Why Russian Trekkers Are Choosing Nepal — and Booking Direct
Nepal is quickly becoming one of the top adventure destinations for Russian travellers. With European mountain destinations increasingly difficult to access, Russian trekkers are discovering what the rest of the world has known for decades: the Himalayas offer the most spectacular mountain trekking on earth, and Nepal welcomes you with open arms.
Russian adventure travel agencies charge ₽300,000–₽600,000 for an Everest Base Camp trek. But those agencies subcontract to Nepali companies like us. You're paying a Moscow or St Petersburg middleman. Book directly with The Everest Holiday and you'll pay 40–60% less for the same trails, the same teahouses, and better guides — because we are the source.
Price Comparison: Russian Agency vs Booking Direct
| Trek | Russian Agency (₽) | The Everest Holiday (₽) | You Save |
|---|---|---|---|
| Everest Base Camp 12 Days | ₽300,000–₽550,000 | ₽61,750–₽170,905 | ₽200,000–₽380,000 |
| Annapurna Base Camp 10 Days | ₽200,000–₽400,000 | ₽42,750–₽118,750 | ₽150,000–₽280,000 |
| Poon Hill 5 Days | ₽100,000–₽200,000 | ₽20,425–₽54,625 | ₽80,000–₽145,000 |
| Langtang Valley 8 Days | ₽180,000–₽350,000 | ₽36,100–₽99,750 | ₽140,000–₽250,000 |
| Manaslu Circuit 12 Days | ₽350,000–₽600,000 | ₽61,750–₽189,905 | ₽280,000–₽410,000 |
| Mardi Himal 6 Days | ₽120,000–₽250,000 | ₽24,700–₽66,405 | ₽95,000–₽184,000 |
All our prices include permits, licensed guide, porter, accommodation, meals (Standard and Luxury tiers), and ground transport from Kathmandu. We offer three tiers — Budget, Standard, and Luxury, so you choose how you want to trek.
The Everest Holiday Advantage for Russian Trekkers
- 40–60% cheaper than Russian agencies — Same mountains, same lodges, same guides. No middleman markup.
- Payment that works for Russian bank cards — Our Himalayan Bank Limited payment gateway processes international cards, including those issued by Russian banks. This is a genuine advantage when many Western-only payment systems don't work with Russian cards.
- Visa on arrival — no advance paperwork. Russian passport holders get a visa at Kathmandu airport. No embassy visit, no forms to fill in advance.
- English-speaking guides: All our guides are fluent in English. While Russian-language guides are rare in Nepal, English communication works well on the trail.
- Private treks, your dates: You don't join a group. Choose your dates, set your pace, trek with your own dedicated guide.
- 10% deposit to book: Reserve your place with just 10% down. Balance due 60 days before departure.
Getting to Kathmandu from Russia
Flights from Russian Cities
| From | Common Routes | Travel Time | Approx. Cost (₽ Return) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moscow (SVO/DME) | Via Dubai (Emirates/flydubai), Delhi (Air India/IndiGo), Istanbul (Turkish Airlines) | 12–18 hrs | ₽50,000–₽120,000 |
| St Petersburg (LED) | Via Istanbul (Turkish Airlines), Dubai (Emirates) | 14–20 hrs | ₽55,000–₽130,000 |
| Novosibirsk (OVB) | Via Delhi (connecting), Dubai (connecting) | 16–22 hrs | ₽60,000–₽140,000 |
| Yekaterinburg (SVX) | Via Dubai (flydubai), Delhi (connecting) | 14–20 hrs | ₽55,000–₽130,000 |
Pro tip: There are no direct flights from Russia to Kathmandu. The most reliable routes are via Dubai (Emirates or flydubai) and via Delhi (with a connecting flight to Kathmandu). Turkish Airlines via Istanbul is another good option. Book 2–3 months ahead for the best prices. Flights via Delhi tend to be cheapest.
Visa for Russian Passport Holders
Russian citizens get a visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. No advance application, no embassy visit required. Bring a passport-size photo and cash in USD.
- 15 days: $30 USD (~₽2,850)
- 30 days: $50 USD (~₽4,750)
- 90 days: $125 USD (~₽11,875)
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date. The process takes 15–30 minutes at the airport. Nepal's visa on arrival policy makes it one of the easiest countries for Russian travellers to visit.
Best Months to Trek from Russia
- October–November: The absolute best trekking weather in Nepal. Clear skies, stable temperatures, mountain views at their most spectacular. This is peak season: book early, especially for EBC and Annapurna.
- March–May (Spring): Warmer temperatures, rhododendrons in full bloom. Fewer crowds than autumn. Excellent for Langtang, Poon Hill, Mardi Himal, and Annapurna. The May holidays in Russia (1–9 May) can provide a good window for shorter treks.
- December–February (Russian Winter): While Russia freezes, Nepal's lower-altitude treks are cold but clear. Good for Poon Hill (5 days) and Mardi Himal (6 days). The New Year holidays (31 Dec–8 Jan) work for short treks. Not recommended for EBC or Manaslu in deep winter.
