Trekking in Nepal is a wholesome experience of enjoying the country’s diverse landscapes along with its natural and cultural diversity. Nepal has a range of treks available to anyone from a novice to an experienced trekker, solo trekkers to group or family treks.

It has a diverse number of trails that are suitable for short treks to long-duration treks, budget trekkers to luxurious ones.

It is a perfect destination for all kinds of vacations. People come here from all over the world for jungle safaris, cultural tours, historical tours, trekking, camping, mountain climbing, rafting, adventurous sports and so on.

While trekking in Nepal it’s better to spend on local currency. And to obtain it, you find numerous banks, money exchange in main cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Before we go into details of which currencies to use, ATM, Cards and so on, let us take a look at the popular treks and tours in Nepal

Popular Treks and Tours to Do in Nepal

Everest Base Camp Trek

522reviews

$1300 9 Days Nepal, Everest Region

Manaslu Circuit Trek

52reviews

$1400 15 Days Nepal, Restricted Region

Manaslu Circuit Trek

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$1300 12 Days Nepal, Restricted Region

Everest Base Camp – Cho-La Pass – Gokyo Trek

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$1650 18 Days Everest Region, Nepal

Everest Base Camp – Cho-La Pass – Gokyo Trek

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$1550 15 Days Nepal, Everest Region

12 Days Annapurna Base Camp Trek

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$900 12 Days Nepal, Annapurna Region

Annapurna Base Camp Trekking

51review

$1000 15 Days Annapurna Region, Nepal

Langtang Valley Trek

$750 11 Days Langtang Region, Nepal

Everest Base Camp – Kalapathar Trek

$1400 12 Days Nepal, Everest Region

The Local Currency

While planning for vacations or treks, the money used in the local country is usually forgotten. Nepal’s official currency is NPR, Rs. or the Nepalese Rupee. The Nepalese rupee is different from the other rupees found in Asia like the Indian Rupees, Pakistan Rupee and so on.

It comes in notes of 1,2, 5, 10, 20, 50,100, 500 and 1000. Nepali coins are also available in 1, 2 and 5 but is used less. 1,00,000 NRR is called 1 lakh and 1,00,00,000 NRR is called 1 crore.

Nepal is heavily dependent on tourism industry; hence you will not have any difficulty to convert your currency into the local currency. The Nepalese currency is a universally recognized currency and can be converted into any currency.

While trekking to different parts of Nepal, having the local currency, the Nepalese rupee is the best option.

You can easily convert your currency into the local currency through money exchanges, as per daily exchange rates.

Money exchanges

There are lots of money exchange centers in Nepal including both Government affiliated ones and privately owned.

You can find money-exchange counters throughout Kathmandu and Pokhara. There are also a few available in the popular trails of Nepal including the ones in the Annapurna region and Everest Region.

It is recommended you exchange your currency in Kathmandu as the counters here will offer you better rates. All currencies of the world are accepted here.

Pounds, Dollars, and the Euro are easily accepted everywhere in Nepal. It would be best to exchange other currencies in Kathmandu. Money-exchange centers outside of Kathmandu may not accept other currencies.

If you are not comfortable using money exchange counters, opt for the Government affiliated ones. Nepal Rastra Bank at Thirdham Sadak at Baluwatar or Nepal Bank at New Road are two big Government banks that provides you with local currencies.

However, private exchange counters will give you slightly better rates.

You can check the latest updates of money exchange rates on the official website of Nepal Rastra Bank.

Credit cards

All major credit cards like VISA, MasterCard, American Express are accepted in Nepal. Most of the ATM booths have small signs informing you of the cards they accept. It is quite simple.

Credit cards can be used in few of the major hotels, boutiques, restaurants, tour agencies, stores and banks.

When using credit cards, you must be aware that chip and pin services are not fully active in Nepal. Nepal still uses carbon copy machines.

ATM

Automated Teller Machines, ATMs are available throughout Nepal including the popular trekking trails of Nepal.

ATM’s can be found in abundance in Kathmandu, Pokhara. You can actually find ATM lounges with a range of ATM’s from different banks in the country in Thamel, Kathmandu and Lakeside, Pokhara.

It is recommended you use ATM within Kathmandu and Pokhara. ATM’s in these regions are usually functional and kept up to date with repairs and cash. The ATM’s in the trails of the higher regions of Nepal are not always functioning or stocked.

Also, as you ascend higher in trekking trails, you may not find ATMs to withdraw cash. So, it’s wise to carry extra cash before you start trekking in Nepal.

Popular ATMs that accept international credit cards are Standard Chartered Bank(SCB), Nabil Bank, Himalayan Bank, Everest Bank.

