Yes. Most travelers require a tourist visa to enter Nepal. You can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport or at major land border crossings. Alternatively, you may apply in advance at a Nepalese embassy or consulate.
Nepal Travel FAQ
Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Nepal
Last reviewed March 2026
Yes. You can obtain a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. This is the quickest and most convenient option for most travelers.
Visa fees:
- 15 days – USD 30 per person
- 30 days – USD 50 per person
- 90 days – USD 125 per person
If you plan to stay longer, it is advisable to obtain a longer-duration visa upon arrival. Visa extensions are possible but cost more and may require several hours at the immigration office.
Yes, Nepal welcomes independent travelers. However, if you are planning for a trek, it is mandatory to take a guide as per new regulations. All Wind Horse treks include experienced, government-certified guides for your safety and enrichment.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry and contain at least one blank page.
Yes. You may enter and exit Nepal through different border points, provided your visa remains valid.
If applying through an embassy or consulate, apply approximately 2–3 weeks before departure. Otherwise, you may obtain a visa on arrival at the airport.
Visa extensions can be arranged at the Department of Immigration offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara before your current visa expires.
No, you do not need a special permit to travel within Nepal for general tourism, sightseeing, or cultural tours. However, permits are required if you plan to go trekking or visit certain protected or restricted areas.
Most trekking regions require permits such as National Park permits or Conservation Area permits. While restricted areas require special permits, which must be arranged through a registered trekking agency.
The official currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR).
Yes. ATMs are widely available in major cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara, and in some trekking regions like Everest and Annapurna. However, ATMs in remote areas may be unreliable due to power or internet outages. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash when traveling outside major cities.
Yes, you can exchange money on arrival as there are several money exchange counters and bank branches at the arrival area in Kathmandu airport. However the rates offered by money exchange counters are slightly lower than offered by the bank. So exchanging a small amount on arrival for immediate expenses is best.
All major currencies are accepted at banks and authorized money exchange counters, including:
- US Dollar (USD)
- Euro (EUR)
- British Pound (GBP)
- Swiss Franc (CHF)
- Australian Dollar (AUD)
- Canadian Dollar (CAD)
US Dollars and Euros are the most widely accepted and can often be exchanged even at local shops and hotels.
Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in cities. However, smaller businesses and rural areas typically accept cash only. It is recommended to carry Nepalese rupees when traveling outside urban areas.
Yes, you can bring foreign currency, but amounts over USD 5,000 (or equivalent) must be declared at customs. Always keep receipts for legal compliance.
Most ATMs have a daily withdrawal limit of NPR 25,000–50,000. For larger amounts, you may need to visit a bank branch.
Nepal’s varied landscapes and seasons offer year-round experiences, from vibrant cultural festivals to Himalayan treks, with each season adding its own charm.The best times to visit Nepal are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). These seasons offer stable weather, clear skies, and excellent mountain views.
These months are ideal for popular treks such as the Everest Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek, as well as cultural tours and scenic mountain flights. October and November are especially popular due to pleasant temperatures, clear visibility, and major cultural festivals.
For wildlife safaris, the best time to visit is October to March, when cooler temperatures and dry conditions provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing in national parks such as Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park.
Yes. Winter (December–February) offers clear skies, fewer crowds, and peaceful travel experiences. It is an excellent time for cultural tours, wildlife safaris, and lower-altitude treks.
In Kathmandu, winter temperatures usually range from 2°C to 20°C (35°F to 68°F). Mountain regions can drop well below freezing, especially at higher elevations, while lower areas like the Terai remain relatively warm.
For cultural tours:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Lightweight, layered clothing
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Modest clothing for visiting temples and monasteries
For trekking:
- Waterproof jacket or outer layer
- Warm insulated jacket
- Good-quality trekking boots
- Thermal base layers
- Gloves and warm hat
- Duffel bag and daypack
Our team provides a detailed packing checklist after booking your trip.
No formal wear is required. Comfortable, smart-casual clothing is suitable for most situations. Modest attire is recommended when visiting temples and monasteries.
Yes. Domestic and mountain flights typically allow a total baggage allowance of 15 kg (including checked and carry-on luggage).
Spring and autumn are the most popular and best seasons for trekking in Nepal. Spring lasts from March to May, and autumn runs from September to November. These seasons offer stable weather, clear skies, and breathtaking mountain views.
