Frequently Asked Questions

In Nepal, consider additional expenses for visa, travel insurance, personal expenses like bars and beverage bills (all hot and cold drinks), internet, WiFi, laundry, tidbits etc. In some cases domestic flights to trailheads are available at additional costs, personal gear rental, and tipping guides or porters are things to consider.

In Tibet, your visa, travel permits, travel insurance, and tips for guides or drivers are the main extras.

In Bhutan, almost everything is included in the tour package—only personal shopping, drinks, or optional cultural activities cost extra.

Nepal: Yes! You can travel independently in most of the country, plan your own treks, and choose your own accommodation and meals. Some restricted areas such as Mustang, Manaslu, Tshum Valley, Upper Dolpo, Kanchenjunga etc. are not permitted to visit independently.

Tibet: Independent travel is not permitted for foreigners—you must travel through an approved agency with a licensed guide.

Bhutan: Independent travel is also not allowed. All visitors must book through a registered Bhutanese tour operator, but the all-inclusive nature of tours makes budgeting simple and stress-free.

Spring (March to May)

Spring offers mild temperatures, clear skies, and colorful rhododendron blooms, especially in Nepal’s Annapurna and Everest regions. It is one of the most pleasant times for trekking, with stable weather and excellent visibility.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is the most popular trekking season across Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. After the summer monsoon, the air becomes clean and crisp, offering clear mountain views and comfortable daytime temperatures. Trails are livelier during this period, but the scenery is at its best.

Winter (December to February)

Cold but calm weather, suitable for lower-altitude treks such as Ghorepani Poon Hill, Langtang Valley, or Bhutan’s cultural routes.

Summer/Monsoon (June to August)

Wet and humid in most regions, though excellent for rain-shadow areas like Upper Mustang, Dolpo in Nepal, and parts of Tibet where rainfall is minimal.

In summary, the best time for most treks in the Himalayas is from March to May and from September to November, when the weather is clear, the trails are in good condition, and the mountain views are at their most spectacular.

In Nepal, the peak tourist seasons are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer the best weather conditions for trekking and sightseeing, with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stunning mountain views. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons and lush landscapes, while autumn provides crisp air and excellent visibility after the monsoon. These are also the busiest months in popular trekking areas like Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang.

In Tibet, the main tourist season runs from April to October, with the peak period being from June to September. During these months, the weather is relatively warm, and most areas, including high mountain passes, are accessible. The skies are clear, and cultural festivals take place across the region, attracting many visitors. Winter travel is possible but less common due to colder temperatures and limited accessibility to some remote areas.

In Bhutan, the busiest tourist periods are from March to May and from September to November. These months offer pleasant weather, clear views of the Himalayas, and several major festivals, known as Tshechus, which are a highlight for visitors. The spring season features blooming flowers and green valleys, while autumn is favored for its bright days and excellent trekking conditions.

Yes, you can visit Tibet in the winter, although it is considered the low season for tourism. Winter in Tibet, from December to February, brings cold temperatures, especially in high-altitude regions, but the days are often sunny and clear. Lhasa and other central areas remain accessible and experience daytime temperatures that are quite manageable, usually ranging from 5°C to 10°C, while nights can drop well below freezing.

Traveling in winter offers several advantages. The skies are exceptionally clear, providing stunning views of snow-covered mountains, and there are far fewer tourists, allowing for a quieter and more authentic experience. Accommodation and tour costs are also lower compared to the peak season. However, some high mountain passes and remote areas, such as Everest Base Camp or Mount Kailash, can be difficult to reach due to snow and icy conditions.

Overall, winter is a good time to visit Tibet if you are prepared for cold weather and wish to experience its monasteries, cities, and landscapes without the usual crowds.

Yes. Most travelers need a visa to enter Nepal, but the process is simple and convenient. You can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at major land border crossings. Alternatively, you can apply online through Nepal’s official visa portal before traveling.

Official Link for Visa Application: https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/

Be aware of lots of websites claiming to process Nepal visas. The website above is the only website from the Government of Nepal.

Tourist visas for Nepal are typically issued for 15, 30, or 90 days, depending on the duration of your stay. The current visa fees are USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days. You can pay these fees in cash (usually in major currencies such as USD, EUR, or GBP) upon arrival at the airport or land border.

Tourist visas can also be extended up to a total of 150 days per year at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara for an additional fee based on the length of the extension.

Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Nepal and should have at least one blank page for the visa stamp.

Yes. Tibet is an autonomous region of China, so travelers must first obtain a Chinese tourist visa and then a special Tibet Travel Permit. Both are arranged through a registered Tibetan travel agency, as independent travel is not allowed for foreigners.

