Nepal on a Budget: Your 15-Day Canadian Couple's Guide to Unforgettable Adventures & Smart Savings

Nepal Travel Guide for Canadian Couple (30s, Budget Trip)

Travelers: Just married couple (Sunil & Maurreen), based in Ontario, Canada

Trip Duration: 15 days

Travel Goals: Budget-friendly, safe, scenic, cultural, relaxing + a bit of trekking

📍 Must-Visit Places in Nepal

• Kathmandu: Thamel, Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath
• Bhaktapur: Ancient architecture, pottery square
• Patan: Hidden courtyards, traditional art
• Pokhara: Lakeside area, boating on Phewa Lake, Sarangkot sunrise, Peace Pagoda
• Lumbini: Birthplace of Lord Buddha
• Bandipur: Charming hilltop village
• Chitwan: Jungle safari, elephant watching (ethical options only)
• Lukla (Trekking Gateway): Small town with scenic flights — airport is challenging but safe if weather is clear

🏨 Budget Hotels & Homestays

• Kathmandu: Alobar1000 Hostel, Oasis Kathmandu Hotel
• Pokhara: Hotel Middle Path & Spa, Pokhara Backpackers Hostel
• Bandipur: The Old Inn (rustic but great view)
• Lumbini: Lumbini Garden Lodge

🍛 Must-Try Foods

• Momo (dumplings)
• Dal Bhat (lentil curry with rice)
• Newari Khaja Set
• Thukpa (Tibetan soup)

🚫 Things to Avoid

• Unregistered taxis (always ask for meter or agree on price upfront)
• Unfiltered tap water – use bottled or filtered water
• Unlicensed trekking guides – always check reviews
• High ATM withdrawal fees – withdraw larger amounts at once

🧭 Local Tips

• Local SIM: Buy Ncell or NTC SIM at the airport or city shops (need passport copy)
• Internet: Free WiFi in most hotels/cafes. Data is cheap.
• Cards: Visa/MasterCard accepted in mid- to high-end hotels/restaurants. Cash is preferred elsewhere.
• Ride-sharing: Pathao and InDrive apps are widely used in Kathmandu and Pokhara

📅 Best Time to Visit Nepal

• October–December: Clear skies, pleasant weather, perfect for trekking
• March–May: Blooming rhododendrons, moderate temps, great for sightseeing

🛫 Budget Flights & Bookings

• Book Flights via Trip.com
• Hotels via HotelLook
• WelcomePickup for Airport Transfers
• GetTransfer for Car Rentals
• AirHelp for Flight Delay Compensation

🎒 Packing Checklist

• Passport + 2 copies
• Power bank & adapter (Type C/D/M plug)
• Travel insurance
• Down jacket / rain gear
• Hiking shoes
• Sunscreen & sunglasses
• Reusable water bottle & purification tablets
• Snacks for long rides/treks
• Basic first-aid kit

🥾 Trekking Route (Beginner-Friendly)

Ghorepani–Poon Hill Trek (5-6 days)

1. Pokhara → Nayapul (drive)
2. Nayapul → Tikhedhunga → Ghorepani (2–3 days)
3. Early morning hike to Poon Hill for sunrise
4. Return via Tadapani → Ghandruk → Pokhara

Altitude is moderate (~3,200m max). No special permits needed apart from TIMS and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (can be arranged in Pokhara).

📌 FAQs

Q: Is Lukla Airport dangerous?

A: It’s known for its short runway, but experienced pilots fly there daily. Avoid flying during monsoon or cloudy days.

Q: Can I use my Canadian debit/credit card?

A: Yes, at ATMs and larger hotels. Use Standard Chartered or Himalayan Bank ATMs for better rates.

Q: How much cash should I carry?

A: Roughly CAD 500–700 converted to NPR for local expenses. Cash is king in rural areas.

Q: Can I buy a SIM at the airport?

A: Yes. Look for Ncell or NTC counters. Take your passport with you.

Q: What’s a safe daily budget?

A: Around CAD 40–60 per day for budget travel including stays, food, and local travel.

✈️ Want Help Booking?

If you’d like direct help booking your trip (flights, hotels, transfers, trekking guide, or SIM delivery), just let us know. We can walk you through everything or handle it for you.