Custom travel to Nepal

Nepal is one of the Himalayas' most extraordinary countries — wedged between India and China over 800 km, it houses 8 of the world's 14 peaks above 8,000 m, including Everest (8,849 m), Annapurna I (8,091 m), Kangchenjunga (8,586 m). 30 million inhabitants, democracy since 2008 (former monarchy), officially secular country but deeply living Buddhist-Hindu culture. Kathmandu, thousand-year-old chaotic capital, houses 7 UNESCO sites (Patan, Bhaktapur, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple). Pokhara, base for Annapurna treks, is the 2nd tourist city. Lumbini, Buddha's birthplace. Chitwan, national park with rhinos and tigers. World trekking capital — 200,000 trekkers/year on iconic itineraries (Annapurna Circuit, EBC Everest Base Camp, Langtang). Spiritual and physical destination, like Nepali devotion.

Highlights

  • Everest: Base Camp (5,364 m) and Kala Patthar
  • Annapurna: circuit or sanctuary (legendary treks)
  • Kathmandu: 7 UNESCO sites in 1 valley
  • Pokhara: Lake Phewa and Annapurnas backdrop
  • Chitwan: national park, rhinos and tigers
  • Lumbini: Buddha's birthplace (UNESCO)

Frequently asked questions

When?

October-November (post-monsoon, clearest sky) or March-April (spring, rhododendrons). Avoid June-September (monsoon) and winter (closed passes).

How long?

10 days for Nepal without trek (Kathmandu + Pokhara + Chitwan). 16 days for Annapurna Sanctuary. 16-18 days for EBC.

Budget?

€2,800-€3,800 per person for 16 days in comfort, excluding flights. Premium: €4,500-€6,000. EBC helicopter: €7,500-€9,500. Flights: €600-€1,000.

Visa?

Yes, on arrival in Kathmandu ($40 for 30 days, $100 for 90 days). Possible online before departure.

Annapurna or Everest: which to choose?

Annapurna Sanctuary (10 d, 4,130 m) more accessible — moderate level, spectacular landscape. EBC (12-14 d, 5,364 m + Kala Patthar 5,643 m) more legendary but harder — demanding level, uncertain Lukla flight.

Altitude sickness: how to prevent?

Progressive ascent (300-500 m/day above 3,000 m), 2 acclim days at Namche (3,440 m) and Dingboche (4,410 m), Diamox advised, 4-5 L/day hydration, no alcohol, sufficient sleep.

Family?

From age 12 for treks (physical effort). For Kathmandu + Pokhara + Chitwan: from age 8, accessible.

Is the Lukla flight dangerous?

Reputed world's most dangerous airport (460-m runway on a 2,845-m cliff, frequently cancelled for weather). Experienced pilots, acceptable safety statistics. Plan 1-2 buffer days for cancellations.

Combine?

Yes: Nepal + Bhutan (Kathmandu-Paro 1-h flight), Nepal + North India (Kathmandu-Delhi 1 h 30), Nepal + Tibet (per political situation).

Tips?

Yes: 10% in restaurants, $5-$10/day for trek guide, $3-$5/day for porter. Highly appreciated.