Emergency Numbers & Access
Helicopter rescue is the only option in mountain emergencies. Altitude sickness is a major risk above 2,500m. Kathmandu hospitals handle most tourist emergencies.
Response time: Variable; 15-30 min in Kathmandu, unavailable in remote areas
Cost: $30-500+ at private hospitals; helicopter rescue $3,000-5,000+
Healthcare System
Nepal has limited healthcare infrastructure outside Kathmandu Valley. Private hospitals in Kathmandu provide reasonable care, but trekking regions have only basic health posts. Helicopter evacuation is common for trekking emergencies.
Designed for: Residents; tourists use private clinics in Kathmandu
GP Access & Costs
Walk-in at private clinics in Kathmandu; cash or insurance
Typical wait: Same-day in Kathmandu
Availability: Good in Kathmandu; health posts only in trekking areas
GP Visit
$15-50 private clinic visit
Private GP
$15-50
ER Without Insurance
$100-5,000+ (helicopter rescue)
Medication
Basic medications available cheaply in Kathmandu. Very limited supply in mountains — bring everything you need.
Pharmacy & Medication
Hours: Generally 8am-8pm in cities
OTC: Many medications available OTC in Kathmandu but quality varies
Controlled substances: Strict drug laws. Carry prescriptions for all medications.
Practical Tips
- Insurance MUST include helicopter evacuation — standard policies often exclude it
- CIWEC Hospital and Nepal International Clinic in Kathmandu are best for tourists
- Carry Acetazolamide (Diamox) for altitude sickness prevention
- Bring a complete first-aid kit for trekking — nothing available on trails
- Pre-exposure rabies vaccination strongly recommended (dog bites common)
Who can get care in Nepal?
Emergency care for anyone
Emergency departments in Nepal treat everyone regardless of residency or insurance status. Charges can still apply afterwards.
Public system for visitors
The public system does not cover visitors, so care is paid privately or through insurance.
Seeing a Doctor as a visitor
Walk-in at private clinics in Kathmandu; cash or insurance Typical cost: $15-50 private clinic visit Typical wait: Same-day in Kathmandu
Insurance needed for entry or visa
Not a formal entry requirement, but medical cover is strongly recommended. Emergency care without cover: $100-5,000+ (helicopter rescue).
Documents worth having ready
- Passport (6+ months validity)
- Travel insurance with helicopter evacuation
- Passport photos
- Trekking permits
Local contacts in Nepal
Emergency services
102 / 112
Helicopter rescue is the only option in mountain emergencies. Altitude sickness is a major risk above 2,500m. Kathmandu hospitals handle most tourist emergencies.
Pharmacies
Generally 8am-8pm in cities
Many medications available OTC in Kathmandu but quality varies
What is the emergency number in Nepal?
102 or 112 in Nepal. Helicopter rescue is the only option in mountain emergencies. Altitude sickness is a major risk above 2,500m. Kathmandu hospitals handle most tourist emergencies.
How much does a Doctor visit cost in Nepal?
$15-50 private clinic visit Private consultations: $15-50.
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Sources: WHO Nepal, CDC Travelers Health 2024, Nepal Ministry of Health
Last reviewed: March 2026 by ViscaCare