+ 4 h 45 min / + 3 h 45 min during Swiss daylight saving time

Kathmandu

Official language

Nepali

Language capabilities

English

220 volt / adapter recommended

Banks

9:00/10:00 am – 4:00 pm (Sun–Thu)
9:00/10:00 am – 12:30 pm (Fri)
Hours may vary. Banks are generally closed on Saturdays and national public holidays.


Shops

9:00/10:00 am – 7:00/8:00 pm (Sun–Fri)
Opening hours vary by region. Saturday is Nepal’s official day of rest. Some shops, particularly in tourist areas, also open on Saturdays or public holidays. Shopping centres in larger cities often stay open longer, usually until 9:00 pm, and open on Saturdays too.

Many holidays in Nepal follow the Hindu calendar, so their dates in the Gregorian calendar can vary from year to year. Dashain, Tihar and some Buddhist and Muslim festivals depend on lunar cycles and therefore fall on different dates each year. The following is a list of public holidays:

• 11 or 12 January: Prithvi Jayanti (birthday of King Prithvi Narayan Shah)

• 14 or 15 January: Maghe Sankranti

• Variable date in February: Democracy Day (Falgun 7)

• Variable date in February or March: Maha Shivaratri

• 8 March: International Women’s Day / Nari Dibas

• 13 or 14 April: Nepali New Year

• Variable date in March or April: Ram Nawami

• 1 May: Majdoor Divas

• Variable date in April or May: Buddha Jayanti

• 27, 28 or 29 May: Ganatantra Diwas (Republic Day)

• Variable date in July or August: Janai Purnima / Rakshya Bandhan

• Variable date in August: Gai Jatra (Kathmandu only)

• Variable date in August or September: Shree Krishna Janamashtami

• 19 September: Constitution Day

• Variable date in September or October: Ghatasthapana

• Variable date in September or October: Phulpati (Dashain)

• Variable date in September or October: Astami (Dashain)

• Variable date in September or October: Nawami (Dashain)

• Variable date in September or October: Dashami (Dashain)

• Variable date in October: Ekadashi (Dashain)

• Variable date in October or November: Laxmi Puja (Tihar)

• Variable date in October or November: Gobhardan Puja (Tihar)

• Variable date in October or November: Bhai Tika (Tihar)

• Variable date in October or November: Chhat Parwa

The following information is intended for Swiss citizens resident in Switzerland. The following documents are required to enter Nepal:

• A Swiss passport valid for at least six months after the date of entry.

• A visa is required for tourist stays. A visa for 15, 30 or 90 days can be obtained on arrival; the application form can be completed in advance through the official entry portal. Alternatively, you can apply for a visa before travelling at a Nepalese diplomatic mission abroad.

• A return or onward ticket. Your documents for onward travel must be in order.

• Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of your stay.

• Many trekking routes in protected areas require a licensed trekking guide and a TIMS card issued by a registered trekking agency. Check the rules for your specific route; additional permits are required in some areas.

• Minors: Ask the local authorities about entry formalities for minors. Further information: Travel authorisation for children.

- Information last updated in September 2026 -

Lowlands (Terai)

• Summer (April to June): Temperatures in the lowlands can reach 30–40°C. It is hot and humid, especially before the monsoon. The region experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season (June to September).

• Winter (December to February): Temperatures fall to around 7–20°C. Conditions are generally dry, but nights can be cool, particularly in January.

• Spring/autumn (March to May, October to November): Temperatures range from 20 to 30°C. Mild weather and clear days make these the most pleasant times to visit this region.

Middle hills (e.g. Kathmandu Valley)

• Summer (April to June): Temperatures reach around 25–32°C. From June to September, the monsoon brings heavy rainfall and increased humidity.

• Winter (December to February): Temperatures range between 2 and 20°C. Nights can be cold, particularly in Kathmandu, although days remain relatively mild.

• Spring/autumn (March to May, October to November): Temperatures range between 15 and 25°C. Clear skies provide good conditions for hiking and sightseeing. These are the most popular seasons for visiting the region.

