Nepal, India’s closest Himalayan neighbor, is a destination that feels both familiar and entirely new. With no visa requirements, easy land access and shared cultural ties, it’s no surprise that thousands of Indians travel to Nepal each year for its mountains, monasteries and magical landscapes.
But even with the visa-free advantage, there are important entry rules, documents and travel tips every Indian tourist must know before stepping into this beautiful country.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Nepal as an Indian — from documents and permits to money exchange, local SIM cards and FAQs — so you’re fully prepared for your Himalayan escape.
Do Indians Need a Visa for Nepal?
Indian citizens do not require a visa or permit to enter Nepal. You can enter via land or air without prior approval.
Document Requirements at Entry
- Valid Passport or Voter ID card is mandatory.
- Birth Certificate is accepted for children.
How to Enter Nepal
By Land
- Allowed crossing points: Sonauli, Raxaul, Jogbani, Banbasa, others.
- Keep ID and ticket accessible for immigration.
By Air
- Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu) is the main entry point.
- Minimal checks; just present ID.
Staying Beyond 150 Days
- Indians are granted 150 days per calendar year by default.
- To stay longer, apply for an extension at immigration offices in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Birgunj with:
- ID proof
- Entry stamp
- Purpose and duration of stay
- Small administrative fee
Special Permits & Trekking Rules
- For restricted zones like Upper Mustang, Manaslu, or Kanchenjunga, you need special permits issued in Kathmandu or via tour operators.
- These are additional to your general entry rights.
Currency & Money Tips
- Local currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR) — ₹1 ≈ NPR 1.6
- You must convert to NPR in Nepal; INR is accepted only in limited shops near borders.
- Use forex/prepaid cards for better exchange rates; ATMs are available in cities.
Connectivity & Mobile SIM
- Tourist SIM cards from Ncell or NTC are available at the airport or city kiosks.
- Plans start around NPR 300–500 for 10–15 GB.
- Useful apps: Google Maps, Pathao, World Travel Guide Nepal.
Getting Around
- Taxis in Kathmandu use metered fares.
- Stress-free alternatives: app-based rides (Pathao) or tourist buses.
- Inter-city travel: regular buses or private taxis to Pokhara, Chitwan, Lumbini.
Accommodation & Safety
- From budget guesthouses to luxury lodges, Nepal caters to all! Booking in advance during peak seasons is advised.
- Travel insurance is optional but recommended — especially for trekking or adventure activities.
Best Times to Visit
- Spring (March–May) – Blossoming rhododendrons, moderate trek temperatures.
- Autumn (Sept–Nov) – Clear skies, cultural festivals, trekking season.
- Monsoon & Winter – Low crowds, but highland trekking might be restricted.
Do’s & Don’ts
Do
- Negotiate taxi fares or use car apps.
- Respect temples, locals, and traditions.
- Pack a sturdy pair of shoes and appropriate clothes for hills.
Don’t
- Trek without registering or a guide.
- Assume INR is accepted everywhere.
- Travel to restricted areas without permits.
Nepal Visa FAQs for Indians
Do I need a visa to visit Nepal as an Indian citizen?
No, Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter Nepal. You can visit visa-free for tourism, business or family visits.
What ID proof is valid for entering Nepal from India?
You must carry either:
A valid Indian Passport, or
An original Voter ID card (not a photocopy or digital copy).
For minors, a birth certificate and a parent’s ID are accepted.
Can I enter Nepal with an Aadhaar card or PAN card?
No. Aadhaar, PAN or driving license is not accepted as a valid travel document at immigration.
Is there a restriction on how many days I can stay in Nepal?
Yes. Indians can stay in Nepal for up to 150 days per calendar year without a visa. For stays beyond that, you must apply for an extension at the local immigration office.
Do I need to carry a return ticket to enter Nepal?
While not mandatory at all entry points, it’s recommended to carry a return or onward travel ticket, especially if flying, to avoid questioning at immigration.
Can I enter Nepal by road?
Yes. You can enter Nepal through multiple land borders, including Sonauli (Uttar Pradesh), Raxaul (Bihar), Panitanki (West Bengal) and others. Carry valid ID.
Is Indian currency accepted in Nepal?
Only ₹100 denomination notes and below may be accepted in some places. Larger denominations like ₹500 and ₹2000 are not accepted. It’s best to convert INR to NPR after reaching Nepal.
Are there any fees or hidden charges at immigration?
No fees are charged for Indian citizens at immigration points (land or air). However, if you apply for permits (for trekking or long-term stays), you may need to pay a small processing fee.
Do I need travel insurance to visit Nepal?
It’s not mandatory, but highly recommended, especially if you plan to go trekking or participate in adventure activities. Medical costs for tourists are paid out-of-pocket.
Can I buy a SIM card in Nepal using my Indian ID?
Yes. SIM cards from Ncell or NTC can be purchased using your passport or voter ID card. They’re available at the airport, stores, or mobile shops.
Can I drive a personal or rented Indian vehicle in Nepal?
Yes, but you’ll need a vehicle permit (Bhansar), which is issued at border checkpoints. Ensure you carry your vehicle documents, insurance and driver’s license.
Is a trekking permit required for all treks in Nepal?
Not for general routes like Pokhara or Kathmandu. But yes, you need trekking permits for restricted areas like Upper Mustang, Manaslu, Kanchenjunga and Annapurna Circuit. These can be arranged in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
