting trekking, trekkers are provided with an orientation by our office representative or trekking guide about the necessary trekking information.

Group Size: There will be maximum 12 persons in one group.

Accommodation: You will stay in a nice tourist standard hotel/resort in city areas. Normal hotels or tents are available during the trekking.

Foods: We provide breakfast, lunch, dinner. Tourists can get continental food both in city and trekking places. Food during the trekking might not meet the standard of your country.

View of Mount Everest: Trekkers to Everest region will of course see the Mount Everest. For trekkers visiting other regions where they cannot view Mount Everest, there are daily mountain flights which approach close to Mount Everest.

Travel Insurance: It is compulsory to have travel insurance.

Personal Expenses: It depends on your spending interest and shopping. There are some expensive handmade carpets, Thanka paintings, jewelries and handicrafts to purchase in Nepal.

Luggage: We take only about 10kg per person in trekking. Your excess baggage will be stored in a hotel.

Tips: Tips are highly accepted and appreciated.

Rules and Regulation

Nepal Mountain Lovers Treks and Expedition accepts your reservation under the following rules and regulations.

1. If the balance payment is not paid before your departure for trekking, the booking will be cancelled without any refund.

2. If there is war or the situation of the country is out of control and the country faces emergency situation before your arrival to Nepal, we inform you not to come Nepal and refund your payment. But in case of any emergency situation or war after your arrival or during the trekking, we will not refund your money. But we will try our best to make your trip successful and pleasant. In such situation, we may need to change the trip plan and itinerary.

3. In case of increase in government royalty and other costs such as the national park fee, you have to pay extra money.

4. If you commit any illegal act or disturbance for the safety and welfare of the group, our leader or guide can ask to leave the group without any right to refund.

5. If you have any complain with regards to trekking and tour please inform our tour leader or company. All kinds of valid complain are welcomed and processed with necessary actions.

6.You are responsible to ensure that all travel documents are with you during the entire trip.

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   Nepal Mountain Lovers Treks and Expedition (P.) Ltd. Day Tours
   29 Tripadvisor reviews 
  
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   A Zaz C 
 
 
 
   Climbing Mera Peak: An Unforgettable Adventure with Nepal Mountain Lovers
I climbed Mera Peak with Nepal Mountain Lovers in April 2024, and it was one of the best trips of my life. Nepal is a land of magic, and the Nepalese people are kind, supportive, and welcoming. Tara, the organizer, has all these qualities and more. My sherpas, Wanglee and Gyalje, were incredible. Wanglee and I had so much fun on the way up to Khare and all the way back to Kathmandu.The accommodation, food, weather, and scenery were all fantastic. I'm already looking forward to another adventure with them in the future. I have full confidence in Tara and his organization, and I highly recommend them to everyone. Thanks a lot, my friend, and see you again soon!
  
 
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Vasudevan B 
 
 
 
   Exceptional, Awesome and Amazing
We are thrilled to share our extremely positive feedback about Nepal Mountain Lovers company, particularly regarding our experience with Tara and his team. Our group, consisting of 10 individuals from South India (some of us came from Melbourne, Australia (South India Origin)), embarked on a pilgrimage trip. Given our specific requirements for flights, accommodation, and food, Tara not only ensured that we had a memorable journey but also became a true friend to us. He effortlessly made us feel as though we were being guided by a trusted friend or family member. Tara took the time to understand our food preferences and always made arrangements to meet our needs, even when we made last-minute requests like wanting to do a motorbike ride on the hills. Thanks to his extensive knowledge of Nepal, our trip was made easy and stress-free.Recognising that many of our parents were elderly, Tara went above and beyond to organise the necessary facilities to accommodate their needs. Every aspect of our trip, from coordination to planning, was meticulously arranged. Throughout the 9-day trip, each day proved to be exceptional.Towards the end of our journey, we encountered unexpected challenges due to forest fires, resulting in the cancellation of flights from Jomsom and Pokhara. However, Tara swiftly arranged alternative transportation, ensuring our safety and ensuring that none of our planned activities were missed. It was disheartening to witness other travelers from other agencies stranded at the airport, while we were well taken care of by Tara and his team.We were delighted with the exceptional service provided by Tara and his team at Nepal Mountain Lovers. Should we have the opportunity to visit Nepal again, we would not hesitate to seek their services. In fact, my friends and I are already considering another adventure with Tara, particularly to the base camp.We wholeheartedly recommend Tara and Nepal Mountain Lovers to anyone seeking adventure, a pilgrimage, or simply a chance to admire the stunning mountains of Nepal. Their professionalism, expertise, and dedication are truly commendable.
  
 
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Vicki L 
 
 
 
   The beauty of the Himalayas in the best of hands!
We learned so much sightseeing even if we only had 2 days to visit Kathmandu, Tara, our city guide, was the best and knew exactly what to focus our attention on. We even had the privilege to participate in a cultural evening with Nepalese foods and traditional dance from various ethnic groups like the Sherpa and the Tamang. Wow! Hindouisme and Buddhism come together peacefully and colorfully in the capital city of Nepal! So many temples, stupas, monuments to honor Hindu gods or Buddha. A rich history to say the least that was very well presented to us!Tara also organized our 13 day trek to and from Everest base camp. He found us the best guide, Bishal, and local porters for our adventure. We are a Canadian family and we were with our 3 children, our youngest is 9 and we also have a 12 and 14 year old. We felt very safe and well advised all along the way. We discovered much about the food, the culture, the Buddhist monuments and the mountains thanks to our guide. When we were on our way back from EBC (yes we made it!) and needed some changes made regarding our flight back for example the communication was clear and efficient with both our trek guide and Tara.I highly recommend Nepal Mountain Lovers Treks and Expedition. The logistics of travel for our trekking expedition and the human connection with our guides were all in place to facilitate this unique experience. We have been blessed to have been able to witness the power and beauty of the Himalayas while in the best of hands!
  
