What vaccines do I need for Nepal?

Recommended by the CDC: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid (strongly recommended), Japanese Encephalitis (Terai region, especially June through October), Rabies (trekkers and outdoor travelers).

Is tap water safe to drink in Nepal?

Tap water is not safe to drink in Nepal. Drink bottled or treated water throughout your trip, including in resort areas.

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South Asia

Nepal Travel Health

Reviewed by Alexander Webber, Chief Epidemiologist · Updated 2026-08

Nepal is world-renowned for Himalayan trekking, with Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit among the most popular routes. Health risks include altitude sickness at high elevations, mosquito-borne diseases in the Terai lowlands, and food and waterborne illness throughout. Medical facilities are excellent at Kathmandu specialty clinics but extremely limited in remote trekking areas.

Food Safety: High Risk Tap Water: Unsafe Malaria Risk Present

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Vaccines for Nepal

CDC Recommended

Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Typhoid (strongly recommended)
Japanese Encephalitis (Terai region, especially June through October)
Rabies (trekkers and outdoor travelers)

Source: CDC Travelers' Health — Nepal

Malaria Risk

Present in the Terai lowlands (districts bordering India) at elevations below 1,200 m. No malaria risk in Kathmandu Valley or at trekking elevations above 2,000 m.

Food and Water Safety

High Risk Tap water: not safe to drink

Dal bhat from established teahouses is generally safe when freshly cooked. Avoid raw vegetables, salads, tap water, and ice. On trekking routes, use water purification tablets, a UV pen, or a reliable filter — never drink untreated stream or tap water.

Key Health Tips for Nepal

Acclimatize properly — ascend no faster than 300 to 500 m per day above 3,000 m and take rest days.
Know the symptoms of altitude sickness: headache, nausea, and fatigue indicate AMS; confusion and ataxia indicate HACE — descend immediately if severe symptoms develop.
Consider carrying acetazolamide (Diamox) for altitude prophylaxis — discuss with a travel medicine physician.
Travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage is essential for high-altitude trekking.

Disease Risks in Nepal

Official Resources

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