The serious floods recorded in Nepal force those who are in the country or plan to travel soon to take extra precautions. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs maintains its recommendations since April 8. However, it warns about the need to "travel with caution and refrain from doing so in certain areas" from July to September, monsoon season, responsible for floods, flash floods, and landslides.
Foreign Affairs asks to follow the instructions of the authorities
The Ministry recommends that Spaniards who are in Nepal or are going to travel soon stay alert to the indications of local authorities and to the updates disseminated by the Spanish Embassy.
The current emergency particularly affects the north of the country, near the border with Tibet, where a flash flood has devastated towns in the Rasuwa district.
The situation can change rapidly due to the possibility of new landslides, road closures, or rising waters.
The monsoon can leave travelers cut off for days
Foreign Affairs emphasizes that Nepalese infrastructures are fragile and that during the monsoon, rains can cause landslides and floods that directly affect communications.
"It is common for a traveler to remain cut off for days," the official recommendation states. This is especially relevant for those who go trekking, hiking, or engage in activities in mountainous areas.
The Ministry advises checking the weather and safety conditions of the areas intended to be visited in advance.
Insurance with helicopter rescue
For those planning to engage in mountain activities, Foreign Affairs recommends taking out a comprehensive medical insurance that includes repatriation to Spain and helicopter rescue.
The Ministry reminds that the costs arising from hospitalization, medical evacuation, or repatriation are generally the responsibility of the traveler.
The Spanish Social Security also does not provide the coverage it offers within certain European countries.
Register before traveling
Another recommendation is to register in the Travelers' Registry of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The aim is to facilitate location and consular assistance in case of emergency.
Foreign Affairs also has a consular emergency phone for Spanish citizens who need immediate protection due to a serious situation: +91 98101 74160.
Passport and visa
To enter Nepal, a passport with a minimum validity of six months and at least two blank pages is required. The country also requires a visa.
This can be processed in advance or, under certain conditions, obtained upon arrival at Kathmandu airport or at land border posts.
The current situation, however, advises checking before starting any travel whether the accesses, roads, and border crossings included in the itinerary are still operational.
Can you travel to Nepal then?
The official Spanish recommendation at the time of publication of this article is caution, not a general prohibition.
But the situation has changed substantially in the areas affected by the floods, and Foreign Affairs advises avoiding certain areas, following local indications, and staying alert to consular updates.
Those intending to travel to mountainous areas or towards the border with Tibet should pay special attention to road closures, weather forecasts, and flood warnings.