Travel Report for Nepal

Country Profile for
Nepal

TRAVEL REPORTS:

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TRAVEL REPORT

Last Updated: December 6, 2006 14:51 EST
Still Valid: December 8, 2006 22:40 EST

Nepal

1.	INTRODUCTION
2.	ATTENTION
3.	SAFETY AND SECURITY
4.	LOCAL TRAVEL
5.	NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE
6.	LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
7.	ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD
8.	ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS
9.	MONEY

10.	GENERAL INFORMATION
11.	TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM
12.	ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
13.	RETURNING TO CANADA
14.	INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS
15.	TRAVEL TIPS
16.	HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE
17.	FOR MORE INFORMATION
18.	ANNEX

1. INTRODUCTION

Section 2 of this Travel Report has been updated.

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2. ATTENTION

You should evaluate carefully the implications for your security and safety before deciding to travel to

Nepal

. Canadians in

Nepal

should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times. Following an intense period of unrest and armed conflict, the political and security situation remains fragile and volatile. Avoid large gatherings and demonstrations and carefully monitor events both in

Nepal

and throughout the region.

On April 24, 2006, the King reinstated the lower house of parliament, ending weeks of civil unrest. On April 27, a new Prime Minister was appointed. An interim government was formed and preliminary steps taken towards a peaceful resolution to the armed conflict. The interim government announced an indefinite ceasefire on May 3, 2006. The Maoist insurgents announced a 3-month cease-fire which was later extended to a further 3-month period. On October 29, 2006 the CPN-Maoist declared a further extension on their ceasefire by another three months, subsequently extending it to the end of January 2007.

A comprehensive peace agreement was signed between the Government of Nepal and the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) on November 21, 2006 and significant progress towards sustainable peace continues to be made. As a result, the overall security situation has improved however; travellers should be aware that the security situation remains uncertain and could deteriorate quickly with little or no advanced notice.

Political meetings and rallies are being organized by various parties throughout the country. Activists continue to stage demonstrations in Kathmandu from time to time, aiming to pressure the interim government to deliver on early commitments. Sporadic incidents of politically motivated violence may continue to occur throughout the country.

Maoist armed militia forces remain present in nearly all districts. Prior to the ceasefire, armed clashes between the Maoists and the Royal Nepal Army occurred frequently throughout the countryside, including popular trekking areas. The danger of being in the wrong place at the wrong time is always present. The situation could deteriorate rapidly without notice.

Road transport has often been disturbed by strikes or military activities. Landmines and improvised explosive devices (IED) also pose a risk. Canadians who choose to travel in the countryside should be prepared for sudden delays and closures and should steer clear of military installations.

Canadians should respect the restrictions imposed by curfews and general strikes (bandhs), which may occur on short notice throughout the country. Army and police checkpoints are frequently encountered, especially at night.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians who choose to travel to this country despite this warning should register with the responsible Canadian government office. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The Maoist insurgency, which began in 1996 has caused instability, violence, and widespread disruption across the country, including armed robberies, ransacking and destruction of premises, and threats. Army patrols and other government targets have come under attack, as has infrastructure, including telecommunications facilities in several areas frequented by tourists. Roads and bridges have been bombed. Some remote airports and power and water supplies have been targeted. Attacks are not directed at tourists or foreigners, but there have been sporadic armed robberies of climbing expeditions, trekking groups, and tourist hotels. Some field offices of international non-governmental organizations have been targeted and burned. More than 13,000 people have been killed in the country since the 1996 insurgency.Petty theft is common, especially near tourist sites, on buses, and in hotel rooms. Do not leave personal belongings unattended. Travellers should exercise extreme caution in and around Kathmandu and other cities. Canadians should take particular care when walking around Thamel, a popular tourist spot in Kathmandu, where pickpocketing is common. Do not travel after dark. Women are vulnerable to harassment and verbal abuse. Conservative dress is recommended, particularly in remote areas. Since October 2005, three unaccompanied women tourists have gone missing. The first two cases occured in the Nagarjun Forest Reserve outside Kathmandu. The third case involves a trekker last heard from when visiting Khumbu, in the Everest region. You are advised not to travel alone and to use caution while in these areas.

Demonstrations and general strikes (bandhs) are popular forms of political expression and occur on short notice. Many businesses close and transportation services are disrupted. Travellers should avoid road travel outside the Kathmandu Valley and urban centres on public buses during or immediately preceding bandhs. Tourists have been injured. Those planning air travel to or from Nepal during scheduled bandhs should be aware that transportation to and from airports throughout Nepal could be affected. Bandhs are usually peaceful but can erupt into riots and violence.

Many trekking routes are seriously affected by the Maoist insurgency. Some are no longer safe for travel due to escalating problems with the Maoists. There have been incidents where trekkers and climbers have been stopped by Maoists and asked for money, threatened or injured before being allowed to continue on their journey. Canadians should exercise caution and remain calm if they are asked for "donations." Canadians are requested to report any incidents to the Canadian Cooperation Office in Kathmandu. Trekkers should be aware that emergency services such as evacuations and rescues from remote areas have been compromised by Maoist attacks on helicopters and airfields and the destruction of regular phone service in most trekking areas. Travellers should check with their trekking agency as to the security situation in the area.

