Since early September 2025, Nepal has been experiencing a period of heightened social tensions triggered by a series of government decisions and an already fragile political climate.
The temporary ban on 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, X (Twitter), and YouTube, due to regulatory non-compliance, sparked large-scale protests across several cities.
These demonstrations, largely led by young activists opposing digital censorship and perceived government corruption, quickly escalated. Clashes with security forces have been reported, leading to disruptions in transportation, restricted movement, and temporary curfews across the Kathmandu Valley.
Although the ban on platforms has been lifted and the Prime Minister has announced his resignation, the situation remains very unstable, with heightened security measures in several areas, particularly around Tribhuvan International Airport, which is gradually resuming operations on September 10.
Nepal: Tribhuvan International Airport resumes operations
The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal confirmed on September 10, 2025, that operations at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu would resume after a suspension due to “exceptional circumstances.”
Earlier in the day, a previous official notice from the Authority asked passengers not to go to the airport until the reopening was confirmed.
In its statement, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal explained that “based on the decision taken at today’s meeting of the Tribhuvan International Airport Security Committee, it has been decided to resume flights.”
“Passengers traveling by air are requested to contact their airline to confirm their flight schedule before going to the airport. In addition, all travelers are requested to carry their official airline ticket and valid identification documents when traveling,” the Authority said.
Travel advisories: Foreign governments urge caution
As the situation in Nepal deteriorates, several governments have issued urgent travel advisories for their citizens:
U.S.
The U.S. Embassy in Nepal recommends that its citizens remain sheltering in place: “The Army has deployed and has a curfew in place. We advise all U.S. citizens to continue sheltering in place until further notice. Please continue to refrain from outside movements except for emergencies.” The advisory specifies that “Tribhuvan International Airport will remain closed at least until 6 p.m. on Sept 10, but we recommend Travelers to confirm before moving to the airport.”
Canada
In Canada, the government refers to “violent clashes” that have resulted in “several deaths”, and confirms that “domestic and international flights are suspended until further notice”. It advises travelers to “stay away from demonstrations,” “avoid areas around government buildings,” and “follow the instructions of local authorities.”
France
The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs is calling for the utmost vigilance: “The army has been deployed in Kathmandu and a curfew remains in place across much of the country.” Given the closure of Tribhuvan International Airport, the Quai d’Orsay warns that “flight cancellations and delays are to be expected” and advises “postponing any travel plans to Nepal until the situation improves.” French nationals in Nepal are advised to “stay away from gatherings, avoid travel, remain at home or in their hotels, and comply with the curfew imposed by the government.”
U.K.
In the United Kingdom, the Foreign Office reports that “protests are taking place in Kathmandu and elsewhere across the country” and that “lethal force used by the police.” The British authorities recommend consulting local media and contacting “your airline, hotel and tour operator for up-to-date information before travel.”
Australia
Finally, the Australian government warns of “widespread civil unrest” and urges caution: “Shelter in place, stay alert, obey curfews and follow the instructions of local authorities.” Smartraveler also states that “airports in Nepal have been closed, including Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, with all flights cancelled.”
Mandatory tracking of foreign visitors
Nepalese authorities announced the upcoming launch of a mandatory mobile app designed to record and track the movements of foreign visitors, called the NepaliPort Traveller / Foreign National Tracking Module, starting September 17, 2025.
This digital platform will allow authorities to:
- Register and track foreign travelers
- Enable QR code check-ins at hotels and travel agencies
- Provide alerts related to visa status, security concerns, and emergency notifications
Initially, the system will be deployed in five-star hotels in Kathmandu and is expected to expand nationwide by November 2025.
While officials state the initiative aims to improve tourist management and visitor safety, the current unrest could delay the rollout. As of now, authorities have not provided further updates on possible changes to the implementation timeline.
