### Frequently Asked Questions
**Q: Do I need a visa to visit Nepal?** **A:** Yes, but most nationalities can easily obtain a visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport or land borders. A few nationalities must apply in advance.
**Q: When is the best time to visit?** **A:** October to November and March to May are the best times for clear skies and favorable trekking weather.
**Q: What is the official currency?** **A:** The Nepalese Rupee (NPR).
**Q: Is Nepal safe for tourists?** **A:** Yes, it is widely considered one of the safest countries for travelers. Violent crime is exceptionally rare.
**Q: Can I drink the tap water?** **A:** No. Always drink bottled, boiled, or properly filtered/purified water.
**Q: Do people speak English?** **A:** English is widely spoken in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and along popular trekking routes, though less so in remote villages.
**Q: What is a teahouse?** **A:** A teahouse is a small mountain lodge along trekking routes offering basic accommodation and home-cooked meals.
**Q: Do I need a guide to trek?** **A:** The government recently made guides mandatory for most remote national park trekking areas, though some highly commercial routes may still allow independent hikers. It is always safer to hire a guide.
**Q: What plug types are used?** **A:** Plugs are typically Type C, D, or M. The standard voltage is 230V.
**Q: Is altitude sickness common?** **A:** Yes, anyone traveling above 2,500 meters is at risk. It is crucial to acclimatize properly.
**Q: How do I travel between cities?** **A:** Domestic flights are quick but weather-dependent. Tourist buses are cheap and popular, while hiring a private jeep is faster but more expensive.
**Q: Is Nepal a predominantly Buddhist country?** **A:** No, Nepal is overwhelmingly Hindu (around 81%), though Buddhism is deeply intertwined with local Hinduism.
**Q: Can I use my credit card everywhere?** **A:** Cards are widely accepted in cities and nice hotels, but cash is king. You will need cash for trekking and rural areas.
**Q: What should I pack?** **A:** Layers are key. A down jacket and good hiking boots for the mountains, and light, breathable clothing for the hot Terai plains.
**Q: Is there a dress code?** **A:** Modest clothing is appreciated. Cover your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting temples or rural areas.
**Q: Can I fly a drone in Nepal?** **A:** Drone laws are strict. You must obtain permission from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) and local municipalities.
**Q: How is the internet in Nepal?** **A:** 4G/LTE is widely available in cities, and Wi-Fi is standard in hotels and cafes. Even on major treks like Everest Base Camp, internet access is available for a fee.
**Q: What is the food like?** **A:** It is heavily influenced by Indian, Tibetan, and Chinese cuisines. Dal Bhat, momos, and thukpa (noodle soup) are ubiquitous.
**Q: Do I need to tip?** **A:** Tipping is standard in tourist restaurants (often a 10% service charge is already added). Tipping your trekking guide and porter at the end of a trip is highly expected.
**Q: Are there ATMs?** **A:** Yes, plenty in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan. Withdraw cash before heading into the mountains, as ATMs on trekking routes are rare and often broken.