Is Kathmandu Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Kathmandu is generally safe for solo female travelers. However, it's recommended to exercise standard caution. Unwanted attention or persistent advances are sometimes reported in crowded areas. Always keep your belongings secure and avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas. Like in many countries, it's important to respect local culture to avoid any potential problems. Local people are usually very helpful towards tourists. Lastly, female travelers are advised to dress modestly in Kathmandu to respect local culture.

Safety rating

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Safety index

Safety at night:Moderate

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, does not have high crime rates, but safety can be relative. Standard precautions should be followed especially at night. As a solo woman traveler, it is advisable to steer clear of lonely paths and alleyways after dark. Use trusted taxis for night-time transportation. Most localities are generally safe, however, petty crimes like pickpocketing can happen, so always keep your possessions close and be aware of your surrounding. It's always a good idea to follow local advice regarding safety.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Kathmandu is generally reliable and frequently used by locals and tourists alike. Buses and micro vans are the most commonly-used forms of transportation. However, they can be quite crowded, especially during rush hours. This can sometimes pose safety concerns like theft or harassment. The drivers also tend to drive quite aggressively, which might be uncomfortable for some. It is recommended to stay alert, keep your belongings secure and avoid traveling during peak hours if possible.

Street harassment:Low

Kathmandu, as the capital of Nepal is relatively safe with respect to street harassment. Compared to other cities globally, harassment level is low. The locals are generally friendly and respectful towards women. However, like any place, occasional stares, comments or unsolicited attention can occur. The main concern is usually crowded places like public transportation. Dressing modestly can help in blending in with the locals and respecting their culture. Always be alert and aware of your surroundings for your own safety.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Despite being a fairly safe city overall, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can be problematic in crowded areas of Kathmandu, especially in tourist-heavy places and public transportation. It is important to remain vigilant, keep your belongings secure and avoid showing off valuable items in public.

Tap water:Very unsafe

Drinking tap water in Kathmandu is not recommended due to high risk of contamination. It is advised to drink bottled water, or purify the tap water by boiling or using water purification tablets.

Is Kathmandu safe to travel?

4 /5

Based on 4 experiences

Marina

Marina (29)

France

Solo travel experience

Good experience in Kathmandu ! The city is safe, really cheap for a solo traveler. The hostel were about 3e per night with a breakfast included sometimes. The city is a bit busy, crowded and with a lot of animations so it can feel a bit weird when arriving for the first time there. It is a good place to connect to Pokhara or other cities in Nepal to go trekking or go on a safari.

Posted: February 21, 2024Experienced: October, 2023
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Is Kathmandu safe for women?

It is safe during day time but few cancelling can happen but at night in quiet areas it's a bit worrisome but I do feel safe walking alone and using the transport alone as well Nepal is a conservative country so helps when you dress more modestly

Posted: February 22, 2024
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Is Kathmandu safe right now?

Before your visit to Kathmandu, it's essential to check travel advisories for Nepal, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The United States Government advises exercising increased caution in Nepal due to the potential for isolated political violence. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: December 18, 2023
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Nepal, due to the country's fragile political and security situation. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 5, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Nepal due to the risk of civil unrest and natural disasters. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 12, 2023

Is Kathmandu worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.8 /5

based on 4 experiences

Solo travel experience

Nepal is absolutely magical. I was in Kathmandu three years ago and I loved strolling around Durbar Squares during sunset, when vendors appeared on the streets and places came alive. Patan Durbar Square is my personal favourite; cardamom-spiced chai is a must-try there. Otherwise, my friends took me to the ancient capital of Bhaktapur during a one-day trip from Kathmandu - which I also highly recommend.

Posted: June 20, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I was in Nepal for my trek to the base of Mount Everest. I highly recommend doing some kind of guided city tour. Some of the main places are quite far from each other and it was really nice to have a driver and guide.

Posted: June 16, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Meet locals in Kathmandu

Meet local women in Kathmandu who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Prasun

Prasun

About Me

Dance lover, communication professional, lawyer graduate, handicrafts and jewellery designer, mom, multipotentialite, beautiful, sexy, confident, badass, amateur boxer, no nonsense strong independent woman!!

Speaking

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Pratistha

Pratistha

About Me

I'm going on my 1st ever solo trip and want to make friends

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Kathmandu

Stay with local women in Kathmandu who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Janaka

Janaka

Kathmandu

Can host for:

7 days

About me

My name is janaka rana .I am registered nurse and tour operater .I can organize trekking ,tour and everything .

Speaking

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Mia

Mia

Kathmandu

Can host for:

2 days

About me

Hey everyone ! Namaste ! I am a French girl living in Kathmandu since 1 month and I will stay here for at least 9 more months. I am living with my boyfriend and we have one extra room where we can welcome guest (if we are not on a trip !). I'm interested in trekking, hiking, rock climbing, discovering new culture, but also animals, backpacking, books, camping, culture, food & cuisine, photography, nature, solo travel, languages...

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Safety in Nepal