A luxury adventure to Nepal is a mixture of stunning scenery, rich culture and mountainous activities. To ensure a smooth ride, it is essential to plan for local practices, logistics, medical needs, and practicality. This guide is all you need to know before you make a booking and head out on your six-day luxury tour.

Flight Information

The tour package does not include international airfare to and from Kathmandu; therefore, tourists are responsible for booking flights that match the tour's start and end dates. Included in the itinerary are domestic flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara. It is worth noting that domestic flights in Nepal are frequently affected by weather conditions, which can result in delays or cancellations. As such, it is recommended to have a flexible travel plan to ensure a smooth experience.

Nepal Visa Information

Any traveler visiting Nepal must have an entry visa, which can be easily obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. In this case, tourists will be required to complete an arrival card, submit a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months, and pay a visa fee. The cost of the fees varies according to the duration: USD 30 (15 days), USD 50 (30 days), and USD 125 (90 days). To further ease the process, the visa can also be obtained online, within 15 days preceding arrival, or at the Nepalese embassy. Passport-sized photos must also be carried by the travelers when processing.

Travel Insurance

All the participants are strongly advised to have comprehensive travel insurance. Due to the nature of the tour, which involves high-altitude flights around Everest Base Camp and visits to remote areas, trip cancellations, medical emergencies, evacuation, and repatriation should be insured. Emergency air evacuation coverage is of great significance because it enables the coverage of any unexpected situations that can be dealt with quickly and safely.

Health and Physical Fitness

This is a luxury tour suitable for travelers with a moderate to high fitness level. Most of the activities are moderate, although flying high-altitude helicopters around Everest can be a challenge for some individuals. One should be hydrated, limit the use of alcohol at high altitudes, and seek medical attention in case of underlying health conditions or concerns regarding high altitudes. It is a good idea to pack drugs in case of some minor illnesses like headaches, nausea, or dizziness to make the trip as comfortable as possible.

Weather Conditions

The weather conditions in Nepal vary according to the season and the area. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best seasons to visit, characterized by warm temperatures and clear weather conditions that are ideal for sightseeing tours and enjoying mountain scenery. The colder season in the mountains is winter (December to February), but there are lower crowds. In contrast, the monsoon season (June to August) is characterized by heavy rainfall, especially in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Tourists should pack versatile clothing, a lightweight rain jacket, and sun protection to help them adapt to the weather.

Tipping Guidelines

Tipping is a normative, not obligatory, practice in Nepal. It is advisable to give tips to guides and drivers around 10-15 percent of the service cost, and to porters or other staff a daily or end-of-service amount. A 10 percent service charge is already included in the restaurants; otherwise, it is customary to leave a small supplementary tip. Tipping is perceived as a sign of appreciation for quality service, not a compulsion.

Safety and Security

As a rule, Nepal is generally considered safe for tourism, with hospitable people and a well-developed tourism infrastructure. However, there are general observations that are recommended, such as keeping valuables locked up, avoiding isolated areas at night, and staying with your group or guide. Always take the advice of your guide, particularly in the case of visiting remote places or high altitude places and inform your embassy in case it is necessary so that you can have a sense of security.

Currency and Money Matters

Nepal is a country whose official currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). The ATMs are highly concentrated in large cities, such as Kathmandu and Pokhara, while remote locations may have fewer ATMs. Most upscale hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, but it's best to use cash for small purchases, tipping, and at local markets. It is recommended that travelers carry clean, undamaged banknotes to avoid the inconveniences of local vendors.

Packing Essentials

Being comfortable and convenient, it is recommended to pack multi-purpose and layered garments to accommodate changes in temperature and terrain. Essentials will include a pair of good walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket. A first aid kit in the form of a travel-size kit, personal medications, a reusable water bottle, and a copy of your passport and insurance are essential. In high-altitude flights, lip balm, moisturizers, and hydration tablets should be considered to ensure that people remain comfortable and healthy.

Altitude Awareness

Although the helicopter tour eliminates the necessity of trekking, especially to reach certain destinations, such as those along the Everest Base Camp, the location is at an elevated altitude. Anyone can experience altitude sickness, regardless of their level of fitness. The general symptoms include headache, nausea, and dizziness. The best precautions include staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, climbing up slowly where there is an option and seeking the advice of a doctor prior to traveling in order to reduce risks. It is also recommended that altitude sickness medication be carried as a precaution.

Communication and Customary Coexistence

The official language is Nepali, but English is also widely used in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. SIM cards that are locally available and offer data plans are cheap and provide good coverage in Kathmandu and Pokhara; however, connectivity is poor in isolated areas. Travelers are encouraged to maintain consistent contact with family or friends to ensure safety and comfort during the journey