Flights to and from Kathmandu have been cancelled after the capital’s airport was shut down following deadly protests across Nepal. At least 19 people have been killed and around 100 more injured after demonstrators clashed with police in Kathmandu and other cities.
The unrest began after the government banned 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter). Protesters, largely from Nepal’s Gen Z population, took to the streets carrying national flags and chanting slogans such as “Shut down corruption, not social media.” Though the ban was reversed after an emergency cabinet meeting, protests have continued, with demonstrators saying their grievances go far beyond internet freedoms, focusing instead on corruption, nepotism, and political stagnation.
As the situation escalated, tyres were set ablaze, homes of politicians torched, and attempts were made to breach parliament security. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has since resigned, but protests remain widespread in Kathmandu, Biratnagar, Bharatpur, and Pokhara. With events moving quickly, many travellers are asking: is it safe to travel to Nepal?
Is it safe to travel to Nepal right now?
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its Nepal travel advice, urging visitors to avoid all protests and areas of unrest. “Protests are taking place in Kathmandu and elsewhere across the country. There have been violent clashes, with lethal force used by the police. This has led to a number of deaths and injuries,” the FCDO confirmed.
Authorities have introduced curfews in several cities, including Kathmandu and Pokhara. Tourists are being advised to stay away from large gatherings, monitor local media for updates, and follow the guidance of local officials.
While Nepal remains a popular destination for its ancient temples, vibrant markets, and as the gateway to Mount Everest, the FCDO notes that travellers should expect significant disruption. Even though the social media ban has been lifted, connectivity and communications services may remain unstable.
What about flights and airport closures?
Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport—located close to the city centre—has been forced to close due to “adverse conditions within the valley,” with heavy smoke reported near the runway and surrounding airspace.
Earlier this week, several flights were diverted to Indian cities including Lucknow and Delhi. The civil aviation authority has since confirmed the full closure of the airport until further notice. Travellers should expect cancellations and lengthy delays and are advised to contact their airline, hotel, or tour operator before travelling.
If you’re wondering, is it safe to travel to Nepal by air right now, the answer is that all international and domestic flights from Kathmandu are suspended, so journeys will remain heavily affected until the airport reopens.
Passenger rights if your flight is cancelled
Under UK and EU law, passengers are entitled to care and assistance if their flight is cancelled. This includes food, drinks, communication facilities, and accommodation (with transport provided) if a replacement flight is offered the following day.
If airlines are unable to arrange care during mass disruptions, travellers may book services independently and later claim costs back, provided they keep receipts.
Can I cancel my holiday to Nepal?
As the FCDO has not issued a “do not travel” warning, travellers do not automatically qualify for full refunds if they cancel holidays due to safety concerns. Refunds or postponements will depend on your tour operator’s policies.
Travel insurance generally does not cover voluntary cancellations unless the government officially advises against visiting. Those concerned should contact their airline or travel company directly.
The bottom line
While many visitors are still asking, is it safe to travel to Nepal, the current Nepal travel advice highlights serious risks. Protests remain volatile, curfews are in place, and flights are suspended until further notice.
Travellers already in Nepal are encouraged to carry proof of travel plans to move through checkpoints, avoid protest areas, and keep in touch with airlines and tour operators for the latest updates. For those planning future trips, it may be wise to delay travel until the security situation stabilises and Kathmandu airport resumes operations.
Tip for Travellers: If you’re in Nepal now, register your presence with the UK embassy in Kathmandu. This helps consular staff reach you quickly in case the situation worsens.
Frequently Asked Questions About What’s Happening in Nepal Right Now
1. Is it safe to travel to Nepal right now?
Currently, Nepal is experiencing widespread protests and violent clashes following a government social media ban. The UK government has not advised against all travel but has urged visitors to avoid protests, follow curfews, and monitor local media closely. For now, travellers should expect significant disruption and carefully consider whether their trip is essential.
2. What is the latest UK Nepal travel advice?
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises travellers to:
- Avoid protests and large gatherings.
- Follow the guidance of local authorities.
- Expect curfews in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other major cities.
- Be prepared for transport disruptions, including airport closures.
The official advice may change quickly, so check the FCDO website regularly.