This is the ideal time for iconic routes such as the Everest Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Circuit Trek, as well as scenic mountain flights near Mount Everest.
Spring brings blooming rhododendron forests, colorful landscapes, and mild temperatures, making trekking especially beautiful. Autumn, on the other hand, offers crystal-clear visibility, dry trails, and comfortable trekking conditions. For these reasons, both seasons are considered the peak trekking periods in Nepal.
The monsoon season, from June to August, brings heavy rainfall, which makes trails slippery and increases the presence of leeches, making trekking more challenging. However, treks in rain-shadow regions such as Upper Mustang, Dolpo, and Nar Phu Valley remain relatively dry and are suitable for trekking during this time.
Winter, from December to February, brings cold temperatures and snowfall at higher elevations, which can make high-altitude trekking difficult. However, lower-altitude treks such as Ghorepani Poon Hill, Everest View Trek, Langtang Valley Trek, Helambu Valley Trek, and Panchase Trek are still accessible and offer peaceful landscapes with fewer crowds.
During your trek, you stay in carefully selected lodges called teahouse lodges that offer clean rooms usually twin bedded and warm hospitality.
Tea Houses are local lodges where you get to eat and sleep during your trek. There are plenty of teahouses across all the trekking routes in Nepal. A teahouse trek means that you get to stop and rest each day at a teahouse during your trekking period. Unlike camping treks, you don’t have to carry food, tents and other items during a teahouse trek.
Common meals include dal bhat (rice and lentils), Pasta, noodles, potatoes, eggs, bread, soup, fresh vegetables and even some desserts like apple pies, pancakes, and some interesting attempts at custard. In many larger villages, you may find some meat items on the menu. You can always get hot chocolate, tea, coffee, hot lemon drinks, as well as soft drinks, and treats like chocolate and crisps.
Each day dinner and breakfast will be served in the lodge where you stay overnight, but lunch is usually provided somewhere along the route in a clean, hygienic local restaurant.
Yes, you will require a trekking permit for trekking in Nepal. Trekking permits are separate from your visa and can be obtained in Kathmandu or Pokhara. It will require your visa copy, permit fee, and a passport photo. Different regions—like Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang—require specific permits, and mountain climbing or peak expeditions need a separate one. Permits only cover designated trekking areas, not the whole country.
Easy Treks: No prior trekking experience or special preparation is needed—just an interest in walking. These treks typically last 2–5 days, reach up to 3,000 m, follow well-maintained trails, and involve 3–5 hours of walking per day.
Moderate Treks: Require 6–7 hours of walking daily, often on rough trails and over high-altitude passes around 4,000 m. Physical fitness, a positive attitude, and some hiking or camping experience are recommended.
Difficult Treks: Require prior trekking experience and some technical knowledge. Treks include 6–7 hours of daily walking, high passes up to 5,000 m, glacier crossings, and low-oxygen conditions. Perseverance and a positive mindset are essential.
Strenuous Treks: For experienced trekkers only. Expect long, challenging days over difficult terrain, snow, glaciers, and passes above 5,000 m. technical skills like rock and ice climbing, and the use of ice axes and crampons are required, along with excellent physical and mental fitness.
Yes. Current regulations require licensed guides in most trekking regions. Wind Horse provides experienced, English-speaking guides trained in first aid and altitude management.
A guide, a cook,, porters or horses/Yaks depending on the region will accompany you during the trek.
While trekking in lower altitudes, shorts and T-shirts will do. But, as the trek gains altitude warm clothes, especially a cap is a must. Keeping your head warm means preventing a headache and altitude sickness.
Holiday should never be about making it to the final point quickly. Along your trek, we can add days at your request with additional costs to cover guides, porters, accommodation and food.
Whilst on the trek, our porter will take care of your luggage. Ensure not to cross the limit of 15 -20 kg per porter. All you need to carry is your small day bag for your personal belongings like camera, water bottle, sun cream, etc. only.
At tea houses, warm blankets are provided but we recommend you to bring your own sleeping bags for extra warmth and comfort.
Yes. Proper acclimatization is essential when trekking above 2,500 meters. Our itineraries are designed with proper acclimatization days. Your guide monitors oxygen levels and symptoms daily to ensure safety.
Your safety is our top priority on every trek. Wind Horse follows a layered and proactive approach to high-altitude safety:
- Trained guides: All of our trekking guides are trained in basic First Aid and are well-versed in recognizing, preventing, and managing Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
- Emergency altitude equipment: On most high-altitude treks in Bhutan, we carry a Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC)—a lightweight, inflatable hyperbaric chamber designed to treat severe altitude illness (HAPE/HACE) by simulating a descent of approximately 2,000 meters (6,000+ feet).
