Nepal visa information

VISA 

All visitors to Nepal, except Indian nationals, must hold a valid passport and visa. A Nepal visa can be obtained at any Nepalese diplomatic mission or consulate abroad. For added convenience, a Nepal visa on arrival is available at various entry points, including the airport. You can also extend your visa at the Department of Immigration in Bhrikutimandap, Kathmandu. Children under the age of 10 are exempt from paying the Nepal visa fee. To make the process smoother, visitors looking to get their Nepal entry visa at the airport or land entry points should fill out a visa form and bring a passport-sized photograph. You can download the Nepal visa application form from the link below (visa form) to complete it before arriving at the Nepal immigration point. Please note that citizens from the following countries are not eligible for a visa on arrival: Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Cameroon, Somalia, Liberia, Ethiopia, Iraq, Palestine, Afghanistan, Syria, and refugees with travel documents. For more and updated Nepal visa requirements and information, visit our Nepal Immigration website.

Tourist Visa

Tourist who intends to visit Nepal must hold valid passport and visa.

Entry:
Tourist entry visa can be obtained for the following duration from Nepalese Embassy or Consulate or other mission office or at the following immigration offices in Nepal.
Immigration office, Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu 
Immigration office, Kakarvitta, Jhapa(Eastern Nepal)
Immigration office, Birganj, Parsa(Central Nepal)
Immigration office, Kodari, Sindhupalchowk (Northern Border)
Immigration office, Belahia, Bhairahawa ( Rupandehi, Western Nepal) 
Immigration office, Jamunaha, Nepalgunj(Banke, Mid Western Nepal)
Immigration office, Gadda chauki, Mahendranagar(Kanchanpur, Far Western Nepal)
Immigration office, Mohana, Dhangadhi(kailali, Far western Nepal)
Tourist visa fee for visitors who enter Nepal for the first time in a visa year( Jan-Dec)

On Arrival Visa Fee at Entry Points
15 Days – 30 USD
30 Days – 50 USD
90 Days – 125 USD

Visa Extension Fee 
Tourist visa extension is done for minimum 15 days with USD 45 and USD 3 per day for additional days.
In the case of delay less than 150 days additional USD 5 per day as late fine.

Gratis Visa (Visa for Free)

Gratis Visa is issued free of cost in case of following categories of Visa applicants:
Children below 10 years except US citizens
Up to 30 days for SAARC Citizen (except Afghanistan) visiting Nepal for the first time in a given visa Year.  Afghan citizen are eligible for Gratis Visa on Arrival only upon the recommendation of Department of Immigration. If you are an Afghan citizen, you can request concerned institution inviting you to Nepal for necessary paperwork with Department of Immigration to get you Gratis Visa 'On Arrival'.
Non Residential Nepalese(NRN) card holder ( issued by MoFA /Nepalese diplomatic missions abroad)
Chinese Nationals for 150 days

information for Indian Citizens: 

Visa is not require for an Indian citizens For updated information: Click here

Identity documents required for Indian citizen going to/coming from Nepal by Air:-

• Valid National Passport.
• Photo Identity card issued by the Government of India/State Govt./UT Administration in India to their employees or Election ID card issued by the Election Commission of India.
• Emergency Certificate issued by Embassy of India, Kathmandu.
• Identity Certificate issued by Embassy of India, Kathmandu.
• Persons in the age of group of above 65 years and below 15 years would be exempted from the requirement of approved identity documents mentioned at S.Nos. (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv). However, theymust have some documents with photograph to confirm their age and identity such as PAN card, Driving license, CGHS card, Ration card etc.
• Children between the age group of 15 to 18 years may be allowed to travel between India and Nepal on the strength of Identity certificate issued by the principal of the school in the prescribed proforma.
• In case of a family (family means husband, wife, minor children and parents) traveling together, the approved identification documents at S.Nos. (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) would not be insisted from all the family members if one of the adult members of the family has in possession of one of the prescribed identification documents at S. Nos. (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv). However, the other family members must have some proof of their identity with photograph and their relationship as a family viz.CGHS card, Ration card, Driving license, ID card issued by school/college etc.

Note

• Aadhar Card (UID) is not an acceptable travel document for travel to Nepal/Bhatan.
• Certificate of Registration issued by the Embassy of India, Kathmandu, Nepal to Indian nationals is not an acceptable travel document for travelling between India and Nepal.
• The Emergency Certificate & Identity Certificate issued by the Embassy of India, Kathmandu will be valid for single journey for travelling back to India.

