Nepal Travel Guide

🇺🇸 US State Department Advisory

Reconsider travel to Nepal due to civil unrest. Advisory summary Large protests and significant demonstrations in Nepal on September 8-9, 2025, turned violent. These events caused deaths and injuries. Local authorities have declared curfews in major cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. Additional protests and curfews could happen with little warning. Follow local authorities’ instructions. Stay away from areas with protests, unrest, or large gatherings. Emergency services Emergency services ...

🇬🇧 UK Foreign Office (FCDO)

'Removal of information on restrictions and risks of disruption, following Nepal's election on 5 March ('Warnings and insurance' page).'

🚨 Emergency Numbers

ℹ️ Tourist Police Headquarters Kathmandu: +977-1-444-4161. Emergency services can be slow in remote trekking areas. Carry a satellite communicator in high-altitude zones.

🏥 Healthcare Summary

CIWEC Hospital and Grande International Hospital in Kathmandu recommended for tourists. In trekking regions, local health posts offer only basic care. Helicopter rescue is the primary emergency option at altitude.

Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude helicopter evacuation is mandatory for trekking. TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card required. Himalayan Rescue Association membership recommended.

💊 Medication Restrictions

Nepal has limited pharmaceutical regulation and counterfeit medications are a concern, so bring sufficient supplies of any essential medications from home. Carry all prescriptions in original packaging with a doctor's letter. Controlled substances like strong painkillers and sedatives require clear documentation. For high-altitude trekking, consider bringing altitude sickness medication (acetazolamide) as availability outside Kathmandu is unreliable.

• Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium) — RESTRICTED: Prescription controlled under Narcotic Drugs Control Act 2033; available in pharmacies with prescription. Carry documentation for import
• Adderall / amphetamines — BANNED: Amphetamines are controlled narcotics in Nepal; Adderall is not available and importation is prohibited
• Cannabis / CBD — BANNED: Illegal since 1973 under Narcotic Drugs Control Act despite historical cultural use; CBD products also prohibited
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) — RESTRICTED: Controlled psychotropic substance; very limited availability in Nepal. Carry prescription and doctor's letter
• Codeine / opioids — RESTRICTED: Controlled under NDCA; codeine preparations available by prescription. Carry documentation and original packaging

🙏 Cultural Tips

Tipping: Appreciated but not mandatory. Trekking guides: $10-20/day. Porters: $5-10/day. Restaurants: 10% or round up. Hotel staff: $1-2/bag.

Cultural taboos to avoid:

• Touching or pointing feet at sacred objects, shrines, or people
• Clockwise is sacred — always walk clockwise around stupas and prayer wheels
• Do not step over a person's head or legs (spiritually offensive)
• Leather items may be prohibited in some Hindu temples
• Public displays of affection are frowned upon