What actually Travel Means

Travel Summary


* Political tensions in Nepal remain high. In light of this, you should avoid large gatherings and demonstrations. Bandhs (shutdowns), rallies and demonstrations can cause widespread disruption and are often called at short notice, leaving transport severely disrupted and blocking roads and major highways. See the Political Situation and Local Travel sections of this advice for more details.

* The festival season of Dashain lasts from 19 September 2009 until 2 October 2009 and the Tihar festival from 15-19 October 2009. During this time there may be an increase in criminal activity such as thefts, robberies and house break-ins, and incidents of street harassment by intoxicated individuals. Due to the increased risk of criminal activity you should exercise caution during the festival season.

* A (H1N1) - Swine Flu has been confirmed in Nepal. The Government of Nepal has advised that it is introducing surveillance measures at the international airport. On arrival in Nepal travellers from affected countries, including the UK should be prepared to be asked questions about their health or be checked for symptoms by medical staff. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html has further details. You should monitor media reports for any developments and advice. There is a dedicated Swine Flu page on this website. Guidance on Pandemic Flu can be obtained on the UK Department of Health website: http://www.dh.gov.uk. See the Health – A (H1N1) Swine Flu section of this advice for more details.

* On Wednesday 22 July 2009 the Government of Nepal declared a cholera outbreak in the Far West of Nepal. See the Health Section of this advice for more details.

* There is a general threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. See the Terrorism section of this advice for more details.

* The wider security situation in Nepal remains subject to change due to the political volatility in the country. Since March, there has been a wave of demonstrations and strikes, at times violent, in the Terai and Eastern region of Nepal. If you intend to travel to Nepal, you should remain vigilant and remain in close touch with your tour operator. See the Political Situation and Local Travel sections of this advice for more details.

* The main types of incident for which British nationals required consular assistance in Nepal in 2008 were generally as a result of either trekking accidents or drug-related incidents. You are advised to use a reputable travel agent and only trek with an experienced guide and in a group.

* We also recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check for any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you plan to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and the Travel Insurance for more