In early September 2025, Nepal experienced one of its most significant social movements in recent history, now widely known as Nepal Gen Z Protest 2025. Between 8-13 September, students and young citizens across the country organized large-scale protests against corruption, nepotism, and government restrictions on social media.
For travelers, understanding what happened during this week, the government’s response, and the current situation is key to exploring Nepal safely and confidently.
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What Sparked the Nepal Gen Z Protest 2025?
The Nepal Gen Z protest 2025 was the result of both long-standing frustrations on corruption and sudden policy decisions. On 4 September 2025, the government banned 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, X(Twitter), YouTube, Reddit, LinkedIn, Signal, and Snapchat. And citing non-compliance with new registration rules under the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology. Many Nepalis interpreted this as an attack on free speech.
Underlying these tensions was widespread dissatisfaction among youth over systemic corruption, nepotism, and visible wealth among officials, while young people struggled with unemployment and underemployment.
Young activists coordinated using digital platforms like Discord servers and Instagram groups, which became critical platforms after the ban. These online platforms allowed for the rapid gathering of people, discussion of tactics, and updates during the unfolding protest week.
The Protest Week: What Happened Between 8-13 September 2025
The main protests unfolded over six days, with each day bringing new developments, from peaceful demonstrations to violent confrontations and government interventions. Understanding the timeline helps travelers know which areas were affected and how quickly recovery occurred.
September 8
Tens of thousands gathered in Kathmandu, especially at Maitighar Mandala and around the Federal Parliament in New Baneshwor. What began as peaceful protests escalated when security forces started using tear gas, rubber bullets, and even live rounds. Security police under the command of upper level politicians, shot some students taking their lives while they were in college uniform. This rages the crowd as well as whole nation.
Curfews were imposed in Kathmandu and other cities. The social media ban Nepal was lifted later that evening, and Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resigned.
September 9
September 9 was the day the protest reached it’s peak. PM K. P. Sharma Oli resigned due to therising unrest among the protest. People starting setting fire to multiple government buildings, including Parliament, Singha Durbar, Supreme Court, President’s residence (Sital Niwas), PM’s residence, and party headquarters. Army forces temporarily occupied Tribhuvan International Airport, causing flight cancellations and diversions.
September 10
Security forces patrolled critical areas. Arrests were made for arson and looting. Protests continued in some districts at night. Airports reopened. Civil unrest led to some prison escapes, with most inmates later re-arrested.
September 11
Interim selection discussions began between youth groups, the army, and government officials regarding the next leadership. But the casualties and injuries continued to rise.
September 12
September 12 saw some major changes in the history of Nepal. Sushila Karki, former Supreme Court Chief Justice, was sworn in as interim Prime Minister, becoming Nepal’s first female interim PM. The House of Representatives was dissolved, and elections were scheduled for 5 March 2026.
September 13
Calm largely returned after the selection of Interim PM on the day before. Curfews were lifted in most places of Kathmandu. The interim government Sushila Karki began visiting hospitals and started initiating emergency recovery processes.
Escalation from Peaceful Protest to Deadly Confrontation
While the protests began peacefully on the first day, tensions escalated quickly, leading to clashes with security forces and significant casualties. This section explains how events progressed from peaceful marches to deadly confrontations.
Peaceful Beginnings
Youth organizations such as Youths Against Corruption, Gen. ZNepal, and Hami Nepal held marches with signs and slogans demanding reform and transparency. One important aspect was digital coordination using Tiktok and Discord, which allowed for decentralized decision-making while preserving general momentum.
Brutal Government Response
In response, authorities used live shots, rubber bullets, tear gas, and a large contingent of army and police officers. Butwal, Itahari, Damak, Birgunj, Pokhara, and Kathmandu all had curfews. Both internal and foreign attention was drawn to the response, which resulted in both fatalities and injuries.
Death Count and Casualties
The clashes resulted in 72 deaths, including 59 protesters, 10 prisoners, and 3 police officers. More than 2,113 people were injured, and hundreds were arrested. Prison escapes occurred during the unrest but were largely contained within days.
