Nepal - Country Info

Nepal, the country in the heart of the Himalayas, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, rich culture and warm hospitality. Home to some of the world’s highest mountains, including Mount Everest, Nepal offers a wide variety of adventures. From majestic mountains to lush jungles and spiritual sites, Nepal is a fascinating destination that attracts visitors from all over the world.

History 

Nepal’s history stretches back thousands of years, from the establishment of early kingdoms to the recent development of a democratic government. Once a centre of Buddhism and Hinduism, Nepal is home to some of the world’s oldest and most important religious sites, including the sacred temple of Pashupatinath and the stupa of Swayambhunath.
Nepal’s early history is steeped in legends and lore that Nepal was the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism and the Buddha. In the centuries that followed, Nepal became a centre of Buddhism and Hinduism and was the scene of a flourishing religious and cultural development.
Over the centuries, several kingdoms and ruling dynasties emerged in Nepal, including the Lichhavi dynasty, the Malla dynasty and the Gorkha kingdom, which later became modern Nepal. The country also experienced a period of political fragmentation and conflict between rival kingdoms.
Nepal’s modern history was shaped by the rule of the Shah dynasty, which unified the country in the 18th century and ushered in a period of relative stability and development. Nepal was originally ruled by an absolute monarchy, but in the late 1940s the country began to move towards a constitutional monarchy.
In 2008, Nepal officially became a democratic republic after years of political unrest and protests led to the abolition of the monarchy. Since then, the country has undergone a series of political challenges and transitions and is on its way to becoming a stable and prosperous democracy.
Nepal’s history is rich in cultural and spiritual treasures, which can be found in the country’s many temples, monasteries and historical sites.

Geography 

Nepal, a country of breathtaking beauty and scenic diversity, is located in South Asia between India and China. Nepal’s geography is strikingly diverse, ranging from the subtropical plains in the south to the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in the north.
In the south of Nepal lies the Terai, a vast plain that stretches to the Indian border. This region is characterised by dense forests, fertile plains and abundant wildlife. It is home to national parks such as Chitwan National Park, famous for its abundance of wildlife including elephants, rhinos and Bengal tigers.
Central Nepal is dominated by the hilly regions of the Mahabharat and Churia mountains. This region is rich in terraced fields, picturesque villages and historic sites. Kathmandu, the vibrant capital of Nepal, is located in this region and is a cultural centre with an abundance of temples, palaces and traditional markets.
To the north rise the Nepalese Himalayas, home to some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest, the world’s highest mountain. These majestic mountains attract adventurers and climbers from all over the world, offering unparalleled trekking and mountaineering experiences.
Nepal’s climate varies according to region and altitude. The plains of the Terai have a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The central hills have a temperate climate with pleasant temperatures for most of the year. The high mountains of the Himalayas have an alpine climate with cold temperatures and heavy snowfall in winter.
Nepal is a country of unparalleled natural beauty and scenic diversity, appealing to adventurers, nature lovers and culture vultures alike. With its spectacular mountain ranges, lush forests, historic cities and hospitable people, Nepal offers countless opportunities for unforgettable travel experiences.

Flora & Fauna

Nepal, a country of incredible diversity, is home to a rich flora and fauna from the subtropical plains of the south to the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in the north.
The Terai plains in southern Nepal are covered by dense tropical forests dominated by a variety of plant species. Tree species such as sal, teak and mahogany grow here and provide a habitat for a variety of animal species. Animals found in the Terai include Bengal tigers, elephants, rhinoceroses, leopards, sloth bears, wild boars and various species of deer and monkeys.
In the central hills of Nepal, characterised by terraced fields and picturesque villages, you will find a variety of deciduous and coniferous forests, as well as alpine meadows and scrubland. These regions are home to many bird species such as the Himalayan Green Woodpecker, the Nepal Pitta and the Himalayan Monarch, as well as a variety of mammals such as the Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Macaques and Wild Goats.
Nepal’s high mountains, which stretch across the Himalayan range, are characterised by snow-capped peaks, glaciers and alpine tundra landscapes. These extreme habitats are home to some of the world’s rarest and most fascinating animals, including the snow leopard, Himalayan tahr, red panda, Himalayan black bear and Himalayan thar.
The country is also known for its rich plant diversity, including a variety of medicinal herbs, medicinal plants and aromatic spices. Characteristic plants of Nepal include rhododendrons, orchids, ferns, bamboos, cedars and pines.
Nepal’s rich flora and fauna make it a paradise for nature lovers, explorers and adventurers who want to experience the pristine beauty and biodiversity of this fascinating Himalayan nation.

