Essential Guide: What to Know Before Visiting Kathmandu

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Kathmandu is Nepal’s bustling cultural and historic heart — prepare for high energy, rich heritage, variable air quality, and basic but improving tourist infrastructure. Plan visas, timing, safety and transport in advance to get the most from your visit.

## Visa & entry requirements
- Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport and land borders; check Nepal’s Department of Immigration website for current eligibility and fees. 
- e-Visa/online application is available and recommended to speed up arrival. 
- Passport should be valid at least 6 months with blank pages. 
- Have printed copies of your passport, visa approval (if used), onward ticket and accommodation details.

## Best time to visit
- Peak seasons: Late September–November (autumn) and March–May (spring). Best weather, clear mountain views, festivals. 
- Monsoon: June–August (heavy rain, landslides in hills, fewer crowds). 
- Winter: December–February (cool to cold; mornings may be hazy but cheaper rates).

## Safety tips
- Crime: Petty theft and bag snatching occur — keep valuables secure, use hotel safes, be cautious in crowded areas. 
- Scams: Beware of unofficial tour guides, overpriced taxis — agree fares or insist on meters. 
- Health: Air pollution can be high; consider masks and limit strenuous activity on bad-air days. Drink bottled or purified water; avoid raw salads from unreliable vendors. 
- Altitude: Kathmandu sits at ~1,400 m (mild altitude). If trekking higher, acclimatize properly. 
- Political events: Roadblocks or strikes (bandhs) can occur; monitor local news and avoid demonstrations.

## Local customs & etiquette
- Greet with a polite “Namaste” (hands together). 
- Dress modestly, especially at temples and stupas. Shoulders and knees covered are appreciated. 
- Remove shoes and hats when entering temples and some homes. 
- Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural or religious contexts.

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Essential Guide: What to Know Before Visiting Kathmandu

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