How to Buy a SIM Card in Nepal for Tourists

Staying connected while traveling in Nepal is not a luxury—it’s a travel essential. 📱

From finding hotels and using Google Maps to calling drivers, guides, or emergency services, a local SIM card in Nepal makes your trip safer, smoother, and stress-free.

This guide explains why tourists should buy a SIM card in Nepal, where to get it, what documents you need, and how to activate and use it—all in a simple, step-by-step format.

Can Tourists Buy a SIM Card in Nepal?

Yes! Tourists can easily buy a SIM card in Nepal using their passport.

SIM cards are widely available, and registration is straightforward. You do not need a local address or Nepali ID.

Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in Nepal?

You have two main options, but buying after arrival is best for most tourists.

1. Buy a SIM Card at Kathmandu Airport (Best Option): The easiest and safest place to buy a SIM card is Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)—Nepal’s only international airport.

• Official telecom counters
• Tourist-friendly process
• No risk of fake SIM cards
• Immediate connectivity after landing

This is the recommended option for first-time visitors.

2. Buy a SIM Card from Official Stores in Cities: You can also buy SIM cards from:

• Official telecom provider stores
• Authorized retailers
• Mobile shops in areas like Thamel, Pokhara, Chitwan

This option works well if you skipped buying one at the airport.

Mobile Network Providers in Nepal (Tourist Overview)

Nepal has a few telecom operators, but tourists mainly use:

• Nepal Telecom (NTC) – Government-owned, wide coverage
• Ncell – Private operator, good data speed
• Smart Cell – Limited coverage (not ideal for most tourists)

You don’t need to deeply compare them — both NTC and Ncell work well for tourists depending on travel routes.

What Documents Do You Need to Buy a SIM Card in Nepal?

To register a SIM card, you’ll need:

• ✅ Passport (original + copy)
• ✅ Passport-sized photo (1–2 copies)
• ✅ Visa or entry stamp said immigration asked for boarding passes, so keep them handy.

SIM Card Registration Process (Step-by-Step)

📌 Step 1: Visit an Official Store or Airport Counter

Airport counters are the easiest option for tourists.

📌 Step 2: Submit Documents

Passport + photo + visa stamp.

📌 Step 3: Fill the Registration Form

Basic personal and contact details.

📌 Step 4: Receive & Activate SIM

Activation may be instant or take a few hours.

📌 Step 5: Test the SIM

Try calling or using mobile data.

Why a SIM Card Is Important for Tourists in Nepal

Nepal is an incredible country, but it’s very different from fully digital destinations. Having a local SIM card helps you:

• Use Google Maps in cities and highways
• Contact hotels, trekking agencies, and drivers
• Book taxis and local transport
• Access online payments, OTPs, and travel apps
• Stay connected during treks and road trips
• Avoid expensive international roaming charges

While Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafés, it is often slow, unreliable, or unavailable outside cities.

Most tourists prefer local SIM cards because they are cheaper and more reliable than international roaming.

👉 A local SIM card ensures constant connectivity, even when Wi-Fi fails.

Final Thoughts

Buying a SIM card in Nepal is simple, affordable, and highly recommended for tourists. It keeps you connected, helps with navigation, and adds an extra layer of safety during your journey.

Whether you buy it at the airport or in the city, a local SIM ensures you’re never disconnected while exploring Nepal.

Also, check our complete guide on how to transfer balance from NTC to NTC with step-by-step instructions.