SIM Cards & Internet in Nepal
Staying connected in Nepal is affordable and easy in cities, though coverage gets patchy in remote trekking areas. Here is everything you need to know about getting a SIM card and staying online.
NTC vs Ncell
Nepal has two major mobile operators: Nepal Telecom (NTC) and Ncell. NTC has slightly better coverage in remote and mountainous areas, making it the preferred choice for trekkers. Ncell often offers faster data speeds in cities and has competitive data plans. Many experienced travelers carry SIM cards from both providers. Tourist SIM cards are available at the airport and in major towns.
Getting a SIM Card
You can purchase a tourist SIM at Kathmandu airport arrivals (NTC and Ncell counters) or at authorized shops in Thamel and Pokhara Lakeside. You will need your passport and a passport-size photo. The SIM itself costs NPR 100-200. Activation usually takes a few minutes. Top-up recharge cards are sold at every small shop across the country.
Data Packages
Data is inexpensive: 10-30 GB packages typically cost NPR 500-1500 ($4-12 USD) valid for 28-30 days. NTC offers packages like 15 GB for NPR 700 and 33 GB for NPR 1,200. Ncell offers similar plans. Purchase packages by dialing the USSD code provided with your SIM or through the operator apps.
WiFi Availability
Free WiFi is available in most hotels, guesthouses, and cafes in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other tourist areas. Quality varies — budget places may have slow connections. On popular trekking routes (Annapurna, Everest), many teahouses offer WiFi for NPR 200-500 per session or per day. WiFi becomes unreliable or unavailable above 4,000m and on less-traveled routes.
Connectivity Tips
- •Buy your SIM at the airport to avoid searching in the city.
- •NTC is better for trekking; Ncell is faster for city use.
- •Download offline maps (Google Maps, Maps.me) before heading to remote areas.
- •Carry a portable charger — electricity is unreliable on trekking routes.
- •Some teahouses charge per device for WiFi; share a hotspot to save money.
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