How to Travel to Nepal from Europe?

Traveling to Nepal from Europe requires taking connecting flights through Middle-Eastern and Asian nations which allow direct flights to Nepal such as UAE, Qatar, Oman, Malaysia, Bahrain, Singapore, Korea, Turkey, Thailand, India, Pakistan, and Indonesia. Nepal is a serene nation filled with mesmerizing natural beauty and mystic culture. Travelers from Europe travel to Nepal, especially for adventurous trekking in the Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit Trek, Upper Mustang Trek, and many more.

Traveling to the other side of the world, one may arise a lot of questions concerning their safety, what to expect, mode of transportation, preferred time and duration, and many more. To answer those queries of the travelers, we came up with this article about traveling to Nepal from Europe.

Short brief of Nepal

Nepal is a hidden gem nestling on the lap of the Himalayas. This nation is often known as the land of diversity consisting of varied geography having the altitude ranging from 65 m above sea level to 8848 m above sea level. Inhabitants of 126 different ethnicities speaking 123 different languages reside in Nepal sharing and enjoying each other's customs and social values. This piece of artic heaven has soaring Himalayas including Mt. Everest the highest peak in the world and the other 8 out of 10 highest mountains in the world.

How to get to Nepal:

1. By Flights:

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS

Nepal has only one international airport, which is located in Kathmandu, the capital city. Nepal has no direct flights from Europe but is served by direct flights from the Middle Eastern nations like UAE, Qatar, Oman, Malaysia, Bahrain, Singapore, and Asian nations such as Korea, Turkey, Thailand, India, Pakistan, and Indonesia. The duration of the flights from Centre Europe to Nepal takes around 10-12 hours depending on airlines, distance, transit, arrival and departure airport, and weather conditions.

You could book your flights yourself or through your travel agency. Booking tickets for flights has been much easier nowadays due to advancing technology.

Airlines to fly to Nepal:

Both Business class and economy class flights are available to travel to Nepal. The major cities of Europe as well as Russia and the UK offer budget alternative/economy flights to Delhi Airport, India, and Istanbul Airport, Turkey. It takes 1 and a half hours to reach Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu from Delhi Airport. Likewise, it takes 7 hours to fly from Istanbul to Kathmandu.

The middle-eastern airlines provide more luxurious facilities and are comparatively expensive. It takes around 4 to 4 and a half hours to travel to Kathmandu from Middle-east countries. The travelers can decide the flights, transit, and airline as per their preferable time and budget.

FLIGHTS BY SHUTTLE/CHARTER

The country has a well-developed domestic and regional aviation network that connects the country's major tourist areas.

Various domestic airports and scenic road pass connect Nepal's attractive destinations, ensuring you get the most out of your Nepal tour and its scenic grandeur. Taking fast internal flights from one place to the next is ideal travel within Nepal.

2. By Road

Travelers who are traveling to Nepal via India can also travel by road. This is a cost-friendly alternative as well. You could take bus, train or flight from different cities of India such as Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderbad, Kolkota, etc to the India-Nepal Border. Nepal shares borders with Indian states: Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Sikkim, West Bengal, and Bihar. After reaching the border, the travelers could either take scheduled bus or we could also organize private vehicle for you. There is also an option to take flight from the border to main cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara. The other option could be to take a comfortable bus ride directly from Dehli to Kathmandu.

Traveling by road could be an option especially to the travelers who are already in India and wish to travel to Nepal from India. They will get Nepal Travel Visa in the immigration once they arrive Nepal. Some of the major borders between Nepal and India are:-

• Banbasa, Uttarakhand, India – Kanchanpur District, Sudurpashchim Province, Nepal
• Rupaidiha, Uttar Pradesh, India – Nepalganj, Banke District, Nepal
• Sonauli, Uttar Pradesh, India – Siddharthanagar, Rupandehi District, Nepal
• Raxaul, Bihar, India – Birgunj, Nepal
• Bhittamore, Bihar, India – Jaleshwar, Mahottari District, Nepal
• Jogbani, Bihar, India – Biratnagar, Nepal
• Panitanki, Darjeeling district, West Bengal, India – Kakarbhitta, Nepal

Similarly, those travelers who are already in Tibet and are willing to travel to Nepal from Tibet can also travel by road. They will receive upon-arrival Nepal Travel Visa in the immigration once they arrive Nepal. Previously, travelers could travel from Tibet to Nepal via Kodari but after the 2015 Earthquake, this route is closed due to safety reasons. So now you can travel to Nepal from Tibet via Kerung/Gerung border.

