Nepal travel guide for Americans

US passport holders must obtain a tourist visa. An e‑visa can be applied online (up to 90 days before travel) and is valid for a 30‑day stay, extendable in‑country. Alternatively, a visa can be purchased on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or land border points; the same fee applies.

No visa‑free entry exists for US citizens. A passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date.

The US Embassy is located in Kathmandu at Gorkha Bhavan, Babarmahal. It provides consular services, passport assistance, and emergency support for US travelers.

A moderate 10‑day trip for one adult averages US 1,200–1,500, covering flights, accommodation, meals, internal transport and entry fees. Budget travel can be lower, while mid‑range trekking packages raise the total.

Main international gateway is Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. Direct flights from the US are unavailable; most travelers connect via Doha, Istanbul, Dubai or Delhi. Total travel time from New York to Kathmandu is roughly 20–24 hours including layovers.

Nepal is UTC+5:45 year‑round, 10 hours 45 minutes ahead of Eastern Standard Time (non‑DST).

Electrical plugs: types C, D and M, 230 V 50 Hz. Bring a universal adapter; voltage converters are rarely needed for low‑wattage devices.

Tipping: 10–15 % of guide/porter fees; round up restaurant bills and taxi fares.

Emergency contacts: Police 100, Ambulance 102, Tourist police 1144.

The U.S. Department of State issues travel advisories for Nepal. Check the latest advisory before your trip.

Common concerns include political demonstrations, road conditions, and altitude sickness in trekking areas.

Domestic flights connect Kathmandu to Pokhara, Bharatpur, and other cities. Buses and taxis are common for shorter distances.

Trekking permits are required for certain areas; arrange through a registered agency or the Nepal Tourism Board.