Nepal Travel Guide

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Passports and Visas

All foreign passengers to Nepal can obtain a tourist visa on arrival in the country. These visas are valid for a maximum of 90 days, and cost between USD 25 and USD 100 (depending on the length of intended stay). Note that extensions of tourist stays (up to 150 days) can be arranged after arrival, by applying at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu or Pokhara (fee: USD 20, plus an additional charge of USD 2 per day extended). All tourist visas are valid for Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara Valley and Tiger Tops (Meghauli airport) in Chitwan. However, if travelers wish to visit other places, or trek in Nepal, permits can be obtained from the Central Immigration Office. Note also that passengers who need a visa for India, and who also want to visit Nepal, should hold a visa valid for two entries into India; and that persons wishing to re-enter into Nepal, and having in their passports any previous Nepalese visas cancelled (invalidated) by the Central Immigration Office, will be refused entry and deported. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required, if arriving in Nepal within six days of leaving or transiting through an infected area. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Americans

US citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Nepal. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

UK Nationals

British citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Nepal. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

Canadians

Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Nepal. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

Australians

Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Nepal. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

South Africans

South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Nepal. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

Irish Nationals

Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Nepal. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

New Zealanders

New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Nepal. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival (see note, below).

Healthcare

Malaria is a health risk between June and September in the low-lying areas of Nepal, including Chitwan National Park, but not in the common trekking areas. Outbreaks of Japanese encephalitis occur annually, particularly between July and December; vaccination is advised. Cholera outbreaks occur and food and water precautions should be followed. Untreated water should be avoided; visitors can buy bottled water or purify their own. When trekking it is preferable to treat river water rather than leaving a trail of plastic bottles behind. Purifying water with iodine is the cheapest and easiest way to treat water. Altitude sickness is a real risk for trekkers. Many trekkers may suffer from altitude sickness above 8,202ft (2,500m); if symptoms persist it is wise to descend as quickly as possible. Standard of care in hospitals varies, but there are traveler's clinics in Kathmandu and numerous pharmacies in the major towns. Medical insurance is essential, which should include air evacuation. Travelers arriving from infected areas require a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Safety

There are safety concerns in Nepal following the 2008 elections, when it became a secular republic. Demonstrations and public gatherings should be avoided, as there is still a high risk of violence. Due to previous bomb attacks and shootings in public places, including the main tourist areas of Kathmandu, Pokhara and Lukla, as well as on popular trekking routes, visitors are warned to be particularly vigilant; foreign tourists have been involved in several incidents. Foreigners have been the target of recent attacks in the Thamel district of Kathmandu, and are advised to be cautious after dark and to stay in a group if in the area at night. There have been incidences of violent robbery against trekkers and there is an armed Maoist presence on many of the major trekking routes who demand a 'tax' before allowing trekkers to pass. Trekkers are advised to stay on established routes and walk in a group or with professional guides. Foreigners have been attacked in the Nagarjun Forest Reserve just outside Kathmandu and visitors are advised to be cautious in the area and to travel in a group.