Nepal is a beacon for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and spiritual renewal. Surrounded by the towering Himalayas, this small country offers a vast range of experiences — from the bustling, temple-studded streets of Kathmandu to the serene trails leading to Everest Base Camp. Yet one of the most common questions travelers ask is: How much does it cost to visit Nepal?
Known as a budget-friendly destination, Nepal draws many curious visitors who want to understand what expenses to expect. As you might imagine, the answer depends on what kind of experience you choose. Whether you’re planning a luxurious stay in central Kathmandu, a challenging trek through the Annapurna Circuit, or a simple pilgrimage to Lumbini, your costs will vary. Your budget depends heavily on where you stay, how you travel, what you eat each day, and what kind of experiences you choose.
This guide breaks down the cost of traveling to Nepal and offers tips to help you plan better and make the most of your Himalayan adventure.
Nepal Travel: A Quick Overview
Location Nestled in the Himalayas, Nepal is bordered by China (to the north) and India (to the south, east, and west).
Capital: Kathmandu — known for its ancient temples, bustling markets, and rich cultural heritage.
Language: Nepali
Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)
Main Attractions
Kathmandu Valley: Home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath, and Boudhanath Stupa.
Pokhara: Known for its lakeside charm, views of the Annapurna Range, and adventure sports like paragliding.
Chitwan National Park: Offers jungle safaris and a chance to see Bengal tigers, rhinos, and other wildlife.
Trekking: Popular trails include the Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley.
Food Highlights
Dal Bhat: Traditional meal of lentil soup, rice, and side dishes.
Momo: Nepali dumplings filled with meat or vegetables.
Thukpa: Tibetan-style noodle soup.
Cultural Festivals
Dashain and Tihar: The most important Hindu festivals in Nepal.
Losar: Celebrated by the Sherpa and Tibetan communities.
Transportation in Nepal
Domestic flights, buses, and microvans are common.
In cities, rickshaws and taxis are easily available.
Cost Insight
Nepal is generally affordable, but costs can rise significantly if you opt for luxury accommodations or guided treks.
How to Reach Nepal from India
Traveling to Nepal from India is easy and convenient. The two neighboring countries share strong ties and multiple points of entry. Whether you choose to drive across the border or take a flight, you’ll find several options:
By Road: There are well-connected roads with key border crossings like Sunauli–Bhairahawa and Kakarbhitta–Siliguri.
By Air: Major Indian cities offer flights to Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital. Flying is the fastest way to get there, usually taking just a few hours.
For Indian citizens, visas are not required, making it even easier to travel.
1. Average One-Way Flight Costs from Major Indian Cities
From Delhi: ₹10,000 INR
From Mumbai: ₹12,000 INR
From Kolkata: ₹9,000 INR
From Bengaluru: ₹14,000 INR
From Chennai: ₹15,000 INR
2. Season and Its Impact on Flight Prices
Peak Season (October–November & March–May): Ideal for trekking; flights tend to be more expensive.
Off-Season (June–September): Due to the monsoon, fewer tourists visit. Conditions aren’t great for trekking, but flight prices are lower.
Shoulder Season (December–February): Cold weather means fewer crowds and cheaper airfares from India, although some trekking areas may be less accessible.
3. Money-Saving Tips
Book Early: Reserve tickets at least 2–3 months in advance for the best deals. Last-minute bookings, especially during peak season, are more expensive.
Be Flexible with Dates: Even a day or two difference can change prices significantly. Use “flexible dates” options on booking platforms.
Use Fare Alerts: Set up fare alerts on flight comparison websites or apps. They’ll notify you when prices drop.
Travel Light: If you’re flying without checked luggage, some airlines offer cheaper fares — ideal for short trips.
Use Loyalty Points or Air Miles: If you fly often with certain airlines, keep an eye out for promotional offers and consider using accumulated points for discounts.
Travel Documents Required for Indian Citizens Traveling to Nepal
Passport: A valid Indian passport is accepted for entry.
Voter ID Card: Issued by the Election Commission of India, this is another valid document for entry.
Other Documents: For children aged 1 to 18 traveling with parents, a school ID or Aadhaar card along with a birth certificate is accepted as a valid travel document.