Communication and Internet

Staying connected while traveling is more than just a convenience—it’s often a necessity. Whether navigating through Kathmandu’s bustling streets, coordinating logistics for a trek in the Himalayas, or simply keeping in touch with loved ones, a reliable communication network will make your Nepal travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.

While major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara boast strong mobile networks and widely available WiFi, connectivity becomes unreliable as you venture into rural areas and trekking regions. Many remote villages and high-altitude trails have limited or no network coverage, leaving travelers with few options beyond satellite internet or expensive WiFi services provided by teahouses.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best SIM card providers, the quality of WiFi across different regions, and what to expect in terms of connectivity while trekking in Nepal. Whether you're a digital nomad, an adventurer documenting your journey, or simply someone who wants to stay in touch, this blog will help you navigate Nepal’s communication landscape with ease.

Key Takeaways

• Staying connected in Nepal is essential for navigation, coordination, and communication.
• NTC and Ncell offer good coverage in cities and trekking regions, but the signal weakens in remote areas.
• In remote regions, satellite phones, radios, and GPS devices are key for safety.
• Wi-Fi at teahouses is slow and costly, making local SIM cards or portable Wi-Fi devices more practical.
• Everest Link and Air Link offer Wi-Fi in trekking areas, with Everest Link providing wider coverage and Air Link being a budget-friendly option.

Major SIM Card Providers in Nepal and Network Coverage in Major Trekking Regions

Nepal has a few major SIM card providers offering extensive coverage and affordable data plans, making it easy for travelers to stay online in most parts of the country. 

Here's an overview to help you make an informed choice.​

Nepal Telecom (NTC)

Coverage:

NTC has the widest network coverage across Nepal, including both urban and remote areas. It is particularly known for providing strong coverage in high-altitude trekking regions such as the Everest and Annapurna regions, which other providers may not reach. NTC’s coverage extends well beyond major cities, with strong signals up to Lukla (2,860m) and Namche Bazaar (3,440m). The network continues to perform reliably up to Gorak Shep and the Everest Base Camp (5,364m), although the signal weakens significantly beyond that point.

Services Offered:

• 4G Coverage in major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and certain trekking routes like Everest and Annapurna.
• Although internet speeds may slow down, 3G and 2G Networks are in rural and high-altitude trekking regions.
• Offers affordable call and data packs with various pricing options tailored for local use.
• Roaming services for international travelers, though be mindful of roaming charges.

Ncell

Coverage:

Ncell offers faster internet speeds and better service in cities and lower-altitude trekking regions. In cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara, Ncell provides excellent 4G connectivity. However, in higher altitude regions like Namche Bazaar and beyond, the coverage becomes less reliable. While Ncell may work in areas such as Lukla, its signal strength starts to decline at higher altitudes like Dingboche and Gorak Shep, making it less ideal for extreme trekking routes.

Services Offered:

• 4G and 3G coverage in major cities and popular trekking regions.
• Competitive pricing for tourist SIM packages, which often include preloaded data and call minutes for convenience.
• Roaming services for international tourists, but be cautious of roaming charges.
• Internet packages for both data and call services, including special plans for long-term travelers.
• Teahouses in areas like Annapurna and Langtang may offer WiFi, but it is typically paid for and connected through Everest Link or local providers.

Ncell provides a range of data packs for tourists and trekkers, offering flexible options based on your needs and duration of stay. You can choose from daily to monthly packs, depending on your convenience and budget.

Smart Cell

Coverage:

Smart Cell has limited network coverage, mostly offering its services in urban areas like Kathmandu and Pokhara. The benefit of having a Small Cell SIM card is that internet data packs may be comparatively cheaper if you’re in a city with reliable network coverage. 

However, coverage in rural or high-altitude regions is minimal, and we don’t recommend Smart Cell for trekkers heading into remote areas or high-altitude regions. Beyond cities, Smart Cell will likely have no service or a very weak signal in many trekking regions.

Services Offered:

• Affordable call and data packages for short-term travelers, especially those staying in cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara.
• Roaming services for international users, though the quality and price of roaming can vary.
• Very limited WiFi services are available in remote regions, making it unreliable for trekkers in more isolated trekking areas like Manaslu or Dolpo.

These data packs offer a variety of options for trekkers, depending on their duration of stay and need for data coverage. You can select the most suitable pack based on your budget and travel requirements.

Summary of SIM Provider Network Coverage and Services

WiFi Availability and Vendors

Staying connected while traveling in Nepal is easier than ever, especially in major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. Most hotels, cafés, and restaurants in these areas provide WiFi, though the quality and speed can vary depending on the service provider and location.

Free vs. Paid WiFi Services

Many accommodations and eateries in Nepal offer free WiFi, but it often comes with limitations—slow speeds, restricted usage, or frequent downtime. In contrast, paid WiFi services provide more stable and faster connections, making them a better choice for those who need consistent internet access.

