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Nepal
Nepal might be overshadowed by two large countries, India and China, but yet this landlocked nation has managed to carve out its own unique identity. Nepal is mostly located in the majestic Himalayas, and is home to eight of the world’s ten highest peaks. The famous Mount Everest, standing tall at 8,848 m above… read more
The endless blue skies, placid lakes and glorious mountains will leave you awestruck. Warm and friendly faces smiling back at you will make you feel like you have returned home after a long exile. The beautiful spread of stars twinkling in the night sky will fascinate your kids more than the lit-up screens that their eyes are otherwise always glued to. Nepal will awaken the nature-lover in you and reveal its many shades, leaving you dazzled. It will force you to move away from your daily distractions and jump into the arms of nature.
Ready to take the plunge? We, at Thomas Cook, will make sure you land on your feet by helping you choose when to take the big step. Each season in Nepal has something different to offer. Here, we have for you all the information that you may require in order to choose the most ideal time to travel. Listed for you are also the precautions that you must take before and while you are on your trip.
Take a look!
Peak Season – October to November
Shoulder Season – March to May
Low Season – June to September
|
Travel Seasons |
Min/Max Temperature |
Season |
|
March-May |
8-28°C |
Warm |
| June-September |
19-27 °C |
Sunny and hot days |
|
October-November |
18-22°C |
Slightly cooler |
|
December-February |
3 to 19C |
Cold winds |
Temperature - The air temperature during the season of autumn fluctuates between 18°C and 22°C.
Weather: The earthy smell of autumn fills your senses as you take in the view of the clear, blue skies above you. Slightly cool winds knock at the door, suggesting the onset of the winter season. With the sun kissing your skin during the day and the cold snuggling next to you as night falls, Nepal in autumn is a comfortable affair. However, this season calls out to all the adventure enthusiasts out there who can never get enough of the greens. This is the best time to visit Nepal if you wish to hit the trails especially in the Everest and Annapurna areas.
Significant events: As the season of mellow fruitfulness covers the grass with a carpet of gold and red shades, tourism is at an all-time high. Caresses of cold winds greet your face in the morning preparing you for the winter season. This is the most suitable time for you to venture outdoors and acquaint yourself with the surroundings. However, this season comes with its own share of festivals and celebrations. The main highlight of this season is the eight-day-long Indra-Jatra festival, celebrated to show gratitude to Lord Indra for blessing them with rains. Celebrated in the month of September, locals dance around donning masks to the sound of loud drums and is one of the most cherished festivals of the Newari community. Another significant festival celebrated in the month of October is Dashain which is better known as Dashera in several other parts of India. Known as the harvest festival, this time of the year is all about family get togethers, exchanging gifts and distributing sweets. Dashain is recognised as the longest festival in Nepal, lasting over two weeks.
Why you should visit now: This time of the year is buzzing with activity with it being the peak season. If you want to witness the mighty mountains in all their glory, this season gives you a crystal-clear view of the same. Autumn is also home to a number of festivals and activities that brighten up Nepal post monsoon. The clear skies and pleasing weather give way to various trekking routes such as Upper Mustang, Everest and Annapurna regions as well as the Langtang region.
Things to know before the visit: Keep your eyes on the road while travelling as the rain gods bid goodbye, leaving the mid-hills of Kathmandu and Pokhara wet and slippery. Also, be mindful of the fact that landslides may block access to certain trekking routes. Hence, try to head to well established trails with reliable infrastructure such as in the Everest and Annapurna regions.
Tips: Since this is the peak season, ensure that your tickets are booked well in advance. Plan your activities and itinerary according to the weather. While you pack, make sure you include both warm and cool clothes as well as sunscreen and some glasses.
Temperature: The air temperature during the season of spring ranges between 8°C and 28°C.
Weather: Nepal in Spring is all about blooming rhododendrons, comfortable weather and pristine lakes. Offering a bed of colours dotted with different shades, Nepal dons all kinds of moods in the spring season. This season also meets your outdoorsy demands and is a good time to trek along several trails. The mild chilly air during early spring is a remnant of the winter season. However, the weather gradually gets warmer as the season proceeds.
