Nepal’s start attraction Mount Everest has become so popular that long cues of mountainers created dangerous traffic. However, as with other countries, Nepal has been on strict lockdown since the beginning of the lockdown. And due to this pandemic, it also canceled the lucrative Everest climbing season, which a lot of people were looking forward to. And as it has slowly opened up its border, there are several restrictions and requirements for those planning to take a trip to Nepal. So, if Nepal is your upcoming destination, you should be wary of the Latest News About Travel.
These travel rules and restrictions were set in place by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and civil Aviation. And they were designed to help prevent the spread of coronavirus and to keep both the travelers and the Nepali citizens safe. However, it is now slowly opening up as the government is slowly lifting the restriction ban. However, it has been stated anyone entering the country should have tested negative for coronavirus within 72 hours of their arrival.
Travel Insurance Required- The rule states that all travelers are required to carry travel insurance to cover any expenses should they contract the virus there. And as for foreign travelers, they are restricted to quarantine seven days after they reach before they set out on their journey. This is also included for trekkers and mountaineers who are heading into the mountains to limit the coronavirus outbreak.
Reaction to The New Regulation- These rules and regulations are set for the safety of all; however, not everyone feels good about it. Travel experts feel that it is a reasonable enough approach to reopening the border at a time of uncertainty. And on the other hand, there are local guides and travel agents who find these new rules and regulations stifling their business. Traveling at the moment will require an extra week and extra expenses, which means that there will be lesser people.
Reviewed Restrictions- The Nepali government has reviewed the earlier restrictions as time has passed. The need for foreign travelers to be quarantined will be dropped if they can provide a coronavirus negative test result within 72 hours of their arrival. The travel insurance has been waived, and the travelers will have to take responsibility for any medical cost should they contract the virus here. However, there will be more finalized guidelines as time passes.
More Finalized Guidelines- And as time passes, the government is still finalizing safe travel guidelines so that they can keep both the travelers and its citizens safe. With further guidelines, the travel agencies can keep the clients safe while they are on the trail, with specific rules and social distancing. As for the chances of the travelers contracting the virus, the most likely place is in Kathmandu, which is the capital city, as it is where the most infection has taken place. However, one should be wary as ith the influx of foreign travelers the cases may go up.
There has been a positive reaction to the lifted ban from the local travel industry, as they can resume their business that has been put to a halt. Tourism makes up for 8% of the GDP in Nepal, and therefore, it has been a difficult year, but since the borders are opening up even with the pandemic still in the midst, there are positive reactions to the lifted ban. Trekking companies and mountaineering agencies are eager to get back to work and start earning money to put food on the table. However, we cannot be certain about whether people will be willing to travel at the moment or not.
If you are planning to travel in the midst of the pandemic, be sure to keep up with the Latest News About Travel in that certain area.