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Nepal Health Care and Vaccinations
| Title | Special precautions |
|---|---|
| Diphtheria |
Yes |
| Hepatitis A |
Yes |
| Malaria |
Sometimes |
| Rabies |
Sometimes |
| Tetanus |
Yes |
| Yellow Fever |
No* |
| Typhoid |
Yes |
Healthcare facilities in Nepal vary widely in quality. Major cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara have private hospitals and clinics that offer acceptable standards of care for routine issues, while rural and mountain areas have only basic medical posts with limited equipment. Travellers should always have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, as serious cases may require treatment in a neighbouring country. Pharmacies are easy to find in urban areas, and many common medications can be purchased over the counter, but visitors should bring enough of any regular prescriptions, as brands may differ and availability is not guaranteed. Carrying a copy of your prescription is recommended, especially for controlled medications.
Tap water in Nepal is not safe to drink. Visitors should use bottled, filtered or properly boiled water for drinking and brushing teeth. When buying bottled water, ensure the seal is intact. Fresh fruit juices, ice cubes and salads should be approached with caution unless you are confident in the hygiene standards of the establishment. Dairy products can vary in quality; yoghurt (curd) is generally safe and widely enjoyed, but milk and soft cheeses may not always be pasteurised. For food, it is advisable to choose busy, reputable restaurants and to avoid undercooked meat or uncooked street food. Taking these precautions will help reduce the risk of stomach upsets.
Visitors travelling to higher elevations in Nepal should be aware of the risk of altitude sickness, which can affect anyone regardless of fitness level. Symptoms often begin above 2,500m and include headache, nausea and fatigue. Ascend gradually, stay hydrated and allow time for acclimatisation; if symptoms worsen, descend immediately. Trekking routes can also pose risks such as landslides, rockfalls and sudden weather changes, particularly during the monsoon. In urban areas, road traffic can be chaotic, and air pollution may be noticeable at times. Taking sensible precautions and following local advice will help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
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