Handy Information

Timezone

Kathmandu Nepal is in GMT/UTC 26th, 27th and 28th July 2026. Unlike most countries, Nepal, with its UTC offset of +5:45, has a 45-minute offset instead of the usual full-hour offset: Clocks in Nepal are 5 hours and 45 minutes ahead of UTC.

Weather assumed.

•       Weather Advisory – Kathmandu (July 26–28)
•       Delegates traveling to Kathmandu from July 26–28 should expect typical monsoon weather, with:
•       Daytime temperatures: 26–27°C (79–81°F)
•       Nighttime temperatures: Around 20°C (68°F)
•       Rain: Approximately 60% chance of passing showers or thunderstorms each day

What to Pack

•       Compact umbrella or lightweight rain jacket
•       Comfortable, water-resistant footwear
•       Light, breathable clothing for outdoor activities

Indoor Venues
Many conference and meeting venues are heavily air-conditioned, with indoor temperatures often as low as 18°C and relatively dry.

Recommended: Bring a light sweater, cardigan, or jacket to stay comfortable indoors.

Drinking Water

Delegates are recommended to only drink the bottled water provided. Drinking outside unsealed water are unsafe.

Currency

Currency exchange services are widely available throughout Kathmandu, including at Tribhuvan International Airport, banks, licensed money changers, and major hotels.

The most commonly accepted foreign currencies for exchange are:

•       US Dollar (USD)
•       Indian Rupee (INR)

These currencies can be easily exchanged for Nepalese Rupee (NPR).

Tips for Delegates:

•       Carry some cash in NPR for taxis, small shops, and local markets. Major hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers also preferred NPR cash.
•       Keep your exchange receipt if you plan to convert unused NPR back to your original currency before departure.

Power Plugs

•       Marriott hotels typically provide either standard local outlets or multi-region universal power sockets. Most modern rooms also feature USB charging ports conveniently placed near the bed or desk. While many international properties loan adapters at the front desk, packing your own.
•       Hotels also provides ports for UK charger however plugs in Nepal are Plug type C those plug which has two round pins. We do not have hair dryer in rooms permanently but they do provide hair dryer on request.
•       Delegates from countries only using 110V are recommended to check that their appliance supports 230V before connecting them to the local power supply.

Getting Around

Transportation in Kathmandu

•       Getting around Kathmandu is easy with a variety of transportation options to suit different budgets and preferences.
•       Ride-Sharing Apps (Recommended)
•       Apps such as Pathao and inDrive are the preferred choice for both locals and visitors. They offer transparent pricing, cashless payment options (where available), and eliminate the need to negotiate fares. You can choose between:
•       Motorbike rides – Fastest option during heavy traffic
•       Cars – Comfortable for groups or luggage
•       Kathmandu’s taxis are readily available throughout the city.
•       Agree on the fare before starting your trip, or request the driver to use the meter.
•       Many drivers may decline using the meter or request a higher fare.
•       Short trips within the city generally cost a few hundred Nepalese Rupees (NPR).
•       Sajha buses are government-operated green buses that serve major roads and popular routes.
•       Comfortable and reliable
•       Stop only at designated bus stops
•       Very affordable (typically NPR 20–50 per ride)
•       Local Buses & Minibuses

The most economical way to travel around Kathmandu. Routes are mainly displayed in Nepali, which may be challenging for first-time visitors. “Ratna Park”, “Jamal” is the main transportation hub and is within walking distance of Marriot Hotel.

Tempos

Tempos are three-wheeled electric or gas-powered shared vehicles operating on fixed routes.

Budget-friendly

Popular for short city trips

Helpful Travel Tips

•       Avoid peak traffic hours (morning and evening rush hours), as congestion can significantly increase travel time.
•       Walking is convenient for exploring areas such as Thamel and Durbar Square, but be cautious of uneven sidewalks, busy roads, and ongoing construction.
•       For the most convenient experience, using Pathao or inDrive is recommended for daily travel around Kathmandu.
•       Keep small denominations of Nepalese Rupees (NPR) for taxis and public transportation, as digital payments are not always available.

Connectivity & SIM Cards

Local SIM cards are affordable and easy to purchase. Major providers include:

•       ⁠Airport arrival halls
•       ⁠Mobile phone, shops in malls

⁠ Top Connectivity Providers & Packages

•       Ncell: Provides the best 4G LTE speeds and coverage in urban hubs like Kathmandu,
•       Namaste (NTC): Operated by the government, it offers the most reliable coverage for rural areas and trekking routes.

Where and How to Buy

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA): The easiest place to get connected. Official Ncell and NTC booths are located right outside the baggage claim in the Arrivals Hall and are open for incoming international flights.

Free Wi-Fi is available at:

•       Conference venue
•       ⁠Most hotels
•       Cafes and shopping malls