Wire Services

You can also wire money to Nepal. It is not possible to send money out of the country through money wire services or bank transfers.

Wire services are available throughout the major cities of Nepal. Kathmandu is the preferred option with the most available and functioning centers.

Western Union is the most popular option for this service. Other popular options include MoneyGram, Nepal Remit International.

Amount of Cash you should carry for a trek

The amount of cash largely depends on the duration of your trek, type of trekking and your trekking destination. Be sure to interact with your trekking company before you head for your trek.

You require permits for any treks within the country. Some of the restricted region treks require special permits which will add to your cash requirements. This can be arranged through your travelling agency. You can usually pay them using credit cards.

Tea house treks cost less than luxurious treks or camping.

The daily expenses you will encounter on your trek are your accommodations, meals and snacks. These expenses will again depend on the lodges you stay which can range from $1 to $15 per day, meals- $2-$8 per meal.

A registered, licensed guide will add $25 per day to your expense and a porter will cost $15 per day. Both these costs include everything related to their expenses- accommodation, meals, insurance, daily earnings.

For snacks and first aid kit, it is recommended that you get them in Kathmandu. As you trek towards the higher regions, the cost for medicines, snacks, bottled water, food will increase.

Some of the popular trails in the Annapurna and Everest region do have ATM’s, wire services and credit card services. However, it is recommended that you do not depend on them as their functionality is not guaranteed due to lack of maintenance, manpower, electrical power failures.

Some Tips to consider before using ATM’s, credit cards, wire services and money exchange centers

• Kathmandu is a preferred destination for any of these services because of the availability, number of choices and functionality of the services.
• Before using ATM, credit cards or wire services in Nepal, let your bank know of your travels to Nepal as some banks cancel your cards for uninformed international use.
• If you have time, lookout for the best exchange rates.
• There is a limit on the amount of cash you can withdraw from the ATM. This limit ranges from NPR 15,000 to NPR 25,000 depending on the bank.
• There is charges that you encounter after every transaction while using ATM or credit cards.
• Be aware of additional charges while paying for services in restaurants, spas, hotels. You could be spending a lot more than you planned to.
• Ask the commission rates, international fees before using wire services. This can depend on the service providers. Hence, you can make a better decision once you are aware of these rates and fees.
• Avoid hotels and airports for converting money. They have a lower rate of exchange and have additional charges.

Finally,

Paying for things in cash is the best option in Nepal. Nepal is still on its way to development and hence many things taken for granted like fully functional ATM, credit card machines, 24hr. electricity is still in the process of becoming a reality.

Unlike using ATM, credit card and wire services within your own country, using it internationally can mean extra charges like international fees, commissions that can add to your overall expenses.

Although Nepal is a safe country, it is always best to take precautions using ATM services at night or crowded places.

Don’t leave your personal belonging including your credit card unattended, it is better to be safe than otherwise.

If you require any specific cost details like Manaslu Circuit Trek Cost, Annapurna base camp trek cost or any other queries related to trekking or traveling to Nepal, feel free to contact us.

It’s almost impossible to say what is the best time to explore Nepal. Our little country is simply an amazing year around.

In Nepal, winter runs from December to February. December and January are the coldest months of the year. February can still be cold but the weather gradually gets warmer.

I won’t deny it, many people don’t think it’s really good idea to trek in winter. As there might be a perception that the weather is really not suitable.

However, trekking in Nepal in February is absolutely possible. It is really doable. It isn’t too harsh. Also, the winter scenery is even more spectacular, with clear skies and excellent mountain views.

There’s something special about trekking in Nepal in February. When you see the world covered in a blanket of snow, it just adds a beauty.

February is a good time to trek. It is not high season as spring (March-May) and autumn (October-December).

In Nepal, winter months can mean lots of different things, depending on your interest and the part of the country where you choose to visit.

Trekking in Nepal in February can be a beautiful experience. Walking on the top of the snow, viewing frozen rivers and waterfalls all present memorable experiences.

But, a little different approach is needed for trekking in Nepal in February.

Don’t worry we’re here to serve you!

There are almost endless options for trekking in Nepal in February.

You can choose short trekking packages such as Chepang Hill Trekking, Royal Trekking, Panchase Trekking, and Chisapani Nagarkot Trekking. All these trekking are suitable during February in Nepal.

Do keep in mind that, Everest region gets very cold so Everest Base Camp trek in February would not be quite good options for most trekkers. But the accessibility of the area makes it a good option for trekking in February.

You can just take a short flight from Kathmandu to reach Lukla. While flights are often canceled due to bad weather conditions in wetter months. But this should be less concern during this month of the year.

Then after Lukla, you can go short trek to Namche Bazaar, a famous Sherpa Capital. You can also continue hike to Tengboche, where you can visit famous monastery.

Also, the low altitude of Nepal never get too cold, the higher you go, the temperatures get colder. This means some of the higher elevation trekking such as high Cho La pass of Everest region or Thorong La Pass of Annapurna Circuit are not doable during the cold month.

In contrast, if you like to add a little adventure on your trip then you can opt Everest Panorama Trekking and Annapurna Panorama Trekking.

Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming trekking in Nepal in February and this is a right time to plan it all.

Weather Conditions of Nepal in February

Trekking in Nepal in February becomes quite challenging when you consider the weather. Despite this trekking is always fun, no matter which weather you go in.

Although, it’ll be good to know the local weather conditions before getting to that particular trekking area.

You’ve to be absolutely prepared when you go in adventure trekking trip, especially if you’re traveling during the frosting winter.

Nepal experience four distinct seasons; spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

Nepal usually experiences a short winter. So, if you visit Nepal in late February, you’ll likely experience mild to warm temperatures.

February is one of the dry months in Nepal, so there are little rain and snow. During February, the temperatures of Kathmandu valley might range from 4°C-19°C which is tolerable.

Likewise, the temperatures of Pokhara valley might range from 9°C-12°C. Also, the temperatures of Jomsom valley might range from 1°C-13°C.

The temperatures above 4000 m go below -5°C. Most people from the higher elevation migrate to the warmer lower elevations.

Despite this, you’ll witness the best skies making a very good trekking time for the Nepalese Himalayas.

Recommended Trekking Destinations in February

In fact, you might be surprised that Everest Base Camp trek and Annapurna Base Camp treks are still accessible in February. Though it would be better if you check the local weather conditions and prepare yourself with special equipment (crampons and axes).

Beside this, there are many lower-altitude treks that are still accessible during February.

Here I’ve compiled a list of best treks that can be enjoyed during February. You can choose any of these treks and give an adventurous touch to your February.

Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek

The list of the best winter trek is incomplete without mention of Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. It is a perfect trek where you’ll get a best scenic view of Annapurna massif.

During the peak seasons, this trek is very popular and is overcrowded with trekkers. But not in February.

The trail passes through a beautiful landscape of rhododendron forests. At the end of the trek, you’ll enjoy the spectacular sunrise views at Poon Hill (3210m).

Throughout the journey, the trails offer the close-up views of Mt. Annapurna and Mt. Dhaulagiri. Thus, you don’t need to ascend too high to get the best mountain views. Yes, of course, if you don’t need to travel too high altitude then it means it doesn’t get too cold in February.

Besides getting the best mountain views, this low-altitude trek offers to get into the lives of the Gurung people and know about their culture too.

Along with this, Ghorepani Poon Hill Ghandruk trek is also doable  during this month.

Langtang Valley Trekking

Langtang Valley Trekking is one of the most beautiful short treks of Langtang region in Nepal.

The culture in this area is much influenced by Tamang people who are descended from Tibetans. So in this short winter trek, you’ll get a chance to observe the distinct form of culture and traditions.

Along the trail, you’ll walk through the Langtang National Park. This park is home to some rare wildlife, you’ll get a chance to see some interesting animals and birds. Among them, some are musk deer, monkeys, red panda, deer, pike and the national bird of Nepal, the colorful Danphe.

The trekking journey is best started either from Dhunche or from Syabru Besi. Temperatures usually don’t go below 1°C making it a moderate trek.

During this time of the year, there is more than 80% chance of clear mountain view. Generally, it snow falls above 3000 m in this season so you don’t have to face too cold.

Beside this, you can also do the Tamang Heritage Trekking. This trek also starts from Syabrubesi and you don’t have to climb much more than 3500 m, making the temperatures tolerable during this time.

Jomsom Muktinath Trekking

Although Jomsom valley gets a bit chilly in February, it never gets very cold. So, the short treks Jomsom Muktinath Trekking is ideal in February.

During this time of the year, you don’t have to go for high altitude trekking to get the best mountain views. The major highlight of this trek is Muktinath Temple.

It is one of a famous pilgrimage and spiritual sites attracting thousands of Hindus and Buddhist pilgrims every year.

Jomsom Muktinath Trekking in Nepal in February is very quiet with clear weather. February is also regarded as a cold month. But, it’s usually snowfalls in the higher elevations with high wind and colder temperature.

You’ll get a chance to visit a remote village, ancient monasteries, and other sacred monuments along the trekking route.

