12 Jan 2021 6 min to read
Tourism Return in Nepal Post-Covid 19 Pandemic, Better News for trekkers around the World
Tourism worldwide has been shut down pretty much entirely due to the COVID 19 Pandemic. Few countries stated the least ideal bubble format for tourists. However, the positives are here after all these times. This is especially the case for tourism in Nepal. The government and all the bodies overlooking health and tourism has given a green light to reopen its doors again after this long hiatus.
So, what does it mean for tourists and trekkers to Nepal? Keep one thing in mind that there are still a few additional customs and procedures to be followed for the safety of travelers and locals here. The Visa on Arrival is not continued for the time being. But, you can simply issue a tourist entry visa from your nearest Nepali diplomatic missions (Embassy). Although the timing might not be fast as usual you can very much obtain the approval after a couple of days.
After booking a trek or tour and attaining the visa documents, you can look for a flight next. Flights to Nepal is obviously less frequent now. However, the positive side is that the available ones are more likely to be on time. Don’t book a flight with a tight schedule. Put a day or two more for any unforeseen complications. Be safe during the flight too. Masks and sanitizers are available in nearly any store in Nepal but it would be better to carry a personal pack for extra measures.
After Landing in Nepal, you will go through a couple of extra health check stalls than usual. You have to have a COVID-negative test result with you done 3 days or prior to the arrival date here. Additionally, officials will check your documents provided by the Nepalese diplomatic missions and go through your visa. For your own assurance, you can do a test slightly before the trek commencement too which is readily available in different places of Kathmandu.
Trekking and Mountaineering in the country were officially permitted from mid-October. At first, travelers were skeptical to travel especially to Asia. However, the number of travelers are gradually increasing in the past month or so. Even the off-season trekkers have arrived in Nepal to enjoy a well-deserved vacation. For the next trekking window, the booking numbers are catching up to that of the normal times before COVID. So, trekkers and adventure-lovers alike, Nepal and the Himalayas are ready for your arrival in 2021.
There are some misconceptions for travelers and that might be due to a lack of trusty sources. Here is our verdict for these hoax claims.
– Trekking Trails has changed in the mountains (The trails are fine)
It has been a long time since there were trekkers in the popular trails of the Nepalese Himalayas. However, these paths are locally used and any bad conditions are well known to us. You should worry less about it as the inspection of major trails was done before opening the country for trekkers.
– There are no hotels/local teahouse operating in the Himalayas
Almost every hotel and teahouse in the rural regions are local/community operated. A few of them might be temporarily down but enough are running for trekkers in the Himalayas.
– Group Travel is restricted in Nepal (Wrong)
Group Travel is not restricted. More focus is given on safety measures to prevent any problems. Tourists are given precautions of being safe themselves rather than forcing additional rules in Nepal.
– You have to do tests regularly (false)
As a traveler, you must have a negative test result prior to landing in Nepal. Any other COVID tests now are your choice rather than by rule.
– Trekking in Nepal is more expensive now (False, if anything it is more affordable)
Only a handful of tour operators have raised and that too due to the inclusion of optional safety features or insurance. You can find many unchanged or even lesser-priced tours to your favorite destinations in Nepal. Best offers are bound to be there for those who arrive for the first wave of travelers here.
Advantages of being the early-bird now trekking in Nepal
If you are not sure whether booking a tour now or wait for some period, here are a few advantages for you: –
* The destinations open for tourists are less crowded.
* The flight and tour prices are comparatively cheaper for more recent travelers now.
* Hotels, teahouses, and lodges are more accessible and travelers can have a relaxed time here.
* The post wintertime is one of the underrated periods for visitors in Nepal. This opens up for more unique experiences.
* Nepal is safer than most of the other countries out there from the COVID virus itself.
* For group travelers you can get the best guides and porters enthusiastic to resume their work in the mountains.
* The environment is fantastic for tours and traveling too, and it is amazing for a change from your everyday life.
Preparation and Packing changes
Additional safety equipment and few extra health items should be on your packing list for visitors now. Most equipment is available in Nepal too but it is better if you are comfortable with your stuff. Pack for the extra time you will spend in Nepal too due to any possible delays. Markets are fully opened now, so the best thing to do is to coordinate with our staff and we will help you through this process.
Call for trekkers after this long Pause
We know that the past year has not been the best for many of us. Especially for trekkers who live for the adventure-packed walks in the trails enclosed in nature, staying at home was awful. For those who want a hint of fresh air, the Himalayas now calls you. Nepal is open for trekkers once more and we are excited to serve you once more. Be the first ones here and start this year in a positive light.
Our Company efforts for your safety
We at Outdoor Himalayan take the safety of our clients seriously. This is one factor of our services that you can absolutely lean on us. Our guides are provided with extra training and necessary safety equipment for the tour. Similarly, your transportation, accommodation, trekking team, and every individual involved with you throughout the tour are closely instructed to act prioritizing safety first. Booking a tour with us will be that extra layer of assurance that everyone seeks after COVID 19.
