When planning a trekking adventure in Nepal, staying connected is more than a convenience, it’s a safety tool. From navigation and weather updates to contacting guides and family, a reliable Nepali SIM card makes trekking smoother.
This informative blog explains Nepal’s SIM card history, market, major providers, and buying process. Similarly, activation, eSIM options, and which SIM card is best for trekking in Nepal.
Nepal’s communication system has grown rapidly over the past few decades. From limited landlines in the 1990s, Nepal now has nationwide mobile coverage in cities. And expanding connectivity in trekking regions. Mobile communication plays a key role in tourism, especially for trekkers and mountaineers.
The SIM card market in Nepal is competitive and well-regulated by the Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA). Mobile internet (3G and 4G/LTE) is widely used, and SIM cards are affordable for travelers. There are two major SIM card providers in Nepal that dominate the market: NTC Nepal Telecom and Ncell.
1. NTC Nepal Telecom
NTC Nepal Telecom is the oldest and government-owned telecom provider in Nepal. It was established in 2004 after transforming from the former Telecommunications Department. It has the widest network coverage in the country, including many remote and rural trekking areas.
NTC is highly trusted by locals due to its reliability and stable service. SIM cards are easily available at official telecom offices and authorized outlets. For trekkers, NTC is known for better signal reach in mountainous regions. Though mobile data speeds may be slower compared to private providers. Overall, it is ideal for coverage-focused users.
2. Ncell SIM
Ncell is a private telecom company launched in 2005 and is popular for its fast mobile data services and user-friendly packages. It holds a strong urban market share and is widely used by tourists due to easy availability and quick activation.
Further, Ncell provides reliable 4G/LTE internet in cities and popular trekking routes. While its coverage in very remote areas is slightly less than NTC, its data speed and flexible tourist packs make it attractive. Ncell is considered modern, efficient, and convenient, especially for internet-heavy users.
You can buy a Nepal SIM card at Tribhuvan International Airport, official telecom offices, and authorized stores. Likewise, licensed mobile shops across cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. SIM cards are affordable, and activation is usually quick with valid documents.
1. Tribhuvan International Airport
Buying a SIM card at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu is the easiest option for travelers. Arrival halls have official counters for both NTC and Ncell. Staff assist with choosing packages, filling forms, and activating the SIM on the spot. Tourist data packages are commonly offered, saving time and effort.
While prices may be slightly higher than city stores, the convenience of immediate connectivity is a major advantage. Especially after a long flight or before traveling to trekking regions.
2. Legal Mobile Stores
Licensed mobile stores across Kathmandu, Pokhara, and major towns sell Nepal SIM cards. These shops are regulated and provide genuine SIM cards with proper documentation. They often help with activation and package selection.
3. Authorized Stores
Authorized NTC and Ncell stores are the most reliable places to buy SIM cards. They ensure correct registration and official pricing. Further, they provide customer support if issues arise during activation or usage.
To buy a SIM card in Nepal, travelers need a valid passport, a passport-size photo, and a copy of their Nepal visa. These documents are mandatory for SIM registration under Nepalese law.
Passport Copy
A passport copy is required to verify your identity as a foreign traveler. It ensures legal registration of the SIM card under Nepal Telecom regulations. The passport must be valid, clear, and match the details you provide on the SIM application form. Shops usually take a photocopy or scan, and some airport counters handle this for you.
Passport Size Photo
A recent passport-size photo is required for SIM card registration in Nepal. This photo is attached to the application form and stored in the telecom provider’s system. It helps confirm identity and prevents misuse. Bringing extra photos is recommended, especially if you plan to buy SIM cards outside the airport.
Nepal Visa Copy
A copy of your Nepal visa confirms your legal entry and stay in the country. Telecom providers require this to comply with government regulations. Tourist visas, whether on arrival or pre-issued, are accepted. Make sure the visa copy is clear and readable to avoid delays during SIM activation.
Buying and activating a Nepal SIM card is straightforward. With valid documents, you can purchase, register, and activate a SIM within minutes. Activation may be instant or take a few hours, depending on the provider and location.
Nepali Sim Buy Process
To buy a SIM card in Nepal, you need to visit an official service center of providers like NTC or Ncell with a valid citizenship card or passport. The process is simple and usually takes only a few minutes. It is always a good idea to visit an official store because the staff can help you choose the right SIM and plan.
You can also test the network service there to check signal strength and internet speed in your area before buying. This helps you avoid future problems and ensures better service from the start.
Choose a Provider
Decide between NTC and Ncell based on coverage and data needs, especially for trekking routes.
Visit an Official Store
Visit an official store by going to an airport counter, an authorized service center, or a licensed mobile shop. These places are safe and reliable, and the staff can guide you properly during the SIM buying process.
Fill the Application Form
Fill out the application form with your basic personal details. You may need to provide passport information and a local contact number.
Submit Documents
Submit a copy of your passport and visa. A passport-size photo is also required for verification.
Select a Data Package
Choose a data package based on your stay and usage. Options include tourist packs, daily data, or monthly plans.
Receive SIM Card
After approval, you will receive your SIM card. Insert it into your phone and wait for activation confirmation.
Nepal currently has limited official eSIM options from local providers. However, some international travel eSIM services offer data coverage in Nepal.
You can apply online by choosing Nepal as a destination, scanning a QR code, and activating it on a compatible phone. While convenient, eSIMs are generally more expensive and may have limited coverage in remote trekking areas compared to local SIM cards.
Nepal SIM cards are inexpensive. A SIM usually costs a small registration fee, while tourist data packages range from budget-friendly daily plans to monthly options.
