The country is embroiled in unrest after demonstrations turned deadly.
Widespread protests erupted in Nepal earlier this week, led by Gen Z demonstrators. In Kathmandu, police opened fire on young protesters, killing 19 people, which led to more unrest that spread rapidly across the country. In the aftermath, several politicians have fled, the prime minister has resigned, and a curfew has been imposed. If you are in Nepal, follow local advisories and shelter in place. The airport, which was previously closed, is now operational, but flights may still be disrupted. If you have an upcoming trip, check with your hotel and travel company about cancellations and refunds.
What’s Happening in Nepal?
Earlier this week, anti-corruption protests escalated in Nepal after police clashed with demonstrators and killed young students. Tensions rose after the government announced a social media ban affecting more than 26 platforms, including Facebook and WhatsApp, due to their failure to register with the country’s Ministry of Communication and Information Technology. Gen Z came to the streets to express anger and frustration with the government, not only over the ban but also over corruption.
In preceding weeks, Nepal witnessed a social media campaign exposing the lavish lifestyles of wealthy politicians’ children and alleging corruption and mismanagement of funds. Labeled as “nepo kid,” they were shamed online for displays of affluence while the country struggled with unemployment and economic instability.
On Monday, police used aggressive force on young protesters, deploying water cannons, tear gas, and live ammunition, killing at least 19. This provoked outrage nationwide, and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned. The ban was lifted, but more joined the movement, fueled by anger over the deaths of protesters.
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In Kathmandu, many ministers’ homes were torched, the parliament building was set on fire, and the Supreme Court was burned. The death toll has risen to more than 30, with thousands injured. The turmoil quickly turned more violent, with incidents of arson and looting. Amid the chaos, more than 13,000 inmates overpowered security and broke out of jails nationwide.
The army is now taking charge to stabilize the situation, while President Ramchandra Paudel has invited young protesters for talks and called for peace. Members of other political parties have also urged calm. Nationwide curfews remain in place, and countries have asked their citizens to shelter in place and follow local advisories.
What About Travel?
Nepal is a popular travel destination, with Kathmandu as the launch point for the famous Everest trek. For now, tour operators have canceled tours and treks, and an order to shelter in place is in effect.
When the protests began, the airport was shut down, and airlines canceled flights to and from Nepal. In Kathmandu, Nepal’s tallest hotel, Hilton Kathmandu, was set on fire; all that remains of the 64-meter (209-foot) property is a charred structure. Many countries have advised against travel given the current situation.
India urged its citizens to avoid unnecessary travel. Indian airlines are now operating flights to bring back citizens after the Kathmandu airport resumed operations, while India also monitors its border regions with Nepal.
Singapore has advised against nonessential travel to Nepal and urged those in the country to “monitor the local news closely and heed the instructions of local authorities.” Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong tweeted that the country’s travel advisory for Nepal is now “reconsider your need to travel.” “Australians already in Nepal should shelter in place and follow the advice of local authorities.”
The U.K. has cautioned about protests and curfews, but the Foreign Office has not explicitly discouraged travel to Nepal. As of press time, the U.S. State Department is maintaining a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution advisory for Nepal, which was issued in December. However, the U.S. Embassy in Nepal advised American citizens to honor curfews from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. “Domestic and international tourists with valid air tickets will be allowed to travel to the airport during prohibited times. The Nepali Army has provided a support line at +977 01-597-9224 if you need any assistance while transiting to the airport.”
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