How is Mobile Signals and Wi-Fi in the Everest Region?

Home to the world’s highest mountain panorama, Mount Everest (8848.86 m/29,032 ft), the Everest region is known for its stunning landscapes and scenery. Along with these awesome views, trekkers face various challenges. Likewise, the Everest region has seen a significant improvement, making these challenges somewhat achievable as trekkers stay connected with their loved ones. However, the Everest region mobile signals and Wi-Fi might not be strong enough, causing latency.

Network connectivity speed can vary due to limited infrastructure and extreme Everest weather in different parts of the region.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or newcomer, excited trekker, staying connected with friends and families in Everest is easier. Let’s discuss in detail about the Everest region mobile signals and Wi-Fi.

Mobile Networks in the Everest Region

Over the past years, the mobile network in the Everest region has developed tremendously. Network towers have been installed in different locations for better signals.

However, signal strength depends on the service providers. NTC (Nepal Telecom) and NCELL are two of the biggest mobile network providers in the Everest region.

Moreover, these networks are not available at all places. Nevertheless, they are satisfactory enough for phone calls.

NTC (Nepal Telecom)

Nepal Telecom (NTC) is a Nepal government-owned network provider offering network coverage throughout Nepal. It is one of the most reliable cellular networks in the Everest region.

The network quality is good enough in most parts of Everest, like Lukla, Namche Bazaar, and Gorakshep. However, it is not available in high-altitude remote villages like Lobuche.

Further, the signal strength might fluctuate due to terrain and weather. You can buy an NTC sim card in Kathmandu or in bigger villages on the route. You can use them for better phone calls and data services.

NCELL

Another popular mobile network provider in Nepal is the NCELL. In the Everest region, trekkers can get a good network of signals up to Pangboche and then to the Gorakshep area.

Though the network signal is fast enough in lower elevations, it becomes weaker as you trek to higher locations.

NCELL is better for faster data connectivity in lower altitude villages like Lukla and Namche Bazaar.

Other SIM cards (Smart Cell and UTL)

Except for NTC and NCELL, you cannot get a mobile network at higher elevations. However, around Lukla and Namche, you might find some weak signals from network providers such as Small Cell and UTL.

NTC vs NCELL: Which is Better?

Choosing NTC or NCELL depends on personal preference. NTC provides good and broader coverage in most of the regions of Everest. On the other hand, NCELL offers faster internet speed in lower regions below Pangboche.

So, instead of choosing just one, we suggest you carry both SIM cards for Everest region mobile signals and Wi-Fi. You can use them wherever you find a good signal to ensure connectivity throughout the journey.

How and Where to Buy SIM Cards in Nepal for Foreigners?

Buying Nepali SIM cards is very easy for locals and foreigners, too. Once you land in Nepal, you can either buy it at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or at their authorized stores around Kathmandu Valley.

You can also buy them in Lukla or Namche Bazaar. Or you can request that your travel agency arrange one for you.

These SIM cards can be bought for around NPR 100-200 (less than $2). Sometimes, these network providers provide offers and give out these cards with balance and data packs. If not, you can buy them at as low as NPR 200 for 1 GB of data.

Documents Required to Buy Nepali SIM Card

• A copy of your valid passport
• A passport-sized photo
• A filled SIM card application form, available at the store

Wi-Fi in the Everest Region

Although not as fast as Wi-Fi connectivity in cities, Wi-Fi services in the Everest region have drastically improved. While you can use NTC and NCELL for cellular connectivity, Everest Link is the most popular Wi-Fi provider in the Everest region.

Most teahouses and lodges offer Everest Link for Everest region mobile signals and Wi-Fi, though it might be slow. Its internet speed could vary due to altitude, weather and the number of connections.

Another newly introduced popular Wi-Fi provider in the Everest region is Air Link. It provides Everest region mobile signals and Wi-Fi at an affordable cost. You can buy data packages from as low as around $8 to $12. You can buy this data package for 1 or 2 days, depending on your preference.

Brief About Everest Link

Everest Link is dedicated to mobile signals and Wi-Fi in the Everest region. It offers coverage from Namche to Everest Base Camp (EBC) and the Everest Three Passes Trek route.

It works on a prepaid voucher system, meaning pay beforehand to use the service. You can buy these vouchers starting from around $4, allowing you to purchase data packs as per your necessity.

It works through satellite technology, a reliable connection service in the Everest region, mobile signals and Wi-Fi. Almost all Everest teahouses, lodges, and lunch places use this network, which trekkers can use for some additional fee.

Though the internet speed might not be super-fast, it is a lifesaver to stay connected with your loved ones and work. The internet speed is satisfactory enough for messaging and surfing, but not decent enough for video streaming or bulk downloads.

Alternative for Communication

If Everest region mobile signals and Wi-Fi are unavailable, satellite phones or walkie-talkies can be used alternatively for communication.

These types of communication are especially useful during emergencies, especially in remote areas. Normally, trekking agencies have these devices for safety and connectivity.

Also, we suggest you download offline maps in apps like Google Maps.

Best Practices for Staying Connected

Here are some of the tips for staying connected during the treks in the Everest region.

• Carry both NTC and NCELL SIM cards for better coverage and choice.
• Purchase the Everest Link or Air Link voucher in Namche Bazaar or in the teahouses on the Everest route.
• Use offline maps, apps, or trek maps (hardcopy) for navigation.
• Carry a portable charger and a power bank with a good backup to charge your electric device.
• Use messaging apps instead of calls to save data.
• Inform your friends and family about possible blackouts or unexpected connectivity gaps.

Conclusion

Staying connected in the Everest Region has become increasingly feasible with improved mobile coverage and Wi-Fi availability. NCELL provides faster data at lower altitudes like Lukla and Namche Bazaar, while NTC provides broader coverage in remote locations.

Everest Link and Air Link Wi-Fi are decent, though relatively expensive, alternatives for internet access at higher altitudes. To ensure uninterrupted connectivity, trekkers can carry both SIM cards, using Wi-Fi wisely, and looking at communication backup channels like satellite phones in case of emergencies.

At times, connectivity may not be perfect, but careful planning means that trekkers are still in touch throughout their entire travel to Everest.