Is Nepal A Safe Country to Travel to

Nepal is the country situated between India and China. It is a landlocked area with Indian states on the southern, eastern and western borders. To the north is Tibet, presently, an autonomous region of China. The area of Kathmandu which is also the capital city of Nepal, is documented to be over two-thousand years old. As a result, the Kathmandu Valley has been a World Heritage Site since 1979. Because of the age of the area, and the fact that the country is home to Mount Everest, tourism is an influential component of the Nepalese economy. And, since thousands of travelers are now venturing to Nepal, some might understandably question their personal safety in a foreign and relatively unknown region. Is Nepal a safe country to travel to?

Indeed, there is plenty to see and do in Nepal. Despite its seemingly harsh environment, the country is full of exciting events to attract many visitors. High altitude trekking on Mount Everest is not the only excursion the country promotes. In fact, Nepal offers festivals and shows, elephant rides in the jungle and National Parks, day hikes to see the countryside and early settlements, hot air balloon rides and other air flights to view the beautiful mountains, as well as tours to see the museums, the Gorkha Royal Palace which dates back to 1560, and the Boudhanath Stupa in Bodnath, an ancient place of worship said to be built in the fifth century. Certainly, with so much this country has to offer, and with such an impressive background, one would have to assume that Nepal is no more dangerous than any other tourist-driven country.

As always, before traveling to a foreign country, it is wise to check your own country's government alerts to determine whether there exist any travel advisories. Political uprisings and civil unrest can be hazardous to any vacation, and directly fatal to you and your family. Where Nepal was once concerned with Maoist rebel attacks, the problem does not appear to be an issue at the time of this writing. Nevertheless, full attention should be given to media reports just before entering the country and while visiting Nepal. The four-year United Nations peacekeeping mission (UNMIN) was withdrawn in January 2011. If you do find yourself in an area with demonstrations or crowds, avoid the commotions. When the government orders Kathmandu Valley transportation bans, the Nepal Tourism Board, the Nepal Tourist Police, and the Himalayan Rescue Association do offer shuttle services to help foreigners.

Again, like most other tourist destinations in the world, petty crime does exist. Pick-pocketing is quite prevalent in and around the city of Kathmandu. Tourists are targets because they are known to carry money and other valuables. Avoid problems by being discreet with your belongings. Overly flashy displays of wealth are sure targets. Further, thefts do occur in hotel rooms, at the airports, and on public buses. Keep your valuables such as cameras, laptops, and other electronics close by and in sight. When at the hotel, use safety deposit boxes. Lastly, snatching bags while on bicycles or mopeds has become quite common. Thieves ride up beside tourists and grab the bags before they even have a chance to react.

Moreover, it is foolish to walk about alone at night, and in particular, in areas that are poorly lit or that experience blackouts. This does seem like common sense anywhere you travel, but in Nepal, the government is trying to curb illegal activities. As a result, all bars and restaurants must close at midnight. If you are out and about after these hours, you become prey to the criminals. Also, the police view foreigners suspiciously when found at bars after closing hours. Sexual assault through the use of date rape drugs is coming to the forefront. Women are advised to walk in groups, stay with their groups, and keep their drinks in their hands at all times. Both men and women have been targets of theft at dance clubs.

Despite some troublemakers, the people of Nepal are very friendly toward tourists. They are most welcoming, and often willing to help in any way they can. But, remember to use common sense and politeness. The religious beliefs may be different than your own, and the culture is definitely different. Unintentionally or deliberately offending the residents will cause problems. Before visiting, acquaint yourself with obvious courtesies that are expected such as removing footwear in places of worship, dressing modestly, taking photographs only with permission, and taking or receiving things with the right hand. You want your stay in Nepal to be as enjoyable as possible, so take the necessary steps to communicate amicably with the country's citizens.

Due to the increase of visitors coming to Mount Everest, many illegal trekking companies have cropped up causing the Nepalese government great concern. Furthermore, these groups are dangerous to you in the sense that your life can be in jeopardy when ill trained and inexperienced guides are assigned to you when you make your climb. In addition, incidences of fraud through the sale of empty and/or uncertified oxygen bottles, and taking money while leaving climbers without support have been issues. Consequently, do not pay any support group or trekking agency without first verifying its credentials with the Trekkers Information System, a joint venture of the Trekking Agents Association of Nepal and the Nepal Tourism Board. Also, the new system hopes to stop vulnerable tourists from hiring help on the way up or down the mountain. Everything should be in place in advance of the climb.

Another safety factor to consider when traveling to Nepal is the weather. The monsoon season goes from June until September, and it can be quite hazardous visiting some of the areas outside of the cities. As well, outbreaks of cholera do happen doing this time regardless of the area in which you travel. The government of Nepal does have an active and up-to-date website from where you can review weather information and forecasts.

To conclude, aside from the political issues which have involved the use of bombs and other violent methods, many of the crimes committed in Nepal against foreigners are not unlike other tourist destinations. The point is to act responsibly and remain vigilante in your surroundings. Several countries have embassies in Nepal, and most other countries recommend that your register your plans. Whether climbing the mountain or eating at a restaurant, it is advisable to stay with your group. By familiarizing yourself about the country, its inhabitants, and its culture before you leave home, and by remaining informed while in Nepal, you should have a wonderful stay. Most tourists travel to the country with no hint of trouble whatsoever.