- Supplemental oxygen: Small portable oxygen canisters are available for purchase in Thimphu and Kathmandu. These can be helpful for temporary relief of shortness of breath, altitude acclimatization, or post-trek recovery, though they are not a substitute for proper acclimatization.
- Careful acclimatization planning: All of our itineraries are designed with built-in acclimatization days and gradual elevation gains to reduce the risk of altitude-related illness.
- Communication & evacuation support: Mobile phone reception is available in many trekking areas. In the event of a serious emergency, our local offices in Thimphu and Kathmandu maintain 24/7 support and can coordinate helicopter evacuation when required.
From our experience, safe and rewarding high-altitude trekking comes down to good planning and seasoned crews who have walked these routes year after year.
There are telephones in some villages along the trekking routes from which you can make international calls. All our guides are equipped with the local mobile phone. You may wish to pass the number of our guide to your family for the callback, or you can make a call from the guide’s mobile and pay him directly for the international call too.
The hotel in Kathmandu does provide the free storage services. So you can leave all your things that are not needed for the trekking at your hotel.
Travel insurance is not mandatory for trips operated by Wind Horse Tours to Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet, or India. However, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance—especially if your itinerary includes trekking or travel to remote areas.
Your policy should include coverage for medical treatment, emergency evacuation, trip interruption, and unforeseen delays, as these can be costly without insurance.
We use 3- to 4-star hotels in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, and other major tour destinations, with breakfast included. These hotels offer comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and reliable service to ensure a pleasant stay.
Along the trekking routes, accommodation is provided in teahouses or lodges with basic but clean facilities. Attached bathrooms are available where possible, though some remote areas may offer shared bathroom facilities. Rooms are typically twin-sharing with comfortable beds and blankets.
It is always recommended to bring your own sleeping bag for extra warmth and comfort, especially at higher elevations.
Dining areas in the lodges are warm and welcoming, and in some places, you may have the opportunity to dine around a traditional bonfire, creating a cozy and memorable mountain experience.
Yes, it is possible. Most of the lodges are electrified or they use solar panel, the specification of Electric Plug that is commonly used is two or three round prongs, but not flat prongs as found in use in the United States or in other countries. If your electronic items use 110 Volt 60 MHZ electricity, you will need a voltage converter.
Each day you can expect 3 to 7 hours walking, covering 10 to 14 km. However, above 3500m, the times will be the same, but you’ll only cover 6 to 9 km. Importantly, all our itineraries are flexible and can be altered by weather, geographical and physical condition of the individual participant.
Standard practice is 5 to 7 hours walk in a day, maybe even less at the start, to ensure that guests are not stretched with their physical limitation. Moreover, the walking speed and the distance covered depends on terrain, altitude, weather condition and the fitness level of the trekker. Basically, all our treks are designed to cover 8 to 16 kms per day based on above mentioned factors.
- Flat or gentle trails at lower altitudes: 2.5–3.5 mph (4–5 km/h)
- Moderate hilly trails: 2–2.5 mph (3–4 km/h)
- High-altitude trekking (3,000 m): often slower, 1–2 mph (1.5–3 km/h
We do not provide any equipment for the trek. You need to bring yourself the necessary equipment, trekking shoes, trekking poles, sleeping bags, clothing and other personal equipment.
Nepal’s topography provides more than 250 peaks over 20,000 ft. (6,096 m) above sea level thus offer wide arrays of trekking options, it generally depends on your interest, amount of time, and money you can spend, your physical shape and experience you have.
For those with limited time, the best trekking routes would be Langtang Region, Lower Annapurna region, north of Pokhara, and around Kathmandu valley.
For those with adequate time, trek in Everest region, Manaslu region, or the full Annapurna circuit can be rewarding. A more difficult trek is the Kanchenjunga trek in the far-eastern Nepal. A good trekking book is recommended if you want more details on treks.
Absolutely, in fact, it’s a great place to start. As part of our job, one of the most important things we do is ascertain your experience and ambitions, and find the trek to match these best.
Internet and mobile coverage in Nepal’s trekking regions is generally good in lower areas but becomes limited at higher altitudes and remote locations.
