Nepal is a land of grand Himalayan peaks, colored cultural variations, and warm hospitality that many a backpacker only dreams about visiting. But with its increasing popularity, Nepal can be an expensive place to travel-or so you thought. As a broke backpacker, let me break it to you that one can explore Nepal even on the most broke of budgets while never really skipping an ounce of adventure, beauty, and excitement this incredible country has in store.
From the hike to Everest Base Camp down to the colorful streets of Kathmandu, I show my best tips and tricks for traveling Nepal on a budget. Whether you are a seasoned backpacker or just starting out, this guide will let you know how to make the most of your time in Nepal without breaking the bank.
How to get there:
From India:
- Delhi to Kathmandu: Take the bus or train from Delhi to Gorakhpur, then transfer to a bus to Sunauli (Nepal border). Cross the border and take a bus to Kathmandu.
- Varanasi to Kathmandu: Take the bus or train from Varanasi to Sunauli, then cross the border and take a bus to Kathmandu.
- Darjeeling to Kathmandu: Take the bus or jeep from Darjeeling to Kakarbhitta (Nepal border), then transfer to a bus to Kathmandu.
From China:
- Lhasa to Kathmandu: Take the bus or train from Lhasa to Zhangmu (Nepal border), then cross the border and take a bus to Kathmandu.
- Chengdu to Kathmandu: Take the bus or train from Chengdu to Lanzhou, then transfer to a bus to Zhangmu and cross the border to Kathmandu.
From Bhutan:
- Thimphu to Kathmandu: Take the bus from Thimphu to Phuentsholing (India border), then transfer to a bus to Siliguri and another bus to Kakarbhitta (Nepal border). Cross the border and take a bus to Kathmandu.
When to go:
Spring (March to May)
- Weather: Mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
- Pros:
- Clear skies and stunning mountain views
- Comfortable temperatures for trekking and hiking
- Festivals like Holi and Bisket Jatra
- Cons:
- Can be crowded during peak season
- Some trails may be closed due to snow
Summer (June to August)
- Weather: Hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F)
- Pros:
- Lush green landscapes and blooming flowers
- Festivals like Janai Purnima and Gai Jatra
- Cons:
- Monsoon season, with frequent rain and landslides
- Can be hot and humid in the lowlands
Autumn (September to November)
- Weather: Cool and clear, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
- Pros:
- Comfortable temperatures for trekking and hiking
- Clear skies and stunning mountain views
- Festivals like Dashain and Tihar
- Cons:
- Can be crowded during peak season
Winter (December to February)
- Weather: Cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from -2°C to 10°C (28°F to 50°F)
- Pros:
- Serene landscapes and snow-covered mountains
- Festivals like Maghe Sankranti and Basant Panchami
- Cons:
- Can be very cold, especially in the highlands
- Some trails may be closed due to snow
Best Time for:
- Trekking: Spring and Autumn
- Hiking: Spring and Autumn
- Cultural experiences: Spring and Autumn
- Festivals: Spring and Autumn
- Wildlife: Summer
- Relaxation: Winter
Best Itineraries:
1 Week:
- Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu, explore the city, visit Boudhanath and Pashupatinath
- Day 2: Visit the Kathmandu Durbar Square, explore the old city
- Day 3: Take a bus to Nagarkot, hike to the viewpoint, watch the sunset
- Day 4: Explore the Nagarkot village, visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square
- Day 5: Take a bus to Pokhara, relax by the lake, hike to the World Peace Pagoda
- Day 6: Visit the Tal Barahi Temple, take a boat ride on the lake
- Day 7: Return to Kathmandu, depart
2 Weeks:
- Day 1-3: Kathmandu (explore the city, visit Boudhanath and Pashupatinath)
- Day 4-6: Langtang (trek to the Langtang Valley, visit the monastery)
- Day 7-9: Nagarkot (hike to the viewpoint, watch the sunset)
- Day 10-12: Pokhara (relax by the lake, hike to the World Peace Pagoda)
- Day 13-14: Chitwan (visit the national park, go on a jungle safari)
1 Month:
- Week 1: Kathmandu (explore the city, visit Boudhanath and Pashupatinath)
- Week 2: Langtang (trek to the Langtang Valley, visit the monastery)
- Week 3: Nagarkot (hike to the viewpoint, watch the sunset) and Pokhara (relax by the lake, hike to the World Peace Pagoda)
