Communication Guide: SIM Cards for Everest Trekking

Ncell vs NTC for the Mount Everest Expedition

Which SIM Works Best?

Staying connected is important for safety and sharing your journey. Nepal has two main operators: Ncell and NTC (Nepal Telecom). Which one should you buy for your Everest Base Camp trek?

Ncell

Ncell generally has faster data speeds in the lower Khumbu and Lukla. It is popular with trekkers. However, signal can be spotty above Dingboche.

Using Smartphone on Mountain
NTC (Namaste)

NTC often has wider coverage in remote areas and higher altitudes. Many guides carry both. For a major Mount Everest expedition, having an NTC sim as a backup is recommended.

Where to Buy

Buy your SIM in Kathmandu. You need a passport photo and a copy of your visa. Do not wait until Lukla, as it is harder to register. Load a big data pack before you leave the city.

Stay in Touch

Coverage is improving every year. You can now video call from Base Camp, sharing your Everest summit dream with family instantly.