Significant events: Along with blossoming flora and a picture-perfect view of towering mountain peaks; Nepal in Spring offers a plethora of activities and festivals that lighten up the atmosphere. One such festival celebrated between the months of April to May is Buddha Jayanti. This is celebrated in lieu of Lord Gautam Buddha’s birthday. Locals are clad in white attires and make their way to common viharas to observe the Buddhist Sutra. The highlight of this festival is the kheer that is prepared and served to narrate the story of Sujata who made this sweet milk porridge for Lord Buddha. Another festival that is celebrated is the Nepali New Year on April 14. Locals take to the streets with joyous dances, songs, parades and of course a lot of food! Quite a few traditional dances and sports are organised during this time of the year too.
Why you should visit now: With the season of spring awakening Nepal with its magnetic beauty and a riot of colours, this holiday destination is a dream during this time of the year. This is also a good time to engage in some hiking to satiate the adventurer in you. Take the Mardi Himal Trek with the starting point in Pokhara Kade. This trail is dotted with reliable tea houses and lodges where you can rest after a long day of adventure.
Things to know before the visit: Do not forget to check the weather reports before booking your tickets and accommodation. Since spring still borders the peak season, book your tickets well in advance. Book a hotel that is centrally located, accessible and has a central heating system since the nights could get chilly.
Tips: Do carry a lightweight jacket if you plan to travel in the beginning of the spring season. Carry summer clothes and a sunscreen and some shades in case you are travelling later in the season.
Temperature: The air temperature during the season of winter fluctuates between 3°C and 19°C.
Weather: The weather of Nepal in winter can best be described in two words – timeless beauty. With frozen streams and lakes while the rest of the country is bathed in sheets of white; time seems to stand still as winter arrives. The cold winds bite at your skin, sending a shiver down your spine, immediately making you reach out for that hot cup of tea or coffee. However, if you feel that a little cold never harmed anyone and wish to take up a challenge, try out the few winter treks frequented by tourists. You might also bump into a wild deer during this time!
Significant events: Not even the chilly winds or the teeth-chattering cold can dampen the spirit of Nepal. Winter in Nepal calls for an assortment of festivals and celebrations, attracting tourists from all over the globe. However, if you are a film enthusiast, you must head to the Kathmandu International Film Festival that takes place every December. Various aspects of mountain life are presented and celebrated as a part of the agenda of this festival. It comprises a diverse range of screenings, lectures and workshops.
Why you should visit now: If you would rather go for the road less travelled by, this is the best time to visit Nepal. The nature remains untouched by the rush of the tourists at this time of the year as you and your family remain undisturbed. There are also a number of treks such as the Ghorepani Trek and the Chisapani Nagarkot Trek, if you are up for a challenge.
Things to know before the visit: Do check for discounts that may be available at this time of the year since this is the off season. Plan your activities and itinerary keeping the weather in mind. Beware of frostbites and altitude sickness while travelling or trekking.
Tips: Carry woollens at all times to keep yourself warm as cold winds prevail in this region.
Temperature - The air temperature during the season of summer ranges between 19°C and 27°C.
Weather – The weather of summer in Nepal comprises humidity, regular rain showers with occasional thunderstorms. The frequent rain showers make Nepal look like a brand-new country, giving it an element of novelty.
Significant events – Along with the many options for sightseeing and trekking activities, Nepal in summer has a number of festivals and events in store for you. One such festival is the Janai-Purnima that celebrates love and purity. Rather similar to Raksha Bandhan, holy chants and prayers prevail during the Janai ceremony. Kwati- a traditional dish made from nine beans is prepared during this festival.
Why you should visit now – Being the off-season, this is the best time of the year to enjoy some peace and quiet with your family, away from the hustle bustle of the tourists. With it being less crowded, you could also enjoy longer hiking holidays in and around the Upper Mustang and Dolpo area.
Things to know before the visit – With the monsoon season also setting in, be mindful of the weather and the roads you travel by. The monsoon rains often bring landslides with them, hence keep that in mind before setting out for the day. Also, do watch out for discounts as you book tickets and accommodation.
Tips – If you plan to trek, beware of leeches and sticky mud that may pose as a hindrance while walking. Wind cheaters, sunglasses and a mosquito repellent are advised. Hefty hotel discounts prevail and are common at this time of the year, hence make sure you choose a good one with a central location.
If you are intrigued and tempted to pack your bags right away, visit our website and go through the Nepal packages that we offer. If you have any more questions, you will get the answers that you are looking for on our page. Contact us immediately to book your tickets and accommodation immediately!
