Nepal Travel Advisory

Security: Is good. There is a rise in crime in the city, but even then, it is comparatively very very low. Advice would be to practice normal caution as you would in any city in the world. Most acts of violence in the city happen either in gang clashes (not concerning tourists) or outside nightclubs amongst young drunks. So a word of caution there - if you are into clubbing, do not get into arguments with drunks. That’s common sense too!

Political Situation: There is not much to write about the political situation in Nepal, as no one really knows what the political situation is. Suffice to say that it is confused at the top, the people are politically aware (sometimes I believe a bit too aware) but unable to make an impact, resulting in confusion all around. Demonstrations and that brilliant way to make a statement that we have come to love in Nepal - General Strikes, are still popular... So they could disrupt your travels in Nepal a bit... Again to reiterate, if you are using common sense here, you will never be hurt, unless you are in the very wrong place at a very wrong time, plain bad luck types!

However, these strikes, demonstrations are concentrated in the cities, most of them happening in the capital, Kathmandu. Stay the least possible in Kathmandu if you plan on trekking, and if you are planning trips in Kathmandu, pad your days well.

 

INFORMATION FOR TRAVELERS

Nepal has abundance of offers to establish it as a round the year travel destination. Based on this fact, many international tourists are indeed incorporating Nepal in their wishful travel itinerary. Popular tourist areas in Nepal like Kathmandu, Pokhara, Chitwan, Everest Region, Annapurna Region, Langtang Region, Lumbini, Janakpur and others are absolutely free from any sorts of disturbances. This is a clear testimony that travel safety in Nepal is more a perception problem than the actual state of affairs. Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) always recommends travelers to get services through the registered companies which guarantee you safe, reliable, standard and value for money travel services. Travelling in Nepal typically involves walking for an extended time over rugged, steep terrain, to various luxurious stays during the course of their trip. Many popular trekking routes in Nepal cross passes as high as 18,000 feet. The Nepal Tourism Board requests all existing and potential travelers to exercise extreme caution while trekking at higher altitudes. The safest option for all trekkers is to join an organized group and/or use a reputable firm that provides an experienced guide and porter who communicates in both Nepali and English.

 

MEDICAL FACILITIES

Medical care is widely available in the District head quarters and the towns and cities. Moreover, Kathmandu has the most modern medi-care facilities, equipment and most qualified doctors in order to provide a quality care. Serious illnesses often require evacuation to the nearest adequate medical facility. Illnesses and injuries suffered while on trek in remote areas often require rescue by helicopter. Various private Helicopter Companies including the Royal Nepal Army (at the Airport) provide rescue services. The cost is typically not much. For further information, please contact Himalayan Rescue Association (Phone: 26 2746, Kathmandu) or your local travel or trekking agent.

MEDICAL INSURANCE

After the establishment of various international Insurance Companies in the form of joint venture (JV), medical insurance is becoming popular in Nepal. Hence, all travelers are requested to insure through the reputed agencies. However, travelling within Nepal is adequately safe except in some remote government cautioned areas. Please check with your own insurance company to confirm whether your policy applies overseas, including provision for medical evacuation, and for adequacy of coverage. Supplemental health insurance that specifically covers overseas treatment and air evacuation to the nearest adequate medical facility is strongly recommended.

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS

In major tourist destinations the condition of the Roads are fairly well maintained. Those travelling by their own vehicles must carry valid road maps. The East West Highway connects all major cities and towns. Further information may be sought from NTB or local agents. The accident rate in Nepal is comparatively very minimal and relatively fatalities from such accidents are rare as compared to other big cities of the globe. Likewise, there are several domestic private airlines operating within the nation, which has tremendously helped to connect the remote part of the country to the capital.

AIR TRAVEL

Travelling to Nepal by air is considered safe. Nepal is well connected by a dozen of international airlines from all major cities of Europe and Asia. It also has a fair no of domestic airlines, which cater to the needs of the travelers domestically. Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) infrastructures have been duly extended in order to meet the rising demand of the air travelers.