Nepal Crime Rate & Safety
Homicide statistics, crime trends, and travel safety for Nepal
US State Department Travel Advisory
Exercise Increased Caution
Updated March 31, 2026
Nepal recorded 2.1 intentional homicides per 100,000 people in 2020, a rate that is low by global standards. That places Nepal #113 of 195 countries by homicide rate, compared with the Asia average of 2.0 per 100,000 and a world average of 5.2. Homicide rates have fallen 28% over the past decade (from 3.0 in 2010). For travelers, the US State Department currently rates Nepal at Level 2 of 4: Exercise Increased Caution.
Homicide Rate
2.1 /100k
Safety Rank
#83 of 195
Travel Advisory
Level 2 of 4
Data Year
2020
Homicide Rate Trend (1990-2020)
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people. Homicide rates have fallen 28% over the past decade (from 3.0 in 2010). Source: UNODC via World Bank.
How Nepal Compares
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people, latest available year per country.
Safety for Travelers
Summary of the current US State Department advisory for Nepal:
The advisory level decreased to 2. Advisory Summary was updated. Exercise Increased Caution in Nepal due to civil unrest. Advisory summary: The nationwide demonstrations that began in September 2025 have stopped, and the security situation is stable. However, demonstrations and local unrest can still happen, particularly in cities. Demonstrations can start with little warning and may quickly turn violent. Stay away from large crowds and follow the instructions of local authorities. Emergency services Medical services have limited ability to handle regular and emergency care.
Level 1
Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3
Reconsider Travel
Level 4
Do Not Travel
Safety Guidance for Nepal
Practical safety information for visitors, from US State Department country information (last updated April 09, 2026).
Political-Related Violence
The potential for isolated political-related violence remains a risk in Nepal. Demonstrations have on occasion turned violent, although these activities generally have not been directed at U.S. citizens.
Crime
Crime is relatively low throughout the country. Pickpocketing and bag-snatching can happen at popular tourist spots. Store valuables, including passports and cash, in the hotel safety deposit box; do not carry them. The Nepal Tourist Police recommend that you carry a photocopy of your passport when going out.
Scams
Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Nepal. Review the Department of State’s Protecting Yourself from Scams and the FBI pages for information.
Technology Usage Abroad
Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, or damaged anywhere in the world. Before traveling abroad, update all software (operating system and apps). If possible, use a virtual private network (VPN) and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S.-based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. The GPS app may give you the shortest route without safety consideration. Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.
Victims of Crime
U.S. citizen victims of crime in Nepal are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu for assistance. Report crimes to the local police by dialing 100 as soon as the incident occurs. This number is equivalent to 911, and it is staffed 24/7 by the local police. When calling the emergency number, speak slowly and clearly so that your message gets across to the official without misunderstanding. Tourist Police , who can be reached by dialing 1144, +977-01-4247041, or +977-9851289444, speak English and are ready to assist in popular tourism areas. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .
Domestic Violence
U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.
Tourism
No formal tourism industry infrastructure is in place on any level. Tourists are considered to be participating in activities at their own risk. Emergency response and subsequent appropriate medical treatment is not available in-country. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .
About This Data
Homicide figures are intentional homicides per 100,000 people, compiled by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and published by the World Bank (indicator VC.IHR.PSRC.P5). Homicide is the most reliably comparable crime statistic across countries because definitions of other offences (assault, theft, robbery) vary widely between national legal systems and reporting practices.
Travel advisory levels are issued by the US Department of State and updated continuously. They reflect risks to travelers including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health, and natural disasters — not only crime rates. Countries report crime data with different lags; the most recent available year is shown for each metric.
Nepal Population & Demographics
Population of 29,651,054, growth trends, economy, and more.
Crime & Safety in Neighboring Countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nepal safe to visit?
The US State Department rates Nepal at Level 2 of 4 (Exercise Increased Caution). The homicide rate of 2.1 per 100,000 is low by global standards.
What is the crime rate in Nepal?
Nepal has an intentional homicide rate of 2.1 per 100,000 people (2020, World Bank/UNODC), ranking #113 of 195 countries.
What is the US travel advisory level for Nepal?
Nepal is currently at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Advisory levels range from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel).
How does crime in Nepal compare to other countries?
Nepal's homicide rate of 2.1 per 100,000 is below the world average of 5.2 and above the Asia average of 2.0.