The Hindu religion and its mythologies are a fascinating collection of mystical tales about how the holy trinity, namely, Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva created the Earth along with humankind. The goddesses were then created to add natural touches to the environment and eventually win wars against the forces of evil.
The sacred stories are enchanting to learn but what if there were parts of the Earth where there is proof that the gods up above did reside here at some point and left parts of themselves behind?
The Nepal Pashupatinath temple is a true testament to that perception. Although 12 parts of Lord Shiva as well as several parts of the body of Maa Parvati, Maa Lakshmi, and other gods and goddesses are reputed to have fallen in India, it is said a portion of Lord Shiva's head fell in Kathmandu, thus giving rise to the Pashupatinath temple in Nepal.
Nepal has always been considered the sister country of India with its magnificent view of the Himalayas and a religious structure and culture that astounds the locals as well as the tourists with its serenity. The capital of Nepal, Kathmandu, has been a tourist hub ever since the country was founded. It is where spirituality and extravagance come together to create harmonious living between mankind and the divine source.
While Kathmandu has many offerings of industrialisation and exquisite resorts, one of the main attractions that draw people to the capital city of Nepal is the Pashupatinath Temple. Dedicated to the creator and destroyer of the holy trinity, this expansive shrine is a testament to the Hindu mythologies and legendary accomplishments of Lord Shiva to establish the human race as a gift that remains mysterious behind the struggles between good and evil.
The Pashupatinath mandir in Nepal is steeped in historic and spiritual significance with tales that date back thousands of years. As we all know, the Himalayas are credited to the presiding of Lord Shiva in his meditative form. Therefore, it is not a surprise that the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, Nepal, which overlooks the Himalayas and is in close proximity to the residence of the divine lord was actually built to commemorate a part of his true self.
Hindu mythology tells the story of how Lord Shiva along with his better half, the enamoured Goddess Parvati once descended by the Bagmati River in the guise of beautiful antelopes in the dense forests located on the eastern side. They trudged along the banks of the river together and explored the region for its scintillating beauty, astounded by what nature had created after their initial participation in the project of creating the earth.
After their exploration, Goddess Parvati decided to return to their home in order to help humankind continue to thrive and survive with her bountiful blessings while Lord Shiva decided to prolong his stay surrounded by nature in his current form as a relative of the mighty stag. When the other divine sources heard of his decision to not return home, they chose to come down to earth and pester him to reconsider.
When he refused to abide by their requests, the gods pulled him by one of the prongs on his head, which eventually broke off by the sheer force of divine power. Lord Shiva eventually agreed to return to his post but the part of his prong that remained on earth became the first true essence of a Shivling. However, unknown to the gods and man, with time, the antler got buried underground and was forgotten.
Several years later, a rancher who was grazing his cows found one of them to be milking a spot on the ground. Upon digging, he found the missing Shivling and decided to build a small temple with the help of King Manadeva.
The legends around the temple have since diversified to claim that the Lichchavi ruler, Supushpadeva, built the temple while others claim that he erected the structure around an omnipresent Linga in the region. Regardless of the story that we choose to believe of how the temple was constructed, the fact is, it houses a part of Lord Shiva himself.
Lord Shiva is the most sacred of all the gods in Hindu mythology celebrated in Nepal. The Pashupatinath Temple invites many tourists and pilgrims from all around the world to worship in the presence of Lord Shiva's divinity. The architecture of the temple itself is astounding compared to many sacred buildings that were erected to commemorate the fierce god of Hindu mythology.
As per the legends, the temple was built to house an authentic Linga from the body of Lord Shiva as he strolled through the forests by the banks of river Bagmati. The prong of his antelope body marks his presence in the area and it's celebrated to this day. It is a rare occurrence to find a part of a god's body on Earth. Even if you are not a spiritual person, the trip to witness this preserved piece from Lord Shiva is an incredible blessing in disguise.
The Pashupatinath Temple is not just a single structure like Kedarnath or Somnath, which are part of the 12 Lingas that constitute the body of Lord Shiva in India. The Pashupatinath mandir in Nepal is where the head of Lord Shiva is believed to preside, and rightfully so given that the Linga was part of his prong from the antelope head.