- June–September: Monsoon season in Nepal: avoid for most treks. Exception: Upper Mustang and Dolpo (rain shadow areas). Russian summer holidays don't align well with Nepal trekking.
For working professionals: The best strategy is to use October–November. The November holidays (День народного единства, 4 November) can be combined with annual leave for a 12-day EBC trek. Alternatively, May holidays give you a natural break for a shorter trek.
Our Most Popular Treks for Russian Trekkers
Everest Base Camp Trek — 12 Days
The ultimate mountain trek. Stand at 5,364m at the foot of the world's highest peak. If you've hiked in the Caucasus or Altai, this is the next level: higher, more remote, and truly unforgettable. Budget ₽61,750 | Standard ₽101,840 | Luxury ₽170,905 per person. All permits, guide, porter, meals (Standard/Luxury), and transport included.
View full itinerary and book →
Annapurna Base Camp Trek — 10 Days
Walk through rice paddies, rhododendron forests, and hot springs to the amphitheatre of Annapurna (8,091m). Lower altitude than EBC, warmer trails, equally spectacular views. Budget ₽42,750 | Standard ₽74,100 | Luxury ₽118,750 per person.
View full itinerary and book →
Poon Hill Trek — 5 Days
The perfect first Himalayan trek. Sunrise over Annapurna and Dhaulagiri from 3,210m. Short enough for a holiday, rewarding enough to remember forever. Budget ₽20,425 | Standard ₽33,725 | Luxury ₽54,625 per person.
View full itinerary and book →
Langtang Valley Trek — 8 Days
The closest major trek to Kathmandu. Tamang culture, cheese factories, and views of Langtang Lirung (7,227m). Quieter than EBC and Annapurna: a hidden gem. Budget ₽36,100 | Standard ₽61,750 | Luxury ₽99,750 per person.
View full itinerary and book →
Manaslu Circuit Trek — 12 Days
The quieter alternative to Annapurna Circuit. Cross the Larkya La Pass at 5,160m through restricted territory. For serious mountain lovers who want a real challenge. Budget ₽61,750 | Standard ₽93,575 | Luxury ₽189,905 per person.
View full itinerary and book →
Mardi Himal Trek — 6 Days
Nepal's newest trekking trail. Quiet ridgeline walking with close-up Machhapuchhre (Fishtail) views. Affordable and stunning. Budget ₽24,700 | Standard ₽39,900 | Luxury ₽66,405 per person.
View full itinerary and book →
What Russian Trekkers Need to Know
Permits
All trekking permits are included in our package price. You need: TIMS card (Trekkers' Information Management System) + National Park/Conservation Area entry permit. For restricted areas (Manaslu, Upper Mustang, Dolpo), a special restricted area permit is required: we handle everything.
Insurance
Russian domestic health insurance does not cover medical treatment or helicopter evacuation in Nepal. You must buy separate international travel insurance with adventure sports coverage, including helicopter rescue above 3,000m. Without insurance, a helicopter rescue from Everest region could cost you $5,000–$10,000 USD.
Russian providers to check: Allianz (Russia), Sberbank Insurance, Tinkoff Insurance, ERV Russia. Make sure the policy explicitly covers trekking above 5,000m and helicopter evacuation. We require insurance confirmation before departure.
Payment — Our HBL Gateway Advantage
Many Western-only payment systems don't accept Russian-issued bank cards. Our payment gateway through Himalayan Bank Limited processes international Visa and Mastercard transactions, which works with cards issued by major Russian banks. We also accept bank transfers: contact us on WhatsApp for wire transfer details. This is a real advantage over trekking companies that only offer PayPal or Stripe (which may not work with Russian cards).
Currency
Nepal uses Nepali Rupees (NPR). As of 2026, ₽1 is roughly 1.4 NPR. ATMs in Kathmandu and Pokhara accept Visa and Mastercard (check with your Russian bank about international withdrawal limits). Carry cash for the trail: there are no ATMs above Namche Bazaar (Everest) or Chame (Annapurna). We recommend bringing $200–$300 USD as backup cash. USD is easily exchanged everywhere in Kathmandu.
Food on the Trail
Dal bhat, rice, lentils, vegetables, pickle, is the staple on every trail. Unlimited refills at most teahouses. You'll also find noodles, fried rice, momos (Nepali dumplings, think pelmeni but steamed and spiced), Tibetan bread, soups, and egg dishes. Vegetarian options everywhere. The food is hearty, filling, and well-suited to high-energy trekking. Avoid salads and uncooked food above 3,000m. Tea is available everywhere, chai lovers will feel at home.
