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

4.1 /5

Based on 5 experiences from female travelers

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

Kathmandu is currently ranked #3 safest place in Nepal for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 4.1 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Kathmandu?

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.

Is Kathmandu worth visiting?

Overall rating

4 /5

based on 5 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.2/5

Safety

4.1/5

Food

3.9/5

Budget-friendly

3.3/5

Andrea

Australia

Solo travel

I spent a week in Kathmandu. I felt super safe the whole time I was there. One of my favourite activities was to walk through the streets just enjoying being one of the crowd. The city was very dusty but the people were very friendly. One fantastic experience I had was in my search for a kushti I stopped in this little shop which was about as big as a cupboard. The young man tending the store was super helpful - he unwrapped everyone one of the mountains of packages to find me a kushti that was suitable before introducing me to his sister and sharing tea. My only regret from Kathmandu was not taking advantage of an App that enables you to hire a motorbike to take you around. A wonderful place to visit

Posted: August 14, 2024

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Marina

France

Solo travel

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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Solo travel

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

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Solo travel

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

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Solo travel

Nepal is amazing, but Kathmandu can be a bit overwhelming at first. My advice is don't let anyone help you with your luggage or put it on a luggage cart at the airport. This is a well-known scam. My guide told me that most of the people who do this are not even airport employees.

Posted: June 12, 2023

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Is Kathmandu safe for women?

Kathmandu is pretty safe for a woman traveling solo. The people are really kind and helpful. However, after dark, it might be risky to travel in a few places so I would suggest taking caution. However during day, it’s pretty safe all over Kathmandu, the people don’t make you uncomfortable.

Posted: October 21, 2024

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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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