The temple itself is actually a cluster of spiritual congregations with shrines devoted to Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati in her many forms, and Shiva's trusted companion Nandi. The main Shiva temple where the antelope Linga is preserved is built in the traditional style of Nepal's structure of pagodas with a lacquered golden roof, silver linings on the side of the building, and wooden carvings all around.
There are also several ashrams constructed within the range of the Pashupatinath Temple and its surrounding shrines. These ashrams are home to many pilgrims, preachers, and others waving to pay homage to Lord Shiva. Aside from the shrines, temples and ashrams, there are also inscribed rocks within the complex that constitutes the Pashupatinath Temple. It is a one-stop spiritual destination for enlightenment and to witness the true presence of god.
The Pashupatinath Temple is located in the capital city of Kathmandu in the country of Nepal. Surrounded by the Himalayan range that is famed for being the abode of Lord Shiva, the entire country is dedicated to the worship and spiritual practices of commemorating the fearsome creator and destroyer of the universe as per Hindu scriptures.
The problematic river flows through the capital city of Kathmandu with the lush, dense forest land on the southern extent. This wilderness is where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are reputed to have spent time in the guises of antelopes several centuries ago before the Linga from the prong of Lord Shiva was broken off and left behind on earth.
The Nepal Pashupatinath Temple now stands tall on the site where the Linga was discovered, albeit with a controversial story behind its recovery. Regardless, the Linga is the primary feature around which the temple was built. There is some debate about whether the temple was built by King Manadeva or King Supushpadeva. King Shivadeva is certainly credited for reconstructing the shrine to enhance its holy divinity and King Ananta Malla is reputed to have had the roof constructed for the shrine.
The Pashupatinath Temple complex resides by the Bagmati River housing several shrines and temples dedicated to the worship of Hindu gods and goddesses. The main temple of Lord Shiva is located in the centre with the Linga protected by his comrade Nandi. The temple complex invites pilgrimage as well as casual spiritual tours to the city of Kathmandu from people who simply wish to witness the Linga of Lord Shiva and bask in its divine presence.
There is a lot of historical and spiritual significance that surrounds the Pashupatinath Temple in the capital city of Nepal. The mythological story behind how the Linga of Lord Shiva came to be dropped by the Bagmati River holds a significant appeal to worshippers of Mahadev.
In the Hindu religion, it is strongly believed that every soul that leaves the earth is reincarnated in another body. Pilgrims, especially those who are advanced in age or suffering from chronic diseases visit the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu every year to pray for prosperity in reincarnation. The homage offered to Lord Shiva in this exquisite temple complex surrounded by his trusted divine powers is known to not only bless his devotees with healing and forgiveness in this life but many people claim to have felt his presence in their new lives.
Young couples as well as people striving in their career or personal lives find serenity and feel the forces of divinity healing their negative energies. Not only is the Pashupatinath Temple popular among those who are suffering but also those who wish to improve their lifestyle in general.
The holistic living facilities in the ashrams add to the temple tours of the Pashupatinath Temple complex and enrich the lives of those who make the journey.
The Pashupatinath Temple complex is open 24/7 since it is not just a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva but a congregation of various spiritual structures including ashrams where pilgrims can reside. The outer sanctum of the temple complex is available for exploration throughout the day and night. You can even visit the banks of the Bagmati River and the forest land that surrounds its western side or gauge the Himalayan range for its divine beauty anytime.
Morning: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Afternoon: 5:00 PM t0 7:00 PM
On Festivals Operational: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM
The fortuitous location of the Pashupatinath Temple in the capital city of Kathmandu in Nepal makes it incredibly easy for tourists to plan a trip to the temple complex. Here are some ways to reach the Pashupatinath Temple from India:
Upon reaching Kathmandu, you can take a cab or opt for an autorickshaw to take you to the main entrance of the Pashupatinath Temple complex located on the western side. There are three other entrances to the temple complex which are closed throughout the year. However, these gates are also open during festival season to welcome the locals as well as tourists of Nepal to partake in the festivities to celebrate Lord Shiva and the many Hindu gods.
The Hindu religion and its mythologies are a fascinating collection of mystical tales about how the holy trinity, namely, Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva created the Earth along with humankind. The goddesses were then created to add natural touches to the environment and eventually win wars against the forces of evil.
The sacred stories are enchanting to learn but what if there were parts of the Earth where there is proof that the gods up above did reside here at some point and left parts of themselves behind?