Requirements to travel to Nepal from Europe:

VALIDITY OF PASSPORT:
At admission, the passport must be valid for at least six months prior to the departure.

PASSPORT PAGES WITHOUT PHOTOS:
At least two blank visa page (not an endorsements page) is necessary for entry visas

Visa-on-arrival:
The Nepalese government has decided to resume issuing visas to people who have received their complete vaccine dose at least 14 days before their arrival in Nepal or have negative PCR reports. Those who have full dose vaccination reports do not require to take a PCR report.

NOTE: The travel requirements and protocols change as per the time and situation. We will update the information accordingly.

In addition to the regular visa-related documents, the visitor must submit the following documents:

• COVID-19 vaccination certificate of complete vaccination with the last dose taken at least 14 days before arrival in Nepal or COVID-19 test report with a negative result obtained within the last 72 hours of boarding from the first airport or within 72 hours of entry if the traveler is crossing a land border. This report will not be required for children under the age of five. The traveler can decide on either one of these two options.
• A copy of the permit for mountaineering, trekking, or any other activity that requires permission is applicable.
• A printed copy of the online form (International Traveler Online Arrival Form) was completed at ccmc.gov.np.
• Additional Permits for Nepal Travel
• Trekkers Information Management System (TIMS)
• Conservation Area Permit
• Annapurna, Manaslu, Kanchenjunga National Park Permit
• Protected/Restricted Area Permit

NOTE: The permit fees are included in all the packages provided by Himalayan Trekkers.

Is Nepal open for Tourism?

After a two years long pandemic, Nepal is finally open for Tourism. Traveling to Nepal is the same as before. All the regions of Nepal except for a few protected areas are allowed for travelers.
We wholeheartedly welcome all enthusiastic travelers to Nepal to relish in the tranquil beauty of this nation.

Why travel to Nepal?

Here are some points why one should travel to Nepal:
Nepal is a country that is full of contradictions. Natural splendors mingle with a vibrant culture and a sense of history. With tens of the world's fourteen tallest mountains, the country provides a spectacular backdrop for trekking and mountaineering, as well as some of the best white water rafting in the world.

Nepal is home to an astonishing variety of plant and animal species, including more than 300 orchid species, because of its wide range of altitudes. It has approximately 800 bird species, accounting for over 10% of all avian species on the planet.

Chitwan and Bardia national parks cover lowland tropical jungles and grasslands, and Nepal is home to a broad range of species. You can observe Bengal tigers, rare snow leopards, one-horned rhinos, and Himalayan black bears in the remote national parks.

Kathmandu's old culture and traditional architecture have designated the city as one of seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. At the same time, Nepal is known for its magnificent monasteries and Lumbini, the birthplace of the Lord Buddha.

Trekking in Nepal:

Nepal is home to some of the world's most breathtaking hikes. There's something for everyone from Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang to newer treks like the Manaslu Circuit Trek and the Nar Phu Valley Trek.
These are some popular treks in Nepal:

Trekking to Everest's Three Passes

For those with the time to spend three weeks on the trek, the Three Passes Trek takes you over three 5,000m+ passes and is the finest way to explore the Everest Region properly. The walk includes the Everest Base Camp Trek elements, but as you cross the Renjo La, Cho La, and Kongma La pass, you'll get even better vistas of the Himalayan giants. The Three Passes trek can be paired with other Everest Base Camp Trek versions.

Trekking the Manaslu Circuit

Since the construction of new lodges in 2010, the Manaslu Circuit Trek has become more accessible. The walk includes all of the fantastic elements you'd expect from a classic Himalayan climb—deep, lush valleys at lower elevations, incredible views of 8,000m peaks, and a 5,000m+ pass crossing—while staying relatively unspoiled by tourists.
Despite its growing popularity and recent road development, the Manaslu Circuit retains a secluded vibe and attracts fewer trekkers than Nepal's more well-known classic treks.
Trekking on the Langtang

The Langtang hike is a heartfelt journey. After a couple of years without visitors following the 2015 earthquake, the routes and guesthouses have been repaired, and trekkers have returned.

