Health and Safety - Sali Trekking Archives Health and Safety - Sali Trekking Archives

Health and Safety

Standard vaccinations

Nepal does not officially require any immunizations for entry into the country. Please consult your doctor for recommendations.

Cholera

Cases of cholera have been reported in Kathmandu and seasonal outbreaks across the country are common during the Monsoon season (June to September). To minimize the risk of illness, tourists should eat in restaurants rather than off the street. Avoid drinking unboiled tap water, ice, and raw or undercooked vegetables.

Malaria

Malaria remains relatively rare in the hills and mountains, including the Kathmandu Valley. Most trekkers do not take anti-malaria medicines.

Rabies

Rabies is present in Nepal but there is a minimal risk of exposure. Stay alert around stray animals (including monkeys) and seek immediate medical advice if bitten or scratched.

Diarrhea

Simple things such as a change of water, food or climate can cause a mild bout of diarrhea, but a few rushed toilet trips with no other symptoms are not indicative of a major problem.
Dehydration is the main danger with any diarrhea. A rehydrating solution is preferable to replace lost minerals and salts. You need to drink at least the same volume of fluid that you are losing in bowel movements and vomiting.

Medicines

It is very easy to get a variety of medicines and medical supplies in Kathmandu if needed, but please bring any prescription medicine with you.

Food

Generally, the food is very safe to eat. To minimize risk, choose restaurants that look clean and well run. Wash fresh fruits and vegetables with purified water or peel when possible. When trekking, stick to a vegetarian diet since the meat can be questionable in the remote areas.

Water

The number-one rule is be careful of the water and especially ice. If you don’t know for certain that the water is safe you should not drink it. Bottled water is best and if not available, you should boil your own water or treat it with water purification tablets. In Nepal’s higher altitude areas water boils at a lower temperature and germs are less likely to be killed, so make sure you boil water for at least 10 minutes.

Safety

Nepal is a remarkably safe country. Currently, the political situation is stable. Scamming can be common in tourist areas. Most commonly it is people asking for money in exchange for a picture or children asking you to buy them something and then returning it for a commission. It is best not to give money to beggars. Theft is not as common as in many other countries, but it happens occasionally. Keep an eye on your bags and make them as theft-proof as possible. Try not to store your money and valuables in your hotel room. Do not trek alone. It is safe to travel as a solo female. Generally is it best practice to wear conservative clothing. Sexual harassment does exist, but it is low-key.