Wi-Fi is available in most teahouses and lodges (often with a small fee) along popular trekking routes such as Everest Base Camp and Annapurna. Coverage may be limited or non in remote mountain areas such as the Kanchenjunga region.
Yes, weather permitting. Helicopter evacuation is available in trekking regions and is covered by most comprehensive travel insurance policies.
Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November)
These are the best seasons for cultural travel. The weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring heritage sites, temples, and local markets in cities like Kathmandu and Bhaktapur.
October and November are especially vibrant, as Nepal celebrates its two biggest festivals—Dashain and Tihar. Expect colorful decorations, family gatherings, temple visits, and rich cultural traditions across the country.
Summer/Monsoon (June–August)
Cultural tours are still possible, particularly in the mornings when rain is lighter. The countryside is lush and green, though occasional weather-related travel disruptions may occur.
Winter (December–February)
A good time for cultural visits in the Terai region and cities like Pokhara. Clear skies and fewer tourists make sightseeing more relaxed and enjoyable.
Wildlife Safaris & Adventure Activities
October–March is the ideal period for wildlife safaris and adventure experiences. Cooler temperatures and clear skies offer excellent conditions for jungle safaris, wildlife viewing, white-water rafting, paragliding, hot air ballooning, mountain flights, bungee jumping, Skydiving, ziplining, etc.
Nepal is a country of extraordinary natural beauty and deep cultural heritage. From ancient cities and sacred pilgrimage sites to wildlife jungles and the world’s highest mountains, Nepal offers diverse experiences for every traveler.
The major tourist attractions in Nepal can be broadly categorized into cultural heritage, wildlife, natural scenery, religious sites, and trekking adventures. Visitors can explore ancient palaces and temples in historic cities, experience diverse wildlife in national parks, enjoy breathtaking mountain views and serene lakes, visit sacred pilgrimage destinations, and embark on world-renowned trekking routes in the Himalayas.
It is called Namaste or Namaskar. The greeting can be expressed both verbally and with a gesture. To perform it, join your palms together and hold them close to your chest, about 5–7 inches below your chin.
The word Namaste has many meanings, such as hello, how are you?, nice to meet you, good morning, and I am glad to see you. When visiting Nepal, keep the following cultural etiquette in mind:
- Remove your shoes before entering a temple or someone’s home.
- Always ask for permission before entering a temple.
- Photography is generally prohibited inside most temples.
- Ask for permission before taking photographs of objects or Nepali people.
- Nepali people are generally laid-back and friendly by nature. Show genuine interest, talk to them, and be warm and respectful as you travel.
Nepal does not require any specific immunization for visitors. It is however best to have vaccine before coming to Nepal. Your doctors can advise you on the type of vaccine to be taken to travel to third world countries like Nepal.
For medical and vaccination requirements please see your travel doctor for details and advice about current vaccination requirements.
Our guides are trained to deal with these situations, and we will get you help as quickly as possible. If you must leave the trip early due to illness, our local offices will help you find appropriate medical care and ensure someone at home is aware of the situation. Your travel insurance, which is compulsory on all our trips, should cover any costs incurred if illness occurs.
Every trip has a set of trip itinerary, accessible on our website that gives you in-depth information about all aspects of your trip. For customize tour we plan day to day itinerary as per your preference.
Malaria: Although Malarai is under control, still there is a low risk, mostly in the southern Terai plains (e.g., Chitwan, Bardia). Use mosquito nets, repellents, and consider prophylactic medication like chloroquine.
Air pollution-related problems: Kathmandu has high pollution, causing coughing, asthma aggravation, and other respiratory issues. Wearing a mask in traffic-heavy areas is advisable.
Altitude-related sickness: Trekking above 2,500 m can lead to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE), or High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE). Gradual ascent, hydration, and proper acclimatization are recommended.
Other Considerations:
Hepatitis B: Consider vaccination for longer stays or medical exposure.
Typhoid fever: Risk from contaminated food or water; vaccination recommended.
If you know in advance that you will be arriving late, please let our sales staff know. We will notify your guide, who will leave instructions with the hotel reception as to where to meet your group that night or the following morning.
As said, prevention is better than cure, it’s highly recommended that you bring medicines for a common illness like nausea, vomiting, cold and flu when you come to Nepal. Though there are many pharmacy shops in Kathmandu and Pokhara, it’s worth carrying some basic medicinal stuff like insect repellent, sunscreen, lip balm, eye drops, bandages, etc.
