Safety and Security - Local Travel

Major street demonstrations, disturbances and road blockades occur frequently in Kathmandu and elsewhere in the country, in particular in the Terai and Eastern region of Nepal, often at very short notice. In the past, such events have suddenly turned violent. Transport can also be severely disrupted; roads and highways could be blocked. In the event of planned strike action, you should allow extra time to return to Kathmandu if you have an international flight to catch. Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings and remain vigilant at all times. You should also take local advice including from tour operators.  

Kathmandu Valley-wide transport bans can be called at very short notice. When these bans are in place the Nepal Tourism Board and the Nepal Tourist Police in conjunction with the Himalayan Rescue Association run Shuttle Bus Services between various hotels in Kathmandu and the Domestic and International Airports. The Shuttle bus service phone number is (01) 4442555, mobile 9751044088. The Tourist Police Hotline phone number is (01) 4247041. The Nepal Tourism Board Hotline phone number is (01) 4225709.

Transport usually operates freely in the Kathmandu Valley, except during times of major demonstrations. Traffic in Kathmandu normally flows reasonably well though there are sometimes major jams during rush hour in the city. 

If you are concerned about the areas you are travelling to, please keep a close watch on the local media, seek advice from your hotel or guesthouse, or contact the British Embassy in Kathmandu on arrival for up-to-date advice on the security situation, which can change rapidly.