Visit Nepal From India: Your Gateway to the Himalayas

As far as I can recall, the name Nepal has been calling me. The beauty of snow-clad mountains, temples, and rich cultures made me long for the day when I would be able to step on this Himalayan Shangri La. Last year, in 2023, I decided to heed the call. With a backpack, a spirit of discovery, and a heart full of desire, I set off on a journey through this beautiful country on my own. Well, friends, that day finally came, and I’m here to tell you all the details of my Nepalese adventure!

When to go: Chasing the perfect weather

I decided to travel to Nepal during the autumn season, which is from September to November, and it was the right decision. The weather was clear, and the group was able to see the Himalayas from a distance. The trekking trails were excellent, and the days were bright and sunny. Although tourists also prefer the spring season from March to May, I preferred autumn, and it was less crowded and beautiful.

Planning my trip: India to Nepal flights

Being a resident of India, I was glad to find many suitable choices for IndiGo’s India to Nepal flights. Besides, IndiGo was relatively cheaper than the other airlines, and their efficiency in terms of time was impressive.

I was able to identify several daily flights to Kathmandu from most of the major cities in India. Pro tip: keep an eye on IndiGo’s sale – I was lucky to get a great offer on my tickets! 

The Nepalese visa policy is quite liberal for Indian citizens, and as such, traveling between the two countries is easy. However, the travelers have to possess either a valid Indian passport or a voter ID card issued by the Election Commission of India. The other acceptable form of identification is a photo identity card issued by the government, and this applies to children below 12 years of age and senior citizens above 65 years of age. 

Arriving in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is a sensory explosion of visuals, audibles, and olfactory that enthralled me from the word go. I began my exploration of the city in Thamel, the tourist hub of Kathmandu. The bright-colored prayer flags, the smell of burning incense, and the warm, welcoming smiles of the people made me feel at ease. 

Must-see sights in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is a cultural and historical paradise for anyone interested in the history of South Asia. Here are some highlights you absolutely can’t miss: Here are some highlights you absolutely can’t miss: 

• Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple): This is an old Buddhist temple located on a hill. It is rather beautiful, with great views and monkeys that are not shy. 
• Boudhanath Stupa: It is one of the world’s largest stupas and a hub of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. 
• Pashupatinath Temple: A religious Hindu temple situated at the bank of the Bagmati River. 
• Durbar Square: The core of the city of Kathmandu, which has beautiful buildings and a rich royal background.

Trekking in Nepal

It is impossible to visit Nepal and not do a trek, so I opted for the Poon Hill trek because it is not very strenuous and has fantastic views. This 4-5 day trek in the Annapurna region is a great way to get your feet wet in the world of Himalayan trekking. 

I saw the rhododendron forests, the terraced fields, and beautiful villages on the mountains. The view of the Annapurna range at sunrise from Poon Hill was, if I may say so myself, one of the most beautiful moments of my life. 

Practical tips for your Nepal adventure

• The local currency of Nepal is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Another currency that is well accepted in Nepal is the Indian rupee co, which is only known as INR. There are ATMs in major cities, though it is advisable to have some cash in rural areas. 
• Domestic flights are suitable for long distances. For short distances, some local buses and taxis can be quickly hired. 
• Nepal has accommodation for all categories, ranging from the lowest class of guest houses to the highest class of hotels. I was able to get good value for my money for mid-range hotels in both Kathmandu and Pokhara. 
• Nepali cuisine is delicious! Try dal bhat, which is lentils and rice; momos, which is a type of Nepalese dumplings and sel roti, which is a type of Nepalese bread. Avoid tap water and instead consume water in a bottle or water that has been boiled and cooled. 

Reflections on my Nepal journey

When I was getting on my IndiGo flight back to India, I was filled with joy and thankfulness for all the beautiful things that I got to see in Nepal, from the people’s hospitality to the grandeur of the Himalayas. 

I started with the need to find flights to Kathmandu and got much more than I expected. The geographical and cultural differences of Nepal – from the crowded streets of Kathmandu to the quiet lakes of Pokhara, from the forests of Chitwan to the spiritual center of Lumbini – will suit any tourist. Whether one is in pursuit of the divine, a rush of adrenalin, or just a change from the mundane, Nepal does not disappoint. 

Therefore, what are you waiting for? It is time to begin searching for those flights from India to Nepal and start getting ready for the trip of your lifetime. Nepal has yet to unveil its beauty to you and believe me, it has a lot to offer. Happy travels!