Nepal Travel Safety Checklist: Transport, Guides and Money
Quick answer
Before travelling in Nepal, verify your transport and tour provider, confirm prices and cancellation terms in writing, keep identity-document copies, use authorised currency exchange services and save official emergency contacts. Nepal Police's Tourist Police advice specifically recommends government-registered providers, authorised vehicles and secure document handling.
A practical pre-trip checklist
| Decision | What to verify | Evidence to keep |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Location, check-in, taxes, cancellation terms | Booking confirmation |
| Airport transfer | Pickup identity, vehicle number, agreed fare | Provider details |
| Trekking company | Registration, itinerary, guide and permit obligations | Written itinerary and receipts |
| Currency exchange | Authorised provider and displayed rate | Exchange receipt |
| Travel insurance | Altitude, rescue, exclusions and claim procedure | Policy wording and hotline |
Before booking accommodation
Read the total price rather than only the headline nightly rate. Check whether taxes, breakfast, airport pickup and cancellation charges are included. Confirm the property address and the latest arrival time. For more comparison advice, see our Nepal hotel booking guide.
Choosing a tour or trekking provider
Ask for the company's registered name, a detailed itinerary, the guide arrangement, permit responsibilities and what happens if weather forces a route change. Verify applicable permit and guide rules with the responsible authorities for your specific route. Avoid assuming that one permit or one rule covers every trekking region.
Money and transport safety
Use authorised exchange providers and keep receipts. Ask for a fare or pricing method before starting a ride, note the vehicle number and avoid handing over your passport as a routine deposit. Carry a backup payment method. In busy areas, protect your bag and phone without assuming that every tourist-facing service is unsafe.
Emergency preparation
Save Tourist Police 1144, Police 100 and Traffic Police 103. Share your itinerary with a trusted person. Keep copies of insurance and travel documents accessible offline. If an incident occurs, prioritise safety and official reporting over online arguments.
What about altitude and weather?
Trekking risk depends on route, season, altitude, fitness and weather. Plan acclimatisation, check forecasts and have a credible emergency plan. Do not treat a short itinerary or a company's marketing claim as proof that a route is safe for everyone.
Frequently asked questions
Can I exchange money anywhere?
Nepal Police advises tourists to exchange foreign currency through government-authorised financial institutions. Keep the receipt.
How do I compare travel agencies fairly?
Compare the written scope, registration evidence, total price, refund terms, guide arrangements and genuine firsthand feedback rather than relying on an unsupported “best” ranking. Browse travel agencies for further exploration.
What if my documents are stolen?
Contact police, notify the issuing embassy or consulate and keep the incident report and insurance documentation. See the Tourist Police assistance guide.
Primary source: Nepal Police tourist safety guidance.
Related Ratings Nepal guides
Browse government services, all categories, and recent practical articles. For everyday paperwork and safety, see our driving licence guide. Explore Ratings Nepal to compare relevant providers and share a genuine firsthand experience where reviews are supported.
Editorial note
Reviewed against official public information on 6 November 2026. Procedures, appointment availability and charges can change. Verify details on the relevant government website before travelling or paying.