Nepal

While police officials may speak English, always speak slowly and clearly enunciate to avoid misunderstanding.

Travellers should always be aware of their surroundings and aware of personal security in Nepal. Armed robberies sometimes occur, in particular at tourist hotels or against tourist climbing groups. Petty crime, such as pick-pocketing, is also common at tourist locations, hotel rooms, and on public transportation. Crime increases during the festival season, from September to November. Ensure your personal belongings are kept safe at all times. Avoid travelling after dark.

Travellers should avoid showing signs of affluence, such as expensive clothing. Female travellers, in particular, should wear conservative clothing to avoid harassment and verbal abuse.

Trekking can be dangerous in Nepal. There have been reports of Maoists asking for “donations” on popular hiking trails and then threatening or injuring climbers when no donations are offered. Travellers should comply with these requests to avoid injury and report any incidents. Emergency services, such as airlifts and rescues, might not be immediately available and accidents resulting in deaths have occurred. It is recommended that trekkers hire an experienced guide from a reputable trekking company and never trek alone. Trekkers should also ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical emergency and rescue services.

Public transportation should be avoided if possible. Serious collisions, including buses, occur frequently resulting in deaths and severe injuries, especially at night. Buses may be overcrowded and poorly maintained, and drivers may not follow standard rules of the road. Tourist buses are generally safer.

The Monsoon season in Nepal normally runs from June to September. Travel in rural areas during this time may be hazardous.

In Nepal, generally there is tolerance toward same-sex relationships, and discrimination toward sexual minorities is against the law. However, all public displays of affection are viewed as inappropriate in this society.

There are severe penalties for drug offences, including possessing small amounts of marijuana which can bring a long prison sentence.

Attacks sometimes occur as a result of political and ethnic conflict, for example, the Maoist insurgency. Travellers are not directly targeted, however, the attacks still pose a risk to foreigners as they are unpredictable and have caused deaths and injuries, particularly in the Terai region. Travellers should expect to encounter military and police checkpoints, particularly at night.

The political situation remains unstable after a period of civil unrest. Demonstrations and disruptive general strikes known as bandhs may occur. Although they are usually peaceful, travellers should avoid these political gatherings as they can become violent and lead to rioting without warning.