Pokhara is widely considered one of the safest cities in Nepal, particularly for tourists. Violent crime is rare, and the local population is famously hospitable.
* **Tourist Police**: A dedicated Tourist Police unit operates out of the Damside and Lakeside areas to assist foreign visitors with lost items, scams, or emergencies. * **Emergency Numbers**: * Police: 100 * Tourist Police: 1144 * Ambulance: 102 * Fire: 101 * **Visitor Safety Tips**: * **Trekking**: Never trek alone. Always hire a registered guide or porter, and ensure you have the required TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management Systems) and ACAP permits. * **Water Safety**: Swimming in Phewa Lake is not recommended due to pollution and unpredictable underwater currents. * **Traffic**: Traffic can be chaotic. Exercise caution when walking along roads without sidewalks or when renting scooters. * **Altitude**: While Pokhara itself is at a low altitude (~822m), trips departing from here go to high altitudes. Be aware of the symptoms of Altitude Sickness (AMS).
