The UK Foreign Office has issued sensitive but firm guidance for anyone travelling in Nepal after severe flash floods and mudslides struck the country on Wednesday morning, leaving more than 1,000 people reported missing, including 341 foreign nationals from 26 countries and 33 Britons.

Rescue teams are continuing operations as the death toll has risen to at least 165, with conditions on the ground changing rapidly.

A Nepalese tour operator confirmed that 12 Britons are missing from one of its excursions near the Nepal–Tibet border, highlighting how widely travellers have been affected across trekking routes and river corridors. The Nepal Tourism Board has identified 384 travellers currently unaccounted for, including 291 foreign nationals, and is working with tourist police, guides and local authorities to verify their safety and whereabouts.

Foreign Office Guidance

The Foreign Office said the flooding has caused major damage to buildings, roads, transport links and communications infrastructure in Rasuwa district and along the Nepal–China border, with other regions such as Chitwan also affected. Travellers are being urged to:

  • Follow all instructions from Nepalese authorities
  • Stay alert to rapidly changing conditions
  • Postpone travel to affected destinations until safety is confirmed

Those already in impacted areas are advised to remain calm, stay informed and co-operate fully with local officials and emergency teams.

Emergency hotlines have been activated:

  • Nepal toll‑free number: 1234
  • Nepal hotline: 1144
  • UK assistance from Nepal: +977 (0)14237100
  • UK assistance from the UK: +44 (0)207 008 5000

Support Efforts Underway

Intrepid Travel has launched an emergency disaster appeal, pledging to match donations up to £50,000, with funds directed toward shelter, water sanitation, hygiene, first aid and health services for affected communities. The operator confirmed that none of its travellers or staff were in the impacted regions at the time and all are safe.

A Sensitive Moment for Travellers and Communities

Nepal’s tourism sector, already central to many rural economies, is facing a deeply challenging period. Communities are grieving, rescue teams are stretched, and authorities are working continuously to verify missing persons and stabilise affected areas. As one local tourism leader said, “The safety of travellers must take priority over travel plans”.

For anyone with upcoming travel to Nepal, the message is clear: check official updates, stay flexible, and prioritise safety above all else.