How To Stay Connected In Nepal

Stay Online, Share Stories, and Travel Safely

Picture this: You're trekking through lush rhododendron forests or ascending towards Everest Base Camp, and you want to share a photo, check the weather, or just let loved ones know you’re safe. Staying connected in Nepal is easier than ever—with careful planning.

As a local operator with over 15 years’ experience, Himalayan Magic Treks understands the connectivity challenges in remote regions. In this guide, we examine SIM cards, eSIM options, mobile data, and Wi‑Fi availability—from bustling Kathmandu to the high Himalayas—so you can stay connected without missing a moment.

SIM Cards & eSIMs in Nepal

Where to Buy a SIM Card

You can purchase a local SIM at:

• Tribhuvan International Airport (main entry point)

• Official shops in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or major cities

• Authorized kiosks in Thamel and tourist areas 

Required Documents

To activate your SIM, you'll need:

• Passport + photocopy

• Passport-sized photo

• Visa stamp copy

Mobile Network Providers

• Nepal Telecom (NTC): Best coverage, also in remote regions

• Ncell: Strong data in cities and on trekking circuits

• Smart Cell: Lower cost, but limited reach

Typical Costs & Data Plans at Airport

Provider	SIM Price	Popular Plan	Cost
Ncell	NPR 110	10 GB / 7 days + 40 min calls	USD 3.70–5.20
NTC	Free SIM	7 GB / 7 days	NPR 500 (USD 3.71)

eSIM Options

International eSIMs like Airalo, Saily, or Holafly work in Nepal but may have limited speed or face network provider restrictions

Pro tip: Unless you're staying for a few days and need easy setup, opt for a local SIM for better coverage.

Mobile Data & Coverage

Kathmandu & Pokhara

4G coverage is reliable across cities with both Ncell and NTC.

Trekking Trails

• Popular routes (Everest, Annapurna): Good coverage up to ~4,500 m

• Remote trails (Manaslu, Langtang): Coverage patchy—NTC may edge out Ncell

Everest Region

Ncell and NTC offer 3G/4G up to Gorakshep (~5,100 m). Expect slower speeds and interruptions at EBC, but still usable

Wi‑Fi on Trek & in Cities

City Wi‑Fi

Hotels, cafes, and restaurants generally offer free Wi‑Fi—it’s reliable in Kathmandu and Pokhara but can slow during festivals.

Trekking Wi‑Fi

• Tea houses: Paid Wi‑Fi (USD 3–15/hr or daily packages)

• Everest Link: High-altitude broadband with data cards (10 GB for USD 20; 20 GB for USD 30)

• Annapurna region: Similar limited paid Wi‑Fi options

Internet at Everest Base Camp

Connectivity at EBC is possible via:

• Ncell/NTC mobile data: Works up to Gorakshep and occasionally beyond

• Everest Link Wi‑Fi: Available in teahouses throughout Everest region

Expect slower speeds, best for messaging or uploads, not video streaming.

Practical Tips for Staying Connected

• Activate SIM in city to avoid delays

• Download offline maps (Maps.me, Gaia) before hitting trails

• Carry extra power banks—charging options can be limited at altitude

• Use Wi‑Fi for media-heavy tasks, save mobile data

• Monitor data usage and recharge via eSewa/Khalti/IME Pay

• Dual SIM strategy: Consider NTC + Ncell for wider coverage

Real Traveler Insights

From Reddit and blogs:

“Nepal telecom is good compared to Ncell… Buy SIM at the airport if not at Thamel.”
“Get both NTC and Ncell SIM cards… NTC better in Namche/Phakding, Ncell works in Lukla.”

Why Connectivity Matters on Trek

• Safety: Check weather, navigation, and emergency contact

• Mental Well-being: Brief updates can boost morale

• Logistics: Lodge bookings, permits, coordinating flights or pickups

• Sustainability: Beacon alerts and weather updates reduce risk

Related Travel Guides

• Budget Travel in Nepal →

• What to Pack for Nepal →

• Safety in Nepal →

Final Thoughts: Balanced Connectivity

Staying connected during your Nepal trip requires a bit of planning—mix local SIM cards with selected Wi‑Fi, download necessary maps offline, and pack backup power. A little foresight ensures you remain connected when it counts, without being tethered to screens in the heart of the Himalayas.

Ready to Trek Connected?

At Himalayan Magic Treks, we help with:

• Airport SIM pickup

• Choosing the right packages

• Essential trekking gear, permits, and logistical support

👉 Explore our treks & tours →
👉 Plan your connected adventure →
👉 Contact our team →