Incidents During the Protests
During the unrest and chaos of the protest, several notable incidents occurred that affected both locals and travelers alike. Some incidents were detrimental like prisioners escaping from prison compared to others.
- Prisoners Escapes: Some prisons were attacked in Kathmandu, Kailali, and Kaski which let the prisoners escape, though most of them were re-arrested.
- Viral International Attention: Videos of clashes circulated, capturing millions of views, anti-corruption videos got attention globally.
- Nepalese Hospitality: Despite unrest, locals helped travelers navigate safely, and tourist buses were often granted passage through affected areas.
How did the Protests affect Tourists?
During the week of 8 to 13 September in Nepal Gen Z Protest 2025, tourists had trouble with curfews, blocked roads, and temporary airport closures. But advice and notices from NTB and travel advisory Nepal in time helped the tourist in being aware of official protest times and dangerous areas.
According to the Nepal Police and local authorities, the protests in Kathmandu and major cities were officially held between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Tourists were advised to avoid Maitighar Mandala, New Baneshwor, and the vicinity of government buildings during these hours.
- Temporary flight cancellations or diversions at Tribhuvan International Airport
- Curfews and road blockages in central Kathmandu
- Hotels were temporarily closed or had limited check-ins
- Public transport delayed as roads were blocked
Travelers were strongly encouraged to follow updates from the Nepal Tourism Board and their embassies, and to plan their activities around these officially notified times.
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Tourism Impact: Short-Term Disruptions and Current Status
Even though the protests paused tourism for a little while, it recovered faster than people thought, especially for hiking and trekking. Trekking outside the valley went on as usual since the protests only messed with travel and places to stay.
Still, this one-week protest caused some short-term problems for the travel and tourism business.
- Arrivals dropped approximately 30% during 8-14 September
- Flights resumed normal operations within days
- Trekking permits for Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley were issued normally
- Hotels and restaurants reopened, and social campaigns reassured tourists of safety
Travel Safety Tips After the Gen Z Protests
For travelers visiting Nepal after September 2025, staying aware and taking precautions ensures a safe trip.
- Check flights and airport updates before you travel, because there were some temporary closures before
- Stay away from protest areas, especially the spots that were affected on September 8-10
- Know the curfew hours since some places still have them
- Use official tours and licensed transport to stay safe
- Bring travel insurance that covers protests and medical costs
- Keep your passport, visa, and emergency contacts safe
- Don’t take photos of government or sensitive buildings while there’s unrest
You might be wondering, is it safe to travel in Nepal after the Gen Z Protest 2025? The answer is absolutely yes! Nepal has returned to normal, with trekking routes, cultural sites, hotels, and local services fully operational.
Government Response and Political Developments
The protests prompted significant political shifts in Nepal, reshaping leadership and governance.
- Resignation & Interim Leadership: PM K. P. Sharma Oli resigned on 9 September. Sushila Karki became interim PM on 12 September, the first female interim PM in Nepal’s history.
- Parliament Dissolution & Elections: The Interim government dissolved the House of Representatives; general elections set for 5 March 2026
- Compensation: Families of those killed were promised 1 million Nepalese rupees, and injured individuals received compensation
- Curfews & Restrictions: Imposed in multiple cities like Kathmandu, Birgunj, Pokhara, Butwal, Itahari, Damak, and other cities. Large gatherings are being temporarily banned, with the army deployed
- Lifting the Social Media Ban Nepal: Social platforms reopened on the evening of 8th September
- International & Domestic Reactions: Opposition parties criticized the government, human rights organizations called for investigations, and foreign governments issued travel advisories
- Reformist administration Appointments: A number of dependable individuals were chosen to serve in the interim administration in order to restore public confidence following the chaos:
- Finance: Rameshwore Prasad Khanal
- Energy, Water Resources & Irrigation: Kulman Ghising
- Home Affairs: Om Prakash Aryal
- Industry, Commerce & Law: Anil Kumar Sinha
- Education, Science & Technology: Mahabir Pun
- Agriculture & Livestock Development: Madan Prasad Pariyar
- Communications & Information Technology: Jagadish Kharel
Cultural Perspective: Understanding Nepali Youth and Protests
The September Nepal Gen Z Protest 2025 was an independent, digitally coordinated youth movement. Mainly because of ongoing trends in social media concerning Nepobabies. As social media ban took over, the youth went to the streets to protest.