Population

The population of Nepal is made up of a variety of ethnic groups, each with their own traditions, languages and customs. The largest ethnic groups are the Gurung, Tamang, Newar, Tharu, Magar, Rai, Limbu and Sherpa, to name but a few. Each of these groups has its own language, cultural identity and history that shape the social fabric and daily life of the country.
Nepalese society has traditionally been strongly influenced by Hinduism and Buddhism, the two predominant religions in the country. Over the centuries, these two religions have created a rich cultural and spiritual tradition that is visible in all aspects of Nepalese life. From the numerous temples and stupas that adorn the country to the many religious festivals celebrated throughout the year, religion is an integral part of Nepalese identity.
The Nepalese are renowned for their hospitality and friendliness towards visitors. When you visit Nepal, you will have the opportunity to experience the daily life of the locals by staying with host families, visiting local markets and participating in religious festivals and ceremonies.
Nepal’s cities such as Kathmandu, Pokhara and Bhaktapur are a colourful mix of tradition and modernity, with ancient temples and palaces next to modern buildings and shops. In the countryside, people often live traditionally, with agriculture and handicrafts an important part of their livelihood.
Nepal’s linguistic diversity is as impressive as its ethnic diversity. The official language is Nepali, which is spoken by the majority of the population. In addition to Nepali, there are a number of regional languages and dialects spoken by different ethnic groups. These include Newari, Maithili, Bhojpuri, Tamang, Gurung, Sherpa and many others.

Religion 

Religion plays a central role in the daily lives of Nepalese people and shapes the cultural identity of the country.
The two main religions in Nepal are Hinduism and Buddhism. Hinduism is the most widespread religion and is practised by the majority of the population, while Buddhism is an important minority religion, particularly strong in the mountainous regions of the country.
Hinduism is closely linked to Nepal’s culture and history. The country is home to some of the world’s most important Hindu pilgrimage sites, including the famous Pashupatinath temple complex in Kathmandu, dedicated to the god Shiva. Hindus believe in the existence of many gods and goddesses, and temples and shrines are scattered throughout Nepal. In addition, Hindu festivals such as Dashain and Tihar are celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion, with people making offerings and performing religious rituals.
Buddhism also has a long history in Nepal and is closely linked to the country’s development. Buddhism was founded by the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, who was born in the south of Nepal. Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha, is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites and attracts thousands of devotees from all over the world every year. In addition to Lumbini, there are many Buddhist monasteries and stupas in Nepal, places of meditation and prayer.
In addition to Hinduism and Buddhism, Nepal also has a small number of followers of other religions, including Christianity, Islam and Jainism. The country’s religious tolerance and diversity make Nepal a unique and fascinating destination to experience the spiritual atmosphere and rich religious tradition of the country.

Food and drink

Nepal is not only known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich culture, but also for its diverse and delicious cuisine, which is characterised by different ethnic groups and regional influences. Traditional Nepalese food and drinks reflect the country’s history, geography and cultural diversity and offer a unique culinary experience.

A popular traditional Nepalese dish is “Dal Bhat”, which is often referred to as the country’s national dish. It consists of lentil soup (dal) and rice (bhat) as well as various side dishes such as vegetable curries, achar (pickles) and papad. Dal bhat is usually eaten with the hands and is a nutritious and filling meal that is appreciated by locals and travellers alike.

Another well-known Nepalese dish is “momos”, filled dumplings that are steamed or deep-fried and served with savoury dips. Momos are very popular in Nepal and are often eaten as a snack or appetiser.

Nepal is also known for its variety of curries and spice blends, which give the dishes a rich flavour and intense aroma. The most popular curries include “Gorkhali Lamb”, “Chicken Tarkari” and “Vegetable Curry”, which are prepared with various local ingredients.

For those with a sweet tooth, Nepal offers a variety of desserts, including “Sel Roti”, a traditional Nepalese pastry made from rice flour and sugar, which is deep-fried and often served at festivals and celebrations.

When it comes to drinks, “chai” (tea) is an integral part of Nepalese culture and is drunk throughout the day. In addition to tea, “lassi” (a yoghurt drink) and “raksi” (a traditional Nepalese spirit drink) are also very popular.

