Nepal Trip: Best Routes, Tips & Deals
Nepal is a country that balances adventure and serenity better than most. Home to Mount Everest, vibrant cities, ancient temples, and warm hospitality, it's a destination that appeals to trekkers, culture lovers, spiritual seekers, and foodies alike.
What makes Nepal even more attractive is how accessible it is â both geographically and financially. This blog gives you the best ways to reach Nepal, top routes inside the country, expert tips, and travel deals to help you explore more for less.
Best Time to Visit Nepal
Nepal has six seasons, but for travelers, two stand out:
March to May (Spring): Clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, ideal for trekking
September to November (Autumn): Best weather with mountain views and mild temperatures
Avoid the monsoon season (June to August) due to landslides and cloudy skies. Winter (December to February) is great if you want snow and fewer tourists, especially in cities like Pokhara and Kathmandu.
Use (internal) to find events and treks aligned with your travel month.
How to Reach Nepal from India
By Air:
- Direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata to Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu)
- Airlines: IndiGo, Nepal Airlines, Vistara, Air India
- Flight duration: ~1.5 hours (DelhiâKathmandu)
By Road:
Popular if youâre traveling from Uttar Pradesh or Bihar.
- RaxaulâBirgunj border (Bihar): Closest to Kathmandu
- SunauliâBhairahawa border (Uttar Pradesh): Access to Lumbini and Pokhara
- BanbasaâMahendranagar border (Uttarakhand): Less common, for western Nepal entry
Carry a valid passport or voter ID for Indian citizens. No visa is required for Indians.
Use (internal) to compare entry points and travel duration based on your location.
Where to Go in Nepal: Routes That Work
Classic Route: Kathmandu â Pokhara â Chitwan
- Kathmandu â Capital city full of temples, markets, and cultural spots
- Pokhara â Laid-back lakeside town, gateway to Annapurna trekking
- Chitwan â Wildlife and jungle safaris in Chitwan National Park
You can do this loop in 7â9 days comfortably. Use (internal) to create route maps with internal transport and hotel combos.
Adventure Route: Kathmandu â Pokhara â Annapurna Base Camp or Everest Base Camp Trek
Ideal for those doing 7â14 day treks. Stay longer in Pokhara for rest and recovery before or after your trek.
Spiritual Route: Lumbini â Janakpur â Pashupatinath Temple (Kathmandu)
Visit the birthplace of Buddha, the city of Sita, and one of the most sacred Hindu temples in Nepal.
Where to Stay in Nepal (Budget to Boutique)
Budget Options:
- Hostels in Thamel (Kathmandu) and Lakeside (Pokhara)
- Dorms and guesthouses from âč500ââč1000 per night
- Good hygiene and Wi-Fi usually included
Mid-Range:
- Boutique stays in Bhaktapur or Nagarkot
- Hotels in Pokhara with lake views
- Price: âč1500ââč4000 per night
Luxury:
- Dwarikaâs Hotel in Kathmandu â https://www.dwarikas.com
- Pavilions Himalayas in Pokhara â https://www.pavilionshotels.com/himalayas
- Meghauli Serai in Chitwan (Taj Safari Lodge)
You can find yoga retreats, eco-lodges, and mountain-facing homes depending on your vibe. Use (internal) to sort options by view, rating, or location.
What to Do in Nepal (Beyond Just Mountains)
In Kathmandu:
- Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
- Boudhanath Stupa
- Patan and Bhaktapur Durbar Squares
- Local markets in Thamel
In Pokhara:
- Phewa Lake boating
- World Peace Pagoda
- Paragliding (one of the best spots globally)
- Sunrise at Sarangkot
In Chitwan:
- Jungle safari in Chitwan National Park
- Canoeing and bird-watching
- Tharu cultural performance
In Lumbini:
- Maya Devi Temple
- Eternal Peace Flame
- Monastic zone with over 30 international monasteries
All these activities can be bundled using (internal) into your personal trip plan.
How to Travel Within Nepal
- Tourist buses run between major cities (KathmanduâPokharaâChitwan)
- Domestic flights are available (Pokhara to Kathmandu is just 25 minutes)
- Taxis and bike rentals in cities
- Local buses are cheaper but can be crowded and slow
If youâre trekking, youâll need porters or guides. (internal) helps you find registered guides or shared trekking groups.
Budgeting and Travel Deals
Nepal is one of the most budget-friendly international trips for Indians.
Estimated daily cost:
- Budget: âč1500ââč2500
- Mid-range: âč3000ââč6000
- Luxury: âč8000+
Smart saving tips:
- Buy a local SIM for cheap internet (Ncell or Nepal Telecom)
- Book shared jeeps or buses instead of private cabs
- Eat local dal bhat (unlimited) for great value
- Travel during shoulder season (March or September)
Use (internal) to compare real-time deals across flights, hotels, and group tours.
What to Pack for Nepal
- Passport or voter ID (Indians)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (even in winter)
- Layers â weather changes fast in mountains
- Trekking shoes and socks
- Reusable water bottle (boiled or filtered water is a must)
- Small medical kit
- Cash â many places donât take cards in rural areas
Carry power backups for cameras and phones. Electricity outages are rare but possible.
Final Thoughts
Nepal is a feeling â warm, spiritual, grounded. Itâs not just for trekkers or adrenaline junkies. Itâs for anyone who wants to reconnect with nature, slow down, and see cultures and faiths coexist beautifully.
If you're looking for a trip thatâs rich in experience and light on the wallet, Nepal is it. Use (internal) to create a personalized travel plan for Nepal that saves time and money â all while covering exactly what matters to you.