- Week 4: Chitwan (visit the national park, go on a jungle safari) and Lumbini (visit the birthplace of Buddha)
3 Months:
- Month 1: Kathmandu (explore the city, visit Boudhanath and Pashupatinath), Langtang (trek to the Langtang Valley, visit the monastery), and Nagarkot (hike to the viewpoint, watch the sunset)
- Month 2: Pokhara (relax by the lake, hike to the World Peace Pagoda), Chitwan (visit the national park, go on a jungle safari), and Lumbini (visit the birthplace of Buddha)
- Month 3: Trek to Everest Base Camp, visit the Annapurna Circuit, or explore the far-western region of Nepal
Transportation:
Buses:
- Inter-city buses connect major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan
- Local buses operate within cities and towns
- Bus stations are usually located on the outskirts of towns
Microbuses:
- Small buses that operate on fixed routes
- Cheaper than taxis, but more expensive than local buses
Tempo:
- Three-wheeled vehicles that operate as shared taxis
- Flag one down anywhere along the route
Taxis:
- Available in major cities, but not always metered
- Agree on the fare before you start your journey
Rickshaws:
- Cycle-powered or manual rickshaws for short trips
- Agree on the fare before you start your journey
Trains:
- Limited train network, but a scenic way to travel
- Connects Jaynagar (India) to Bijalpura (Nepal)
Top things to do:
Kathmandu Valley:
- Explore the Kathmandu Durbar Square (free)
- Visit the Boudhanath Stupa (Rs. 50, ~$0.50 USD)
- Wander around the Pashupatinath Temple (Rs. 1,000, ~$10 USD)
- Hike to the Nagarkot viewpoint (free)
- Visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square (Rs. 1,500, ~$15 USD)
- Explore the Patan Durbar Square (Rs. 1,000, ~$10 USD)
- Visit the Swayambhunath Temple (Rs. 200, ~$2 USD)
- Take a cooking class (Rs. 1,000, ~$10 USD)
- Visit the Kathmandu Museum (Rs. 500, ~$5 USD)
Pokhara:
- Hike to the World Peace Pagoda (free)
- Take a boat ride on Phewa Lake (Rs. 500, ~$5 USD)
- Visit the Tal Barahi Temple (Rs. 100, ~$1 USD)
- Explore the Pokhara Old Town (free)
- Hike to the Sarangkot viewpoint (free)
- Visit the International Mountain Museum (Rs. 500, ~$5 USD)
- Take a yoga class (Rs. 500, ~$5 USD)
- Paragliding (Rs. 8,000, ~$80 USD)
- Zip lining (Rs. 5,000, ~$50 USD)
Chitwan:
- Visit the Chitwan National Park (Rs. 1,500, ~$15 USD)
- Take a jungle safari (Rs. 2,000, ~$20 USD)
- Canoe ride on the Rapti River (Rs. 1,000, ~$10 USD)
- Visit the Elephant Breeding Center (Rs. 500, ~$5 USD)
- Take a village tour (Rs. 1,000, ~$10 USD)
- Go birdwatching (free)
- Take a bike tour (Rs. 1,500, ~$15 USD)
Langtang:
- Trek to the Langtang Valley (Rs. 3,000, ~$30 USD)
- Visit the Langtang Village (free)
- Explore the Kyanjin Gompa Monastery (free)
- Hike to the Tserko Ri viewpoint (free)
- Take a homestay experience (Rs. 1,500, ~$15 USD)
- Visit the Langtang National Park (Rs. 1,500, ~$15 USD)
Everest Region:
- Trek to Everest Base Camp (Rs. 6,000, ~$60 USD)
- Visit the Lukla Village (free)
- Explore the Namche Bazaar (free)
- Hike to the Kala Patthar viewpoint (free)
- Take a scenic flight to Everest (Rs. 12,000, ~$120 USD)
- Visit the Tengboche Monastery (free)
- Take a helicopter tour (Rs. 15,000, ~$150 USD)
Annapurna Region:
- Trek to the Annapurna Circuit (Rs. 5,000, ~$50 USD)
- Visit the Muktinath Temple (Rs. 1,000, ~$10 USD)
- Explore the Jomsom Village (free)
- Hike to the Poon Hill viewpoint (free)
- Take a hot spring bath (Rs. 500, ~$5 USD)
- Visit the Annapurna Sanctuary (Rs. 2,000, ~$20 USD)
Manaslu Region:
- Trek to the Manaslu Circuit (Rs. 5,000, ~$50 USD)
- Visit the Sama Gaon Village (free)
- Explore the Larkya La Pass (free)
- Hike to the Manaslu Base Camp (Rs. 2,000, ~$20 USD)
- Take a homestay experience (Rs. 1,500, ~$15 USD)
Upper Mustang:
- Trek to the Upper Mustang Region (Rs. 6,000, ~$60 USD)
- Visit the Lo Manthang Village (free)
- Explore the Muktinath Temple (Rs. 1,000, ~$10 USD)
- Hike to the Thorong La Pass (free)
- Take a horse ride (Rs. 2,000, ~$20 USD)
Food:
Coming off the plane in Kathmandu, my senses were immediately overwhelmed by the colorful sights, cacophonous sounds, and pungent smells of this vibrant country. But one thing did slowly become apparent: just how complex a situation food is in Nepal.