Mountain regions (Himalayas)

• Summer (May to August): Temperatures vary greatly with altitude: around 15–20°C at lower elevations and much colder higher up. The monsoon brings frequent rain, making trails more challenging.

• Winter (December to February): At higher elevations, temperatures often drop below freezing and can reach −20°C or lower. Snow is common in the high mountains, and many passes are impassable.

• Spring/autumn (March to May, September to November): Temperatures are around 10–20°C at lower elevations and much cooler higher up. These are the best seasons for trekking, with more stable weather and excellent views of the mountains.

The ideal time for your trip to Nepal:

• Beach holidays: March–May, Sept–Oct. Nepal has no coastline, but the months with pleasant temperatures and little rain are suitable for swimming in rivers or lakes, such as near Pokhara. The periods before and after the monsoon are ideal for enjoying nature.

• City breaks: March–May, Oct–Nov. Spring and autumn offer the best weather for exploring Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan, with mild temperatures and clear air.

• Winter holidays: Dec–Feb. These months are ideal for winter sports in the mountains. Himalayan trekking and skiing at higher elevations are particularly popular, although it can be very cold at altitude.

• Mobile phones: Using a mobile phone in Nepal may incur roaming charges. Check your provider’s rates before travelling and consider a suitable roaming package. Coverage is generally good in cities and the lowlands but weaker in rural and mountain areas. Mobile data (3G/4G) is usually reliable in cities but can be limited or unavailable in remote areas. A satellite phone or trekking communication service may be useful in isolated locations.

• Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is widespread in larger cities and tourist areas such as Kathmandu and Pokhara. Most hotels, cafés and restaurants provide it free of charge, though connections can be slow or unstable. It is less common, and sometimes chargeable, in rural areas and the higher mountains. Some trekking lodges offer paid Wi-Fi with limited bandwidth. Bear this in mind if you need a stable connection.

• Prepaid SIM cards: You can buy a prepaid SIM card locally for domestic calls and mobile data. Providers include Nepal Telecom (NTC) and Ncell.

• Other information: Phone service is not available everywhere in remote areas. Bad weather can disrupt Internet access and phone connections.

• Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu: One of the world’s holiest Hindu temples, on the banks of the Bagmati River. Hindu rituals and cremations take place at this important spiritual centre.

• Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu: One of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a major pilgrimage site, known for its impressive dome and peaceful atmosphere.

• Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Kathmandu: This Buddhist shrine overlooks the Kathmandu Valley and offers sweeping views of the city. It is also known for the monkeys living there.

• Durbar Square, Kathmandu: This UNESCO World Heritage site comprises palaces, temples and courtyards and was the historic seat of Nepal’s kings.

• Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Another UNESCO World Heritage site, known for well-preserved medieval temples and palaces and a rich craft tradition.

• Patan Durbar Square: A collection of historic temples, palaces and statues displaying elaborate Newari architecture and pagoda-style temples.

• Phewa Lake, Pokhara: A picturesque lake for boat trips and views of Machapuchare reflected in the water. It is also a popular starting point for treks.

• Sarangkot, Pokhara: A hilltop viewpoint known for spectacular sunrises and sunsets and panoramic views of the Himalayas.

• Chitwan National Park: A UNESCO World Natural Heritage site with dense jungle, rare animals such as the greater one-horned rhinoceros, and opportunities for safaris and birdwatching.

• Lumbini, Rupandehi: The birthplace of Buddha and an important Buddhist pilgrimage site, home to historic monasteries, stupas and the sacred Maya Devi Temple.

• Everest Base Camp, Khumbu region: A famous destination for trekkers and adventurers from around the world who want to get close to Mount Everest, the world’s highest mountain.

• Annapurna Circuit: One of the world’s best-known trekking routes, crossing landscapes from subtropical forests to high mountain passes.

