Connectivity in Nepal

Connectivity and Internet in Nepal

Local SIM Cards

Buying a local SIM is the cheapest and most reliable option. You can get one at the Kathmandu Airport (KTM) arrival hall or in Thamel. You will need a passport copy and one passport-sized photo. The process takes about 10 minutes. Cost: Around $5–$10 USD will get you a SIM with 10GB–20GB of data.

Connectivity While Trekking

• Teahouse Wi-Fi: Most lodges offer Wi-Fi for a fee (usually $2–$5 USD per night). Be warned: the speed drops significantly when everyone logs on after dinner.

• Everest Region (Everest Link): In the Khumbu region, a specialized service called Everest Link sells prepaid cards. These are often more reliable than cellular data once you go above 3,500m.

• The “Altitude Blackout”: Expect zero connectivity at base camps or while crossing high passes (like Thorong La or Cho La).

Internet in Cities

• Fiber Wi-Fi: Hotels and cafes in Kathmandu and Pokhara offer fast, free fiber-optic Wi-Fi, often sufficient for video calls or remote work.

• Load Shedding: While power outages are less common now than in the past, some smaller guesthouses may lose Wi-Fi if their backup generators or UPS systems aren’t maintained.

Essential Apps for Travelers

• WhatsApp/Viber: The primary way to communicate with local guides and tour operators.

• Maps.me: Download the Nepal offline map; it is much more detailed for trekking trails than Google Maps.

• Pathao / InDrive: The local versions of Uber/Grab for cheap motorbike or car rides within Kathmandu.