Information On Nepal Visa
Is a Visa Required?
Yes, a visa is needed to enter Nepal for all foreign nationals, except Indian citizens.
Requirements for a Visa:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining from your planned arrival date in Nepal.
- A current passport-sized picture.
- Completed online visa application no later than 15 days before arriving in Nepal (data is automatically erased by the application system after 15 days).
- Use this link to apply: https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np/
- Using a credit or debit card to cover the visa cost.
- A 30-day multiple-entry tourist visa costs $50.
- A 90-day multiple-entry tourist visa is $135.
NOT TO BE MISSED:
Visas are not available for citizens of Nigeria, Ghana, Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, Somalia, Cameroon, Swaziland, Iraq, Ethiopia, Liberia, and Palestine upon arrival in Nepal. At the local Nepalese embassy or consulate, they must apply for a visa in advance.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
If you have any questions regarding a visa, please get in touch with the Embassy of Nepal or the Consulate in your nation of residence.
Permits For EBC
Before embarking on your Everest Base Camp adventure with Escape Himalaya, ensure you have these two permits secured:
Sagarmatha National Park Permit: Grants access to the remarkable Sagarmatha National Park, home to Everest Base Camp.
Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entrance Card: Supports local communities in the Everest region.
Breakdown cost of Permit
Permit fees vary by nationality:
SAARC Nationals:
- Sagarmatha National Park permit: NRS 1,500
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu entrance card: NRS 2,000
Foreign Nationals:
- Sagarmatha National Park permit: NRS 3,000
- Khumbu Pasang Lhamu entrance card: NRS 2,000
Peace of Mind with Us: Escape Himalaya includes these permits in our packages for your comfort (refer to our "Cost Includes" section). This allows you to focus on the breathtaking scenery and the incredible journey ahead.
Everest Base Trek Fundamentals: Complete Equipment List
Prepare for the EBC Trek with our full package, carefully planned to keep you comfortable and prepared during the entire trip.
At Escape Himalaya, we provide a detailed checklist of essential trekking gear, ensuring that you're fully equipped for your Himalayan adventure. Additionally, we provide a 70-liter Duffel Bag for trek packing, a certified -20°C Down Jacket, and a four-season Sleeping Bag, ensuring warmth and coziness during chilly mountain nights.
HEAD
- Sun Hat or Scarf
- Lightweight Balaclava or Warm Fleece Hat
- Sunglasses with UV Protection
- Headband or ear covers
FEET
- Thin, Lightweight Inner Socks
- Thick, Warm Wool Hiking Socks
- Sturdy Hiking Boots
- Camp Shoes (Sneakers/Sandals)
- Gaiters
- Spare Laces
- Microspikes
HANDS
- Lightweight Gloves
- Heavyweight Gloves or Mittens
- Hand Warmers
LOWER BODY
- Undergarments
- Hiking Shorts
- Lightweight Cotton Long Pants
- Light & Expedition Weight Thermal Bottoms
- Fleece Pants
- Waterproof Shell Pants
ACCESSORIES
- Backpack (30-50 LTR)
- Headlamp
- First Aid Kit
- Large Plastic Bag
- Trekking Poles
- Water Bottle
- Toiletries
- Lip Balm
- Water Purification Tablets
- Dry Bags/Ziploc Bags
- Earplugs
- Guide and Porter
- Chargers
- Bag Covers
- Raincoat
- Personal Care Kit
- Sunscreen
- Moisturizer
Personal Hygiene Items
- Wet Wipes
- Tissues
- Handwash
- Blister Plasters
- Portable Hand Sanitizer
ADDITIONAL ITEMS
- Maps and Guides
- Snacks/Energy Bars
- Camera
- Notebook/Pen
Prepare for your EBC Trek with confidence, knowing that you have all the necessary gear and essentials to make your journey safe, comfortable, and memorable.
Tips for Everest Base Camp
Conquering the Everest Base Camp requires preparation and awareness. Here are some essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure:
Pre-Trek Preparation:
- Physical Fitness: Consult with your doctor and embark on a training program 2-3 months before the trek to build endurance for long days on the trail. This Himalayan adventure demands good physical fitness.
- Gear Up: Invest in proper trekking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, breathable clothing for varying temperatures, a warm sleeping bag, and a reliable backpack.
Trekking Essentials:
- Hydration: Dehydration is a serious concern at high altitudes. Carry a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated throughout the day. Consider electrolyte tablets or drinks to replenish minerals lost through sweat.
- Snacks and Food: Pack nutritious, high-energy snacks like protein bars, dried fruits, and nuts to keep your energy levels up during the trek. Teahouses provide meals, but having backup snacks is always a good idea.
- Responsible Trekking: Respect the environment by minimizing waste. Avoid single-use plastics and bring a reusable water bottle. Pack out all trash and dispose of it properly.
Altitude Awareness:
- Acclimatization: Altitude sickness is a potential risk. Ascend gradually and take rest days to allow your body to adjust to the decreasing oxygen levels.
- Symptoms and Support: Be aware of the signs of altitude sickness (headache, nausea, dizziness). If you experience any symptoms, descend immediately and inform your guide.
Additional Tips:
- Embrace the Culture: Immerse yourself in the rich Nepali culture. Interact with the locals, learn a few basic phrases, and appreciate their customs and traditions.
- Stay Connected (Optionally): Purchase a local SIM card for basic internet access in certain teahouses. Consider a portable charger (power bank) to keep your devices powered, as charging stations can be limited, especially during peak season.
- Respectful Tipping: Tipping your guides and porters (if you hire them) is a common courtesy in Nepal to show appreciation for their service and support.
- Explore Beyond: Extend your adventure and explore the vibrant cities of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan, or visit Chitwan National Park.
By following these tips and planning meticulously, you'll be well on your way to conquering the magnificent Everest Base Camp and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Accommodation and Camping:
- Teahouses: The most common accommodation along the trek route. These are basic lodges offering dormitory-style rooms and meals for purchase.
- Campsites: For a more adventurous experience, camping is possible in designated areas. However, you'll need to bring your camping gear.
Costs and Budget:
- The cost of the Everest Circuit Trek can vary depending on several factors, including:
- Trek duration and route variation
- Mode of transportation (local buses vs. private jeep)
- Accommodation type (teahouses vs. camping)
- Guide and porter services (optional)
- Food and personal expenses
Guide and Porter Services:
- Hiring a licensed guide is not mandatory but highly recommended, especially for first-time trekkers. Guides provide navigation expertise, and cultural insights, and ensure safety on the trail.
- Porters can be hired to carry your backpack, lightening your load and allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery.
Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is highly recommended for any trek in the Himalayas due to the potential risks associated with altitude