Travel Vaccines and Advice for Nepal
Nepal is known for its mountains. It contains eight of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest. Nepal also has the distinction of being the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism. It is a land of breathtaking views, rich culture, and deep history.
Some of the most popular destinations for tourists in Nepal are the medieval cities. Here, visitors can join Buddhist pilgrims from Tibet for a trek around places of worship that dot the Himalayas.
Nepal is also home to dense jungles, which can be crossed on the back of elephants. Beneath the thick layers of undergrowth; rhinos, tigers, and other creatures roam uninhibited.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Nepal?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Nepal
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Nepal?
What Is the Climate Like in Nepal?
How Safe Is Nepal?
Trekking in Nepal
What Should I Take to Nepal?
Canadian Embassy in Nepal
Do I Need Vaccines for Nepal?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Nepal. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Nepal: typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Cholera –
Food & Water –
Although rare in Nepal, cholera is present. Vaccination is recommended for those travelling to areas with active transmission. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Proof of polio vaccination is required. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Japanese Encephalitis –
Mosquito –
Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travellers, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Found in southern lowlands, is also in Kathmandu valley. Most common June to October. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Nepal |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Cholera | Food & Water | Although rare in Nepal, cholera is present. Vaccination is recommended for those travelling to areas with active transmission. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Proof of polio vaccination is required. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Japanese Encephalitis | Mosquito | Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. May be given to short- and extended-stay travellers, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Found in southern lowlands, is also in Kathmandu valley. Most common June to October. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Nepal |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Typhoid, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is primarily transmitted through tainted food and water. Protection against this disease involves vaccination combined with good hygiene and careful food consumption.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spreading through contaminated food or water. Symptoms include jaundice, fatigue, and abdominal pain. The hepatitis A vaccine is an effective prevention method, administered in two shots over six months. The vaccine is recommended for travellers to areas with high hepatitis A rates and certain high-risk groups.
- Japanese Encephalitis – Japanese encephalitis is a viral brain infection spread by mosquito bites. It is most common in rural Asia and the Western Pacific. The Japanese encephalitis vaccine, administered through injections, provides effective immunity against this virus. It’s recommended for long-term travellers and residents in high-risk areas, especially during transmission seasons.
- Rabies – Rabies is a deadly viral illness transmitted mainly through animal bites. Vaccination is pivotal, with pre-exposure and post-exposure options available to protect against this potentially fatal disease.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, a liver infection spread through bodily fluids, poses a significant health risk. Safe practices help, but vaccination is the ultimate safeguard. It prompts the immune system to produce antibodies, ensuring strong and persistent protection.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious diseases with potentially severe consequences. Preventing their transmission is possible through vaccination with the MMR vaccine. This two-dose vaccine not only safeguards individuals but also helps create herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks within communities.
Malaria in Nepal
Antimalarials are recommended for travellers to all regions of Nepal under 2,000 metres elevation. Kathmandu has no malaria transmission. Chloroquine resistance is present in the country. Atovaquone, doxycycline, mefloquine and tafenoquine are suggested as antimalarials if travelling to the region. Consult with a travel health specialist on which antimalarial will best fit your needs.
Japanese encephalitis vaccination is recommended for individuals staying in rural areas, hiking or camping. Individuals staying longer than one month should also consider vaccination.
Mosquito-borne illnesses including malaria, are a concern in certain parts of Nepal. The disease is present in areas of the country with altitudes less than 2,000 metres. Speak with a travel health specialist about antimalarials and your itinerary.
Nepal’s healthcare system is considered poor by international standards. Thousands of Nepalese die every year from communicable disease. Be sure to bring your own medical supplies, and be cautious when travelling in high risk areas.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Nepal
Prevent Bug Bites in Nepal
Guard against bug bites by wearing appropriate clothing and applying repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE. When bitten, clean the area, resist scratching, and relieve itching with over-the-counter solutions. In severe cases, promptly seek medical assistance.
Food and Water Safety in Nepal
When abroad, ensure food safety by avoiding street vendors, practicing hand hygiene, and opting for thoroughly cooked dishes. Choose bottled or canned drinks with intact seals. To prevent travellers’ diarrhea, maintain hand hygiene, avoid raw foods, and dine at trustworthy restaurants.
Altitude Sickness in Nepal
Altitude sickness, triggered by low oxygen levels at high elevations, presents with symptoms such as headache and fatigue. Avoiding AMS involves gradual ascent, hydration, and possibly using medications like acetazolamide. If AMS symptoms emerge, swift descent to lower altitudes, rest and medical attention are imperative.