Some Important information to tourist: Don’t or do’ s:

A tourist may stay in Nepal up to 150 days in a visa year.
A tourist must extend his/ her visa before expiry of the visa validity period. A tourist who does not comply with these regulations may be liable of fine and other prosecution as provided in Immigration Act and Rules.
A foreigner having obtained tourist visa shall not be allowed to work with or without receiving remuneration.
A foreigner shall not be allowed to carry out any work other than that for which purpose she/he has obtained the visa.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:- above visa fee may be change with short notice in any times. so, for facts Information see website of Department of Immigration www.immi.gov.np or contact nearest Nepalese Embassy.

Visa available & entry points

Visas are available at  Nepalese Embassies and Consulates abroad or on the arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu and any entry points of Nepal.

Nepalese Embassies  

Nepalese Consulates   

Entry Points   

The following is a list of entry and exit points for foreigners entering and departing Nepal. Upon entry, Nepal immigration officials will stamp your passport, granting permission to explore the Himalayan Kingdom. Before leaving the immigration desk, always check the Nepal visa stamp and confirm the date. Most Nepal immigration offices at these entry and exit points are open 24 hours for convenience. Make sure to verify all details for a smooth travel experience when entering or departing Nepal.

Tribhuvan International Airport   
TIA is the only gateway to Kathmandu for the tourists who come by air. The Airport named after King Tribhuvan, the 8th Shah King of Nepal, is situated about 4.5 miles east of the city (about 25 minutes drive). TIA is also in between all the three major cities of Kathmandu Valley namely Kathmandu, Bhaktapur and Patan. Facilities of bank, duty free shop, restaurants and tourist information center is available at TIA.

Kakarbhitta, Jhapa  
Kakarbhitta is about 15-17 hours drive and 610 kilometers away from Kathmandu. This is a small town on the border between Nepal and India and foreigners can use this to cross the border. There are many hotels and lodges around the area to accommodate the tourists in moderate prices. Tourists can commute to Kathmandu or any other cities by either bus or air. The closest airport is at Bhadrapur, about 25km southwest of Kakarbhitta and it takes about three and half hours to land in Kathmandu domestic airport by flight.

Birgung 
Birgunj is the main entry point to Nepal for Indian tourists especially coming from Calcutta and Patna. Birgunj, which is about 210 kilometers away from Kathmandu, is also an important entry point for foreign goods to Nepal. Many tourists enjoy sightseeing in this flat land and low altitude city as well as the accommodation of varied choices. Birgunj has a railway to Raxaul. The nearest airport is in Simara that is about 20 km from Birgunj and it takes about 20 minutes to reach Kathmandu by air.

Kodari 
Kodari is about 6/7 hours drive from Kathmandu lies on the Nepal-China border. This border is still regarded as an important trading center between Nepal and Tibet. Apart from all this, Kodari is very famous for its magnificent rivers gorges and splendid scenes of mountains. The very famous hot water spring of Nepal called Tatopani is also very close to Kodari. There are quite few places to lodge in this area and regular buses are available to commute to Kathmandu.

Belehia, Bhairahawa  
Belahia, which is also known as, Siddarthanagar, is about 8-9 hours drive and 280 kilometers away from Kathmandu. This city being close to the border of India is another important city in Nepal from the import and export business aspect. Bhairahawa is also the gateway to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. This place is also quite popular for shopping Chinese goods. It takes about 30 minutes to reach Kathmandu from Bhairahawa via plane and other local bus services are available to travel to and from Kathmandu.

Jamunaha, Nepalgunj 
Jamunaha is about 12-13 hours drive and 530 kilometers away from Kathmandu. There are direct flights between Kathmandu and Nepalgunj everyday and the buses are easily available. Nepalgunj is also one of the major trading centers of Nepal and it lies near the Indian border and well connected to all major Indian cities by road and railways. 

Mohana, Dhangadhi  
Mohana, which lies in far western region of Nepal, is about 660 kilometers away from Kathmandu. Although this place does not have much to offer, it is used as a

Here are a few tips that should help the visitor get around the country at ease. 

ARRIVAL AT TRIBHUVAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 
After checking in at the immigration desk, passengers without any dutiable goods can proceed through the green channel for quick clearance without a baggage check. If you are carrying dutiable goods, you must proceed through the Red Channel. 

GETTING A TAXI
There are Taxi-drivers, Travel agents and hoteliers waiting outside the airport terminal to offer their services to you. While hiring a taxi, be sure not to leave any of your belongings behind. 

