Trip Planning

So you've decided – Nepal is going to be your next adventure! Great, I'm excited for you! Good preparation is the key to an unforgettable and smooth journey. Don't worry, it's not that complicated. In this first step, we'll go through the most important points of planning and booking so you have a solid foundation.

As your guide, I see it as my duty not only to lead you safely through my country but also to support you as best as possible during the planning phase. The better we prepare everything, the more relaxed you can enjoy your adventure.

Step 1: When & Where? Finding the Right Time and Tour

The first big question: When do you want to travel and what exactly do you want to experience?

Best Time to Visit: In our Climate Chapter, you'll find detailed info on the seasons and when which activities are best possible. In short: Autumn (Oct/Nov) and Spring (Mar-May) are the main seasons for most treks and tours.
Type of Tour: Should it be a challenging trekking in the Himalayas? A fascinating cultural journey through the Kathmandu Valley? A wildlife safari in the Terai? Or a mix of everything? Browse through the Nepal Wiki again or get inspired by the Tour Catalog.

Honest Self-Assessment: Think carefully about what suits your physical fitness, your interests, and your available time. An Everest Base Camp trek is fantastic, but also demanding. A cultural tour is more relaxed but offers less mountain action. If you're unsure which tour is right for you – just ask me! I'm happy to help you find the perfect match.

Step 2: Contact & Individual Planning with Me

Once you have a rough idea (or even if you're still completely open), the next step is to contact me. Why? Because every trip is individual! I don't offer standard off-the-shelf packages, but plan each tour tailor-made to your wishes and needs.

What helps me with planning?

Your approximate travel dates or your available time frame.
The number of travelers.
Your interests (trekking, culture, nature, photography...).
An honest assessment of your fitness and trekking experience.
Your rough budget ideas (excluding international flights).

How does it work?

You send me an inquiry
1. by email to premdahal2072@gmail.com
2. or via WhatsApp.
I'll get in touch with you to discuss details (possibly also by phone/WhatsApp video call).
You'll receive a detailed proposal from me for your individual tour, including itinerary and costs.
We'll adjust the proposal together until it's perfect for you.
If everything fits, you confirm the booking.

Your Advantage: By planning directly with me as an experienced local guide, you not only get insider knowledge and a perfectly organized tour, but you also directly support the local economy and avoid unnecessary intermediaries. I take care of everything on site – from permits and accommodations to transportation.

Step 3: The Official Part – Visas for Nepal

The good news: For most nationalities (including Germany, Austria, Switzerland), entry into Nepal is relatively straightforward. You can usually get your visa upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu (Visa on Arrival).

What do you need for the Visa on Arrival?

A passport that is valid for at least 6 months upon entry.
A completed visa form (often available on the plane or can be filled out online beforehand and the printout brought along – this saves time).
A current passport photo (although digital photos are often taken at the counter, bring one just in case).
The visa fee in cash (preferably in a common currency like USD or EUR – amounts can change, see official info).

Alternative: You can also apply for the visa in advance at a Nepalese embassy or consulate in your home country.

The exact regulations and fees can change! Please be sure to inform yourself in good time before your trip on the official website of the Department of Immigration Nepal or at the Nepalese embassy responsible for you. There you will find the most up-to-date information. I cannot provide any legal guarantee for visa regulations.

Step 4: Arrival – Flights to Kathmandu

Your gateway to Nepal is Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. There are no direct flights from Europe. So you will have at least one stopover.

Airlines & Routes: Common airlines include Qatar Airways (via Doha), Emirates (via Dubai), Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul), flydubai, Air India (via Delhi), and others. Compare prices and flight times.
Booking: Book your flight as early as possible, especially if you are traveling in the high season (autumn/spring), as prices rise and availability decreases.

Step 5: Protection – The Right Travel Insurance

This point is extremely important, please take it seriously! Comprehensive international health insurance is absolutely essential for any trip to Nepal. Medical care does not meet European standards, and in an emergency, costs (especially for rescue and repatriation) can be immense.

What do you need to look for in the insurance? It MUST cover:

Emergency medical treatment abroad (including hospitalization).
Costs for medically necessary repatriation home.
Rescue costs, especially helicopter rescue!

Especially if you are planning a trekking tour, explicit coverage for helicopter rescue costs up to a sufficient amount (at least 5,000-10,000 USD recommended) is indispensable. In the mountains, serious injuries or severe altitude sickness often only allow for rescue by helicopter. Check the policy carefully: Up to what maximum altitude does the insurance cover apply? Many standard insurances do not cover trekking above 4,000 or 5,000 meters! Read the fine print or ask specifically.

Additionally, trip cancellation and interruption insurance as well as luggage insurance are often useful. Compare different providers and choose a policy that suits your planned trip (activities, altitude).

Phew, those were the first important steps! If you've clarified these points, a lot has already been accomplished. In the next chapter, we'll focus on your physical preparation and health so you can enjoy your adventure fit and safe.