Nepal is home to the Himalayas, including the world’s tallest mountain: Mount Everest. Travellers can explore Nepal’s many outdoor treks and tours and take in Kathmandu’s markets and cuisine.
The standards for patient care and medical services in Nepal may differ from your home country. Nepal has a public healthcare system and a small private sector. Private healthcare in Nepal is generally unregulated, so the quality of care can vary. Healthcare services are unevenly distributed across the country and access to care in some areas may be limited. Healthcare in Kathmandu generally meets international standards but healthcare throughout the rest of the country may be inadequate.
In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel health insurance company immediately. Hospitals in Nepal typically require upfront payment in cash or credit card, regardless if you have travel health insurance. Due to limited healthcare services, medical evacuation to Thailand is common for serious health emergencies. Ensure that you have accessible funds to cover upfront fees and adequate travel health insurance, including evacuation. Before you depart, check with your insurer about the extent of their coverage in Nepal.
Pharmacies in Nepal are generally privately owned, and in most cases, the patient must pay upfront and out-of-pocket for prescription medicines. Pharmacists are trained but standards of training may not meet international standards.
If you are travelling with medication, check with Nepal’s embassy, consulate, or Ministry of Health for details on medication allowances and restrictions. Note that these sources may provide incomplete or out-of-date information.
Areas outside of major cities typically do not have paved roads. Poor road conditions and weather may pose a danger to drivers. Seat belts are required for the driver of the vehicle only, but should be worn by all passengers at all times. A helmet must be worn while driving a motorcycle in Nepal.