Nepalese cuisine is rich in flavours, spices and local ingredients and offers you an unforgettable culinary experience that you will remember long after your return.

Festivals

Nepal celebrates a variety of traditional festivals throughout the year, which are deeply rooted in its history and reflect the country’s spiritual and cultural identity.

One of the most important festivals in Nepal is Dashain, the largest Hindu festival in the country. Dashain is usually celebrated in September or October, lasts 15 days and celebrates the victory of good over evil. During Dashain, families come together to worship goddesses such as Durga, make offerings and observe traditional rituals such as tika, where the elders smear tika (red paste) on the foreheads of the younger ones and wish them luck and prosperity.

Another important festival is Tihar, also known as the festival of lights or Deepavali. It is a five-day Hindu festival celebrated in October or November and is dedicated to the goddesses of wealth and good fortune, such as Lakshmi and Saraswati. During Tihar, houses are decorated with lights and flower wreaths, rangolis and lanterns are made. A highlight of the festival is the day of Bhai Tika, when the sisters honour their brothers and wish them luck and prosperity for the coming year.

Losar, the Tibetan New Year, is also celebrated in Nepal, especially in the Tibetan-influenced regions of the country such as Mustang and Manang. Losar marks the beginning of the Tibetan calendar and is celebrated with solemn processions, prayers, dancing and singing. The celebrations last around two weeks and are a time of joy, togetherness and prayer for a happy and prosperous new year.

In addition to these major festivals, there are many other local and regional festivals in Nepal that reflect the diversity of the country’s cultures and traditions. These include festivals such as Holi, the spring festival of colours, Maghe Sankranti, the harvest festival, and Teej, the women’s festival.

The traditional festivals of Nepal offer you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture and spirituality of the country and experience the warmth and hospitality of the people at first hand.

Visa

German nationals require a visa to enter the country, which must be applied for in advance at a Nepalese diplomatic mission.

Current entry and visa regulations and fees are provided by the Department of Immigration and the Nepalese Embassy in Berlin.

Visa before entry

The pre-entry visa can be applied for in Germany at the Nepalese embassy in Berlin and at the Nepalese honorary consuls in Frankfurt, Hamburg, Cologne, Munich and Stuttgart. In your own interest, you should have the entry requirements confirmed there before travelling. In the arrivals hall of Tribhuvan International Airport there are several machines where you can enter your visa application electronically and have your passport photo taken.

According to current information from the Nepalese immigration authorities, visas can be issued until the end of the validity of the travel document. However, you should ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months, otherwise airlines have already refused to carry passengers.

Visa on Arrival

The Visa-on-Arrival service is available again. The fees should be carried in cash in USD or the equivalent in EUR (15 days/30 USD, 30 days/50 USD, 90 days/125 USD).

Holders of passport replacement documents cannot make use of the Visa-on-Arrival service.

Health

Here is some important information about vaccinations and diseases in Nepal:

Vaccinations:

1. Standard immunisations: Make sure your standard immunisations are up to date, including tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, measles, mumps and rubella.
2. Hepatitis A and B: It is recommended to be vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, as these can be transmitted through contaminated water or food.
3. Rabies: As there is a risk of encounters with stray animals in Nepal, a rabies vaccination is recommended for travellers, especially if you are likely to spend long periods in rural areas or have contact with animals.
4. Typhoid fever: A vaccination against typhoid fever is also recommended, as the disease is transmitted through contaminated food or water.
5. Japanese encephalitis: In some regions of Nepal, especially in rural areas, there is a risk of Japanese encephalitis. It is recommended to be vaccinated against this disease, especially if you are spending a long time in affected areas.

Diseases:

1. Traveller’s diarrhoea: Tourists in Nepal should take precautions to avoid traveller’s diarrhoea by drinking only bottled or boiled water, observing hygienic eating practices and avoiding eating uncooked or unpeeled fruits and vegetables.
2. Altitude sickness: When travelling to high altitudes in Nepal, such as Mount Everest or the Annapurna region, there is a risk of altitude sickness. It is recommended that you adapt slowly to the altitude, drink enough and take sufficient time to acclimatise if you experience symptoms such as headaches, nausea and dizziness.
3. Malaria: In some parts of the Terai, the southern lowlands of Nepal, there is a risk of malaria. It is recommended to take appropriate precautions, such as using mosquito repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing and taking prophylactic medication.
4. Leptospirosis: Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that is transmitted through contact with contaminated water, especially from flooding or rainfall. Avoid swimming in contaminated water and do not drink untreated water.

