Overview
Nepal splits sharply by altitude. The low-lying Terai districts bordering India, including Royal Chitwan National Park, carry a low malaria risk, while Kathmandu, Pokhara and the Himalaya above 2,500 m are malaria-free. Altitude, not malaria, is the headline risk for trekkers heading toward the Everest region and other high routes.
Recommended vaccines
Malaria by region
Mosquito-bite protection is enough in the low-risk Terai; malaria tablets are not routinely advised. If fever develops during or after the trip, get tested promptly.
Malaria risk is limited to certain regions, shown below.
The Terai districts bordering India, below 2,500 m, including Royal Chitwan National Park: mosquito-bite protection advised.
Kathmandu, Pokhara, the Himalaya, and all areas above 2,500 m.
Other health risks
Prepare your trip
Leaving in under 2 weeks? Still book a clinic: a first hepatitis A dose already protects, and yellow fever needs at least 10 days. A travel clinic will prioritise what fits your timeline.
Frequently asked questions
Is any vaccine required for Nepal?
No vaccine is required if you arrive directly from Belgium. Yellow fever is only asked for if you come from (or transit through) a country where it circulates.
Is there a malaria risk?
Malaria: risk limited to certain regions. Mosquito-bite protection is enough in the low-risk Terai; malaria tablets are not routinely advised. If fever develops during or after the trip, get tested promptly.
How far ahead of departure should I start?
Ideally 6 to 8 weeks before departure, to complete multi-dose schedules. Yellow fever, where it applies, must be given at least 10 days before arrival.
Our sources
Indicative information for a typical traveller, not medical advice. What you need depends on your itinerary, region, season and duration. See an approved travel clinic 6–8 weeks before departure: only they can give yellow fever and issue the certificate.