RESPECT BASIC NEPALESE CUSTOMS

When visiting a Nepalese home, always remove your shoes before entering, and never leave your shoes or sandals upside down. Nepalese people are naturally friendly, and you may accept a handshake from either a man or woman, but avoid offering your hand first to a woman. Instead, greet with a respectful Namaskar by folding your palms. In general, Nepalese men, especially Hindus, avoid touching women and holy men. While younger generations in urban areas are more relaxed, public displays of affection are still considered inappropriate. When giving money or a gift, including to a shopkeeper, always use your right hand. It is considered rude to point your finger at someone or at a religious idol, image, or statue. Similarly, do not sit with your feet pointing toward people or religious objects, as this is seen as disrespectful in Nepalese etiquette.

VISITING A TEMPLE 
it is customary to take off your shoes before entering a temple/holy places. Walking around the temples or stupas is traditionally done clockwise. Ask for permission before entering a Hindu temple as entrance to some temples, such as the Pashupatinath in Kathmandu, is prohibited for non-Hindus. Avoid smoking inside sacred and public places. 

PHOTOGRAPHS 

You can take photographs outside Buddhist stupas and Hindu temples and during festivals, but seek permission while taking photographs inside temple or of religious ceremonies. Many people, especially women, might not be willing to be photographed. So, seek their permission first. 

DRESS
It is always better to be decently clad when going anywhere. Clothes that are not too revealing are advised for women especially when travelling outside the Kathmandu valley. It is best, if briefs, shorts & bare shoulders and back are avoided.

CURRENCY 
The Nepalese currency is the Rupee and is divided into 100 paisa. Bank notes come in denominations of Rs. 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000. Coins are of 10, 25 & 50 paisa and 1, 2, 5 & 10 Rupee denominations. 

CREDIT CARDS
Major hotels, restaurants and curio shops accept AMERICAN EXPRESS, VISA and MASTERCARD, JCB card. You can contact the banks for credit card services. There are ATMs in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Other big cities of the country. 

MONEY EXCHANGE 
It is illegal to exchange foreign currency with persons and organizations other than those authorized such as banks, hotels and licensed money changers. In order to exchange surplus rupees at the time of your departure, please retain your encashment receipts. 
The Indian Rupee, US Dollar, Euro, Canadian Dollar, Pound Sterling, Swiss Franc, Japanese Yen and Chinese Yuan are widely accepted in the banks here. 

FOOD 
Most Nepalese eat their meal by hand especially the Nepali food dal, Bhat and Tarkari. Food that has been eaten from a plate is considered impure and is called Jutho in Nepali. So, do not offer food from your plate, nor eat from a common pot, and do not touch a shared drinking vessel with your lips. After a meal of rice, Nepalese rinse their hands and mouths thoroughly and are very particular about the practice. 
Hindus and Buddhists don't eat beef, although restaurants and hotels serve beef to the tourist. 

TIPPING 
In Kathmandu and Pokhara restaurants only, tip 10% (if a service charge is not already on the bill). For city sightseeing it is nice to tip your guide if you had a great day and learnt a lot. If you go trekking, tip your porters and guides well as they work very hard to ensure your safety and enjoyment. Some of our trips include a tips kitty to take the hassle out of this sensitive issue for our guests – please ask for this if you would like us to handle it for you.

SHOPPING 
To avoid fakes and being cheated, buy for designer goods at the departmental stores and shopping malls. Exclusive showrooms at Durbar Marg, Asan and Thamel in Kathmandu specialize in handicraft, gems, Jewelry and pashmina items. Local handicraft items are good buys in Pokhara, Chitwan and Lumbini. 

EXPORT
It is illegal to export anything older than 100 years out of the country such as sacred images, paintings and manuscripts. Visitors should, therefore, not buy such items. All such items must be cleared by the Department of Archaeology at Ramshah Path near Singha Durbar that they are not antiques before being allowed to be taken out of the country.

IMMUNIZATION AND HEALTH
Although inoculations are not required to enter Nepal, it is wise to protect oneself against diseases such as hepatitis, meningitis and Japanese encephalitis etc. Malaria has been reported in the Terai plains. So take precautions against being bitten by mosquitoes. Please notify the authorities or the hotel of any symptoms of bird or swine flu or any endemic. 
When in Nepal, eat thoroughly cooked food. Use only bottled mineral water or boiled and filtered water for drinking. Wear a mask when walking in the dusty streets. 