The Nepal Pashupatinath temple is a true testament to that perception. Although 12 parts of Lord Shiva as well as several parts of the body of Maa Parvati, Maa Lakshmi, and other gods and goddesses are reputed to have fallen in India, it is said a portion of Lord Shiva's head fell in Kathmandu, thus giving rise to the Pashupatinath temple in Nepal.
Nepal has always been considered the sister country of India with its magnificent view of the Himalayas and a religious structure and culture that astounds the locals as well as the tourists with its serenity. The capital of Nepal, Kathmandu, has been a tourist hub ever since the country was founded. It is where spirituality and extravagance come together to create harmonious living between mankind and the divine source.
While Kathmandu has many offerings of industrialisation and exquisite resorts, one of the main attractions that draw people to the capital city of Nepal is the Pashupatinath Temple. Dedicated to the creator and destroyer of the holy trinity, this expansive shrine is a testament to the Hindu mythologies and legendary accomplishments of Lord Shiva to establish the human race as a gift that remains mysterious behind the struggles between good and evil.
The Pashupatinath mandir in Nepal is steeped in historic and spiritual significance with tales that date back thousands of years. As we all know, the Himalayas are credited to the presiding of Lord Shiva in his meditative form. Therefore, it is not a surprise that the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, Nepal, which overlooks the Himalayas and is in close proximity to the residence of the divine lord was actually built to commemorate a part of his true self.
Hindu mythology tells the story of how Lord Shiva along with his better half, the enamoured Goddess Parvati once descended by the Bagmati River in the guise of beautiful antelopes in the dense forests located on the eastern side. They trudged along the banks of the river together and explored the region for its scintillating beauty, astounded by what nature had created after their initial participation in the project of creating the earth.
After their exploration, Goddess Parvati decided to return to their home in order to help humankind continue to thrive and survive with her bountiful blessings while Lord Shiva decided to prolong his stay surrounded by nature in his current form as a relative of the mighty stag. When the other divine sources heard of his decision to not return home, they chose to come down to earth and pester him to reconsider.
When he refused to abide by their requests, the gods pulled him by one of the prongs on his head, which eventually broke off by the sheer force of divine power. Lord Shiva eventually agreed to return to his post but the part of his prong that remained on earth became the first true essence of a Shivling. However, unknown to the gods and man, with time, the antler got buried underground and was forgotten.
Several years later, a rancher who was grazing his cows found one of them to be milking a spot on the ground. Upon digging, he found the missing Shivling and decided to build a small temple with the help of King Manadeva.
The legends around the temple have since diversified to claim that the Lichchavi ruler, Supushpadeva, built the temple while others claim that he erected the structure around an omnipresent Linga in the region. Regardless of the story that we choose to believe of how the temple was constructed, the fact is, it houses a part of Lord Shiva himself.
Lord Shiva is the most sacred of all the gods in Hindu mythology celebrated in Nepal. The Pashupatinath Temple invites many tourists and pilgrims from all around the world to worship in the presence of Lord Shiva's divinity. The architecture of the temple itself is astounding compared to many sacred buildings that were erected to commemorate the fierce god of Hindu mythology.
As per the legends, the temple was built to house an authentic Linga from the body of Lord Shiva as he strolled through the forests by the banks of river Bagmati. The prong of his antelope body marks his presence in the area and it's celebrated to this day. It is a rare occurrence to find a part of a god's body on Earth. Even if you are not a spiritual person, the trip to witness this preserved piece from Lord Shiva is an incredible blessing in disguise.
The Pashupatinath Temple is not just a single structure like Kedarnath or Somnath, which are part of the 12 Lingas that constitute the body of Lord Shiva in India. The Pashupatinath mandir in Nepal is where the head of Lord Shiva is believed to preside, and rightfully so given that the Linga was part of his prong from the antelope head.
The temple itself is actually a cluster of spiritual congregations with shrines devoted to Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati in her many forms, and Shiva's trusted companion Nandi. The main Shiva temple where the antelope Linga is preserved is built in the traditional style of Nepal's structure of pagodas with a lacquered golden roof, silver linings on the side of the building, and wooden carvings all around.
There are also several ashrams constructed within the range of the Pashupatinath Temple and its surrounding shrines. These ashrams are home to many pilgrims, preachers, and others waving to pay homage to Lord Shiva. Aside from the shrines, temples and ashrams, there are also inscribed rocks within the complex that constitutes the Pashupatinath Temple. It is a one-stop spiritual destination for enlightenment and to witness the true presence of god.
