Following recent protests and violence in Nepal, the U.S. Department of State has updated its travel advisory, urging U.S. citizens to reconsider travel to Nepal. The advisory was updated after demonstrations on September 8 and 9, 2025, turned violent, raising the travel advisory from Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution) to Level 3 (Reconsider Travel). A Level 4 advisory indicates a complete travel ban.
The advisory cites civil unrest (U), noting that the protests caused deaths and injuries, with the potential for further demonstrations and curfews with little warning. U.S. citizens are advised to follow local authorities’ instructions, avoid areas with protests or large gatherings, and check with hotels, airlines, or tour operators for updates before traveling. Confirming travel plans with airlines before heading to the airport is also recommended.
The advisory highlights Nepal’s limited capacity to respond to emergencies, potential delays in services, and reports of fires at some hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara during the unrest. Travelers are urged to prepare for emergencies without relying on U.S. government assistance, monitor local media, be ready to adjust plans, evacuate hotels on short notice, and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates from the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
First-time or frequent travelers to Nepal are advised to use an international travel checklist, purchase travel insurance, and verify coverage for evacuation, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations. Historically, Nepal has typically been under a Level 2 advisory, except during the COVID-19 pandemic. Previous advisories, including those on December 18, 2023, and December 18, 2024, have noted the potential for political violence, as peaceful protests can escalate, and Nepali authorities may use force.
An advisory with a “U” (Unrest) risk indicator is issued for ongoing unrest, political, economic, religious, or ethnic instability that could lead to violence or significant disruptions. The “E” (Time-limited Event) risk indicator applies to short-term events like elections or sports events.
The U.S. issues four advisory levels: Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions), Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution), Level 3 (Reconsider Travel), and Level 4 (Do Not Travel). Countries under Level 4 include Afghanistan, Belarus, Burma, Gaza, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, Mali, North Korea, Russia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, Venezuela, and Yemen.
Level 3 countries include Bangladesh, Burundi, Chad, Colombia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Guatemala, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Honduras, Israel, Jerusalem, Mauritania, New Caledonia, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Trinidad and Tobago, Uganda, and the West Bank.
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Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