People from around the world visit Nepal, leading to many restaurants and hotels, especially in tourist hubs like Kathmandu and Pokhara. These cities offer a wide range of international cuisines, including, Continental, Italian, Chinese, Thai, Mexican, and Indian. However, outside these areas, food options become more limited. It is highly recommended to try local dishes, particularly Newari cuisine, which reflects the rich culinary traditions of the indigenous Newar people of Kathmandu.
The staple food of Nepal is daal, bhaat, and tarkari (lentil soup, rice, and curried vegetables). While daal and bhaat are usually mild, tarkari can be spicy and oily for those unaccustomed to such flavors, so it is best to try small amounts gradually. To avoid stomach problems, visitors should drink only bottled, boiled, or properly filtered water.
Because Nepal is predominantly Hindu, beef is rarely available in restaurants. Nepal also produces several local beers, spirits such as rum, whiskey, gin, and vodka, and traditional homemade drinks like raksi and ayla. Bottled water and international soft drinks like Coke and Pepsi are widely available and recommended for visitors.
Yes, in most places tipping is expected. At your welcome meeting, ask your guide about the local customs and advice on how much is recommended at restaurants.
Travel insurance is not mandatory for trips operated by Wind Horse Tours to Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet, or India. However, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, especially if your itinerary includes trekking or travel to remote areas.
Your policy should include coverage for medical treatment, emergency evacuation, trip interruption, and unforeseen delays, as these can be costly without insurance.
Insurance cannot be purchased in Nepal through us. It is mandatory for all participants to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies, accidents, treatment costs, and, if trekking, helicopter or air ambulance rescue. We do not arrange or sell insurance.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for everyone. Make sure your policy explicitly covers adventure activities such as trekking in the Himalayas and emergency evacuation. For urban group tours, ambulance or helicopter coverage is optional but still recommended.
Yes. Prepaid SIM cards are easily available at the airport upon arrival and at authorized mobile shops throughout the country.
- You will need a copy of your passport and a passport-sized photo.
- SIM packages with data and call bundles are available at affordable rates.
- Activation is usually quick and staff can help set up the SIM.
Nepal Telecom (NTC) and Ncell are the two main mobile service providers with the widest coverage in Nepal.
- Both offer reliable service in cities and popular trekking areas.
- NTC generally provides better coverage in remote and high-altitude mountain regions.
- Ncell performs very well in cities and lower elevations, often offering faster mobile data in urban areas.
- For trekking in remote areas, NTC is usually the more reliable option.
We select comfortable tourist standard boutique hotels and well-rated heritage properties (3-4* category). Upgrades to premium or luxury hotels can be arranged upon request (subject to availability and price difference).
Check-in times can vary from hotel to hotel and region to region. Usually, they are between midday and 2 pm. If you do arrive earlier, you’ll be able to store your luggage at the hotel and head out to explore for a couple of hours. We can also request an early check-in depending on availability and season.
Along the way there are usually chances to do laundry, either through your hotel or using local services. Your guide will be able to let you know once you are on the trip.
Tipping is customary in Nepal. For treks, guides and porters are tipped at the end of the journey as a group. For cultural tours, tipping drivers and guides is appreciated based on service quality. We provide clear tipping guidelines before your trip.
If family and friends are unable to contact you in an emergency through email or phone, they can contact Wind Horse directly. Emergency contact details (for your destination) are listed in your final document.
We recommend booking at least 3–6 months in advance for peak seasons, so that we can confirm hotel bookings and other logistics of the trip in advance.
The minimum number of pax is from 1 to 9 for the group journey. For private trip, if you’d like to make a group booking for more than twelve people, it can easily be arranged.
Yes, you can bring a drone into Nepal, but it is strictly regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), Department of Tourism, and the Ministry of Home Affairs. All drones must be registered, and permits obtained. Flying without proper permits can result in heavy fines, seizure of equipment, or legal action.
Yes, but it is illegal to export anything older than 100 years. Please do not take any religious objects away from sacred sites. Remember to get endorsed bill to be verified by custom at the time of exit.
Yes, you can store your luggage at your hotel, or we can store your excess luggage in our office.
Nepal is safe for a traveler. Firstly, Nepal is considered as one of the peaceful countries in the world. Secondly, while you’re on our trips, we take personal responsibility for your well-being, a responsibility we commit very seriously
Nepal commonly uses Type C, D, and M plugs.
