Best SIM card for trekking in Nepal

Nepal is a trekker’s paradise, from low-altitude treks like Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek to the high-altitude adventures, Everest Base Camp Trek. 

Most of the major treks are connected with cell networks and internet connections. This allows you to enjoy nature without disconnecting from your family, friends, and from online work. 

While the trails are breathtaking, staying connected can be challenging.  Making the choice of a reliable SIM card is crucial to stay connected. Nepal Telicom and Ncell are two major cell phone network provider companies in Nepal. Here’s a detailed look at the best SIM card for trekking in Nepal.

Since Nepal Telecom has connections to most of the major treks in Nepal with 3g connectivity, NTC simcards (Nepal Telecom) are recommended. Nepal Telecom (NTC/Namaste) is generally the best for trekking as it is the most reliable choice for remote mountain coverage. On the other hand, if you’re planning to do a low-altitude trek or visit just cities in Nepal, Ncell is superior for data speeds. So in summary, Nepal Telecom is recommended for trekking in Nepal. 

1. NTC (Nepal Telecom)

Nepal Telecom, the government-owned provider, has the widest coverage across the country. From low-altitude to high-altitude trekking and remote regions, NTC is the most dependable choice. The NTC SIM card is also known as Namaste SIM card.

Pros of NTC Sim card

• Best for trekking in Nepal due to extensive coverage
• Affordable data and voice packages

Cons of NTC Sim card

• Available only in especial place
• Slightly slower data speeds compared to Ncell

2. Ncell Sim Card

Ncell is known for its fast 4G network in cities. This SIM card is widely available in most places in Nepal at a cheaper price than the Nepal Telecom sim card. 

Pros of Ncell Sim Card

• Fast for internet
• Easy SIM purchase and activation

Cons of Ncell Sim Card

• No coverage in high-altitude regions
  

What documents are needed to buy SIM card in Nepal for the foreigners ?

Depends on the SIM card provider, documentation can vary. The following are essential documents to buy a SIM card in Nepal: 

• Passport copies
• Visa copies 
• Passport Size Photo (can be taken directly from the SIM card seller with their cell phone)

Tips for Trekkers

• Always prepare with offline maps downloaded, as the network can be intermittent.
• Carry a NTC SIM for the trek.
• Ncell SIM as a backup for faster data in towns (optional ).
• Buy your SIM either in Kathmandu or Pokhara.

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Final Thoughts: Which SIM card is best for trekking in Nepal?

Due to network availability, most of the places on the well-trekking route in Nepal, a Nepal Telecom SIM card (NTC simcard) is recommended. These days, it’s not widely available. To buy this simcard, either you need to visit the Nepal Telecom office, or you will also find some electronic shops around Thamel, Kathmandu. 

Ncell can be a good secondary option for better data speeds if you are planning for a low-altitude trek (below 33,000 meters) or while you’re staying in the city.  

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