Health Guidelines for Nepal

*After the COVID outbreak, the health guidelines of Nepal also changed. You need to show your health report stating that you are fully vaccinated. Or, you need to show your PCR test results prior of 72 hours before your boarding. You can see more recent health guidelines on the official website of the Nepal Tourism Board.

Besides that, no specific vaccinations are needed to enter Nepal. However, visitors should ensure they are vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, typhoid fever, rabies, and Japanese encephalitis. Meningitis A/C shows up frequently during the winter months.

If you are traveling through the Terai region, malaria is a concern during the monsoon season. Be careful to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes at dawn and dusk. Wear long pants, socks, and shoes, and sleep under a mosquito net whenever possible.

The most common illness suffered by travelers to Nepal is a stomach ache due to consuming contaminated food or water. Never drink water or ice if you aren’t sure it has been purified. Bottled water is available everywhere. Many visitors choose to avoid eating dairy products or unpeeled fruit. Meat is delicate as long as it’s been thoroughly cooked. Washing your hands often is another good precaution while traveling around Nepal.

Trekkers have a different set of health risks to be concerned about. Altitude sickness is a common ailment above 2,500 meters if you ascend too quickly. Headaches and nausea are the first indications of this disorder. It’s easily avoided getting altitude sickness by taking your time as you gain elevation to let your body adjust.

Also, be sure to wear plenty of sunscreens, a hat, and sunglasses when trekking at altitude. The sun in the Himalayas is extremely strong. Drink plenty of water while trekking, even if it’s cold and you don’t feel thirsty.

The local pharmacies are the best places to seek treatment for minor illnesses like a bad stomach. There is decent service at Pokhara’s Western Regional Hospital and Manipal Hospital, Tansen’s Mission Hospital, and Lagankhel’s Patan Hospital.

Healthcare standards are not up to international standards, and those with serious ailments should head home or to neighboring India. Buying travel insurance for your visit to Nepal is highly suggested. Travel insurance will cover the costs of any medical care or expensive helicopter evacuations from the mountains.

Kathmandu Medical Hospital: +977 1 4240805