• Nagarkot, near Kathmandu: A mountain village known for its views of the Himalayan range and its sunrises, offering a retreat from the bustle of the city.

• Langtang National Park: Varied treks through landscapes ranging from forests to glaciers, alongside a culture shaped by Tibetan influences.

• Janaki Temple, Janakpur: A grand Mughal-style temple dedicated to Sita, Lord Rama’s wife. It attracts many Hindu pilgrims, especially during religious festivals.

Travel inspiration
Explore our blog posts for inspiration and discover Nepal’s most fascinating destinations:

• Nepal in March: Breathtaking trails and spring awakening in the Himalayas.

• Dal bhat: Nepal’s national dish combines lentil soup (dal) and rice (bhat), often served with vegetables, pickles and sometimes meat. Eaten twice a day, it is a staple food.

• Momo: Steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables or meat, usually chicken or buffalo. Among Nepal’s most popular street foods, they are often served with a spicy tomato sauce.

• Newari cuisine: The traditional cuisine of the Newar people of the Kathmandu Valley includes yomari (sweet rice dumplings), samay baji (a combination of rice cakes, beans, meat and spices) and chhoyla (grilled meat).

• Thukpa: A hearty noodle soup of Tibetan origin, common in Nepal’s mountain regions. It contains vegetables and meat and is particularly popular in colder areas.

• Sel roti: A slightly sweet, deep-fried rice ring often prepared for festivals and special occasions. It is traditionally served with yoghurt or pickles.

• Gundruk: Fermented leafy greens served as a side dish or soup in many Nepalese households. With its strong flavour, it is a staple of rural cooking.

• Chiya (Nepalese tea): Black tea boiled with milk and plenty of sugar. Enjoyed throughout the day, it plays a social role when people visit and meet.

• Butter tea (po cha): Black tea made with yak butter and salt, originating in the Tibetan mountain regions. It is popular in cold high-altitude areas because it provides warmth and energy.

• Aila: A strong traditional rice spirit produced mainly by the Newar people and served on special occasions.

• Yak cheese: Made from yak milk in Nepal’s mountain regions, this strong-flavoured cheese is eaten fresh or dried and is a delicacy in trekking areas.

• Greetings: In Nepal, people traditionally greet one another with “Namaste” or “Namaskar”, which can also mean “goodbye”. The hands are pressed together in front of the chest and the head is bowed slightly. “Namaskar” is used more often in formal situations. Close friends may also greet each other with a slight nod, which can signal agreement or acknowledgement.

• Saying please and thank you: “Please” is “Kripaya” in Nepali, while “thank you” is “Dhanyabad”. These expressions are appreciated, though gratitude may be expressed less explicitly than in Western countries.

• Clothing: Dress conservatively, particularly in rural areas and when visiting temples. Shoulders and knees should be covered, especially for women. Dress codes are more relaxed in Kathmandu and Pokhara, but respectful clothing is still appropriate.

• Eating customs: People often eat with the right hand, as the left is considered unclean. It is polite to wait until the host or eldest person starts eating and to take only as much food as you can finish.

• Smoking: Smoking is prohibited on public transport and in most public places, including workplaces. Airports, prisons and hotels may designate smoking areas; in hotels these must normally be outside. Smoking is strictly prohibited at pilgrimage and religious sites, stadiums, outdoor areas of industrial premises, and children’s parks and clubs.

• Tipping: A tip of around 5–10% is expected in restaurants in tourist areas. Tipping is less common in rural areas. Guides and porters on treks also appreciate tips.

• Other tips: Avoid touching or pointing at people or sacred objects with your feet. Remove your shoes before entering a home, temple or certain shops. In temples, posing for photos with your back to a statue or image of Buddha or a Hindu deity is considered disrespectful.

• Drinking water: Tap water in Nepal is not safe to drink. Boil or filter it, or use bottled water. Bottled water is also recommended for brushing your teeth. Portable filters or water purification tablets are advisable in remote areas and on treks.