This short trek offers to experience a plenty of Gurung and Thakali culture. Also, the Himalayan views from Jomsom valley are spectacular in February.

Benefits of Trekking in Nepal in February

Crisp clear and sunny days

Yes, temperatures may be colder, but the views are often at their best. Don’t be fooled by the words Nepal winter. In Nepal, it’s only at high altitude where you’ll experience snow. On a beautiful winter day in Nepal, you’ll be able to experience some sunshine during the day and have a crisp, cool evening and night.

Not too much crowd

Everybody is flocking to the Himalayas in peak season. Popular trekking destinations such as Everest region, Annapurna region, and Langtang region become unbearable due to the overcrowding of trekkers. Trekking in Nepal in February are so much better. Places like Annapurna region which are overflows with trekkers in peak season becomes calm and amazing in February.

It’s much cheaper

If you want to spend the least amount of money on traveling through Nepal, then you’ll love February. You have to pay little for accommodation and internet facilities. Domestic flights such as Kathmandu to Lukla are also cheaper. You’ve to just spend few dollars on food. You can save a lot of money by travelling in this season.

Tips of Trekking in Nepal in February

Trekking in Nepal in February also presents its own set of challenges. So, before heading out on the trail, be sure to think ahead and prepare for unexpected conditions.

Here are some tips that can be helpful to stay safe on the trail.

Check Weather Reports

The mountain weather is always unpredictable. Especially in winter time, it doesn’t take time for the weather to change. Before you leave for trekking, make sure that you learn about the weather. So in case of the bad weather, you can postpone the hike, especially if you’ve little or no experience with winter hiking.

Stay Hydrated

During the cold weather, the last thing anyone wants to do is drink water. But when you go for trekking, make sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. You can use insulated water bottles or thermos to keep your water out from freezing.

Dress in layers

Dress in layers is really important while you’re trekking in the cold weather. It may be freezing, but after some time on the trial, you may get hot. So, make sure you stay comfortable and dry by dressing in easily removable layers. Start with a base layer of moisture-wicking fabric. The next layer should be warm and insulating like fleece or goose down. Your outer layer should help repel water and cut the wind. To get more idea you can refer What to Wear Trekking in Nepal.

Limited Daylights

At this point of the article, you know well about the climate of the February month. So as I’ve already mentioned that during the winter there are limited daylight hours. You need to start early and pack a headlamp in case you get caught out in darkness.

Take an Experienced Guide

Going on an adventure with a guide is always the fun way to go about, especially in the cold weather. Not only it is fun to share the adventure but it’s also safer to be with a guide.

Sometimes, the biggest problem in Himalayan trails would be that they’ve not been mapped properly. So, if you’re traveling alone you might get lost in the trail.

Moreover, in winter, the trail might get obstructed due to snow, a fallen tree or any other similar obstacle you would not know how to reroute.

Also, there is no rescue team in the Himalayan region who would rescue you in case you get lost. So, in this type of situation, an experienced guide will take care of everything.

Final Thought

In winters, our normal routine is lying in bed, curled up in the blanket in front of a television. I don’t think after knowing about trekking in Nepal in February you’ll do so.

Trekking in Nepal in February is really a great way to get out of your comfort zone and do something different. It’ll offer you a great chance to do something that you haven’t done and you’re scared to do.

If something is easy, anyone can do it. If something is tough then only determined people like you will be able to do it. At the end of the day, you’ll definitely come out as a tougher person.

So, don’t let this February be like your old regular one. Make this February adventurous.

Lastly, never let the cold weather to put you off your hiking habit !!!!

FAQs

Q1. What sort of weather can be expected during February?

Nepal experience the dry winters. During February, the weather is usually stable and warmer at lower altitudes up to 3,000 m. However, the weather in the mountains is always predictable. That’s why you need to be alert during the trekking period. At night it is generally cold, temperatures get below freezing points. So, you need to prepare yourself with the correct gear.

Q2. Is trekking in Nepal in February safe?

Great question! As some people might think that trekking in Nepal in February is difficult because of the weather condition. But, don’t thinks so!!!

During this time of the year, it is considered safe to trek in the lower altitude. There is an only high risk of cold winds and heavy snowfalls at higher altitudes. Due to the stable weather it is quite easy and better to go for trekking in Nepal in February.

But, for your safety concern, make sure that you need to take an experienced guide.

Q3. What sort of a sleeping bag do I need for trekking in Nepal in February?

I recommend a good four season down sleeping bag rated to -15°C for your winter trips. Also, you can rent/buy a sleeping bag in Kathmandu trekking store.