It is advisable to find out about the latest health guidelines and recommendations before you travel and, if necessary, to get vaccinated in good time before travelling. By taking the appropriate precautions, you can make your stay in Nepal safe and enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts in Nepal

Do’s

1. Respect the local culture: Take the time to understand and respect the Nepalese culture. Show interest in the customs and traditions of the locals and be open to new experiences.
2. Friendliness and politeness: The Nepalese are known for their hospitality and friendliness. Always be polite and respectful to locals and other travellers.
3. Clothing: Dress appropriately and conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites and in rural areas. Cover your shoulders and knees out of respect.
4. Tipping: It is customary to tip for good service in restaurants, hotels and for travel guides. However, it is not obligatory and the amount you tip is up to you.
5. Environmental awareness: Nepal is a country of breathtaking natural beauty, so it is important to respect and protect the environment. Dispose of your rubbish properly and avoid plastic wherever possible.
6. Watch out for altitude sickness: If you are travelling to the high altitudes of Nepal, watch out for the symptoms of altitude sickness and take time to adjust to the altitude to avoid health problems.

Don’ts

1. Nudity and inappropriate clothing: Avoid wearing revealing clothing in public, especially in conservative rural areas and religious sites.
2. Disrespectful behaviour: Avoid disrespectful behaviour towards the local culture and people’s religious beliefs. Do not photograph religious ceremonies or people without permission.
3. Wasting water: Water is scarce in many parts of Nepal. Do not waste water and use it sparingly, especially when showering and brushing your teeth.
4. Disturb wildlife: Respect the wildlife of Nepal and do not disturb any wild animals. Do not take any animals as souvenirs and do not buy any products from endangered species.
5. Respect religious rules: Respect religious rules and customs, especially when visiting temples and holy sites. Take off your shoes before entering a temple and respect the rituals and ceremonies.

By following these do’s and don’ts, you can help make your trip to Nepal enjoyable and respectful while protecting the local culture and environment.

Clothing recommendations for traveling to Nepal

When traveling to Nepal, it is advisable to bring light and comfortable clothing that is suitable for warm temperatures, especially in the lowlands and southern Terai. However, at higher altitudes, e.g. in the Himalayas, it can get cool to cold, so you should also bring warmer clothing such as jackets, sweaters and long pants. It is also advisable to bring weatherproof clothing as the weather in Nepal can often be unpredictable, especially during the monsoon season.

What should you take with you for a trip to Nepal

The most important things you should take with you on a trip to Nepal include Passport and visa (if required), weatherproof clothing, comfortable hiking boots, sunscreen, insect repellent, medication for stomach ailments and altitude sickness (if traveling to higher altitudes), headgear, headlamp, water bottle and a first-aid kit.

You are not allowed to take anything with you from Nepal

When leaving Nepal, certain objects and artifacts that are considered national cultural heritage may not be exported. These include antiques, religious objects and protected animal and plant species. It is important to find out about the import regulations before buying souvenirs and artifacts to avoid problems when leaving the country.

Customary tipping in Nepal

Tipping is not obligatory in Nepal, but is often expected in restaurants, hotels and for certain services such as tour guides and porters. An appropriate tip is usually 5-10% of the bill.

Usual means of payment/currency in Nepal

The official currency in Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Cash is the most common means of payment and there are many bureaux de change and banks throughout the country where you can exchange money. Credit and debit cards are increasingly accepted in the larger cities and tourist areas, but it is advisable to carry cash as not all stores and restaurants accept cards.

ATMs and withdrawing money in Nepal

ATMs are widely available in the larger cities and tourist centers of Nepal. It is advisable to carry a credit or debit card in order to be able to withdraw money if necessary. However, there may be charges for withdrawing cash abroad, so it is advisable to check your bank’s charges in advance.

What is the most popular food in Nepal?

Nepalese cuisine is very diverse and offers an abundance of delicious dishes. The most popular Nepalese dishes include dal bhat (rice with lentils and vegetable curry), momo (steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables), thukpa (noodle soup), chow mein (fried noodles) and sel roti (sweet rice flour pastries). Tea (chia) and lassi (a yoghurt drink) are also very popular and refreshing in Nepal.