3. Is Kathmandu airport open?
No. Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu has been closed due to heavy smoke, security concerns, and unrest in the surrounding area. Several flights have already been diverted to Indian cities such as Delhi and Lucknow. Travellers are advised to contact their airline for rebooking and to confirm when services might resume.
4. What should I do if my flight to or from Nepal is cancelled?
If your flight is cancelled, you are entitled to assistance under UK and EU law. This includes food, drinks, accommodation (if needed), and alternative flights. If airlines cannot provide immediate care due to widespread disruption, you may make your own arrangements and later claim costs with receipts.
5. Can I cancel my trip to Nepal and get a refund?
At present, the FCDO has not advised against travelling to Nepal. This means that airlines and holiday companies are not legally required to offer full refunds. Cancellations or rebooking options will depend on your provider’s terms. Travel insurance usually only covers cancellations if official government advice changes to “do not travel.”
6. Are protests only in Kathmandu?
No. Although demonstrations began in Kathmandu, protests have spread to other cities such as Pokhara, Biratnagar, and Bharatpur. Travellers should expect roadblocks, delays, and heightened police presence in multiple regions.
7. Will social media work in Nepal now?
Yes. The government reversed the ban after an emergency cabinet meeting, and access to platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and X has been restored. However, connectivity may remain unreliable due to government monitoring or technical disruptions.
8. What safety steps should travellers in Nepal take?
- Carry proof of travel plans when moving between locations.
- Avoid protest sites, political buildings, and areas where tyres or property have been set alight.
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy, including your embassy.
- Follow local news updates through trusted media outlets.
- Register your presence with your embassy if possible.
9. Is trekking in the Himalayas or visiting Mount Everest affected?
While the unrest is focused in cities, all trips that pass-through Kathmandu are disrupted due to the airport shutdown. Treks and climbing expeditions may be delayed or cancelled until flights resume and the situation stabilises.
10. Where can I find real-time Nepal travel advice?
The most reliable updates come from:
- The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
- Airlines and tour operators
- The British Embassy in Kathmandu
- Verified local media outlets
These sources will help you track whether it is safe to travel to Nepal in the coming days.
11. Are tourists being targeted in the protests?
No, the protests are directed at government policies and corruption, not foreign visitors. However, tourists may be caught up in violence unintentionally, so avoiding protest sites is essential.
12. Can I still move around within Nepal during curfew?
Yes, but movement is restricted. Tourists are usually allowed to pass through checkpoints if they show proof of travel (such as flight tickets or hotel bookings). Always carry documents with you.
13. Will my travel insurance cover me in Nepal?
Insurance typically remains valid unless the FCDO advises against all travel. However, policies may not cover delays, cancellations, or curfew-related disruptions unless specifically included in your plan. Check with your provider.
14. What should I do if I’m already in Nepal and feel unsafe?
Stay indoors during curfews, avoid large gatherings, and keep emergency contact numbers handy. Contact your embassy (British Embassy Kathmandu: +977 1 423 7100) for consular support if needed.
15. How long will the disruption last?
It’s unclear. While the social media ban was lifted, protesters have vowed to continue until wider political reforms are addressed. This means unrest could continue for weeks. Monitor official Nepal travel advice regularly.
16. Is public transport operating normally?
Public transport is heavily disrupted in Kathmandu and other cities due to roadblocks, curfews, and protest activity. Travellers should not rely on buses or taxis and should coordinate with hotels or tour operators for safer transfers.
17. Can I still book a holiday to Nepal later this year?
It may be wise to wait until the political and security situation stabilises. Airlines and operators are likely to resume services once the airport reopens, but for now, uncertainty remains. Always check the latest Nepal travel advice before booking
Summary Snapshot
| Issue | Details |
| Cause | Social media ban + frustration with corruption, nepotism, and joblessness among youth |
| Casualties | At least 19–22 protesters killed, many injured |
| Government reaction | PM resigned, army deployed, curfew imposed |
| Infrastructure | Parliament and other buildings burned, airport shutdown, flights diverted |
| Leadership | Sudan Gurung (Hami Nepal) emerging as youth movement leader |
| Regional impact | Travel disruptions and concern from India |
Before you finalise your plans, always check the latest travel advisories and local updates to ensure it remains safe to travel to Nepal.
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