 
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Maria 
 
 
 
   Very
Tara was accommodating, from the intial emails and calls until we arrived there. He was flexible as I changed my mind several times during the planning process. He personally accompanied us during the tour and it shows he is a very experienced guide/ owner. He has done a lot of the treks himself so you feel secured with him. Overall what a positive experience booking with this company!
  
 
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Evgenia R 
 
 
 
   Nepal Mountain Lovers Treks and Expedition (P.) Ltd. Day Tours
Tara is a very experienced and knowledgeable guide. We felt very safe and we would love to go back and do rafting with him.
  
 
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Marco 
 
 
 
   I will come back!
I was a solo traveller in a fabulous trekking organized by Mr. Tara in the first week of December, great period to go to the Everest region if you want to stay clear off tourist crowds. Everything was perfectly organized, was handled with professionalism, overall, my trekking experience was beyond my expectations. The package included airport pickup and drop-off 2 days in a very good 3 star hotel in Kathmandu, a round trip ticket Kathmandu-Lukla-Kathmandu, a cultural program, a price, and many other facilities usually given to large groups. My trekking started as for any tourists, from Lukla airport with Mr. Dipak, a very professional and experienced guide and also a great travel mate, open to any kinds of conversation all along the trek that lasted around 12 days. I added 2 extra days to visit Kathmandu guided by Mr. Tara who also helped me to get a special price for my extra days’ accommodation. I am a very happy and super satisfied trekker who keeps on recommending Mr. Tara’s agency, to friends and acquaintances. What I found really amazing, is I felt like travelling together with my best friends. I am going to repeat it adding Imja Tse peak.
  
 
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Marianne7310 
 
 
 
   Fabulous private tour with Tara
I definitively can recommend doing the one day private tour in Kathmandu valley with Nepal Mountain Lovers. We got the most for little money! !!The tour was very interesting as our guide Tara has an excellent knowledge about Kathmadu, Nepal and its sights. Within a day we explored the traditional city of Kathmandu, visited impressive temples, palaces and other fabulous points of interest.As we wanted to benefit the most, Tara even extended the time without charging more!Thank you Tara for the great day.
  
 
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   yvespil 
 
 
 
   Trek to Everest Base Camp and Visit of Kathmandu
My son and I have had a wonderful trek to Everest Base Camp superbly organized by Tara. The guide and porter he selected were professional and took good care of us throughout the 12 days trek. Tara was our guide in Kathmandu and the area. All the site he selected were interesting to visit and see. All the recommendations he made either met or exceeded our expectations including the small hotel in the middle of the city and close to everything. Tara was also extremely flexible to adjust his plans and schedule to our last minute request.My son and I plan to go back to Nepal for another father and son trip and we will use no one else but Tara and the Nepal Mountain Lovers agency.
  
 
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Jérémie P 
 
 
 
   Well organized, flexible and delightful
We contacted Tara over 2 years ago for the Everest Base Camp Trek, but the earthquake made it impossible. We had already given him the deposit for the trip. No problem, 2 years later, we were finally able to meet and do the trek!When we got sick going up, he added a day for use no problem. The guide he chose was reliable, flexible, fun and he knew his business. Tara called us on the mountain to make sure everything was okay. His advice made it possible for us to get to the base camp and to summit Kala Patthar. When we got back, we booked a small cultural tour of Kathmandu. Tara was our guide. Always smiling and laughing. He made this trip a delight. Very happy to have met this man. 10/10 would recommend and use again!
  
 
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   bradleyhillas 
 
 
 
   A Short But Memorable Trek In Nepal
My friend and I had only a few days spare to visit Nepal, but as soon as I contacted Tara at Nepal Mountain Lovers I knew we would be able to arrange a trip that was full and worthwhile. Tara replied very promptly to my initial message and had designed an itinerary that suited our time frame very well. He was there to greet us at the airport and drive us straight to the International Guest House in Thamel district (we'd requested a budget trip and were pleasantly surprised with how nice the place was). Once we were settled in the hotel, Tara sat us down with the map and asked if we would like to do a trek that was a little more challenging than our initial itinerary - which we were more than happy to do. The trek itself was fantastic. The uphills did leave us a little breathless but were well worth it as we were rewarded with stunning views of the Kathmandu valley and the surrounding mountains. Along the way, Tara was full if interesting facts about Nepal - it's religion, politics and anything else we asked about. The pace of the trek was good, with plenty of breaks and stops to take pictures - at no point did we feel rushed. We also had no problem finding hotels to stay in along the way. Upon returning to Kathmandu, Tara took us on a walk through Bhaktapur, an ancient town full of fascinating architecture and historical curiosities. Our final evening was spent at a traditional Nepalese dinner, with dancers and musicians to entertain the guests, showcasing the best of Nepalese culture. Overall we were extremely pleased with the service provided. The cost was very reasonable and it left us free to enjoy Nepal's beautiful landscapes without having to worry about anything! Tara was an excellent guide, a friendly man who was very accommodating to our needs. We're already talking about returning to Nepal to do the Everest base camp trek. If you're planning a trip we would highly recommend getting in touch with Nepal Mountain Lovers.
  
 
 
  
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