The walk takes you through beautiful forests to the high alpine meadows and yak farms surrounding Kyangjin Gompa (a Buddhist monastery), with an optional day hike up to Kyangjin Ri (peak).

Trek to Annapurna Base Camp

The Annapurna Base Camp Trek brings you to the foot of Annapurna South, deep within the Annapurna Massif. Because the views are less vast and more vertical than on most other classic hikes, the panorama is quite different: you'll find yourself looking virtually straight up to see the mountains towering above you.

Trekking in the Upper Mustang and Its Alternative Route

Compared to practically all other treks in Nepal, the Upper Mustang Trek's parched valley has a unique landscape. This location is in the Himalayas' desert rain shadow, with its numerous shades of brown and crumbling sandstone cliffs. Mustang was formerly its own country, and the strong Tibetan influences make this a fascinating tour.
Trek to the Gokyo Lakes

Like the Three Passes Trek, the Gokyo Lakes Trek has sections that are similar to the classic Everest Base Camp Trek but take you into a valley west of Everest. The lovely lakes of Gokyo, located at an elevation of roughly 5,000 meters, are the main attraction. Trekkers can then ascend Gokyo Ri (5,357m/17,575ft), a rugged summit with one of Mt Everest's greatest expansive views.

Trekking the Dhaulagiri Circuit

The Dhaulagiri Circuit Trek is one of Nepal's most difficult treks due to its high height, with three days of trekking on snow over 5,000 meters and no simple route down. This journey, however, is an incredible adventure that takes you into the heart of some of the world's highest mountains if you have experience and are up for the task.

Best time to visit Nepal:

When the skies are crystal blue and the sights are stunning, Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-December) is the finest time to visit Nepal.

January and February may be bitterly cold, especially at night, with average temperatures of 6°C in the elevated regions. However, because there are fewer visitors, you'll be rewarded with a clear sky, breathtaking panoramas, and calmer hiking routes. At this time, high-altitude trekking is not advised.

The rhododendrons are in full bloom in late May, making it a lovely time to travel.
The monsoon season begins in June and lasts until August when clouds obscure the beautiful mountain views. Travel is difficult due to excessive rain and landslides, and many businesses are closed. Thus, the country is best avoided.
Nepal has festivities throughout the year; thus, there is always a festival or pilgrimage. Inquire with your specialist for more information, as dates vary from year to year.

Nepalese culture and lifestyle:

Nepal's Parliament proclaimed the country secular on May 18, 2006. Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, Jainism, Sikhism, Bon, ancestor worship, and animism are among the religions practiced in Nepal. Nepalis are predominantly Hindu state.
Nepalese are known for their patience and calm demeanor, and they are not too theatrical. Because of their tolerance, many different faiths and nationalities have been able to cohabit together. Tradition and religion are firmly ingrained in Nepalese culture.

Meals and Accommodation in Nepal

Nepal offers a wide range of accommodations from luxurious 5-star resorts, and comfortable hotels, to budget guesthouses and homestays. But the accommodation varies from place to place. Luxurious hotels are usually located in popular cities but as the altitude increases, especially during trekking, we mostly find lodges and tea houses.
For trekking in remote/less-touristic areas, climbing, and expedition, camping is required as we cannot find guesthouses/lodges in areas having high altitudes. Homestays are also available on many trekking routes.

During the Everest trek, luxurious alternatives are available in some parts of the trek. Yeti Mountain Home, Pyramid, and Everest View Hotel are mountain luxury lodges available in the Everest region.

Regarding meals, in the city areas, a wide range of varieties of cuisine are available. But as you start trekking, Nepali, Indian, Tibetan, Continental and a few Western cuisines are available in the lower regions. But as the altitude starts increasing, only Nepal meal Dal-Bhat is available.