- The standard voltage is 230V / 50Hz.
- A universal travel adapter is highly recommended.
Yes, carrying a portable power bank is highly recommended, especially for trekking or visiting remote areas where electricity is limited.
- For longer treks, consider bringing:
- A high-capacity power bank
- Spare camera batteries
- A small solar charger (optional but useful in remote regions)
Private journeys are highly customizable. Group departures follow a carefully curated itinerary while allowing reasonable flexibility when possible.
If there are included or optional activities that you don’t wish to participate in, you can do your own thing instead. The exception to this is when we are trekking or travelling from one destination to the next. Please note that if you choose to opt for an included activity, no reimbursement can be made by Wind Horse.
Nepal is one of the newly democratic countries in the world with many active political parties, ideas, ideologies and leaders. As such there might be some disturbances in some parts of the country. But it does not and will not affect the daily life of the residents in the other regions. Life moves on as usual.
Safety of our passengers is a major priority for Wind Horse. We are also in regular contact with our representative in case of any emergency. While we take all the precautions we can to make sure your belongings are safe, Travel insurance is a must, and a lockable bag or money belt will always help too.
Yes, but always ask permission first. Respectful interaction enhances your experience. Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially monks and at religious sites
Environmental degradation from litter and non-recyclable waste is a serious and widespread problem in both the high camps and lowlands of Nepal, threatening ecological balance. Although stricter measures have been introduced, littering remains common, and you should not assume that trash left in bins will always be carried out of the mountains. Bring a water purification system to avoid relying on plastic bottles. Unfortunately, some trekkers still leave waste behind at high camps, a persistent problem in the Himalayas. Even when crossing difficult high passes, resist the urge to discard trash and do your part to keep the Himalayas clean and beautiful.
If you know in advance that you will be arriving late, please let our sales staff know. We will notify your guide, who will leave instructions with the hotel reception as to where to meet your group that night or the following morning.
Definitely! Yes, our representative will be at the airport to greet you holding placard displaying your name outside the airport terminal. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by our tourist vehicle.
In cities and major tourist areas, electricity is generally reliable, though occasional short outages can occur. In rural and trekking regions, electricity may be limited and sometimes powered by solar energy. Charging devices may incur a small fee in mountain lodges.
Yes. Most hotels, guesthouses, cafés, and restaurants in cities and tourist areas provide Wi-Fi.
- Internet speeds are generally good in major cities.
- In remote areas and trekking regions, Wi-Fi may be slower, less stable, or available for an additional fee.
- Some trekking lodges offer paid satellite Wi-Fi services.
Remove your shoes when entering a temple or monastery; avoid smoking, wearing caps, wearing shorts and sleeveless dresses in religious settings. Pointing a single finger at sacred object or place is considered disrespect instead using a flat extended hand is considered formal especially to indicate
If you need to cancel or postpone your Bhutan trip, the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is refundable in accordance with Bhutan government regulations.
Flights into Bhutan can be changed or cancelled subject to the fare rules and conditions set by Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines. If changes are made 30 days or more before departure, postponements are generally possible with a modest airline change fee (typically starting from around USD 50, depending on the ticket type).
For all other land arrangements, Wind Horse Tours follows its standard booking and cancellation policy, which is outlined clearly in our booking terms and conditions on our website.
We always aim to be as flexible and supportive as possible and will assist you through the process should your plans change.
Wind Horse owns a dedicated fleet in Bhutan, ranging from private cars and luxury SUVs to vans and small coaches. Because we own our vehicles, we can guarantee high maintenance standards and availability, even during peak seasons when rentals are scarce.
Hotels: While we previously owned hotels, we moved away from hotel management post-COVID. This allows us to be 100% objective—we are no longer limited to our own properties and can hand-pick the finest based solely on your preferences and budget.
1. B0oking & Payment Schedule
- Deposit: A USD 200 per person, non-refundable deposit is required to initiate reservations.
- Final Balance: The remaining balance is due 70 days prior to departure.
- Last-Minute Bookings: For trips booked close to departure, full payment is required once availability is confirmed.
Please note that certain hotels, chartered flights, or flights during peak or special periods may carry separate booking and cancellation conditions. Any such exceptions will be clearly communicated at the time of booking.
2. Flexible Cancellation & Refund Policy
We understand that plans can change. Wind Horse offers one of the most traveler-friendly cancellation policies in the region:
- 91+ days before travel: Only the USD 200 deposit is forfeited. In most cases, this deposit may be transferred to a future trip.
