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In September 2025, Nepal experienced widespread Gen Z protests triggered by a sudden social media ban and long-standing frustrations over corruption and unemployment. The movement saw intense demonstrations in Kathmandu and other urban centers. Unfortunately, there were casualties, curfews, and disruptions to transport and hospitality.

For travelers, this raised a pressing question: Is Nepal safe to visit now?

The short answer: Yes. Nepal has stabilized quickly. Protests were concentrated in city areas, while trekking trails and rural tourism hubs remained largely unaffected. The Nepal Tourism Board and trekking agencies have since confirmed that routes are open, hotels and lodges are operating, and transport services are back to normal. Autumn, the most popular trekking season, is in full swing — and travelers are returning.

Why Nepal is Safe for Trekking in Autumn 2025

1. Protests are easing: Curfews have been lifted, major roads reopened, and flights are operating normally.

2. Trekking routes were never the epicenter: Trails like Everest, Annapurna, and Manaslu are far from the urban hotspots of the protests.

3. Tourism revival push: Hotels, guides, and local communities are eager to welcome back trekkers. Nepal’s economy relies heavily on tourism, so restoring safety and confidence is a top priority.

4. Official assurances: The Nepal Tourism Board and government have launched campaigns highlighting Nepal as safe, especially in trekking zones.

Trekking Seasons: Why Autumn is Perfect

Autumn (September–November) is the best trekking season in Nepal. Here’s why:

• Clear skies: Monsoon rains have ended, leaving dust-free, crisp mountain views.

• Comfortable temperatures: Warm days, cool nights — ideal for long treks.

• Safe trails: Landslides and muddy paths from the monsoon are now dry.

• Festival atmosphere: Trekking coincides with Dashain and Tihar, Nepal’s biggest cultural celebrations.

Other seasons:

• Spring (March–May): Blooming rhododendrons and warm weather.

• Winter (Dec–Feb): Clear skies but cold, limited access to high passes.

• Summer/Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Risk of landslides and leeches, but excellent for Mustang and Dolpo (rain shadow regions).

Major Trekking Routes in 2025

Everest Region (Khumbu)

Highlight: Everest Base Camp trek, Namche Bazaar, Tengboche Monastery
Why visit: World’s tallest peak, Sherpa culture, dramatic Himalayan landscapes

City Express access in Namche Bazaar:

• Rastriya Banijya Bank – Namche Bazaar, Solukhumbu | ☎ 019-626032

• Siddhartha Bank Ltd. – Namche Bazar-3, Solukhumbu | ☎ 038-540451 / 540452

Annapurna Region

Highlight: Annapurna Base Camp, Poon Hill sunrise, Ghandruk village
Why visit: Easy access from Pokhara, varied trekking terrain, Gurung culture

City Express access in Ghandruk:

• Pokhara Finance Ltd. – Ghandruk-10, Kaski | ☎ 061-531145 / 541135 / 551136

Manaslu Circuit (Arughat Hub)

Highlight: Remote trails, Tibetan culture, Larke Pass
Why visit: Off-the-beaten-path, fewer crowds compared to Everest & Annapurna

City Express access in Arughat (Dhading & Gorkha):

• Muktinath Bikash Bank Ltd. – Near Krishna Temple, Arughat, Dhading | ☎ 9841728478 / 064-410154

• Aarughat Western Money Transfer – Aaruchunaute-1, Arughat, Gorkha | ☎ 064-410106 / 9841632626

• Saptakoshi Saving & Credit Co-op – Arughat, Gorkha | ☎ 9861896432

• Sitala Saving & Credit Co-op – Arupokhari-08, Gorkha (near Dharapani School) | ☎ 9849946104 / 9810291612

• Agricultural Development Bank Ltd. – Aarughat, Gorkha | ☎ 9751013241

• Civil Bank Ltd. – Arughat, Gorkha | ☎ 061-622688

• Shangrila Development Bank Ltd. – Arughat, Gorkha | ☎ 064-410125

• Swabalamban Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha Ltd. – Aaruchanaute-1, Arughat | ☎ 01-6227920

