Is an MRI cheaper in Nepal than in the UK?

Yes. A one part MRI in Kathmandu averages £47 on published rate lists, against £366 to £510 at the UK self pay providers we checked in 10/2026. The flight costs much more than the difference, so the saving is real mainly if you are already travelling.

Does the NHS pay for a scan in Nepal?

No. NHS funding routes for treatment abroad (S2 and the EU directive) do not apply outside Europe, so a scan in Nepal is self-funded. GHIC and EHIC cards do not cover planned treatment.

Will my GP accept a scan from Nepal?

It is not guaranteed. Bring the full images and a written report in English. Your GP or consultant will decide whether to rely on them or repeat the scan. What to bring home.

Is travel insurance valid if I go for a scan?

Standard travel insurance usually excludes planned medical treatment abroad. Check your policy, and tell your insurer if the scan is a reason for the trip.

Having an MRI or CT in Nepal if you live in the UK

Many Nepalis in the UK, and people visiting Nepal, ask whether it is worth having a scan in Kathmandu. Here are the numbers, and the catches.

Price: Kathmandu vs UK self pay

Scan	Kathmandu average	UK self pay (published)
MRI brain	£47 NPR 9,500	£366 to £510
MRI lower back	£47 NPR 9,500	£366 to £510
MRI knee	£51 NPR 10,400	£366 to £510
CT head	£21 NPR 4,200	£492 to £600
HRCT chest	£33 NPR 6,700	£492 to £600

UK prices are one part or one area "from" or guide prices published in 10/2026 by Cobalt Health, Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells, New Victoria Hospital and Spire London East. Some exclude consultant fees. Contrast usually adds £100 to £125 in the UK.

NHS waiting times

In England on 30/06/2026, 396,182 people were waiting for an NHS MRI and 22.3% of them had waited six weeks or more. For CT, 202,521 were waiting and 9.9% had waited six weeks or more. The NHS standard is that fewer than 1% should wait that long; it was last met in 11/2013 (NHS England, House of Commons Library).

Most people on the list are scanned within six weeks, so check your own expected wait with your GP or hospital before deciding.

When it makes sense

You are already going to Nepal, for example to visit family, and your doctor has asked for a scan.
You want a scan for a family member who lives in Nepal.
You face a long wait and are willing to pay, and your doctor at home agrees to review the result.

When it probably does not

You would fly only for the scan: return flights London to Kathmandu cost far more than the saving.
Your condition needs urgent assessment. Use urgent care where you live.
You need a test not available in Nepal, such as PSMA PET.

What UK guidance says

NHS guidance on going abroad for treatment asks you to understand the risks, plan aftercare at home and bring back your records (NHS.uk). Travel Health Pro advises discussing plans with your UK doctor first and bringing back copies of all scans (NaTHNaC). Most of this guidance is written about surgery; for a scan, the key points are an English report, the images, and agreeing follow up with your GP.

Next: plan your scan trip, referrals, bringing your scan home.

Reviewed 10/2026. General information only, not medical advice.