US State Department issues travel alert for Nepal

The U.S. Department of State alerts U.S. citizens traveling to or living in Nepal to the upcoming Constituent Assembly elections scheduled for November 19, 2013. This Travel Alert expires on December 19, 2013. Although most of the major political parties in Nepal are in agreement regarding the upcoming elections, some parties have declined to participate, and have indicated that they may seek to disrupt the election process. Accordingly, despite efforts by the Government of Nepal to ensure security during and in advance of elections, there is an increased risk of violence during “bandhs” (strikes that disrupt transportation and commercial activity), as well as at political rallies and demonstrations. The possibility of spontaneous protests during this and any election cycle remains. Full alert