Internet, SIM Cards & Connectivity for Travelers in Nepal

When you travel to Nepal, one of the first things you’ll probably think about is internet. Whether it’s using Google Maps or contacting your guide, staying connected is really important. The good news is that getting internet in Nepal is actually very easy and not as confusing as people think.

Wi-Fi Connection

As soon as you arrive in Nepal, you will notice free Wi-Fi in many places like hotels, cafés and restaurants, especially in cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. Most hotels offer Wi-Fi for free. The free Wi-Fi can be slow at times but It’s okay for basic things like texting or checking emails and it might not be great for video calls or uploading lots of photos. Most Hotels or the place you're going to stay at, do provide a seperate Wi-Fi connection for you room so Wi-Fi speed will not be much problem.

SIM card

Because Wi-Fi isn’t always reliable, most travelers buy a local SIM card. This is the best way to stay connected while moving around. The two main SIM card companies in Nepal are NCELL and Nepal Telecom (NTC). Both work well in cities, but Nepal Telecom usually has better coverage in remote and mountain areas. If you’re planning to go trekking or traveling outside big towns, Nepal Telecom is usually the safer choice.
Getting a SIM card is very simple. You can buy one at the airport or at official shops in the city. You’ll need your passport and a passport-size photo, and the staff usually help set it up for you. The SIM cards are cheap and data packages are also affordable compared to many other countries. You can choose daily, weekly or monthly internet packs depending on how long you’re staying.

Internet Speed

Internet speed in Nepal is good in cities but don’t expect super-fast connections everywhere. In popular trekking areas like Annapurna or Everest regions, internet is available but it can be slow and expensive. Some lodges sell Wi-Fi cards, but the connection depends on weather and location. In very remote areas, the internet may not work at all, so it’s a good idea to download maps and important information before you go.
Mobile data works well for navigation, ride apps and staying in touch during city tours and road trips. However, while traveling through mountains or highways, the signal may drop sometimes. This is normal in Nepal because of the landscape. Still, in most towns and villages, you are likely get less signal.

Conclusion

Overall, staying connected in Nepal is easier than you might expect. With a local SIM card and a little patience for slow internet, you’ll be able to manage your travel smoothly. Whether you’re exploring busy streets in Kathmandu or relaxing by a lake in Pokhara, having internet makes the journey more comfortable and stress-free.