- Discord polls helped decide interim leadership support
- The term “Nepo Kid” symbolized criticism of elite privilege
- Young protestors expressed frustration over the lack of opportunities, social mobility, and freedom of expression
Nepal Remains a Beautiful and Welcoming Destination
Nepal's natural beauty, culture, and welcoming people have not changed despite the chaos caused by the Nepal Gen Z Protest 2025 in early September. There are still no significant issues preventing you from exploring Nepal’s various landscapes, historical landmarks, and trekking routes.
- Trekking Routes Fully Operational: Popular trails such as Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Circuit, and Langtang Valley were untouched by the protests. Trekking agencies are issuing permits normally and offering guided tours with up-to-date safety information.
- Cultural Sites & Heritage Destinations: Old temples, palaces, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites within Kathmandu Valley and other areas are still open for tourists. Cultural experiences, festivals, and traditional customs are still lively.
- Hotels, Transport, and Tourist Services: Hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants in major cities and tourist regions have reopened fully. Tourist buses, domestic flights, and taxis are operating safely, with guidance from local authorities and tour operators.
- Local Hospitality: Nepali people continue to extend warm hospitality to travelers. During the protests, locals even assisted tourists in navigating affected areas safely, reflecting a strong culture of care and support.
- Safety Assurance: To reassure both domestic and foreign tourists, the Nepal Tourism Board and the country's interim administration have taken steps to relax curfews and restore order. While touring the nation, visitors are urged to stay up to speed with official developments.
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Final Thoughts
The Nepal Gen Z Protest 2025 was a powerful moment in Nepal’s recent history, but it hasn’t changed the country’s timeless charm or the friendliness of its people. With the interim government Nepal bringing stability, travelers can now explore with confidence.
It’s still smart to keep an eye on Kathmandu protest updates and follow official travel advisory Nepal, but most disruptions were brief, and the overall Nepal tourism impact has been minimal.
Today, trekking trails, cultural landmarks, and local services are fully ready to welcome visitors. With a little care, travel in Nepal is not just safe—it’s unforgettable, filled with breathtaking mountains, rich traditions, and warm-hearted communities.
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FAQs
Is it safe to travel to Nepal after the Gen Z Protest?
Yes. The majority of trekking areas, hotels, and cultural sites are fully operational, despite the unrest that occurred in urban centers. Tourists should stay informed about local warnings and stay away from protest-affected areas.
Which areas in Kathmandu should tourists avoid during the protests?
Tourists should steer clear of protest hotspots, including Ratna Park, Maitighar Mandala, Singha Durbar, New Baneshwor, and government building zones. These areas were central to the unrest and remain sensitive.
Are popular trekking routes like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit operational?
Yes. Langtang Valley, Annapurna Circuit, and Everest Base Camp remained undisturbed by the demonstrations. As usual, trekking organizations are guiding excursions and granting permits.
Have flights, buses, and hotels resumed normal operations after the protests?
Yes. Although most services, including internal flights, tourist buses, and hotels in Kathmandu, had resumed as usual by mid-September 2025, it is still advisable to check timetables before departing.
What official travel advisories are currently in place for Nepal?
Embassies and international authorities advised avoiding large gatherings during the protests and staying updated on local news. Normal travel is now possible with standard safety precautions.
What precautions should travelers take for their safety in Nepal?
Use registered tours and trusted transportation, avoid protest-affected areas, carry travel insurance covering civil unrest, and keep emergency contacts accessible.
Do locals still welcome tourists warmly despite recent unrest?
Yes. Nepali hospitality remains strong, and tourists are welcomed warmly. Locals continue assisting visitors with guidance, transport, and cultural experiences.
