Frequently Asked Questions

Are visas required for entry into Nepal?

Almost all foreign nationals require visa to enter Nepal. Visa can easily be received at the Nepali embassy or Consulate in your respective countries or it can be received on arrival at the airport in Nepal. However, to avoid long queues at the On-Arrival visa section at the airport, it is highly recommended to have your visa stamped prior to your arrival.

How to get here?

Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu has a number of flights arriving daily from major international airports in Asia and the Middle East. There are several daily flights from various airports of India, 4 flights from Doha operated by Qatar Airways, and daily flights from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Istanbul, Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Singapore.

As a Beyul, we are located in the foothills of the great Eastern Himalaya, 18 miles south of Mt. Everest as the crow flies, in a small Himalayan village named Phaplu.

We can be reached by plane, helicopter or by road. The Happy House has a private helipad. Planes land at Phaplu airport, 10 minutes’ walk from The Happy House.

Transfers from Kathmandu:

– 40 minutes flight by plane or helicopter

– 10 hours on a 4X4 vehicle

Best time to visit The Happy House?

March to May: Warm temperatures around 18/23 degree Celsius (64/74 degree Fahrenheit) during the day. Cold at night around 05/10 degree Celsius (40-50 degree Fahrenheit).

September to December: Dry and warm days with temperatures around 20/25 degree Celsius (68/78 degree Fahrenheit). Cool at night between 7/12 degree Celsius (45/53 degree Fahrenheit).

Note:

June to August (Monsoon season) & January to February (Winter wonderland): The Happy House remains closed during this period.

What to expect?

A large living space with two fireplaces to keep you warm and cozy. The library entices you with a wide selection of books and a comfortable lounge. A Yoga and Meditation Center with an in-house instructor along with private singing bowl healing sessions to help you reset. A Sauna & Spa room for you to relax after activities. Also, the kitchen is accessible, if you would want to cook, take part in the preparation or just observe and learn Nepali recipes.

No TV, no telephone, nor minibar. Each room is equipped with a wardrobe, working desk and chair, bedside lamps for reading and power outlets.

Internet?

The Happy House is equipped with Wi-Fi. The internet speed is OK for emails and text messages but high data files like videos and pictures will take time to load. While camping for 2 nights there will be no internet access. However, we will always be carrying a SAT phone to make any emergency calls.

What is the Beyul Camp like?

Our camps are thoughtfully set up for you. While camping, a full camp and cooking staff, camping gear, cooking gear, food and fuel will be provided, as well as the services of a physical therapist/ masseuse. Camps are comfortable, but not luxurious. Tents are expedition-style, with ample room, and can be shared by two people or reserved for one. Tents do not have sleeping cots; we provide thermal mattresses, sleeping bag, cashmere blankets and pillows. Porters are available to carry your bag. You only need to pack what you need for the trek; all other luggage can be left behind at Happy House. Each morning and evening, you will be given hot towels and a basin with hot water for washing.

Daily activities?

The days are comprised of hiking and biking across the breath taking landscape, morning & evening yoga and guided meditation sessions, fishing in the Solu River, wildlife and birdlife spotting in the holy forest, and picnic lunches along a ridge covered in wildflowers (spring time). For insight into the vast history and culture of the Sherpa people, visit the village of Junbesi and Thupten Choeling monastery.

What to pack?

Loose & light clothing that is comfortable to walk in would be most appropriate during the day. A set of warm outerwear that includes a wind/rain proof jacket, fleece sweater, winter hat and warm base layers would be ideal for the cool nights. But most of all, please pack in a way that you feel comfortable in any climate. We’ll send you a more detailed packing list shortly via email.

Cultural Considerations?

When entering sacred places of worship like temples and monasteries in Nepal or while meeting with monks, it is appropriate to wear full-sleeved and full length clothing as a sign of respect. Arms and knees should be covered and women may be expected to cover their heads with a head scarf. Wearing animal prints should be avoided as it could be considered offensive.

Tipping & Donation?

Tipping is a normal standard in Nepal and anticipated especially for transfer services, porters, local guides, bellboys, etc. Some amount of donation may also be expected when visiting religious sites.

Medical Insurance?

Remember to bring any medications you take regularly in your carry-on luggage. Guests are required to have a full extensive insurance coverage prior to their arrival in country.

Insurance details are to be communicated to us upon booking so we may have them on file should we need to access it during an emergency. Evacuation and rescue must be covered by the insurance.

Any reading suggestions?

To understand the intricate ecosystem of different cultures, religions & lifestyles existing in Nepal, we suggest going through the pages of the following books prior to your arrival:

• Rhythms of a Himalayan Village: Hugh Downs

• The Snow Leopard: Peter Matthiessen

• Power Places of Kathmandu: Keith Dowman

• Himalaya: Ed Douglas

• A Step away from Paradise: Thomas K Shor (book on Beyul)