- 61–90 days before travel: Cancellation fee of USD 400 per person or 25% of the total trip cost, whichever is higher.
- 31–60 days before travel: 50% of the total trip cost applies.
- Within 30 days of departure: No refunds are available for the land portion, as payments have already been committed to hotels and local partners.
3. The Wind Horse “SDF Guarantee”
The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) is a government levy (currently USD 100 per night). Unlike most operators, Wind Horse works directly with the Bhutanese Department of Immigration to secure refunds for any unused SDF nights if you must cancel or shorten your trip.
4. Airline Refund Policy
If flights (International or domestic flights) are booked through Wind Horse, airline cancellation rules and penalties apply. We will handle all coordination with the airline and process any eligible refunds promptly.
5. Payment Methods
We offer several secure payment options:
- Wire Transfer: The most common method. Funds can be wired to our US office or directly to our banks in Bhutan, India, or Nepal.
- Credit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are accepted for deposits with no processing fee. Final balance payments by card incur a 4% fee for US cards and 5% for non-US cards.
- Checks & Domestic Payments: North American clients may pay by personal check (US banks only), Zelle, or other approved methods through our Minneapolis office without any fees.
For the best experience, we recommend booking 9 months to a year in advance if you plan to travel during the peak seasons: Spring (March–May) or Autumn (September–November). This is especially critical if your dates coincide with or fall near a major festival.
Why such a long lead time?
Bhutan has a very limited tourism infrastructure compared to other destinations, and the best options sell out quickly.
Limited Flight Capacity: Bhutan is served by only two airlines (Drukair and Bhutan Airlines), each operating a small fleet of international aircraft.
Internal flights are even more restricted, often operated by a single ATR aircraft with fewer than 40–50 seats. During peak months, these seats are often the first to disappear.
Hotels: Many of the most highly-regarded hotels are small, in some cases with fewer than 20 rooms. If you have your heart set on good hotels, you must book early to secure your spot.
The Advantage of Booking Early
If you are sure you want to visit, there is every reason to book as soon as possible. Even if your plans aren’t 100% finalized, booking early provides a safety net:
Risk-Free Booking: You can “lock in” your flights and preferred hotels now and still have the flexibility to cancel up to 3 months before your trip. In most cases, there are hardly any cancellation charges (check with us on the minimal cancellation fees imposed by the airline and the hotels)
Off-Peak Season: For travel during non-peak periods, booking 3–4 months in advance is usually sufficient. and we have have even managed to arrange successful “last-minute” trips in as little as 10 days. Do not hesitate to contact us and we will try our best make your visit successful
The Bottom Line: If you want the best rooms and the most convenient flight times for 2026 or 2027, the earlier you book, the better. Whichever country you may be travelling to (Bhutan, Nepal, India or Tibet), the same logic apply.
Travel insurance is not mandatory for trips operated by Wind Horse Tours to Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet, or India. However, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance—especially if your itinerary includes trekking or travel to remote areas.
Your policy should include coverage for medical treatment, emergency evacuation, trip interruption, and unforeseen delays, as these can be costly without insurance.
There is no fixed timeline, as this depends on traveler interest and seasonal demand. Some departures fill up very quickly, while others may see slower sign-ups, especially when booked far in advance.
Over the past six years, however, most of our group journeys have tended to fill quite quickly, as Wind Horse Group Journeys are always kept small, with a maximum of 8–9 participants. This allows us to provide a more personal, flexible, and high-quality travel experience.
While our scheduled group journeys remain small by design, we do operate larger private groups when they are organized by agents, tour leaders, institutions, or organizations, and these are handled separately from our public group departures.
Please note that even if seats remain available on a group journey, airline seats and key hotels—especially during peak seasons—may already be sold out, which can affect availability or require alternative arrangements. Early booking is therefore strongly recommended.
Yes, with 2 people we guarantee the journey and the cost above is for our group journey and for private tours cost will be little more. In most cases, even with single people we guarantee the trip, after paying the required amount.
When is the final tour cost confirmed for (Small Group Journeys) after the booking deposit? How quickly is my Bhutan tour price finalized after I pay the deposit? What happens after I pay the $200 deposit ?
For private trips, the tour cost is finalized and agreed upon before you book. Once we receive your $200 deposit, we issue your invoice immediately or within a short time.
