Hello, this is Shimao! You would like to use your smartphone overseas, wouldn’t you? Looking up destinations, keeping in touch with friends, calling for a cab…. Of course, smartphones are useful in Nepal, too! In this article, I will show you how to use mobile internet in Nepal.
Three things to do before you travel!
unlock SIM
Depending on the phone you are using, it may be SIM-locked so that it will only accept SIMs from the telecommunications company with which you have a contract. If your iPhone is locked, you will not be able to use a local SIM, so be sure to unlock it before your trip. The method of unlocking depends on the model and telecom company, so please check with them.
Obtaining a photo for certification
To get a local SIM in Nepal, you need a photo ID. Locals used black-and-white printed copies but I don’t know it is possible for travelers. Since it is difficult to take a photo or print out the data after arrival, it is recommended that you bring a photo from your country. You can also use it when you need to reissue your passport.
Download offline maps and translation tools
The internet may be temporarily unavailable until you get a local SIM. To avoid getting lost, we recommend downloading a google map in advance. You can also save data when sightseeing. log in with your google account and search for the city you plan to visit in google map. On the right side of the tab, you will see download, just tap it and you are done. You can check the downloaded maps from offline maps by tapping the icon of your account.
If you are not confident with the language, you can also download a translation tool. First, download the google translate application. Go to Settings→Offline Translation→Add Language and download the language you need. google translate’s camera input is very helpful when you can’t read the text, so take advantage of it!
Get a SIM card!
If you have a contract with a telecommunications company that offers international roaming as an option, you may want to sign up for a one-day contract to use data communications until you can obtain a local SIM. You can use data communication until you get a local SIM.
The major telecommunication companies in Nepal are Nepal Telecom and Ncell, and you should have no problem using either of them. I used a prepaid SIM from Nepal Telecom. You charge the necessary amount of money each time, and purchase the data volume and contract plan to use it.
If you want to get a Nepal Telecom SIM, you must first go to a counter. I went to the counter in the city, but there are also one at the airport. Tell the counter staff or security guard that you want to buy a SIM, and ask for an application form. The application form is all in Nepali, so you can use Google lens or ask the teller to fill it out for you.
If you have a SIM card in your phone now, you will need to replace it with a local SIM. Turn off your phone, remove the SIM card, and replace it. If you are using an eSIM and your phone model supports dual SIM, insert the local SIM, reboot, and then switch the main line to the local one.
How do I charge my SIM card? (Nepal Telecom)
Since most people in Nepal do not have bank accounts, SIM cards are basically cash chargeable. Depending on the shop, you may be able to have the SIM card recharged at the time of purchase. At a private store in town, you can buy a paper card like the one in the photo by telling the telecommunication company and the amount you want to charge. You can be sure to find a store with the telecommunication company’s logo on the signboard, but even if you don’t, there are many stores that carry them. If you scrape the back of the card with your fingernail, you will find a PIN code used for recharging. If you download the Nepal Telecom app, you can conveniently check the remaining balance and the price of the package. You can also pay online by registering your credit card. However, do not be overconfident as some credit card companies may not allow registration.
Data communication is very inexpensive at 290 NPR (290 yen) for 6 GB of 4G communication for 28 days. Please note, however, that the area that supports 4G communication is small, and most areas will have LTE or 3G communication. Some may find the search speed a little stressful, but it works fine.
The two most commonly used dialing codes are
- *412# Top up
- *400# Check balance
- *1415# Buy data packs
For those who think it is difficult to buy a SIM locally
In Nepal, you can keep communication costs very low by buying a local SIM. However, it is a hassle, so for short stays, it is a good idea to use the overseas roaming service of your mobile company.
How was it? Nowadays it’s difficult to live without a smartphone. Please enjoy a comfortable smartphone life in Nepal!
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