Mountain trekkers should not travel alone but with recognized groups and organizations. Several Canadians have had fatal accidents while trekking. Many popular trekking trails exceed 5,500 metres (18,000 feet). Trekkers may experience acute mountain sickness at high altitudes and should be well informed on possible hazards in the high mountains. Whitewater rafting excursions should be organized through reputable agencies only. Canadians intending to trek in Nepal are strongly advised to:

a) never trek alone;
b) always hire an experienced guide and ensure the trekking company is reputable;
c) buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation services;
d) be in top physical condition;
e) be familiar with the symptoms of acute mountain sickness (which can be fatal);
f) ensure someone (family member or friend) is informed of your itinerary;
g) register with the Canadian Cooperation Office in Kathmandu;
h) obtain detailed information on the trekking routes before setting out; and
i) check in at police posts during the trek, so that the trekking permits and your progress can be logged and you can be traced in an emergency.

Trekking permits may be obtained from the Immigration Office after arrival in Kathmandu or Pokhara. Trekking permits are no longer required for treks along the most popular trekking routes in the Everest, Annapurna, and Langtan regions.

Before leaving Kathmandu, trekkers can check with the Himalayan Rescue Association for information about trail conditions and possible hazards in the high country.

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4. LOCAL TRAVEL

Traffic drives on the left. Exercise caution when travelling by road. Driving standards are poor. Traffic laws are not enforced. Drivers do not yield right-of-way to pedestrians. Many mountain and hill roads, which can be hazardous even in the best weather, are impassable during the monsoon season due to landslides. Traffic is congested in the Kathmandu Valley. Long-distance buses are often poorly maintained. Accidents are common. Travel at night and on overnight buses should be avoided.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

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5. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Nepal is located in an active seismic zone. Canadians should know the address and telephone number of the Canadian High Commission in New Delhi, India (see below), in the event of an emergency. Nepal's last major earthquake was in 1934; there was also a minor quake in 1988.

The monsoon season extends from June to September. Landslides affect Nepal during the monsoon season, and flooding may also occur. Both can cause major disruption to travel during the summer. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly. Concerns have been raised about the potential for glacial lake flooding during the monsoon season, particularly in the Dolakha district of central Nepal.

See our Current Issues page for information on typhoons and monsoons.

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6. LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 7 below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The Department publishes A Guide for Canadians Imprisoned Abroad, specifically targeted at incarcerated Canadians. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian detainees, their families, and friends about available assistance and advice.

Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs may result in jail sentences and heavy fines. Convicted offenders can face life imprisonment.

Women should dress conservatively in public.

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7. ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Nepal - KATHMANDU, Cooperation Office of Canada
Address: N/A
Postal Address: P.O. Box 4574, Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Nepal
Tel.: 977 (1) 4415-193, -389, -391, -861, 4426-885, 4425-669
Fax: 977 (1) 4410-422
E-mail: cco@canadanepal.org
Internet: http://www.cconepal.org.np

The High Commission of Canada in New Delhi, India, has consular responsibility for Nepal. The address is as follows:

India - NEW DELHI, High Commission of Canada
Address: 7/8 Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021, India
Postal Address: P.O. Box 5207, New Delhi 110021, India
Tel.: 91 (11) 4178-2000
Fax: 91 (11) 4178-2023
E-mail: delhi.consular@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.international.gc.ca/New-delhi

For emergency assistance after hours, call the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi, India, and follow the instructions. You may also make a collect call to the Department in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

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8. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the authorities of Nepal and, to the best of our knowledge, was valid on January 16, 2006. However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change.

It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the country or countries to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

Foreign Affairs Canada’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the Embassy of the Kingdom of Nepal and its consulates, where you can obtain further information on entry and exit requirements.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Nepal. Passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Nepal. Canadians must also be in possession of a tourist visa. Tourist visas may be purchased in advance or upon arrival at the Kathmandu airport. You will need to supply a recent photo.

Tourist Visa: Required
Business Visa: Required (only issued in Nepal)
Student Visa: Required (tourist visa will be issued)

An airport tax is charged upon departure.

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Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify visa requirements for this and other countries, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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9. MONEY

The currency is the Nepalese rupee. Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted worldwide. Any amount over US$2,000 in cash (or equivalent in foreign currencies) must be declared at customs upon arrival in Nepal. Failure to do so may result in detention. ATMs in Kathmandu are unreliable.

Check with your bank for information on ATM services in other countries. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ATMs around the world. Your bank can advise if you need a new personal identification number (PIN) for overseas access to your account. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ATMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. GENERAL INFORMATION

Nepal (capital: Kathmandu) is located in south Asia, between China and India. The official language is Nepali. Tourists facilities are widely available.

Travel to Tibet, an autonomous region of China, is permitted only with an organized tour group. Permits may be issued by the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu.Canadians planning to travel to Tibet from Nepal should contact the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Nepal for current regulations for entry into Tibet.

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11. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Medicine Program Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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12. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

The CIWEC Clinic, a private medical clinic in Kathmandu, provides a Web site travellers may consult.

Medical treatment can be expensive at the few Western-style travellers' clinics. Health care is poor in most places outside the Kathmandu Valley and Pokhara. Canadian travellers should carry medical and first aid kits. Medical evacuations to Singapore, Bangkok or New Delhi are often required for serious conditions.

Trekkers may experience acute mountain sickness (AMS) at high altitudes. AMS can be deadly. Canadians should carry travel and health insurance. Insurance should include provision for helicopter rescue, medical evacuation, and treatment for accidental injury and medical
emergencies.

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13. RETURNING TO CANADA

Please consult the Current Issue on returning to Canada.

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14. INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS

Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child from another country, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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15. TRAVEL TIPS

Please consult our Traveller's Checklist.

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16. HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE

Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

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17. FOR MORE INFORMATION

N/A

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18. ANNEX

N/A

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