For Small Group Journeys, pricing is tiered based on the final number of participants. You will receive a provisional invoice at the time of booking. A revised and finalized invoice is then issued before the final payment due date, once group numbers are confirmed.
If additional travelers join after you have already paid and this results in a lower per-person cost, we refund the difference automatically. In practice, late sign-ups after payment are uncommon, but we always adjust fairly if it happens.
For trekking groups:
Staffing depends on group size and the difficulty of the trek.
- Small groups: Usually supported by one licensed trekking guide, one cook, and one assistant, along with pack animals (ponies, mules, or yaks) and their handlers.
- Larger groups: We assign one lead guide plus one or more assistant guides, depending on group size. There is typically one main cook, supported by additional assistants as needed.
For cultural touring groups:
- Small Group Journeys: Normally one guide and one driver per vehicle.
- Larger private groups: We increase staffing with additional guides and drivers as required.
Our vehicles range from SUVs seating 1–3 guests, small vans (Toyota Hiace or Hyundai H1) for 3–6 guests, larger high-roof vans (Hiace High Roof) for up to 8 guests, and Coaster buses accommodating 12 or 15 guests.
For groups of 9–10 travelers or more, we usually assign more than one guide to ensure personalized attention, smooth coordination, and a higher level of service throughout the journey.
Absolutely! Solo travelers are always welcome at Wind Horse. We offer two flexible ways for you to join a group, share costs, and meet like-minded travelers.
- Fixed Departure Small Group Journeys
We offer a curated selection of “Fixed Departure Small Group” dates for our most popular treks and cultural tours. These are pre-scheduled dates designed specifically for solo travelers and couples who want to join a larger team. To ensure a personal experience and minimize our footprint on local communities, we cap these groups at just 9 participants (unless otherwise specified). These trips are led by our most senior guides and offer a structured, social way to explore Bhutan. - “Join-In” Groups (Private Open Groups)
If our Fixed Departure dates don’t align with your specific schedule, we can create a “Join-In” Group just for you. You choose your own travel dates and itinerary. Once your plan is set, we post your trip on our website as an “Open Group” for others to join.
Even if no one else joins, we guarantee your trip will run as a private tour. You won’t have to worry about a cancellation just because you are solo. If other travelers do join in, you get to share the experience and reduce the overall cost of your trip.
Plan Early for Join-Ins: If you want others to join your custom dates, we recommend setting your itinerary 6–9 months in advance. This gives us the best window to find the perfect travel companions for you!
It’s great to hear that you all are all set and raring to go, and there can’t be better way to prepare, train yourself than hiking as that’s what you will be doing bulk of the time in trek. Most of the treks in Bhutan are high altitude ones, except winter trek in lowland region. So physical training in any form would stand in good stead in terms of enjoyment of trip.
For general information purpose in regards to your preparation, Please visit the link below.
http://windhorsetours.com/blog/?p=1127
Choosing a tour operator in the Himalayas is about reliability, accountability, and local expertise—not just price or a good website.
Wind Horse Tours has been trusted by travelers since 1998, making us one of the longest-established, locally founded operators in the region. Founded by local guides, we have successfully guided thousands of travelers through decades of policy changes, logistical challenges, and evolving travel regulations.
Why travelers choose Wind Horse:
- Over 25 Years of Proven Experience: We have firsthand experience navigating everything from changing visa rules to weather disruptions and complex logistics.
- Direct Local Presence: We operate with our own offices and staff in Bhutan (Thimphu, Paro, Phuentsholing) and across the Himalayas—your trip is never outsourced to unknown third parties.
- Travelers Designing Trips for Travelers: As experienced world travelers ourselves, we bring a genuine understanding of travel—its challenges, comforts, and small details that make a journey smooth and rewarding.
- 24/7 Support Across Time Zones: From planning at home to travel on the ground, someone from the Wind Horse team is always available.
- Financial Transparency & Refund Support: If plans change or trips are shortened, we assist directly with authorities, hotels or airlines to secure eligible refunds whenever possible.
- Senior Guides & Safe Drivers: We work only with highly experienced guides and drivers known for their safety, cultural depth, and genuine care.
- Personalized Service: You work with dedicated advisors who treat your trip as if it were their own—not a booking number.
- Verified Track Record: Our unedited reviews consistently highlight peace of mind, organization, and trust.
In short: we combine local ownership, decades of experience, and the perspective of seasoned travelers to ensure your journey is safe, smooth, and deeply rewarding.