Tap water in Nepal is generally not considered safe to drink for international travellers without treatment. Even locals often boil or filter their water before drinking. Visitors who drink untreated tap water risk stomach issues, which are one of the most common health problems reported by travellers.
Most travellers rely on bottled water, which is widely available in cities, towns, and trekking routes. However, plastic waste is a growing concern in Nepal, especially in mountain regions. As a result, many travellers choose alternatives such as refill stations, filtered water at hotels, or water purification methods.
Common safe alternatives include using water purification tablets, UV purification pens, or portable water filters, especially while trekking. Many hotels and teahouses now offer boiled or filtered water for a small fee, which is safer and more environmentally friendly than buying multiple plastic bottles.
Being cautious with water also includes avoiding ice in drinks and brushing teeth with purified or bottled water, particularly during the first few days of your trip.
How did you manage drinking water during your time in Nepal—bottled water, filters, or another method?
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