• Vaccinations: Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required after a stay in, or certain transit stops through, a yellow fever risk area. Travellers are advised to keep routine vaccinations up to date, particularly for diphtheria, tetanus, polio and measles, and to check their hepatitis A vaccination status.

• Malaria risk: There is a low risk at elevations below 2,500 metres, particularly in parts of the Terai, including Chitwan and Bardiya. Consistent mosquito bite prevention is recommended. No malaria risk is indicated for Kathmandu, Pokhara or Himalayan areas above 2,500 metres.

• Mosquito protection: Because of the risk of malaria and dengue, wear long-sleeved clothing, use insect repellent (DEET) and sleep under a mosquito net, particularly in low-lying regions and during the rainy season.

• Medical care is not guaranteed outside Kathmandu. Hospitals require a financial guarantee (credit card or advance payment) before providing treatment. Advance payment is generally also required for mountain rescue flights. People with a negative Rhesus factor may find it difficult to obtain a blood transfusion.

• If you depend on specific medicines, carry a sufficient supply. Many countries have special rules governing the import of medicines containing controlled substances (e.g. methadone) and substances used to treat mental health conditions. Before travelling, ask the relevant foreign representation (embassy or consulate) about the applicable rules.

- Information last updated in September 2026 -

• Check the media for updates before and during your trip, and keep in contact with your tour operator.

• More information on the current security situation is available from the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

• Pay the utmost attention to your personal safety.

• In September 2025, political tensions led to demonstrations in several regions and clashes between demonstrators and security forces. Parliamentary elections that resulted in a new government were held on 5 March 2026. Further demonstrations may occur in some areas, particularly Kathmandu. Arson and looting are possible.

• Access to the Internet and social media may be partially restricted.

• Roadblocks (Chaka Jam) and general strikes (Bandh) are often announced at short notice, locally, regionally or nationwide. They may be accompanied by tensions and unrest, as well as disruptions and delays to road and air travel. If they continue, supply shortages may occur.

• In the event of unrest, curfews or a state of emergency may be imposed in affected areas. Curfews are generally announced at short notice.

• In these circumstances, Switzerland may have limited or no ability to provide assistance in an emergency.

• Sporadic attacks using small explosive devices can occur throughout the country, including in Kathmandu, causing injuries and property damage. Exercise caution in crowded places such as restaurants, shopping centres, religious sites, sports and cultural events, markets, public gatherings, entertainment venues and nightclubs.

• The Terrorism and kidnapping section highlights the risks posed by terrorism.

• Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur, particularly in tourist areas and densely populated neighbourhoods. In addition to taking the usual precautions against petty crime:

  • Preferably take excursions in groups accompanied by a trustworthy local guide;

  • Decline offers from self-appointed guides who approach you on the street.

- Information last updated in September 2026 -

• Driving licence: A Swiss driving licence is recognised; an international driving permit is strongly recommended in addition. You can obtain one from TCS contact points or your canton’s road traffic authority. It is valid in Nepal for 15 days. A local driving licence is required for longer stays.

• Car hire: Drivers must normally be at least 25 years old. Hiring a car with a driver is recommended.

• Traffic rules: Drive on the left.

• Other information: On national election days, the government may impose a nationwide ban on driving. Journeys are then allowed only with a special permit; some taxi companies are granted permits for transfers to and from international airports. Poor road conditions and unpredictable road users pose significant risks. Accidents are frequent and often involve long-distance buses. Roadworks are often poorly marked or secured. Avoid long-distance road journeys at night. Fuel shortages and prolonged power cuts may occur, particularly in rural areas.

• Long-distance trains: Nepal has no extensive intercity railway network. The only rail line runs from the Indian border to Janakpur, limiting train travel to this area.

• Regional trains: Regional rail services are very limited and confined to a few border areas. Rail therefore plays a minor role in public transport nationwide.

• Buses: Buses are the main means of transport for both long and short journeys. Public and private operators connect cities and rural areas. Long-distance buses link Kathmandu with Pokhara and Chitwan, while smaller buses and minibuses also serve remote regions.