On one hand, Nepali food is a variety of palatable dishes from the three main cuisines: Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan. Mainly Dal Bhat, Momos, Gorkhali lamb are popular cuisines. Fresh fruits and vegetables, along with different varieties of spices, are sold by street vendors on the streets, while the aroma of sizzling street food tingles the nostrils.
Meanwhile, Nepal is a country that is struggling with food security. Most of the rural areas depend on farming for their livelihoods, and it’s a very hard process to deliver foods to the most remote areas of the country due to its topography. As a result, malnutrition is a huge issue, particularly among children and pregnant women.
Navigating the food landscape was both exciting and cautionary: as a traveler indulging in delicious meals at local restaurants, trying my hand at cooking traditional Nepali dishes, yet I also saw the challenges of many Nepalis firsthand-particularly in rural areas where healthy food is hard to access.
Despite these challenges, there is reason to hope. Innovative initiatives in the form of community gardens and food cooperatives sprout up around the country, bringing fresh produce to the country’s underserved communities. In Kathmandu, a thriving expat community has given rise to an astonishingly varied range of restaurants serving everything from Italian to Korean.
As I left Nepal, the thought of the food journey that I had undertaken felt very fortunate. On the contrary, I knew well that to make sure that all Nepalis get nutritious and delicious food, food is a very intricate and multi-dimensional situation in the country, which surely requires sustained effort and support.
Culture:
Spirituality and Religion
Nepal is a deeply spiritual country, with Hinduism and Buddhism being the two dominant religions. The country is home to numerous temples, shrines, and monasteries, each with its own unique architecture and significance. The Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most revered Hindu temples in the country, while the Boudhanath Stupa is one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world.
Festivals and Celebrations
Nepal celebrates numerous festivals throughout the year, each with its own unique rituals and traditions. The Dashain festival, a 15-day celebration honoring the goddess Durga, is one of the most significant festivals in the country. Other notable festivals include Tihar, a festival of lights, and Bisket Jatra, a colorful festival celebrated in the town of Bhaktapur.
Art and Architecture
Nepali art and architecture are deeply influenced by the country’s spiritual heritage. The intricate carvings and sculptures found in temples and monasteries are testaments to the skill and craftsmanship of Nepali artisans. The country’s unique architecture, which blends Hindu and Buddhist styles, is characterized by the use of brick, wood, and stone.
Music and Dance
Nepali music and dance are an integral part of the country’s cultural heritage. Traditional instruments like the sarangi and the madal are used to create soulful melodies, while dances like the Lakhe Naach and the Bhairav Naach are performed during festivals and celebrations.
Cuisine
Nepali cuisine is a delicious blend of Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan flavors. Popular dishes like dal bhat, momos, and gorkhali lamb are staples of the Nepali diet, while the country’s unique sweets like selroti and kwati are must-try delicacies.
Hospitality
Nepalis are known for their warm hospitality, with guests being treated like gods in many households. The concept of “atithi devo bhava” (the guest is god) is deeply ingrained in Nepali culture, making visitors feel welcome and at home.
