Security Overview for Nepal

Most foreigners experience few major security issues in Nepal; however, security concerns do exist. While foreigners are rarely targeted for violent crime, there have been reports of criminals holding at gunpoint trekkers in remote locations. Criminals also directly target foreigners for petty crime in cities, as well as more remote locations. Pickpocketing and theft are common incidents in Kathmandu. Minimize your risk by taking common sense precautions and dressing modestly. Women are sometimes subjected to physical and verbal sexual harassment. Avoid unnecessary contact with police and military forces.

Avoid public transportation and unregulated taxis, especially in rural areas, due to safety and security concerns. Instead, use taxis hired through an upscale hotel or a trusted associate, or hire a private car and driver. Overland travel should be conducted by private car and driver and in a convoy of two or more vehicles traveling only during daylight. In addition to poor road conditions, banditry and Maoist rebel activity are concerns for foreigners.

Large-scale demonstrations and strikes (bandhs) occur in Nepal and can bring daily life to a standstill. While these usually occur in the restive Terai region, they can affect those operating in other parts of the country. Demonstrations and strikes may occur with little or no warning. Some general strikes are announced at least a week ahead of time. Those who refuses to observe strikes risk getting attacked. Demonstrators frequently throw rocks at public transportation providers, taxi drivers and others who fail to stay off roads during demonstrations. Roadblocks are common, especially on the Mahendra Highway. Such roadblocks can cause significant disruptions to road travel and supply chains. Avoid all areas where demonstrations and rallies are occurring. Limit movement during any strikes.

Despite a November 2006 peace deal, Maoist groups continue to pose a threat in Nepal. In September 2007, the Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPN-M) withdrew from the eight-party interim government and threatened renewed unrest throughout the country. For the moment, CPN-M leaders and members have opted for peaceful demonstrations. Keep abreast of the security situation in your immediate area; check with local authorities regarding possible curfews and strictly observe them.

Consider traveling outside the Kathmandu Valley by air, especially in western Nepal. Be aware that interruptions in phone service, due to communications infrastructure damage, may make it difficult to communicate and arrange medical evacuations in remote areas. Register with your embassy or consulate prior to arrival and maintain contact throughout your stay. If caught in a potentially dangerous situation, seek shelter in public buildings, hotels or restaurants. Avoid government, police and military installations. Expect increased security and roadblocks during any strikes; closely follow any instructions given by authorities.

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How we determine a country's overall security rating

Each country's current overall risk rating is determined by considering categorical assessments in kidnapping, crime, security services, civil unrest, terrorism and geopolitical stability.

Minimal Threat

Most countries in this category have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with a low rate of unemployment. These countries have overall low rates of crime. Violent crime is almost non-existent. Petty crimes do occur, but are usually limited to petty theft and pick pocketing. Police and military services are trained and trustworthy, but may lack investigative and crime fighting equipment and skills. Strikes and demonstrations are rare and if they occur are usually well planned and managed and rarely spurn violent incidents. There are no known insurgent or terrorist groups.

Low Threat

Most countries in this category will have a stable political infrastructure and economic system with some unemployment. These countries have low crime rates. Violent crimes are rare and usually involve associated persons. Petty crimes such as theft and pick pocketing are a concern and travelers may be directly targeted. Risks can usually be mitigated with simple security measures. Police and military services are well trained and trustworthy but may lack adequate investigative equipment. Incidents of civil unrest such as strikes and demonstrations may disrupt daily life, but are usually non-violent and well coordinated. These countries may experience rare instances of domestic terrorist activity but are not threatened by international terrorism. Anti-government groups may be present but have little or no impact.

Moderate Threat

Most countries in this category will have a somewhat stable political infrastructure and economic system but unemployment and rising inflation cause some instability. These countries have moderate levels of crime. Violent crimes such as sexual assault and murder occur, but few are random incidents. Petty crimes, especially theft or destruction of unattended property, are common. Incidents of armed assault also occur. More threatening crimes are usually limited to urban areas or certain parts of the country. Police and military services may suffer from corruption and lack of training, but are generally adequate for investigations. Strikes and demonstrations can disrupt daily life and may easily spur violence. This country may have a variety of anti-government and domestic terrorist groups that are organized and outspoken against the government and may conduct incidents of violence. Small cells of international terrorist organizations exist but incidents of terrorism are not common.

High Threat

Most countries in the category have unstable political infrastructure and economic system with high rates of unemployment and inflation. Violent and petty crimes are common in most areas and random acts of violence do occur. Some areas may have a general state of lawlessness. Traveling alone, especially at night, should be avoided. There will be a large infiltration of arms in the population. Police and military services lack training and equipment. Both institutions are prone to corruption. Strikes and demonstrations are common and usually violent. Domestic terrorist and insurgent groups are active and well organized. They conduct bombings and other violent acts against government, local and international interests. International terrorist groups exist and may conduct activities within the country and abroad. The country may be involved in cross border warfare.

Extreme Threat

Most countries in this category lack a political infrastructure with any democratic premise and have a high rate of corruption. The economy is unstable with a high rate of unemployment. There is a very high rate of violent and petty crime. A general state of lawlessness exists in most urban and remote areas. Overland travel through the country must be avoided. Many domestic terrorist or rebel groups exist and are frequently active; areas of the country may be controlled by rebel factions. International terrorist operations may be well organized and active. Anti- government actions and large demonstrations are common and violent. Cross border and internal warfare occur.