More Health, Safety and Rescue · Care

What should I do if a dog or monkey bites or scratches me in Nepal?

By Base Camp Tours, licensed Nepal travel agency (Tourism License 3121/080) · Updated · 1 min read

The short answer

Dogs wander many towns and temples, and monkeys live around places such as Swayambhunath and Pashupatinath. Most visits pass without trouble if you keep your distance, do not feed or tease animals, and keep food out of sight. If you are bitten or scratched, wash the wound at once with soap and clean running water for a good while, then get medical advice the same day.

Tell the doctor exactly what happened and which animal was involved, and ask whether a post-bite course is needed. Tell your insurer and your tour operator as well. Delay is the main risk with animal bites, so do not wait to see how it looks tomorrow.

Key facts

First step
Wash with soap and running water
Next
See a doctor the same day
Also tell
Insurer and tour operator
Prevention
Do not feed or tease animals

How it works

  1. Move away calmlyStep back from the animal without shouting or running.
  2. Wash the woundUse soap and clean running water for several minutes.
  3. See a doctor the same dayAsk whether a post-bite course is advised.
  4. Inform your insurer and operatorThey can help arrange care and paperwork.

Insider tip

Keep snacks zipped inside your bag near monkeys.

Avoid this

Do not wait and watch; get advice on the day it happens.

Related questions

Are monkeys dangerous?

They are wild animals and can bite or snatch items, so keep your distance and keep food hidden.

Should I pet temple dogs?

It is better not to; admire them from a distance.

Quick trip match

Plan your Nepal trip in 60 seconds

Answer four short questions. We show trips that fit, and a planner can send a route and price. Free, no payment.

Keep reading

More guides to explore

Talk to a planner

Tell us the dates. We will draw the route.

Send your dates, group size and budget. A planner replies with a route, hotels and a clear price, free and with no obligation.

  • Licensed agency, Tourism License 3121/080
  • Own full-time guides and drivers
  • Private and customised departures