Many international travelers planning their next trip to Nepal in March 2026 have questions about the national election scheduled for March 5, 2026. After the recent Gen G movement, Nepal is currently under an interim government, and this election is part of the country’s normal democratic process.
Because elections can sound unfamiliar to visitors who have never experienced them while traveling, some trekkers are unsure whether trekking routes will remain open, whether transportation will be affected, or whether it is safe to continue with travel plans.
As a local trekking company operating year-round in Nepal and working directly on the ground, we want to share clear, practical, and experience-based information.
Understanding the Election Situation in Nepal
Elections in Nepal are generally peaceful, organized, and limited in scope. Political activities related to elections are short term and controlled, and they do not affect remote mountain regions where trekking routes are located.
Nepal has held multiple elections in the past, and during each of them, trekking tourism has continued without major disruption. Trekking routes remained open, accommodation along the trails continued operating, and travel plans for visitors were not impacted.
During the recent Gen G movement, thousands of international tourists were traveling across Nepal at the same time. Trekkers were actively hiking in Manaslu, Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, and other trekking regions. Throughout this period, there were no incidents involving tourists, no trail closures, and no safety issues reported in trekking areas.
This recent experience clearly shows that tourism and trekking activities in Nepal remain safe and stable even during periods of political activity.
Trekking Regions Remain Safe and Fully Open
All major trekking regions in Nepal remain safe and operational during the election period, including:
- Everest Region
- Annapurna Region
- Langtang Region
- Manaslu Circuit Trek
- Other remote trekking regions across Nepal
These areas are far from any political activity. Life in mountain villages continues normally, and local communities remain focused on daily work and tourism. Lodges stay open, food supplies continue, and guides and porters work as usual.
Manaslu Trek Permits During the Election Period
Many trekkers ask whether permits are affected during election time. The answer is simple: permits are issued normally.
For the Manaslu Circuit trek, the following permits continue to be processed without delay:
- Restricted Area Permit
- ACAP
- MCAP
Registered trekking companies can arrange all required permits in advance. The election does not stop or delay permit processing, and trekkers can start the Manaslu trek as planned.
Transportation and Trek Starts Around March 5
Transportation for tourists continues to operate during the election period.
- Private tourist jeeps from Kathmandu are allowed and do not stop
- Tourist buses and trekking vehicles operate with permission
- Airport transfers and domestic flights usually run normally
For smooth logistics, we recommend starting treks one day earlier or one day later than March 5. This recommendation is not related to safety, but simply to avoid minor movement limitations and ensure a more comfortable travel day.
If a trek needs to start on election day, it is still possible, especially by private jeep.
Staying in Kathmandu and Other Large Cities
On election day, movement in large cities is limited.
If you are staying in a city on March 5, our advice is practical:
- Stay inside your hotel
- Avoid unnecessary movement outside
- Follow advice from hotel staff or your trekking company
This is mainly for comfort and convenience, not because of danger.
Kathmandu Sightseeing and City Tours
City sightseeing and tours are not recommended on election day.
Some attractions may be closed, vehicle movement is limited, and access to sites can be restricted. If sightseeing is part of your plan, it is best scheduled before or after March 5.
Trekking days are not affected.
Hotels, Restaurants, and Tourist Services
Hotels, restaurants, and tourist services remain open and safe throughout the election period.
- No restrictions on hotel stays
- Restaurants continue operating
- Tourist areas remain calm
- Trekking services run normally
Visitors can stay comfortably without concern.
Security and Tourist Support
Security during the election is handled by national authorities, including:
- Nepal Police
- Armed Police Force
- Nepal Army
Tourist Police are also present in key tourist areas.
If a traveler ever needs assistance, they can contact Tourist Police, Nepal Police, local government offices, or their trekking guide.
Why March Is Still an Excellent Month for Trekking
March remains one of the best times to trek in Nepal:
- Stable weather
- Clear mountain views
- Comfortable temperatures
- Good trail conditions
- Less crowded than peak April
The election does not change these trekking advantages.
Final Practical Advice for Travelers
- Trekking across Nepal remains safe
- Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, Manaslu, and other regions are unaffected
- Manaslu permits are issued normally
- Private tourist jeeps operate from Kathmandu
- Trekking on election day is possible
- City sightseeing should be avoided on March 5
- Staying inside hotels in big cities is advised
Frequently Asked Questions About Trekking in Nepal During the Election
Can I go to Nepal during the election?
Yes. You can travel to Nepal during the election period. Tourism continues normally, and visitors are not affected. Nepal has experience managing tourism during national events.
Is Nepal safe for tourists during the election?
Yes. Nepal is safe for tourists before, during, and after the election. Trekking routes, hotels, and tourist services continue operating as usual.
Can I do the Everest trek during the election in Nepal?
Yes. Trekking in the Everest Region is safe during the election. Trails remain open, lodges operate normally, and trekking activities continue without interruption.
For smoother travel, it is better to start the trek one day earlier or one day later than the election day, but starting on the election day is still possible.
Can I do the Manaslu Circuit trek during the election?
Yes. The Manaslu Circuit is safe during the election. Manaslu permits are issued normally, and trekking routes remain open.
To avoid any minor travel inconvenience, we recommend starting the Manaslu trek one day earlier or one day later than the election day.
Can I do the Annapurna trek during the election?
Yes. Trekking in the Annapurna Region is safe during the election period. Trekking services continue as usual.
For better logistics, starting the trek one day earlier or later than the election day is recommended.
Can I do the Langtang trek during the election?
Yes. The Langtang Region is safe during the election. Trails and teahouses operate normally.
It is better to plan the trek start one day earlier or one day later than the election day for smoother transport.
Can I trek on the election day in Nepal?
Yes. Trekking on the election day is possible, especially in remote trekking regions. However, starting the trek one day earlier or later is recommended for easier travel arrangements.
Will trekking permits be affected during the election?
No. Trekking permits, including restricted area permits for Manaslu, are issued normally during the election period when arranged through a registered trekking company.
Can I travel from Kathmandu to the trek start during the election?
Yes. Private tourist jeeps from Kathmandu operate during the election. Tourist buses and trekking vehicles also run with permission.
For the smoothest experience, starting your trek one day earlier or one day later than the election day is recommended.
Should I cancel my Nepal trek because of the election?
No. There is no need to cancel trekking plans because of the election. With simple itinerary planning and local support, trekking in Nepal remains safe and comfortable during the election period.
Conclusion
The national election on March 5, 2026 is part of Nepal’s normal democratic process and does not create problems for trekkers or tourists. Remote trekking regions remain calm and unaffected, permits continue to be issued, transportation operates with minor adjustments, and accommodation and trekking services continue as usual.
With simple itinerary planning and guidance from a local trekking company, travelers can confidently visit Nepal and enjoy trekking safely during March 2026.