The Pashupatinath Temple is located in the capital city of Kathmandu in the country of Nepal. Surrounded by the Himalayan range that is famed for being the abode of Lord Shiva, the entire country is dedicated to the worship and spiritual practices of commemorating the fearsome creator and destroyer of the universe as per Hindu scriptures.
The problematic river flows through the capital city of Kathmandu with the lush, dense forest land on the southern extent. This wilderness is where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are reputed to have spent time in the guises of antelopes several centuries ago before the Linga from the prong of Lord Shiva was broken off and left behind on earth.
The Nepal Pashupatinath Temple now stands tall on the site where the Linga was discovered, albeit with a controversial story behind its recovery. Regardless, the Linga is the primary feature around which the temple was built. There is some debate about whether the temple was built by King Manadeva or King Supushpadeva. King Shivadeva is certainly credited for reconstructing the shrine to enhance its holy divinity and King Ananta Malla is reputed to have had the roof constructed for the shrine.
The Pashupatinath Temple complex resides by the Bagmati River housing several shrines and temples dedicated to the worship of Hindu gods and goddesses. The main temple of Lord Shiva is located in the centre with the Linga protected by his comrade Nandi. The temple complex invites pilgrimage as well as casual spiritual tours to the city of Kathmandu from people who simply wish to witness the Linga of Lord Shiva and bask in its divine presence.
There is a lot of historical and spiritual significance that surrounds the Pashupatinath Temple in the capital city of Nepal. The mythological story behind how the Linga of Lord Shiva came to be dropped by the Bagmati River holds a significant appeal to worshippers of Mahadev.
In the Hindu religion, it is strongly believed that every soul that leaves the earth is reincarnated in another body. Pilgrims, especially those who are advanced in age or suffering from chronic diseases visit the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu every year to pray for prosperity in reincarnation. The homage offered to Lord Shiva in this exquisite temple complex surrounded by his trusted divine powers is known to not only bless his devotees with healing and forgiveness in this life but many people claim to have felt his presence in their new lives.
Young couples as well as people striving in their career or personal lives find serenity and feel the forces of divinity healing their negative energies. Not only is the Pashupatinath Temple popular among those who are suffering but also those who wish to improve their lifestyle in general.
The holistic living facilities in the ashrams add to the temple tours of the Pashupatinath Temple complex and enrich the lives of those who make the journey.
The Pashupatinath Temple complex is open 24/7 since it is not just a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva but a congregation of various spiritual structures including ashrams where pilgrims can reside. The outer sanctum of the temple complex is available for exploration throughout the day and night. You can even visit the banks of the Bagmati River and the forest land that surrounds its western side or gauge the Himalayan range for its divine beauty anytime.
Morning: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Afternoon: 5:00 PM t0 7:00 PM
On Festivals Operational: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM
The fortuitous location of the Pashupatinath Temple in the capital city of Kathmandu in Nepal makes it incredibly easy for tourists to plan a trip to the temple complex. Here are some ways to reach the Pashupatinath Temple from India:
Upon reaching Kathmandu, you can take a cab or opt for an autorickshaw to take you to the main entrance of the Pashupatinath Temple complex located on the western side. There are three other entrances to the temple complex which are closed throughout the year. However, these gates are also open during festival season to welcome the locals as well as tourists of Nepal to partake in the festivities to celebrate Lord Shiva and the many Hindu gods.
Getting to Nepal by air is a fast and convenient option, especially with multiple airlines offering flights from all major cities across India. Having said that, only some of them are non-stop, with most routes having at least one stop in between. Currently, the only international airport in Nepal is the Tribhuvan International Airport in the capital city of Khatmandu, however a second is set to open in Pokhara by 2021.
The quickest journeys are from Varanasi, Kolkata and New Delhi, from where one can take a direct flight to Khatmandu of about 1-1.5 hours. These are offered by airlines such as Nepal Airlines, IndiGo, Air India, Buddha Air. While many other national as well as international carriers offer flights with layovers. From Mumbai, the duration of the journey depends on the number of stops along the way and could range anywhere from 5 to 9 hours long. It’s similar for flights from Chennai and Bengaluru, which usually have stops at either New Delhi or Kolkata. Additionally, international carriers like Air Asia, Bhutan Airlines, Etihad, Malaysia Airlines and more, have flights coming into Khatmandu.