Altitude Sickness
This is the biggest risk for all trekkers, regardless of fitness. Moscow is at 156m above sea level. Everest Base Camp is 5,364m. Even if you've hiked Mount Elbrus (5,642m), sleeping at Himalayan altitude is different from a summit day push. Your body needs time to adjust. Our guides carry pulse oximeters and monitor your oxygen levels daily. We build acclimatisation days into every itinerary. If symptoms appear, we descend immediately: no argument, no delay.
Language
Our guides speak fluent English. Russian-speaking guides are not commonly available in Nepal. However, basic English is sufficient for trekking: most communication is straightforward (directions, meals, rest stops, weather). If English is a concern, we can provide a guide who is patient, uses simple language, and communicates clearly. Many Russian trekkers find communication works perfectly fine.
Mobile and Internet
Buy an NCell SIM at Kathmandu airport (about ₽500 for a data pack). Your Russian SIM will likely not work without expensive roaming. Wi-Fi is available at most teahouses for a small fee. Don't expect reliable internet above 4,000m.
Tipping Culture
Tipping your guide and porter is customary and appreciated. General guideline: $10–$15 USD per day for guides, $5–$8 USD per day for porters. This is not included in the package price.
About The Everest Holiday
We are a three-generation Himalayan family company. Our grandfather Hari Lal Simkhada arranged logistics for Himalayan expeditions in the 1960s and 70s. Our father Ganesh Prasad Simkhada has held senior positions at the Nepal Tourism Board and Nepal Mountaineering Association. Today, Shreejan Simkhada and Shamjhana Basukala run The Everest Holiday with 80+ guides and staff.
- TAAN Member #1586: Nepal's official trekking agency association
- Tourism License 2838/072: Government of Nepal
- 320+ verified reviews across TripAdvisor (4.9★), Google (4.9★), and Trustpilot (5★)
- TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice 2024
- Selected by Nepal Tourism Board to represent Nepal at MATKA 2026 Helsinki
- Secure online payment through Himalayan Bank Limited: the only Nepal trekking company with direct bank payment
Our Charity — Nagarjun Learning Center
A portion of every booking supports the Nagarjun Learning Center, founded by our family in 2019. We provide free education and hot meals to 70 children across 7 learning centres in rural Nepal, free medical care to 600+ people, and empowerment programmes for 275+ women. The centre is verified and listed on the UN Partner Portal.
Your trek doesn't just change your life: it changes theirs.
Frequently Asked Questions — Russian Trekkers
Do Russian citizens need a visa for Nepal?
Yes, but it's visa on arrival: the simplest process possible. Show up at Kathmandu airport with a passport-size photo and $50 USD for a 30-day visa. No advance application, no embassy visit needed.
Can I pay with a Russian bank card?
Our Himalayan Bank Limited payment gateway processes international Visa and Mastercard transactions. Check with your bank about international card functionality. We also accept direct bank transfers: WhatsApp us for wire transfer details.
Do I need to speak English?
Basic English is helpful. Our guides speak fluent English and are experienced at communicating with trekkers of all language levels. Trail communication is straightforward: you won't need complex language skills. A translation app on your phone can help with any gaps.
Do I need a guide to trek in Nepal?
Yes. Since 2023, Nepal law requires all trekkers to have a licensed guide. Our guides are Nepal government trained and licensed, and several hold Bachelor's degrees in Mountaineering.
How fit do I need to be?
You should be able to walk 5–7 hours daily on mountain terrain. If you've hiked in the Caucasus, Altai, or Kamchatka, you have the right foundation. Start specific training 8–12 weeks before your trek. No mountaineering skills needed for standard treks.
Can I trek solo or do I need a group?
All our treks are private. You don't join a group: it's just you, your guide, and your porter. Solo trekkers, couples, families, and friend groups all welcome. Minimum 1 person, maximum 20.
What if I get altitude sickness?
Our guides are trained in altitude sickness prevention and carry pulse oximeters. We monitor your oxygen levels twice daily above 3,000m. If serious symptoms appear, we descend immediately and coordinate helicopter evacuation if needed.
What's included in the price?
All permits (TIMS, national park, conservation area, restricted area if applicable), licensed guide, porter (1 porter per 2 trekkers), accommodation throughout, meals (Standard and Luxury tiers), ground transportation from Kathmandu, and airport transfers. International flights, visa, insurance, and personal expenses are not included.
How do I book?
Choose your trek, pick your tier (Budget/Standard/Luxury), and pay a 10% deposit online through our secure Himalayan Bank payment gateway. The remaining balance is due before your trek starts. Or simply WhatsApp Shreejan directly: we'll plan everything together.
Plan Your Nepal Trek Today
The Himalayas are open, accessible, and waiting. Whether you're an experienced mountain hiker or planning your first big adventure, we'll make your Nepal trek personal, safe, and unforgettable. Every detail is your choice: dates, pace, tier, route.
WhatsApp:+977 9810351300 (Shreejan responds within 30 minutes during Nepal business hours)
Email:info@theeverestholiday.com
Website:theeverestholiday.com
Three generations. One family. Your Himalayas.