POST AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS 
Post offices sell stamps, post cards and aerogram. Express Mail Service (EMS) is available at the General Post Office located at Sundhara near the Dharahara tower in Kathmandu, and at Themel, Basantapur and airport postal counters in Kathmandu. Airmail of parcels of up-to 10kg and surface mail of up-to 20kg can be booked at the foreign parcel counter of the main post office in Kathmandu. 
Hotels and private communication centers provide long distance (ISD, STD) and e-mail as well as Internet services. The country code for Nepal is +977 and the area code for Kathmandu is 01, for Pokhara 061, Chitwan 056 and Lumbini 071. 

BEGGARS 
Avoid giving sweets and money to beggars and children. However, a donation to a school, monastery or hospital would be greatly appreciated. 

PUBLIC TOILETS 
Public toilets charge a small fee for their use. But visitors are advised to use the toilets at the shopping malls, stores and restaurants which are cleaner. 

CITY SAFETY 
It is safe to take a walk around from morning till late in the evening, until the shops are open. You are responsible for the safety of your handbag, back-pack and items such as cameras. 

DRUGS
Possession and use of drugs carry heavy penalties in Nepal; including long jail terms, and are, therefore, to be strictly avoided. 

ELECTRICITY VOLTAGE 
Electricity in Nepal is 230 volts, alternating at 50 cycles per second. A voltage converter is needed for a device that does not accept 230 volts at 50 Hertz. 

PET RULES 
Cats and dogs must be accompanied by  a health and rabies certificate from a veterinarian. 

SAFE TREKKING
The main precaution that needs to be taken while trekking is not to go up too high too fast. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is caused by thin air at high altitudes starting from 2500 meters upwards and many even lead to death. So the body should be given enough time to acclimatize. 
If you suffer from initial symptoms like headaches, shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea, inability to sleep, swelling of the face, hands and feet and loss of appetite, descend to a lower elevation immediately and seek medical help. Helicopter rescue service is available, but it is expensive. So comprehensive travel insurance is advised to cover emergencies like helicopter rescue and medical treatment in the event of an accident on the trail. It is also advisable to carry a small medical kit and torch-light while trekking. 
The Himalayan Rescue Association (HRA), a non-profit organization, seeks to prevent casualties from AMS. It  operates an information center at Thamel (Sagarmatha Complex) where visitors can attend talks on mountain sickness and learn about trekking, safety and related matters. Twice a year, it operates a small aid post in the Khumbu village of Pheriche at an altitude of 4280 meters during the trekking season by volunteer doctors. A permanent aid post in Manang is manned by volunteer doctors of HRA. HAR has published various pamphlets concerning mountain safety and are available in English, French, German, Hebrew and Japanese. For further information please contact with agency. 
Trekkers' Information Management Systems (TIMS): In a bid to control illegal trekking operations and ensure the safety and security of the trekkers in the general trekking areas, Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) and Trekking  Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) have made it mandatory for trekkers to sign up for the trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) Card from April 1, 2010. TIMS cards are available from the NTB office, TAAN office and government registered trekking companies in Kathmandu and Pokhara. 
Under the new rule, all visitors who go trekking through a trekking company must pay US$ 10, and free individual trekkers (FIT) must pay US$ 20 per trekking route per person per entry. These amounts are payable in equivalent Nepalese rupees. Part of the collection will go into maintaining the trekkers' database and in the rescue of trekkers in need of emergency services. The fund will also be spent on infrastructure expansion, conservation and maintenance of existing trekking trails. For further information please contact with agency. 

OTHER PRECAUTIONS TO BE TAKEN 
Do not trek alone. Trekking with a guide from a registered agency is the greatest security.
Do not display your cash or expensive items. Always lock your room and baggage. 
Drink water that has been boiled or iodized only. Always wash your hands before eating. Do not eat unpeeled fruit or vegetables unless they have been thoroughly washed. 
Villagers might not be used to seeing visitors from abroad. So don't mind if your are being stared at Just smile and enjoy. 
Show decency in dress and avoid any show of public affection. 

ENVIRONMENT CODE 
Do not litter the trail with trash. Pack all your bottles, tins, plastics, foil, batteries, etc. so that they can be disposed at the nearest disposal site or carry them to your campsite, lodge or hotel. Likewise, sanitary napkins and tampons should be properly disposed. Be a responsible tourist and use local products to avoid can food and the use of plastics where feasible. 
If you are camping, request that cooking be done on kerosene or gas, not wood. Limit your hot shower to those heated by solar energy or hydroelectricity.