Emergency Contacts You Should Save Before Travelling to Nepal
When travelling to a new country, especially one as geographically diverse and adventurous as Nepal, being prepared for emergencies is crucial. Whether you’re trekking in the Himalayas, exploring Kathmandu’s busy streets, or relaxing in Pokhara, keeping essential emergency contacts handy can make all the difference. This guide lists the most important emergency numbers and resources every visitor should save before arriving in Nepal.
1. National Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Police (Emergency) | 100 | Available 24/7 across Nepal. Call in case of theft, assault, or any immediate danger. |
| Fire Brigade | 101 | For reporting fires or rescue operations related to fire hazards. |
| Ambulance Service | 102 | Connects to nearby hospitals or emergency responders. |
| Traffic Police (Kathmandu Valley) | 103 | For road accidents or traffic-related assistance. |
| Tourist Police (Nationwide) | Specialized service for foreign travellers, offering translation help, safety support, and reporting lost items. | Specialized service for foreign travelers, offering translation help, safety support, and reporting lost items. |
Tip: You can dial these numbers from any Nepali SIM or international phone without extra charges.
2. Tourist Police (Central Headquarters)
The Tourist Police are a special unit of the Nepal Police dedicated to assisting travellers. They are friendly, English-speaking, and trained to handle tourist-related issues such as lost passports, theft, scams, and safety concerns.
- Address: Bhrikuti Mandap, Kathmandu (next to Nepal Tourism Board)
- Hotline: +977-1-4247041 / 1144
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.nepalpolice.gov.np
There are also Tourist Police posts in major cities and trekking hubs like Pokhara, Lukla, Namche Bazaar, Chitwan, and Lumbini.
3. Major Hospitals & Medical Assistance
If you fall ill or get injured, Nepal’s major cities have well-equipped hospitals with international standards. Here are the key ones:
Kathmandu
- Norvic International Hospital — +977-1-5970032
- Grande International Hospital — +977-1-5159266
- Patan Hospital — +977-1-5522295
- Teaching Hospital (Maharajgunj) — +977-1-4412303
- CIWEC Clinic (Thamel) (specialised in traveller’s medicine) — +977-1-4424111
Pokhara
- Manipal Teaching Hospital — +977-61-526416
- Metrocity Hospital — +977-61-537676
- Fewa City Hospital — +977-61-466587
Chitwan
- Bharatpur Hospital — +977-56-524203
- Chitwan Medical College — +977-56-532933
Tip: For mountain regions, consider travel insurance that covers air evacuation (helicopter rescue) — essential during high-altitude treks like Everest Base Camp or Annapurna Circuit.
4. Mountain & Air Rescue Services
Trekking and mountaineering come with risks — altitude sickness, injury, or weather-related emergencies. These trusted organisations coordinate rescues and medical evacuations:
- Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA): +977-1-4440292 / www.himalayanrescue.org
- Simrik Air Rescue: +977-1-4112337
- Fishtail Air: +977-1-4112637
- Nepal Army Air Rescue: Coordinated through Tourist Police or trekking agencies.
Always register your trek at the Tourism Board (TIMS Card Office) or with your agency. This helps rescuers locate you faster in case of emergencies.
5. Embassies & Consulates in Kathmandu
If you lose your passport, face legal trouble, or need urgent consular help, contact your embassy or consulate. Some of the main ones are:
| Country | Embassy Contact |
|---|---|
| United States | +977-1-4234000 |
| United Kingdom | +977-1-4237100 |
| India | +977-1-4410900 |
| China | +977-1-4001669 |
| Australia | +977-1-4371678 |
| France | +977-1-5012920 |
| Germany | +977-1-4411556 |
| Japan | +977-1-4426680 |
| Canada (Honorary Consulate) | +977-1-5555563 |
Tip: Save your embassy’s local phone number and email in your phone and written in your wallet in case of lost devices.
6. Travel Assistance Hotlines
- Nepal Tourism Board Information Centre — +977-1-4256909
- Department of Immigration (for visa issues) — +977-1-4223368
- Nepal Mountaineering Association (for permits & rescue) — +977-1-4421524
7. During Natural Disasters or Protests
Nepal occasionally experiences earthquakes, heavy monsoon rains, or political demonstrations. In such cases:
- Follow instructions from local authorities or your hotel staff.
- Avoid large gatherings or road blockades.
- Stay updated via local radio (e.g., Kantipur FM 96.1) or verified government accounts.
Disaster Emergency Operations Center (DEOC) — +977-1-4262375
8. Useful Apps & Tools for Travellers
- Nepal Police App: For emergency reports and nearest police stations.
- Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN) App: For trail info and emergency updates.
- Google Maps Offline: Download Nepal maps before travelling in remote areas.
- Ncell/Nepal Telecom SIMs: Both provide network coverage in most populated areas and mountains.
In Summary
Before your journey begins, save these key numbers:
📱 100 – Police
📱 102 – Ambulance
📱 1144 – Tourist Police
📱 +977-1-4424111 – CIWEC Clinic (Traveler Health)
📱 +977-1-4440292 – Himalayan Rescue Association
Final Tip
Take a screenshot or write down these contacts in your travel diary — phone batteries die, but preparation never does.
Nepal is incredibly safe and welcoming, but a little readiness ensures that your adventure remains worry-free and memorable.
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