At the airport: entry, cash and connectivity
Tribhuvan International Airport is small and can be crowded when several international flights land together. Keep your passport, visa documents, return ticket and accommodation address ready, and check the Department of Immigration's current visa rules before you fly, because fees and eligible nationalities can change.
After arrival you will want local cash and a working phone. Airport counters offer currency exchange and SIM cards, but rates are often better in the city, so exchange only what you need for the first day. The SIM card guide and the money exchange guide explain documents, data packs and rate checks.
Getting from the airport to your stay
Options include prepaid airport taxis, hotel pickups arranged in advance and ride-hailing apps that are widely used in the Valley. A hotel pickup is the simplest choice for a late-night arrival. If you take a taxi, agree the fare before departure and have your accommodation's address and a landmark written down.
Traffic between the airport, Thamel, Boudha and Patan can be slow at peak hours. Allow extra time, keep valuables in a zipped bag and avoid placing a phone on the seat beside an open window. If your driver cannot find your guesthouse, calling the property directly usually resolves it quickly.
Choosing where to stay in the first nights
Thamel is convenient for first-time visitors because agencies, gear shops, money changers and restaurants are close together. Boudha offers a calmer atmosphere around the stupa, while Patan and Jhamsikhel suit visitors who prefer quieter streets and cafes. The Kathmandu Valley neighbourhood guide summarises what each area is known for.
Before paying, confirm the room, hot water, heating or fans, Wi-Fi, backup power and cancellation terms. Photos can be old, so recent reviews that mention the same details are useful. Browse hotels in Nepal to compare options with location details.
Health, pharmacies and emergencies
Pharmacies are common across Kathmandu and many can advise on minor ailments, but ask for medicines by generic name and check expiry dates. For anything serious, go to an established hospital. Keep your travel insurance policy number and the insurer's emergency line saved on your phone and on paper.
Save the numbers for the police, Tourist Police and ambulance services, plus your embassy and accommodation. The hospitals and clinics checklist explains what to ask when choosing where to seek care, and the pharmacy guide covers buying medicines safely.
Permits, treks and onward travel
If you plan to trek, confirm current permit and guide requirements for your region early, because rules for many areas require registered agencies and licensed guides. Agencies in Thamel can arrange permits, but compare several, check their registration and get the itinerary and inclusions in writing.
Onward travel to Pokhara, Chitwan or Lumbini is possible by tourist bus, domestic flight or private vehicle. Book at least a day ahead in busy seasons. The Pokhara travel agencies guide and trekking gear rental guide help with the next steps.
Local etiquette that makes the first days easier
Dress modestly at temples and remove shoes where asked, walk clockwise around stupas, and ask before photographing people, especially at cremation sites and religious ceremonies. Carry small notes, because many shops and taxis struggle to change large ones.
Bargaining is normal in markets and for some taxi fares but not in fixed-price shops or restaurants. A friendly greeting of namaste helps everywhere. When in doubt about a service, compare two or three providers in the Kathmandu directory before committing.
