Tipping customs in Nepal can vary depending on the situation and region, but tipping is generally not mandatory. However, it is appreciated as a gesture of gratitude for good service. Here are some tipping guidelines for common situations in Nepal:
- Restaurants and Cafes: In most restaurants, a service charge is included in the bill. If the service was exceptional, you can leave a small additional tip of around 5-10% of the total bill. If there is no service charge, a 5-10% tip is appreciated.
- Hotels: In hotels, you can leave a tip for hotel staff who provide extra services, such as room service or carrying your bags. A tip of around 50-100 Nepalese Rupees (NPR) per service is customary.
- Trekking Guides and Porters: If you are on a trekking expedition, it is common to tip your trekking guide and porter as a show of appreciation for their hard work and support. The amount can vary based on the length of the trek and the level of service provided. A general guideline is to tip around 10-15% of the total trek cost for the guide and 5-10% for the porter, which can be divided among the group.
- Taxis and Drivers: Tipping taxi drivers is not mandatory, but rounding up the fare to the nearest convenient amount is a common practice.
- Tour Guides and Drivers: If you hire a tour guide or a driver for sightseeing trips, a tip of around 10% of the tour cost is appreciated for the guide, and 5-10% for the driver.
- Porters and Hotel Staff: In some hotels, you may encounter porters or staff who assist with carrying your luggage. A small tip of 20-50 NPR per bag is customary.
- Service Providers: For other services like spa treatments or other personal services, a small tip of 5-10% is appreciated for excellent service.
It’s important to note that tipping customs are not rigid, and it’s ultimately up to your discretion based on your satisfaction with the service provided. If you are unsure about how much to tip, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask locals or the hotel staff for guidance.
