Is Kathmandu Tap Water Safe To Drink?

No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.

Tap water in Kathmandu, Nepal, is generally not safe to drink without treatment. Contamination from sewage and industrial waste is common.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Boiling, filtering, or using UV purification is recommended before consumption to avoid waterborne diseases. Many locals rely on bottled or treated water.

Water quality varies by location and season. Municipal treatment plants exist but often do not guarantee safe drinking water throughout the distribution system.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

Nepal is ranked as number 126 globally with a score of 33.8% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Kathmandu, Nepal

Kathmandu's main tap water sources are surface water from rivers and springs, including the Bagmati and Bishnumati rivers.

Groundwater from wells also supplements water supply, though over-extraction has led to depletion and contamination risks.

Municipal supply relies on treatment plants processing these sources, but infrastructure challenges affect distribution and quality consistency.

Kathmandu Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Kathmandu often lack regular maintenance and sanitation, posing potential health risks.

Contamination from bacteria and viruses is possible due to exposure to polluted water sources and inadequate cleaning.

Using personal water purification methods is advisable before drinking from public fountains to ensure safety.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Kathmandu. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job — it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Kathmandu is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.