Visa Information

Your First Step to the Himalayas

To plan an adventure in Nepal, the first step is acquiring a visa. At Sonam Adventures, we know that obtaining a visa may seem complicated, but fortunately, there is good news. Nepal is one of the most accessible countries in the world when it comes to acquiring a visa.

Most travelers get it visa on arrival. Your visa is like the first of many keys you will have to unlock the many mountains, cultures, and new experiences that await you in Nepal. With the completion of the visa, the new journey will begin.

Do you need a Visa?

In the case you are not an Indian citizen, then you will be required to get a visa in order to enter Nepal. If that is the case, then there is good news because the visa application process is not very strict. Visas are issued on arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport and at certain major land border crossings.

For people who would like to have their documents in order before the trip, there’s the option of applying to a Nepalese embassy or consulate. Rest assured that whatever option you choose, the whole process will be quick and seamless.

Tourist Visa Options

Nepal offers a range of visa durations to meet the travel itinerary.

• 15 Days – USD 30

For people who want to travel to Nepal for a short cultural visit and wish to trek around Kathmandu or Pokhara, this is the perfect plan. 

• 30 Days – USD 50

The most popular option is suitable for classic trekking routes like Everest Base Camp, the Annapurna Circuit, or the Langtang Valley.

• 90 Days – USD 125

Excellent for travellers who wish to go more slowly, visit more isolated areas, or otherwise immerse themselves in a life more unhurried than their own.

What You Need

Before you access the counter,

• A valid passport – the page in question must be blank & five to six months must be left before the passport expires.
• A passport-sized photograph is optional since one can be taken at the airport itself.
• A visa on arrival is best obtained in cash, and visa fee payment can be accomplished in USD.

How to Get a Visa on Arrival

The procedure is simple:

• Go to the Visa counter before the immigration desk.
• Complete the visa request form.
• Pay the visa fee and keep the payment receipt.
• Present the receipt along with the passport and the form at the immigration desk.

You get back the passport with the visa sticker. This means you are set to go and start your journey!

Extending Your Visa

Nepal is a country that attracts a lot of travellers, and so one may wish to stay longer. This is simple for people with a tourist visa, as they can extend their stay at the Immigration Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

• Maximum stay: 150 days in a year
• Fee: USD 3 per day over the limit
• Extensions under 15 days: USD 45 flat

Important Notes for Trekkers

A visa is only the first step. For trekking, you may also need:

• TIMS (Trekkers’ Information Management System) Card
• Restricted Area Permits for regions like Upper Mustang, Manaslu, or Dolpo

At Sonam Adventures, we handle all trekking permits for you.

If you plan to leave Nepal for India, Bhutan, or Tibet and return, consider a multiple-entry visa for convenience.

Land Border Entry

You can also obtain a visa at major land borders if you enter Nepal overland:

• Kakarbhitta
• Birgunj
• Bhairahawa
• Nepalgunj
• Dhangadhi
• Kodari (from Tibet)

The procedure is the same as at the airport.

Who Doesn’t Need a Visa?

• An Indian citizen needs only to present a valid form of identification.
• Some nationalities (Afghan, Iraqi, Somali, etc.) must acquire a visa beforehand and cannot use visa-on-arrival options.

It is always wise to ascertain the most recent information before traveling.

Tips from Sonam Adventures

• Bring along some cash (preferably in USD) to cover the visa expenses.
• It is always a good idea to keep some extra passport-sized photographs.
• Check the visa sticker as soon as possible to ensure that the information is correct.
• During the main periods of trekking, try to come a little earlier to avoid the long lines.

Final Words

Acquiring a visa for Nepal is quite easy and is the first step towards a possible adventure in the Himalayas. Sonam Adventures is there to assist you in the visa extension process and the trekking permits needed so you can simply enjoy the mountains, villages, and culture.

You can be sure that Nepal will greet you with its stunning landscapes, towering mountains, and friendly citizens. All you have to do is stamp your passport, and a whole new adventure to the Himalayas begins!