Traveling to Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, India, Thailand, or other destinations with San Luxury Trekking requires proper passport and visa preparation. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth journey.
Step 1: Check Your Passport
- Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned travel dates.
- Ensure you have at least 2 blank pages for visas and entry stamps.
- Keep a digital and physical copy of your passport for emergencies.
Step 2: Determine Visa Requirements
- Nepal: Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or online (e-visa).
- Bhutan: Visa must be arranged through a licensed tour operator before arrival.
- Tibet (China): Requires a Chinese visa plus a Tibet Travel Permit issued by a registered tour operator.
- India: Many travelers can get an e-Visa online, valid for 30, 60, or 90 days.
- Thailand: Some nationalities can enter visa-free; others need a visa before travel.
Tip: San Luxury Trekking can assist with Bhutan and Tibet permits and guidance for other destinations.
Nepal
- Tourist visa on arrival or online (pre‑apply via online.nepalimmigration.gov.np) - Nepali Port
- Visa on arrival available at airports and border posts (Kathmandu, Birgunj, Pokhara, etc.) - Immigration Department of Nepal
- Tourist visas are multiple entry by default and valid for 15/30/90+ days depending on fee paid - Immigration Nepal
Visa extension available onsite (Kathmandu or Pokhara Immigration Offices) — minimum 15 days, then daily rate per extra day up to 150 days per year - Immigration Nepal
Nepal Extension Details:
- Apply at Department of Immigration (Kathmandu) or Immigration Office, Pokhara
- Fees: ~USD 45 for 15 days + USD 3/day (extra), late fines possible
- Max stay up to 150 days per calendar year
Useful link: Nepal Immigration official site — nepalimmigration.gov.np
India
- Many nationalities require a tourist visa or e‑visa before arrival (check online Indian visa portal).
- Important: Citizens of Nepal & Bhutan may enter India without passport or visa under a special exemption (land/air) — no visa required as of late 2025.
Standard Indian tourist visas (eVisa) typically cannot be extended while in India — you would normally need to exit and re‑enter or obtain another visa type before expiry.
Thailand
- Tourist visas can be extended in Thailand at an immigration office (e.g., Bangkok) after arrival. - ThaiEmbassy
- Common extensions: +30 days added to an existing tourist visa stay (rules vary by nationality).
For visa‑exempt entries, extensions may be possible but are at the discretion of Thai immigration — often +30 days for visitors.
Bhutan
- Most foreign visitors must apply for clearance in advance via a licensed tour operator before arrival — visas are issued at entry. - Foreign Affairs Ministry
- Visa extensions in Bhutan are limited and typically allowed only in special circumstances (e.g., medical) and require formal approval.
Tibet (China)
- Visiting Tibet from Nepal normally requires a Chinese visa + Tibet Travel Permit. - Tibet Travel and Tours
- These permits are usually handled by tour operators and must be arranged before travel.
- China visa extensions (for stays on mainland China) are processed by public security exit‑entry offices at least 7 days before expiry and depend on visa type - Nia Immigra
Step 3: Apply for Your Visa
- Online / e-Visa: Complete the application form, upload your passport photo, and pay the fee.
- Embassy / Consulate: Submit required documents, passport, and fees in person or by mail if online option is unavailable.
- Tour Operator Assistance: For Bhutan and Tibet, provide passport details to your tour operator for permit processing.
Step 4: Prepare Required Documents
- Passport (original and copies)
- Passport-size photos (as per country requirements)
- Completed visa application forms
- Proof of travel (flight tickets, itinerary, hotel bookings)
- Payment for visa fees
Step 5: On Arrival
- Carry all original documents and copies.
- Some countries require a health declaration form or travel insurance proof.
- Keep visa approval letters or permits ready for inspection.
Visa Extension Steps (Example: Nepal)
Visit Kathmandu or Pokhara immigration office before your visa expires.
Immigration Nepal
Bring:
- Valid passport
- Completed extension form
- Visa fee in cash
Submit at immigration counter, pay fees, receive updated visa.
Plan ahead — offices can be busy and may close weekends or holidays
Step 6: Travel Safely
- Always check the latest visa and entry requirements before departure, as regulations can change.
- Keep digital copies of all documents on your phone or email for backup.
Quick Tips
- Always check latest official immigration rules before travel — policies can change.
- Apply for visa extensions before the current visa expires to avoid fines or penalties.
- Keep extra passport photos and cash for visa fees where cards may not be accepted.