Infections To Be Aware of in Nepal
- Avian/Bird Flu – Avian flu, a highly contagious virus, can infect both birds and humans. Prevention strategies include vaccinating poultry, implementing robust biosecurity measures, ensuring safe poultry handling and cooking, monitoring for outbreaks, and educating the public about the risks.
- Dengue – Aedes mosquitoes spread dengue to millions globally, prevention is the best defense. The disease can strike multiple times due to its four strains, underscoring the need for mosquito bite prevention like netting and repellents.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis is transmitted by sand flies’ bites. To prevent its spread, individuals should use insect repellents, wear long-sleeved clothing and limit outdoor activities during sand fly activity periods. Eliminating breeding sites and early diagnosis are crucial for effective prevention.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Nepal?
The Kingdom of Nepal requires all visitors have a visa. These visas are usually obtained upon arrival at the airport. Canadians are able to purchase a visa which allows them to stay up to 15, 30, or 90 days. These visas range from $25 to $100 USD.
Nepal Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Nepal? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
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| Tourist Visa | |
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| Business Visa | |
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| Vaccinations | |
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Sources: Embassy of Nepal and Canadian Travel and Tourism
A tourist visa can be purchased on arrival, but it is best to obtain your visa before leaving for your trip. This will help you avoid many potential problems as you enter Nepal.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in Nepal?
Nepal has four distinct seasons throughout the year. Its weather is affected by maritime and continental forces.
March to May is spring, with temperatures averaging at about 20 degrees.
From June to August is the monsoon season. This time has heavy rains and temperatures that can reach 30 degrees on very hot days.
From September to November, the weather is cool and the skies are cloudless. Because of the heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, this time is usually in bloom and quite a sight to see. Temperatures can go as high as 25 degrees, although it cools off at night.
From December to February, temperatures can drop below freezing degrees at night, and mountaintops are covered in snow.
How Safe Is Nepal?
The locals in Nepal are known for being very friendly and helpful towards travellers. The crime rate is low. But, keep an eye on your belongings and be on the lookout for pickpockets and other petty thieves.
It is generally fine to walk around at night. Exercise caution when doing so, especially in urban areas.
Refrain from hiking by yourself. There has been a history of solo hikers disappearing or being found murdered, especially in Langtang.
It is best to avoid public transportation when travelling through the mountains. Buses and trains in Nepal are notoriously dangerous. Avoid air travel within the country too, especially from Lukla, which is the most dangerous airport in the world.
Stay away from large public gatherings of political protest.
Trekking in Nepal
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
Trekking is by far one of Nepal’s most popular attractions bringing over 100,000 people each year. If you are new to trekking or not very experienced stick to what is known as “Tea House Trekking”.
Trekkers using this method take advantage of tea houses along well-traveled paths. These houses are lodges that offer showers, beer, and food. Utilizing these places means less to carry on your back, as you will not need a tent or other supplies.
If you are planning on staying in Nepal for at least a month, be sure to check out the Annapurna circuit. The circuit is a 2-3 week trek around the Annapurna mountains. During the trek you explore many famous Nepalese regions.
What Should I Take to Nepal?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Nepal:
- Medical Supplies – Be sure to bring medical supplies with you, especially anti-diarrheal and anti-dehydration medicines.
- Light Clothing – Bring breathable clothing that you would be comfortable trekking in.
- Boots – Essential for trekking the mountain terrain.
- Winter Clothing – If you are planning on travelling to Nepal during the winter and exploring the higher altitudes.
Pack light, as more likely than not, you will be mostly on the move during your time in Nepal.
Canadian Embassy in Nepal
Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Czechia, the information for the Canadian consulate is:
Canadian Consulate Kathmandu
Kaldhara Marg 20356, Khusibu,
Kathmandu, Nepal
Telephone: +977 1 4387910
Be sure to visit the embassy’s website before departure to ensure you have the correct contact details.
If you have any questions about travelling to Nepal or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now and protect yourself today.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Nepal
“Hiking trip to Nepal and needed a number of vaccines . I was very impressed with the 2 nurse clinicians who treated me: they were knowledgeable, honest, professional and personable. I left the clinic confident that I was well-prepared (at least on the health side!) for my Nepalese Adventure.”
“It was my first time visiting Passport Health Clinic and the nurse was amazing. She gave me great advice, a completely painless vaccination (she’s gifted), and went above and beyond by giving me a contact point in Nepal!”
“I’ve never been to a travel clinic for travel vaccinations before and this has been a great experience. Doctors were knowledgeable and helpful and reviewed my medical history before I arrived and explained what vaccinations we would require and even pointed out a vaccination that I would not ever be able to have for Nepal.”
“Overall it was a great experience. The nurse was very helpful and knowledgeable. She made my visit as comfortable as possible and the needle she gave me did not hurt. Excellent service.”
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