Nepal flights and travel guide

Language

Nepali is the official language. English is spoken in all major tourist areas.

Back to top

Communications

The country code for Nepal is +977, and the outgoing code is 00, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the UK). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)1 for Kathmandu and (0)41 for Pokhara. Two mobile phone operators provide GSM 900 network coverage in the main cities and towns, but this does not extend tothe summit of Mount Everest! In the main tourist centres of Kathmandu and Pokhara there are Internet cafes on every corner.

Back to top

Tipping

Restaurants and hotels may add 10 per cent to bills in which case no further tip is required; otherwise a 10 per cent tip is customary in places that cater to tourists. It is customary to tip guides and porters on treks. Elsewhere it is not customary to tip, but gratuities are always appreciated.

Back to top

Safety

On February 1, 2005, the king dismissed the government, assuming direct control of the country. On April 21, 2006, he finally agreed to give up his power following weeks of violent protests by political parties and the Maoists; Parliament has been reinstated. All bans and curfews have been lifted, but demonstrations and public gatherings should be avoided, as there is still a high risk of violence. Countrywide strikes (bandhs) are also occasionally called for by the Maoists, which can turn violent. These usually seriously affect road transport and many businesses, and visitors are advised to seek up-to-date information before travelling; tourists have been left temporarily stranded.

Back to top

Health

No immunisation is required, but vaccinations for cholera, hepatitis A, meningitis, tetanus, diphtheria and typhoid are recommended. Altitude sickness is a real risk for trekkers. There is a risk of malaria between June and September in the low-lying areas including Chitwan National Park. Outbreaks of Japaneseencephalitis occur annually, particularly between July and December; vaccination is advised. Untreated water should be avoided; visitors can buy bottled water or purify their own. When trekking it is preferable to treat one's own water rather than leaving a trail of plastic bottles behind; purifying water with iodine is the cheapest and easiest way to treat water. Stomach upsets are likely to be the most common cause of illness in travellers; food in tourist restaurants or "Western" food should be treated with caution as it is often reheated or left to stand out, and drinks or salads can contain ice or have ingredients washed in dirty water. Standard of care in hospitals varies, but there are travellers' clinics in Kathmandu and numerous pharmacies in the major towns. Medical insurance is essential.

Back to top

Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Round two- and three-pin plugs are used.

Back to topp