The Tibet Travel Permit is an official document issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau. It is required for all foreign visitors entering Tibet. The permit is arranged by your licensed tour operator and cannot be applied for individually. You will need to send a copy of your passport and Chinese visa to the tour agency several weeks before departure.

No. Independent travel is not permitted in Tibet. Foreign travelers must join an organized tour arranged by an authorized Tibetan travel agency, which includes a guide, driver, and all necessary permits. In addition to the China visa, you also need Tibet travel permit issued separately.

Yes. All international travelers, except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, require a Bhutan visa. The visa is processed through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or one of their international partners. Independent visa applications are not accepted.

Your tour operator will apply for the visa on your behalf after you confirm your booking and make full payment for your trip, including the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). You will receive an electronic visa clearance letter, which you present upon arrival in Bhutan to have the visa stamped in your passport.

To enter Bhutan, your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry and have at least one blank page for the visa stamp. It is important to use the same passport that you submitted when applying for your visa.

No. Each destination has separate visa and permit requirements. You will need a Nepal visa (available on arrival), a Chinese visa plus a Tibet Travel Permit for Tibet, and a pre-arranged Bhutan visa through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. Himalayan Leisure can coordinate these documents if you are visiting multiple destinations in one itinerary. Please also consider checking out multi-country tours.

You can get a visa on arrival for Nepal, but not for Tibet or Bhutan.

In Nepal, most nationalities are eligible for a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and at major land border entry points. The process is quick and straightforward—you fill out an arrival form, pay the visa fee, and receive your visa at the immigration counter. The visa fees are USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days, and USD 125 for 90 days.

In Tibet, visas on arrival are not available. Travelers must first obtain a Chinese tourist visa and a Tibet Travel Permit, both of which must be arranged in advance through a licensed Tibetan travel agency. Independent applications are not accepted, and all travel must be organized as part of an official tour.

In Bhutan, visas on arrival are also not available for most nationalities. All travelers, except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives, must apply for a visa through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator before arrival. Once approved, you will receive an electronic visa clearance letter, which is verified and stamped when you enter the country.

In summary, only Nepal offers a visa on arrival, while Tibet and Bhutan require advance visa arrangements through authorized tour operators.

You do not strictly need a guide for most popular treks in Nepal, as well-marked routes like the Annapurna Circuit, Ghorepani Poon Hill, and parts of the Everest region can be navigated independently by experienced trekkers with maps, GPS, and trekking knowledge.

However, hiring a guide is highly recommended, especially for high-altitude or remote treks. Guides provide local knowledge, ensure safety, assist with permits, arrange accommodations, and offer cultural insights. Hiring a guide also supports the local economy and can enhance your trekking experience.

For restricted or less-accessible trekking regions, such as Upper Mustang, Upper Dolpo, Manaslu, Tsum Valley, and the Kanchenjunga Circuit, a guide is mandatory. These areas require government-registered trekking guides and special permits, which must be processed strictly through government-approved trekking agencies. Independent travel in these regions is not permitted.

In summary, while guides are optional for many standard treks, they are essential for restricted or high-altitude routes to comply with regulations and ensure safety.

Nepal offers an incredibly diverse culinary experience influenced by its geography and cultural mix. One of the most popular and must-try dishes is dal bhat, a traditional meal consisting of steamed rice served with lentil soup and accompanied by a variety of side dishes such as vegetables, pickles, and sometimes meat curry. It’s the staple food of most Nepali households and is enjoyed twice a day in many regions. Another favorite among locals and travelers alike is momo, the Nepali version of dumplings, typically filled with minced meat or vegetables and served with spicy dipping sauces. You’ll also find thukpa, a hearty noodle soup that originated from the Himalayas, perfect for cold mountain evenings. For something unique, try sel roti, a sweet, ring-shaped rice bread often prepared during festivals. These dishes not only satisfy your appetite but also give you a glimpse into the daily life and traditions of the Nepali people.

Nepali cuisine generally strikes a balance when it comes to spice levels. While some dishes can be mildly spicy, especially those served with pickles or chili chutneys, most are prepared with a gentle blend of herbs and spices that enhance the natural flavors rather than overpower them. Tourists who prefer less spicy food can easily request milder versions in most restaurants. For vegetarians and vegans, Nepal is an especially welcoming destination. Many Nepali families follow vegetarian diets due to religious or cultural beliefs, so vegetarian meals are common and delicious. You can find a wide variety of vegetable curries, lentil soups, and rice-based dishes across the country, from high-end restaurants in Kathmandu to small teahouses along trekking routes. Even street food vendors often have vegetarian-friendly options, making it easy for all travelers to enjoy the authentic tastes of Nepal.