Compared to international roaming, local SIM cards offer significantly lower costs. Not just that, but better value, especially for trekkers staying longer.
Nepali SIM cards offer different types of data plans for various needs. These include daily data packs, weekly plans, and monthly internet packages for regular use.
Daily Data Packs
Daily data packs are ideal for short-term travelers and trekkers who need internet access for a limited time. These packs usually provide a fixed amount of data valid for 24 hours. They are affordable and flexible, allowing users to recharge only when needed. Daily packs are useful for checking maps, weather updates, and messaging. Likewise, emergency communication during treks without committing to long-term plans.
Weekly Tourist Packages
Weekly tourist packages are designed specifically for visitors staying in Nepal for a short period. These packages typically include generous data allowances, some local call minutes, and SMS services valid for 7 days. They offer good value compared to daily packs and are popular among trekkers and city travelers. Weekly packages provide continuous connectivity throughout the trek or trip without frequent recharges.
Monthly Data Plans
Monthly data plans are best suited for long-term trekkers, digital nomads, or travelers staying in Nepal for several weeks. These plans offer larger data volumes at a lower per-GB cost and often include voice call benefits. Monthly plans ensure uninterrupted internet access for navigation, communication, and online services. They are economical and convenient, especially for extended trekking routes and longer stays in Nepal.
Unlimited Night Data
Unlimited night data plans allow users to access the internet freely during specific nighttime hours. Usually from late evening to early morning. These packs are popular among budget-conscious users.
Mostly those who download maps, videos, or updates overnight. While speed may be slightly reduced, night data is cost-effective. And hence, useful for trekkers staying in teahouses where daytime data is limited or expensive.
Combo Voice and Data Offers
Combo voice and data offers combine mobile internet, local call minutes, and SMS in a single package. These plans are convenient for travelers who need both communication and internet services.
They eliminate the need for separate recharges and provide balanced usage for calling guides. Similarly, hotels and emergency contacts while using data for maps and messaging. Combo packs are practical and budget-friendly for trekking in Nepal.
Checking your mobile number, data usage, and balance in Nepal is simple and works even during trekking if you have network access.
For NTC Nepal Telecom, dial *9# to view your mobile number and main balance. To check remaining data, dial *1415# or use the Nepal Telecom mobile app.
For Ncell, dial *903# to see your mobile number and balance. To check data balance, dial *901# or use the Ncell App.
These USSD codes are free, quick, and work on basic phones without internet access.
Yes, international SIM cards work in Nepal through roaming, but they are costly and unreliable in remote areas. Roaming charges are high, data speeds are slower, and coverage is limited during treks.
For long stays or trekking, international SIMs are not practical. A local Nepali SIM card provides better connectivity, affordability, and safety.
Yes, SIM cards are extremely helpful for trekking in Nepal. They allow access to GPS maps. Further, they provide weather forecasts, emergency contacts, and communication with guides and family.
In popular treks like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit, mobile coverage is available in many villages. While not guaranteed everywhere, having a SIM card increases safety and convenience significantly.
For trekking in Nepal, NTC Nepal Telecom is generally the better choice due to wider coverage in remote mountainous areas. It performs better on treks like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley.
However, if your trek stays within popular and well-developed routes and you prioritize faster internet, Ncell is also a good option. Many trekkers even carry both SIM cards for backup. Overall, NTC is recommended for reliability, while Ncell suits urban use and internet-heavy travelers.
Carrying a Nepali SIM card enhances safety, navigation, and communication during treks. Expect reliable service in popular trekking regions. But limited connectivity in high-altitude remote sections.
SIM cards are most useful on treks like Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, Langtang Valley, and Ghorepani Poon Hill.
For remote treks like Upper Dolpo or Kanchenjunga, consider satellite communication as a backup.
1. Do I need to unlock my phone before buying a Nepali SIM card?
Yes, your phone must be unlocked to use a Nepali SIM card. Most international smartphones are already unlocked. But it’s best to check with your mobile provider before traveling to Nepal to avoid connectivity issues.
2. How long does it take to activate a SIM card in Nepal?
SIM activation is usually quick and often completed within a few minutes to a few hours. SIMs purchased at the airport or official stores are commonly activated on the spot after document verification.
3. Is 4G internet available in trekking areas of Nepal?
4G internet is available in cities and many popular trekking regions such as Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna areas. However, in higher altitudes and remote sections, connectivity may drop to 3G or be unavailable.
4. Which SIM card works better in remote trekking regions?
NTC Nepal Telecom generally works better in remote and high-altitude trekking regions due to its wider network coverage. It is often recommended for treks like Everest Base Camp, Langtang, and Annapurna Circuit.
5. Can I use one SIM card for calls, data, and SMS?
Yes, both NTC and Ncell SIM cards support calls, mobile data, and SMS services. You can choose combo packages that include all services for convenience and better value.
6. Do Nepali SIM cards work at high altitude?
Nepali SIM cards can work at high altitude in many trekking villages, but service depends on terrain and weather. Coverage is generally available in major stops but may be limited between settlements.
7. Is Wi-Fi a good alternative to SIM cards while trekking?
Wi-Fi is available in some teahouses along popular trekking routes, but it is often paid, slow, and unreliable. A local SIM card provides more consistent and flexible connectivity during treks.
8. Can I buy more data after my initial package runs out?
Yes, you can easily recharge or buy additional data packs using mobile apps, recharge cards, or local shops across Nepal. This makes managing your usage during treks simple and flexible.
