KATHMANDU: The United States has downgraded its travel advisory for Nepal from Level 3 to Level 2, signalling improved security conditions following months of political unrest that had prompted Washington to urge Americans to reconsider travel to the country.

The US State Department updated its Nepal advisory on March 31, moving it to "Exercise Increased Caution" from the previous "Reconsider Travel" designation — a meaningful step down in the four-tier advisory system that reflects the stabilisation of the security environment following the successful completion of Nepal's general elections on March 5.

The updated advisory acknowledges that the nationwide demonstrations that began in September 2025 have stopped and that the security situation is now stable. However, it cautions that demonstrations and local unrest can still occur, particularly in cities, and that such gatherings can start with little warning and may turn violent. American travellers are advised to stay away from large crowds and follow instructions from local authorities.

Nepal's advisory had been raised to Level 3 following widespread protests — referred to as the "Gen-Z" movement — that erupted in September 2025, triggering violent demonstrations, curfews in major cities including Kathmandu and Pokhara, and significant political instability. The elevated advisory remained in place through the March 5 general elections, during which concerns lingered over potential unrest during the governmental transition.

The downgrade to Level 2 comes as Nepal's new government, led by Prime Minister Balen Shah, has taken office following the RSP's landslide electoral victory.

Under the US State Department's four-tier system, Level 1 advises normal precautions, Level 2 increased caution, Level 3 urges travellers to reconsider travel, and Level 4 — the most severe — advises against all travel.

The downgrade is expected to be welcomed by Nepal's tourism industry, for which the sustained Level 3 designation had been a reputational and commercial setback during what is normally the lead-up to the busy spring trekking and climbing season.