Flights to and from Kathmandu have been cancelled after the capital\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The unrest began after the government banned 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter). Protesters, largely from Nepal\u2019s Gen Z population, took to the streets carrying national flags and chanting slogans such as \u201cShut down corruption, not social media.\u201d 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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<\/strong>?<\/p>\n\n\n\n The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its Nepal travel advice, urging visitors to avoid all protests and areas of unrest. \u201cProtests 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,\u201d the FCDO confirmed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Kathmandu\u2019s Tribhuvan International Airport\u2014located close to the city centre\u2014has been forced to close due to \u201cadverse conditions within the valley,\u201d with heavy smoke reported near the runway and surrounding airspace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re wondering, is it safe to travel to Nepal<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Passenger rights if your flight is cancelled<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If airlines are unable to arrange care during mass disruptions, travellers may book services independently and later claim costs back, provided they keep receipts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As the FCDO has not issued a \u201cdo not travel\u201d 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\u2019s policies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While many visitors are still asking, is it safe to travel to Nepal<\/strong>, the current Nepal travel advice highlights serious risks. Protests remain volatile, curfews are in place, and flights are suspended until further notice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tip for Travellers:<\/strong> If you\u2019re in Nepal now, register your presence with the UK embassy in Kathmandu<\/strong><\/a>. This helps consular staff reach you quickly in case the situation worsens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises travellers to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The official advice may change quickly, so check the FCDO website regularly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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\u2019s terms. Travel insurance usually only covers cancellations if official government advice changes to \u201cdo not travel.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The most reliable updates come from:<\/p>\n\n\n\n These sources will help you track whether it is safe to travel to Nepal in the coming days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Stay indoors during curfews, avoid large gatherings, and keep emergency contact numbers handy. Contact your embassy (British Embassy Kathmandu<\/a><\/strong>: +977 1 423 7100) for consular support if needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nIs it safe to travel to Nepal right now?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nWhat about flights and airport closures?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nCan I cancel my holiday to Nepal?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nThe bottom line<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nFrequently Asked Questions About What\u2019s Happening in Nepal Right Now<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
1. Is it safe to travel to Nepal right now?<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
2. What is the latest UK Nepal travel advice?<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
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3. Is Kathmandu airport open?<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
4. What should I do if my flight to or from Nepal is cancelled?<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
5. Can I cancel my trip to Nepal and get a refund?<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
6. Are protests only in Kathmandu?<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
7. Will social media work in Nepal now?<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
8. What safety steps should travellers in Nepal take?<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
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9. Is trekking in the Himalayas or visiting Mount Everest affected?<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
10. Where can I find real-time Nepal travel advice?<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
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11. Are tourists being targeted in the protests?<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
12. Can I still move around within Nepal during curfew?<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
13. Will my travel insurance cover me in Nepal?<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n
14. What should I do if I\u2019m already in Nepal and feel unsafe?<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n