Important Security Announcement for American Citizens in Nepal

March 9, 2009

Given that tomorrow, March 10th, is the 50th anniversary of the Dalai Lama’s departure from Tibet, there is the possibility of protests and demonstrations in areas of significance to the Tibetan community here in Nepal.   Reaction to Tibetan protests that occurred in Kathmandu last year at times became violent as police clashed with protestors.  The official American community in Nepal is being instructed to avoid areas tomorrow that could attract protests, such as Boudha and Swayambhu in Kathmandu.  Private American citizens in Nepal are advised to exercise caution tomorrow and to avoid demonstrations if they come upon them.  American citizens are also cautioned that demonstrations within the Tibetan community could possibly continue through the end of the month.

For additional information, please refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad" found at http://travel.state.gov. Americans living or traveling in Nepal are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy through the State Department's travel registration website travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/  The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu is located at Maharajgunj.  The telephone number is 977-1-4007200, 4007201.  The number for after-hours emergencies is 977-1-4007266,4007269.  The fax number is 977-1-4007281.  The Consulate's e-mail address is consktm@state.gov and its Internet web page is http://nepal.usembassy.gov  U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State's latest Travel Warning for Nepal, Country Specific Information for Nepal, and the Worldwide Caution, available at http://travel.state.gov/.  Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).