Is Nepal Safe to Travel to? What You Should Know

Nepal received about 1.16 million international visitors in 2025, according to preliminary Nepal Tourism Board figures. This guide draws mainly on UK government advice, and it's general information. Your own government's advice may differ.

Crime and scams

The UK government says serious crime is low, but pickpockets and bag-snatchers operate in airports, on buses and in tourist areas such as Thamel, Sanepa and Kupondol. Assaults and robberies are more likely at night in poorly lit areas.

• Carry only the cash you need, and use a hotel safe.
• Avoid walking alone late at night.
• Never leave your drink unattended, and be wary of drinks from strangers.
• Be careful with alcohol: the UK government warns of a risk from drinks containing methanol.
• Be cautious of unusually cheap trekking deals.

Road travel

This is one of the biggest real risks. The UK government says road accidents are a major cause of death and injury, with overloaded vehicles, speeding, poor roads and mechanical failure all contributing, particularly in monsoon season and in mountain areas. Bus accidents are frequent.

• Avoid overcrowded buses and night travel.
• Choose tourist buses or a reputable private driver. The UK government says tourist buses generally offer better safety.
• Think twice about driving or riding a motorbike yourself.
• Allow extra time, especially in the monsoon, when landslides can close roads.

Air travel

The UK government notes multiple fatal air crashes of planes and helicopters, with at least 100 deaths over the last five years. It also says no Nepali airline currently meets international safety standards, and all are on the UK Air Safety List. Mountain flights are often delayed or cancelled.

Flying may still be the most practical way to reach some places. Consider your options, and never pressure a pilot or airline to fly in bad weather.

Protests and strikes

According to the UK government, protests, demonstrations and strikes are fairly common, and they can start at short notice, disrupt transport and sometimes turn violent. Curfews are possible. Avoid demonstrations, follow local news, and do what local authorities tell you. This is one area where you should check current advice just before you leave.

Earthquakes and natural hazards

Nepal sits in an active earthquake zone. The UK government says tremors are common, and that limited emergency equipment and medical facilities could worsen an earthquake's impact. The 2015 earthquake caused major loss of life. Ask your operator about emergency plans, and learn the basic safety steps on arrival.

The monsoon, normally June to October according to the UK government, also brings flooding and landslides.

Health

• Medical care: the UK government says healthcare is poor in most places outside the Kathmandu Valley and Pokhara, and there's no central public ambulance service.
• Altitude: altitude sickness is a real risk in trekking areas. See our altitude guide.
• Air pollution and dengue: both are listed as health risks.
• Water and food: don't drink untreated water, and take sensible care with food.
• Before you go: see a travel health clinic well in advance to ask about vaccines and medicines.

Trekking safety

The UK government says you shouldn't trek alone, and it warns of hazards above 3,000 m all year round. Mobile coverage is limited in many remote areas. Use a reputable agency, keep spare days and read our guides on trekking with a guide and the risks of Everest Base Camp.

Women travellers

The UK government warns that women have been sexually assaulted in tourist areas such as Thamel and Sanepa, and it advises caution, especially when alone after dark. Many women travel in Nepal without problems, and sensible steps can help: book transport through a trusted company, stay somewhere with good reviews and take care with drinks. On a trek, choose a reputable agency, and ask about their guide policy.

LGBT+ travellers

The UK government says Nepal is generally tolerant and same-sex relations aren't illegal, but it notes that public displays of affection are viewed as inappropriate, regardless of sexuality or gender.

Respect and local laws

• Dress modestly, especially at religious sites.
• Ask before photographing people.
• Be cautious of "orphanage" volunteer placements. The UK government warns that some may contribute to child exploitation.

Your safety checklist

1. Read your own government's travel advice, and check it again before leaving.
2. Buy insurance that covers your activities. See our insurance guide.
3. Share your itinerary with someone at home.
4. Book through reputable operators.
5. Carry copies of your passport and emergency contacts.
6. Keep some cash, because cards and cash machines aren't always available in remote areas.

Which risks are most likely to affect you?

What to do if something goes wrong

• Medical problem: go to or call the nearest hospital, as the UK government notes there's no central public ambulance service. Contact your insurer early on.
• Lost passport: contact your embassy, and report it to the police.
• Theft: ask the police for a written report for your insurance claim.
• Protests or road closures: stay away, and contact your hotel or operator for advice.
• Earthquake: follow your hotel's or guide's instructions, and tell family that you're safe as soon as you can.

Save your embassy's emergency number, your insurer's number and your operator's local number on your phone, and keep a paper copy.

Common questions

Next steps

Read our visa guide, or ask us about your plans.