• Metro/tram: Nepal has neither a metro nor a tram system. Urban travel relies mainly on buses and minibuses; rickshaws and motorcycle taxis are also common in larger cities such as Kathmandu.

• Tickets: Bus tickets can be purchased at stations, from travel agencies or on board. There is no centralised network of ticket machines. Book long-distance tickets in advance, especially in the peak tourist season.

• Other information: In rural and mountain regions, four-wheel-drive vehicles and motorcycles are often the only available transport. Rickshaws and tuk-tuks are also popular for short journeys in cities.

• Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), Kathmandu: There are no direct nonstop flights from Switzerland to Nepal. Flights usually connect through cities such as Doha, Istanbul or Abu Dhabi.

• Other international airports include Pokhara International Airport and Gautam Buddha International Airport near Lumbini.

The main airlines operating in Nepal include Nepal Airlines, Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, Tara Air, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Etihad Airways and Air India.

Good to know: Flights may be delayed or cancelled because of bad weather, strikes and other factors. Extreme weather and the altitude of many Nepalese airports create major challenges for aviation and are among the principal causes of air accidents. Fatal accidents occur almost every year. Local airlines do not meet European or international standards. On national election days, the government may suspend domestic flights.

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

• Police: 100

• Ambulance: 102

• Fire service: 101

• Tourist Police: 1144 (hotline)

Embassy of Switzerland
Ekantakuna, Jawalakhel
Lalitpur, Kathmandu
Nepal

Tel.: +977 1 421 70 08
Email: kathmandu@eda.admin.ch

Natural hazards

• Climatic conditions vary considerably with altitude. There is an acute risk of avalanches in the mountains during winter and spring. Weather conditions can change quickly, especially in mountain areas. Outdoor activities require careful preparation and appropriate equipment. Undertake treks only with a qualified local guide and check the current weather conditions in the area. Do not underestimate the symptoms of altitude sickness.

• Nepal lies in an earthquake zone.

• During the monsoon season (May to September), very heavy rain can cause flooding, landslides, mudslides and rockfalls, damaging infrastructure. Conditions can change rapidly, especially near rivers, and travel may be temporarily disrupted. More information: Meteorological Forecasting Division.

• In summer, there is a forest fire risk in many areas.

• If a natural disaster occurs during your stay, contact your family and the Swiss embassy in Kathmandu as soon as possible. Follow the authorities’ instructions.

Specific regional risks

• Risk areas are described approximately; hazards cannot be confined to precisely defined boundaries.

• The Nepalese army has declared the country free of landmines, but unexploded ordnance may still remain. Stay on frequently used roads and paths and seek advice from the local authorities or residents.

• Use an experienced local guide for all journeys, excursions and treks, and trek only in groups.

• Terai: Underlying political and ethnic tensions may periodically intensify. This creates a risk of local unrest, roadblocks and strikes (Bandhs). Before travelling to the Terai, ask the local authorities about the current security situation.

Special legal provisions

• The following offences are among those punishable by law:

  • gambling outside licensed casinos;

  • photographing military facilities and public buildings (airports, bridges, etc.);

  • missionary activities, which are prosecuted and may result in imprisonment;

  • breaches of customs regulations, which are strictly punished and may result in imprisonment, including rules on importing and exporting precious metals and precious or semi-precious stones. Consult the Nepalese customs authorities and the Embassy of Nepal in Geneva for the exact rules;

  • offences against drug laws, even involving very small quantities or any type of drug, which can lead to long prison sentences.

• Prison conditions are poor. Court proceedings can take a very long time. Local law does not provide for foreign nationals to be released on bail.

• Mountaineering expeditions generally require a permit, as do treks in certain areas. Make sure the expedition organiser complies with all rules, including registration with a rescue organisation. Those taking part in treks must register with the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS). Trekking in national parks and high mountain areas is permitted only with a certified guide.

- Information last updated in September 2026 -