Connectivity · Kathmandu
How to Get a SIM Card in Kathmandu
NTC vs Ncell, the documents you need, data prices and where to buy — sorted in 10 minutes.
Getting connected in Nepal is cheap and quick once you know the steps. You have two main networks — Ncell and Nepal Telecom (NTC / Namaste) — plus eSIM options if your phone supports them. Here's exactly how to do it.
The short answer
Buy an Ncell tourist SIM at the airport or in Thamel, bring your passport and a photo, and pick a data pack — expect to pay roughly NPR 1,000–1,800 (US$8–14) for a generous tourist data bundle. You'll be online within about ten minutes.
Step by step
- Choose a network. Ncell for simple tourist packs and city/trekking coverage; NTC for the most remote mountain regions.
- Bring documents. Passport, a passport photo (counters can take one), and a copy of your passport and visa.
- Buy at the airport or in Thamel. Airport counters are convenient on arrival; Thamel shops are slightly cheaper and quieter.
- Pick a data pack. Tourist bundles include data plus some local minutes; top up anytime via the app or a shop.
- Confirm activation. Registration can take a few minutes to a few hours — ask the seller to verify it's active before you leave.
Prefer eSIM?
If your phone supports it, a Nepal eSIM activated before you land is the fastest route — no queue, working the moment you connect. It usually costs a little more than a local SIM but saves time.
Next steps
Once you're online, line up where to work from — see the best coworking spaces in Kathmandu — and where to stay with our guide to the best hotels in Kathmandu.
Frequently asked questions
What documents do I need to buy a SIM card in Nepal?+
Your passport, a passport-sized photo (often taken on the spot), and a copy of your passport and Nepal visa. The SIM is registered to you, so bring the physical passport, not just a photo of it.
Is Ncell or NTC better for tourists in Nepal?+
Ncell generally has simpler tourist data packs and good coverage in cities and popular trekking areas. NTC (Namaste) often has stronger coverage in remote mountain regions. For a Kathmandu and Pokhara trip, either works well.
Can I buy a Nepal SIM at Kathmandu airport?+
Yes. Both Ncell and NTC have counters in the arrivals area of Tribhuvan International Airport. It's convenient but slightly pricier and busier than buying in Thamel.
Does Nepal support eSIM?+
Yes — Ncell and several international providers offer Nepal eSIMs you can activate before you land, which is the fastest option if your phone supports eSIM.