• NMB Bank Ltd. – Arughat, Gorkha | ☎ 410095 / 410096

• Rastriya Banijya Bank – Arughat, Gorkha | ☎ 061-620006

• Reliance Finance Ltd. – Arughat-1, Gorkha | ☎ 064-410172 / 064-410173

Mustang & Upper Mustang

Highlight: Desert landscapes, Tibetan monasteries, caves of Lo Manthang
Why visit: Rain-shadow area (trek even during monsoon), unique Tibetan-influenced culture

City Express access in Mustang:

• UbhaKamana Travels & Tours Pvt. Ltd. – Pokhara Lekhnath-7, Mustang Chowk | ☎ 9806533473 / 061-467433 / 9856078099

• Laxmi Laghubitta Bittiya Sanstha Ltd. – Marpha-5, Jomsom | ☎ 069-440364

• Agricultural Development Bank Ltd. – Jomsom, Mustang | ☎ 069-440106

• Machhapuchchhre Bank Ltd. – Puthang Bazar, Mustang | ☎ 069-440098

• Nepal Bank Limited – Jomsom, Mustang | ☎ 440055

• Shangrila Development Bank Ltd. – Jomsom, Mustang | ☎ 9856034659

• NMB Bank Ltd. – Jomsom, Mustang | ☎ 01-440417

Food and Culture Along the Trails

One of the joys of trekking in Nepal is the food and hospitality:

• Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice and curry): Unlimited refills, staple of trekkers and locals alike.

• Momo (dumplings): Steamed or fried, filled with meat or vegetables.

• Sherpa stew and yak butter tea: Warm, hearty meals at high altitude.

• Cultural experiences:

  • Sherpa festivals in Everest.

  • Gurung dances in Annapurna.

  • Tibetan Buddhist rituals in Manaslu and Mustang.

Festivals like Dashain (celebrating victory of good over evil) and Tihar (festival of lights) give trekkers a chance to see Nepal at its most vibrant.

Is Nepal Cheap for Tourists?

Yes — Nepal remains one of the most affordable trekking destinations in the world.

• Permits: $30–$50 for most treks (Everest, Annapurna); restricted areas like Upper Mustang ~$500/10 days. *Please check with Nepal Tourism Board before confirming

• Accommodation: $5–$20/night in teahouses; higher in remote areas.

• Food: $3–$10/meal; dal bhat often comes with free refills.

• Guides & Porters: $20–$30/day for guides, $15–$25/day for porters.

• Overall daily budget: $25–$60 (basic), $100–$150 (comfort).

Compared to other high-altitude trekking destinations like Switzerland or Peru, Nepal is significantly cheaper without compromising on scenery or cultural richness.

Financial Safety: City Express Across Trekking Hubs

While Nepal is affordable, trekking is unpredictable — medical emergencies, extra nights, or sudden itinerary changes can mean you need extra funds.

That’s where City Express Money Transfer comes in:

• Nationwide payout network: from Everest in Solukhumbu to Annapurna in Kaski, to Kanchenjunga in Taplejung, and all the way to Api Himal in Darchula’s far west.

• Partner banks and co-ops: Rastriya Banijya Bank, Siddhartha Bank, Civil Bank, NMB Bank, and many more.

• Quick access: Friends and family abroad can send funds instantly, available for cash pickup near trekking routes.

• Peace of mind: Even in remote Nepal, you’re never financially stranded.

👉 Full list of payout points: City Express Locations in Nepal

Tips for a Safe Trek in Nepal 2025

• Hire licensed guides and porters.

• Carry some cash, but use remittance services for larger sums.

• Avoid large political gatherings in Kathmandu or major cities.

• Pack for varied climates — sunny days, cold nights.

• Respect local culture: temples, monasteries, dress codes.

• Buy insurance that covers trekking and high-altitude evacuation.

Conclusion: Nepal is Open, Safe, and Welcoming

Despite the political unrest earlier in 2025, Nepal is safe for trekking and tourism now. Trails in Everest, Annapurna, Manaslu, and Mustang are open, the weather is perfect, and cultural festivals make this one of the best times to visit. Nepal remains affordable, friendly, and full of adventure.

With City Express payout locations across trekking regions, you have both peace of mind and financial security on your journey. Whether you’re trekking to Everest Base Camp, exploring the Annapurna villages, or discovering the ancient caves of Mustang, Nepal is ready to welcome you.