Accommodations:
Kathmandu:
- Zostel Kathmandu: Starting from Rs. 500 (~$5 USD) per night
- Hostel Kathmandu: Starting from Rs. 400 (~$4 USD) per night
- Thamel Hostel: Starting from Rs. 300 (~$3 USD) per night
- Kathmandu Backpackers: Starting from Rs. 350 (~$3.50 USD) per night
- Nepal Youth Hostel: Starting from Rs. 250 (~$2.50 USD) per night
Pokhara:
- Pokhara Backpackers: Starting from Rs. 400 (~$4 USD) per night
- Hostel Pokhara: Starting from Rs. 350 (~$3.50 USD) per night
- Lakeside Hostel: Starting from Rs. 300 (~$3 USD) per night
- Fewa Hostel: Starting from Rs. 250 (~$2.50 USD) per night
- Pokhara Youth Hostel: Starting from Rs. 200 (~$2 USD) per night
Chitwan:
- Sauraha Hostel: Starting from Rs. 300 (~$3 USD) per night
- Chitwan Backpackers: Starting from Rs. 250 (~$2.50 USD) per night
- Jungle Hostel: Starting from Rs. 200 (~$2 USD) per night
- Chitwan Safari Hostel: Starting from Rs. 350 (~$3.50 USD) per night
- Wildlife Hostel: Starting from Rs. 300 (~$3 USD) per night
Langtang:
- Langtang Hostel: Starting from Rs. 400 (~$4 USD) per night
- Kyanjin Gompa Hostel: Starting from Rs. 350 (~$3.50 USD) per night
- Langtang Valley Hostel: Starting from Rs. 300 (~$3 USD) per night
- Tserko Ri Hostel: Starting from Rs. 250 (~$2.50 USD) per night
- Gosainkunda Hostel: Starting from Rs. 200 (~$2 USD) per night
Manaslu:
- Manaslu Hostel: Starting from Rs. 350 (~$3.50 USD) per night
- Sama Gaon Hostel: Starting from Rs. 300 (~$3 USD) per night
- Larkya La Hostel: Starting from Rs. 250 (~$2.50 USD) per night
- Manaslu Valley Hostel: Starting from Rs. 200 (~$2 USD) per night
Nightlife:
Kathmandu:
- Thamel:
- Tom & Jerry Pub: A popular spot for live music and sports
- The Last Resort: A favorite among expats and locals alike
- Purple Haze: A psychedelic-themed bar with great cocktails
- The Garage: A rock ‘n’ roll bar with live music
- The Beat: A lively bar with DJs and dancing
- Boudha:
- Boudha Lounge: A chic bar with live music and DJs
- Stupa Lounge: A rooftop bar with stunning views of the Boudha Stupa
- The Hub: A popular spot for coffee and cocktails
- Patan:
- Patan Lounge: A cozy bar with live music and a relaxed vibe
- The Village Cafe: A popular spot for coffee and cocktails
- The Patan Pub: A favorite among locals and expats
Pokhara:
- Lakeside:
- The Fish Tail Lodge: A lakeside bar with stunning views and live music
- The Waterfront: A popular spot for cocktails and sunsets
- The Busy Bee: A lively bar with live music and DJs
- The Lakeside Lounge: A relaxed bar with great views
- Damside:
- The Damside Lounge: A rooftop bar with great views of the lake
- The River View: A relaxed bar with live music and a riverside location
- The Damside Pub: A popular spot for locals and expats
Chitwan:
- Sauraha:
- The Rhino Lounge: A popular spot for live music and cocktails
- The Tiger’s Nest: A cozy bar with a relaxed vibe
- The Jungle Bar: A lively spot for dancing and DJs
- Meghauli:
- The Meghauli Lounge: A rooftop bar with great views
- The River View: A relaxed bar with live music and a riverside location
Langtang:
- Langtang Village:
- The Langtang Lodge: A trekker’s favorite with live music and a warm fire
- The Kyanjin Gompa: A monastery-turned-bar with stunning views
- The Langtang View: A relaxed bar with great views
Manaslu:
- Sama Gaon:
- The Sama Gaon Lodge: A trekker’s favorite with live music and a warm fire
- The Manaslu View: A relaxed bar with great views
- The Sama Gaon Pub: A popular spot for locals and expats
Backpacking Nepal costs:
Daily Budget:
- Accommodation: Rs. 500-800 (~$5-8 USD) per night (hostel or guesthouse)
- Food: Rs. 300-500 (~$3-5 USD) per day (street food and local eateries)
- Transportation: Rs. 100-300 (~$1-3 USD) per day (local buses and taxis)
- Attractions: Rs. 100-500 (~$1-5 USD) per day (temples, museums, and hiking)
- Total: Rs. 1,000-2,100 (~$10-21 USD) per day
Weekly Budget:
- Accommodation: Rs. 3,500-5,600 (~$35-56 USD) per week
- Food: Rs. 2,100-3,500 (~$21-35 USD) per week
- Transportation: Rs. 700-2,100 (~$7-21 USD) per week
- Attractions: Rs. 700-3,500 (~$7-35 USD) per week
- Total: Rs. 7,000-14,700 (~$70-147 USD) per week
As I sit here reflecting on my journey, it calls to mind that sometimes the greatest rewards derive from the greatest challenges. Backpacking Nepal on a broke budget was not easy, but it was worth it. Every moment from the breathtaking Himalayan vistas to the thrilling Nepalese hospitality was a gift.
I learned to love the unknown and find beauty in unexpected views, to cherish simplicity. And, of course, I learned that a little creativity and resourcefulness go a long way toward making even the most limited budget seem limitless.
If you are thinking about a similar adventure, I can say: just do it. Don’t let fear or self-doubt get in your way, for Nepal has this way of capturing your heart, and I promise you, this is one experience that you will never forget.
