is Nepal safe for solo female travelers

Yes. Nepal is one of the safest countries in South Asia for solo female travelers. In 2025 surveys, 98% of solo female travelers rated their experience as safe or very safe, and 87% rate Nepal as safe overall.

Most women find Kathmandu, Pokhara, and the main trekking routes comfortable and welcoming. You’ll get curious stares — especially outside tourist hubs — but these are almost always curiosity, not threat. Petty annoyances like inflated taxi prices are far more common than serious incidents.

Since April 2023, foreign trekkers must hire a licensed guide for treks in national parks and most popular trekking routes. The good news is this has created a wave of female trekking guides you can request through reputable agencies.