Dal-Bhat is the traditional Nepali dish that consists of rice, vegetables, meat (optional), lentil soup, and pickles. There is a popular saying "Dal-Bhat Power 24 Hours", hence, this meal is full of nutrition that will provide you energy for a long time during trekking. Hygienic and fresh local food is available in the mountains that will keep you healthy during the trek.

Is it safe for travelers from Europe to travel to Nepal?

Yes, it is very safe for travelers from Europe to travel to Nepal. We welcome several European travelers to Nepal every season and they safely return back home after the successful completion of their trip.

The crime rate in Nepal is very low and has even dropped in the past few years. Nepal is a peaceful country practicing religious tolerance since the beginning of human civilization and we highly believe in Karma, hence, we treat people with kindness.
There is a belief in Nepal "Atithi Devo Bhava" which translates to "Our guests are our gods" so we make sure to treat our guests with respect so they feel at home.

But this also doesn’t state that there is absolutely no crime rate, hence, we suggest the travelers take precautions and take care of their belongings and not walk alone in sketchy areas at night. Altitude sickness could also be another issue while traveling to Nepal, especially during trekking, but Himalayan Trekkers give first priority to our client's safety, and we prepare the travel schedule accordingly so that you don’t face any problems.

Is travel insurance necessary to travel to Nepal?

Travel insurance is not mandatory for Nepal travel except for climbing and expedition. Climbing and expedition require thrilling activities in high-altitude areas, hence, it is necessary to have travel insurance for safety purposes.

Although it is not mandatory for trekking, we highly suggest one purchase insurance as you will be trekking in elevated regions and insurance covers any unforeseen contingencies.

Having insurance is always a step-up concerning safety and security while traveling to a foreign land but if the travelers do not wish to purchase insurance for tours in Nepal, then it is alright too because the risks are much lower in tours than in trekking and climbing.

• Coverage of travel insurance
• Loss of passport
• Accidental dismemberment
• Personal accident
• Hijacking benefits
• Medical emergency
• Medical evacuation
• Compensation in case of trip delay
• Loss/Delay in checked-in bags
• Personal liability

Benefits of travel insurance

• It offers medical protection.
• It provides safety to travelers.
• It provides emergency cash in advance.
• It provides expenses of losses like trip cancellation, loss of important documents, accidental death, and disability.

Where to purchase travel insurance for Nepal?

Travelers need to purchase travel insurance from their own home country. The travelers should look for the coverance of medical emergencies, trip cancellation, trip delay, interruption, medical evacuation, stolen, loss, and damaged luggage while purchasing travel insurance.

Does Himalayan Trekkers provide travel Insurance?

Himalayan Trekkers doesn’t provide travel insurance. The travelers must purchase the travel insurance by themselves. Reliable Travel Insurance in Nepal

1, A couple of Travel Insurance Agency from USA
AXA Travel Insurance
Travel Insured International
Travelex Insurance
Worldnomads /Tripmate USA
Travel Safe Insurance
Allianz Travel Insurance
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Travel Guard

2, Some Travel Insurance Agency from Canada
Can Assistance
RBC Travel Insurance
TuGo Travel Insurance
TIC Travel Insurance

3, Travel Insurance agencies from Europe
Uniqa Insurance (Austria)
Dog Tag (UK)
British Mountaineering Council (BMC)
InsureandGo Travel Insurance (UK, Spain)
Virgin Travel Insurance (UK)
Post Office (UK)
Europ Assistance (All European)
Allianz Travel Insurance (Germany, Switzerland)

4, Travel Insurance Agencies from Australia
Budget Direct Travel Insurance
1 Cover Travel Insurance (New Zealand)
International SOS
Allianz Travel Insurance
QBE Travel Insurance

5, Travel Insurance Agencies from Asia and Middle East
Clal Insurance (Israel)
Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance (Japan)
Life Card Travel Insurance (Japan)
Sompo Insurance (Japan)

Above Travel insurances are recommended by our clients based on their experiences. But before purchasing travel insurance, we highly suggest you to clearly go through their reviews, price, and inclusions.

Please do carry physical or digital proof of your travel insurance while traveling. And as for adventurous activities like expedition and climbing, you will need to send the digital proof once the trip is confirmed.