If you do choose air travel, try to book tickets well in advance since flights can fill up quickly, especially during peak trekking season between October and November. Tribhuvan Airport itself offers limited facilities, but there are ground transportation options available. To get to the city centre only 6 km away, you can take the public bus till 6 pm, other local bus companies or metered and pre-paid taxis at all hours.
The main train line that runs for passengers between India and Nepal are from Gorakhpur town in Uttar Pradesh, ending its route across the Sunauli border at Janakpur. Finding trains from local Indian cities to Gorakhpur is easy as there are many options, like Chauri Chaura Express, Kashi Express, Sapt Kranti Superfast Express. Once there, public buses and some taxis are available to take you 6 hours away to Khatmandu.
With six border crossings with India, road travel is an economical and scenic way to reach Nepal. For those coming from Delhi or Varanasi, the most convenient crossing point is Sunauli, near Bhairahawa. There are daily direct air-conditioned buses from both cities available, as well as private cars for hire.
The other popular crossing is the Raxaul border accessible from Patna which leads you to Birganj in Central Nepal. Those travelling from West Bengal or Bihar can opt for this entrance, with bus services and hired cars available.
The next two frequented crossings include the Panitanki and Banbasa crossings that take you to Kakarbhitta and Bhimdatta in Nepal, respectively. Choose the first if you’re travelling from towns in North East India like Gangtok or Sikkim. And the latter if you’re coming from the Delhi and Uttarakhand side.
Nepal is inaccessible by water as it is landlocked.
1)Which is the best time to travel to Nepal?
The months of October and November are said to be the best time to travel to Nepal because the skies are clear and sunny, especially if you want to go trekking.
2)Is visa on arrival available for Indian nationals in Nepal?
Indian nationals get a single-entry visa on arrival for 150 days when they arrive in Nepal. However, visa is not required for Indians who want to visit Nepal.
3)How many days can I stay in Nepal on a tourist visa?
Tourists can stay in Nepal for a maximum of 150 days. Do remember that passports must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.
4)How many days are required for a vacation to Nepal?
It depends on what you want to see. If you want to visit just Kathmandu, then even 2 days should suffice. But for a completely immersive experience including other cities like Pokhara, Lumbini and Chitwan, then you need to be here for at least 10 to 12 days.
5)What is the minimum budget required for a Nepal holiday?
This depends on the number of days you intend to stay in Nepal. All things considered, such as accommodation, food and sightseeing, a 5-day holiday to Nepal will cost you approximately INR 25000 per person.
6)What is the distance from Delhi to Kathmandu by road?
The distance between Delhi and Kathmandu is 800kms by road.
7)Can I take a train to Nepal?
No, as there are no trains to Nepal.
8)Can I use Indian rupees in Nepal?
While Indian currency used to be accepted in Nepal earlier, now it’s preferable to get it exchanged for Nepali Rupee in Kathmandu.
9)Is Nepal a family friendly destination?
Yes. It’s a great place for the entire family and perfect to teach children about nature by showing it to them directly.
10)What vaccinations are required before visiting Nepal?
Before visiting Nepal, it’s a good idea to get vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Meningitis. If possible, get vaccinations for polio, mumps, measles, Japanese Encephalitis, Hepatitis B, and Rabies as well just in case.
We had a chance to visit Nepal on our own but we wanted less hassles and more comfort. With Thomas Cook, the experience proved to be amazing. A 5 day tour package showed us a side of this country that we didn’t really know. Trips to Kathmandu, Pokhara and Chitwan National Park were managed by in a very professional way and the hotels were chosen from the best.
We had never thought that Nepal could be a luxury travel destination. We booked a Pokhara – Kathmandu tour package from Thomas Cook and it turned out to be really great. Pokhara in particular was a splendid place to explore. The adventure activates proved to be the best experience of the whole trip. Even the temple tours in Kathmandu was a pleasant memory.
Nepal’s culture and lifestyle is worth exploring and no one is better than providing a detailed insight into this country than Thomas Cook. Our 10 day package took us to the best places in Nepal. The Safari in Chitwan National Park was so beautiful that we had to extend a day while returning. The temple tour in Lumbini and Kathmandu proved to be amazingly beautiful.
