The short answer
Mosquito-borne illness is mostly a low-altitude matter. The hot, humid southern plains, including jungle areas such as Chitwan and Bardia, are where mosquitoes are most active, especially in and after the monsoon. Kathmandu, Pokhara and the high hills have fewer mosquitoes in the cooler months, and treks above the low valleys have very few.
Simple habits help everywhere: use a repellent you trust, wear long sleeves and trousers at dusk, sleep under a net or in a screened room when offered, and empty standing water around you. Ask your doctor whether any medicine is advised for your route and season, and see a doctor promptly if you get a fever during or after the trip.
Key facts
- Most active
- Low, warm, humid areas
- Peak time
- Dusk, monsoon and just after
- Habits
- Repellent, covered skin, nets
- If fever
- See a doctor promptly
How it works
- Check your route and seasonJungle and monsoon trips need more care.
- Pack repellent and light long clothesCover arms and legs at dusk.
- Use nets or screensChoose rooms that keep insects out.
- Seek care for feverDo not wait it out, during or after the trip.
Insider tip
Pack repellent before you leave; it is easy to run short on jungle trips.
Avoid this
Do not ignore a fever after you get home; tell the doctor you were in Nepal.
Related questions
Is malaria a risk in Kathmandu?
Generally lower in the valley, but ask your doctor about your exact route.
Do mosquitoes bother trekkers?
Much less at higher altitude.
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