WiFi Speed and Quality Across Different Locations

In Kathmandu and Pokhara, internet speeds are generally decent, with an average range of 20–100 Mbps, depending on the provider and package. However, speeds can drop significantly in trekking regions like Everest, Annapurna, and Langtang. Although WiFi is available at teahouses and lodges, it often comes at a cost—usually USD 3–5 per hour—and the connection can be slow due to satellite-based networks. The further you trek into remote areas, the weaker and more expensive the WiFi service becomes.

Portable WiFi Devices and Rental Options

For trekkers and travelers who require constant connectivity, renting a portable WiFi device can be a convenient solution. Companies in Kathmandu and Pokhara offer these devices for rent, allowing tourists to access the internet on the go without relying on public WiFi. Prices vary depending on data limits and rental duration, but they typically range from USD 5–10 per day. While portable WiFi is an excellent option in urban areas, it may not work well in remote trekking regions where mobile network coverage is weak.

Choosing the Best WiFi Option for Your Needs

If you’re spending most of your time in cities, free or paid WiFi at hotels and cafés should be sufficient for regular use. For those venturing into trekking regions, purchasing WiFi access at teahouses or using local SIM cards with data plans (such as NTC or Ncell) may be a more cost-effective and practical alternative. And if uninterrupted internet access is essential, renting a portable WiFi device can be a worthwhile investment. Planning ahead based on your itinerary will help ensure a smooth online experience while exploring Nepal.

Everest Link Card

Everest Link is the leading internet provider in Nepal’s trekking regions, especially known for its strong coverage in the Everest region, Manaslu, Langtang, and Upper Mustang. It was one of the first to bring reliable Wi-Fi to remote trails, allowing trekkers to stay connected even at high altitudes.

With hotspots in major trekking hubs like Namche Bazaar, Dingboche, Lobuche, and Everest Base Camp, it’s the preferred choice for those exploring the Khumbu region. Prepaid Wi-Fi cards are available at various lodges and shops, making connectivity seamless throughout the trek.

Air Link Card

Air Link, on the other hand, is an emerging competitor, steadily expanding its network across Annapurna, Langtang, and select parts of Everest. While not as widespread as Everest Link, it offers a budget-friendly and reliable alternative in the areas it covers. Trekkers can purchase prepaid Wi-Fi cards from lodges along the trail, ensuring they can check in with loved ones, share their journey, and access essential online resources even in Nepal’s remote mountains.

Everest Link vs Air Link

Steps to Connect to Wi-Fi via Everest Link and Air Link

Step 1: Turn on your Wi-Fi-enabled device.

Step 2: Search for available networks in your area.

Step 3: Select either "Everest Link Wi-Fi" or "Air Link Wi-Fi" from the list of available networks.

Step 4: Open your web browser, which will automatically redirect you to the Wi-Fi login page.

Step 5: Enter the username and password provided with your prepaid Wi-Fi card.

Step 6: Click "Connect/Login" to start browsing and stay connected on your trek.

Alternative Communication Methods During Network Interruptions

Reliable communication is crucial when trekking in remote regions where mobile networks are often unreliable or nonexistent. In case of network interruptions, trekkers have several alternative communication methods to ensure safety and connectivity.

Satellite Phones: Reliable but Regulated

Satellite phones are one of the most dependable options for communication in areas without mobile coverage. These phones work via satellite signals, making them effective in remote mountain regions like Everest, Manaslu, and Dolpo.

Some trekking agencies and gear rental shops in Kathmandu offer satellite phone rentals, typically costing around USD 10–20 per day, with additional charges per minute of use.

However, Nepal has strict regulations on satellite phone usage, so trekkers must inform local authorities and follow legal guidelines. Your trekking agency can assist with the necessary permissions.

Radio Communication: Used by Trekking Operators

Many trekking guides and local lodges rely on two-way radios to communicate along the trekking routes. While not available for public use, these radios allow guides to stay in touch with other teams, lodges, and emergency response units. This system is particularly helpful in extreme weather conditions or emergencies where instant communication is necessary.

Emergency Beacons & GPS Devices

For solo trekkers or those going off the beaten path, personal locator beacons (PLBs) and GPS communication devices like the Garmin inReach are excellent safety tools. These devices allow trekkers to send SOS alerts and pre-set messages to emergency contacts. Unlike satellite phones, they are easier to use and do not require constant communication, but ensure help can be summoned when needed.

Pre-arranged checkpoints & Local Assistance

Trekking in remote areas often means relying on pre-established communication strategies. Some travel agencies set up designated checkpoints where trekkers must report their location and condition. Local villagers and yak herders also serve as valuable sources of communication, as they frequently travel between villages and can pass along messages when needed.