Phones, SIM cards and Signal
One question we are asked before a trip to Nepal is about mobile phones, SIM cards and signal coverage. Staying connected while you’re away is important, whether it’s keeping in touch with family, checking maps and guides, or sharing your adventures.
To make things a little easier, we’ve put together some handy tips and helpful information to answer the most common questions and help you stay connected throughout your trip.
How do you get a SIM card after landing at the airport?
After passing customs at Tribhuvan International Airport, head directly to the official telecom counters in the arrival terminal. Both Ncell and Nepal Telecom (NTC) operate dedicated booths right beside the exit area for quick set up on arrival.
Nepal offers fast urban data speeds and hassle free tourist bundles which are ideal for Kathmandu, Pokhara and most of our river trips. Nepal Telecom (NTC) provides wider coverage in remote trekking routes such as Everest and Annapurna base camps.
You will need your passport, a copy of your passport photo page, your valid Nepal visa and one physical passport size photo. Most airport counters can quickly copy documents, however bringing extras saves time.
A tourist SIM card costs roughly NPR 100 to NPR 500 ($1 to $4 USD) depending on the pre loaded data. Payment is usually required in local currency cash (NPR) . There are a couple of money exchange counters next door.
Tourist packages range from 7 day to 30 day options with data limits between 5GB to 5GB plus local calling credits. Staff at the counters will instantly register the SIM to your name, insert it into your phone and activate before you leave.
If your phone supports eSIM you can purchase an International data eSIM package online before arriving via providers such as Nomad or Airalo. Alternatively ask the Ncell booth at the airport for a local eSIM QR code to skip a physical SIM entirely.
Always test your mobile data, make a test call and verify SMS activation before walking away from the counter and leaving the airport. Any problems or the counter at the airport is closed there are both Ncell and Nepal Telecom (NTC) shops in Kathmandu, Thamel and Pokhara.
Nearly all Hotels, cafes, restaurants and bars have free WIFI.
If you have any questions before your trip then get in touch with us:
