Nepal travel
Nepal SIM Cards and Mobile Data for Travellers
Ncell or Nepal Telecom? Where to buy a SIM at Kathmandu airport, what documents you need, coverage on trekking routes, eSIM options and staying connected.
By Shiva GiriPublished 4 min readFacts checked
A local SIM makes Nepal much easier: maps, ride-hailing apps, WhatsApp with your hosts and guide, and translation. Here is what to know, as checked in October 2026.
The two main networks
- Ncell — widely used in cities, generally strong in urban areas.
- Nepal Telecom (NTC, also branded Namaste) — the state operator, commonly preferred by trekkers for coverage in the hills and on routes such as Everest and Annapurna.
Many trekkers carry one of each, or a dual-SIM phone, for the best chance of signal.
Where to buy
Both operators have counters at Tribhuvan International Airport after customs, and shops in Thamel and other tourist areas. Promotions change — some counters offer tourist SIMs free or cheaply with a data pack.
What you need
- Your original passport (the counter copies your photo and visa pages).
- A passport-size photo — some counters take one on the spot.
- An unlocked phone.
eSIM
If your phone supports eSIM, you can buy a travel eSIM before you fly or ask the operators about local eSIM options — no shop visit needed.
Staying connected on treks
Signal is patchy in the mountains. Many teahouses sell Wi-Fi, and some areas have local Wi-Fi card networks. Download offline maps and tell family your itinerary before you go.
Frequently asked questions
Which SIM is best for trekking in Nepal?
Nepal Telecom (NTC) is commonly preferred for coverage on trekking routes, while Ncell is strong in cities. Many trekkers carry both.
Can I buy a SIM card at Kathmandu airport?
Yes — Ncell and Nepal Telecom both have counters in the arrivals area. Bring your passport.
Sources
Fees and regulations change. These are the references we checked on 18 October 2026 — confirm current details with the official source before you travel.
