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Nepal Visa For Indians – E-Visa Requirements, Eligibility & How To Apply

Picture yourself standing before the towering peaks of the Himalayas and finding serenity in ancient Buddhist monasteries nestled among mountain valleys. Nepal, a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural riches, awaits across the border. 

The Nepal visa for Indians is essential for a smooth travel experience to this breathtaking Himalayan nation. 

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about visa requirements, application procedures, documentation, and essential tips for a successful Nepal adventure.

Do Indians Need a Nepal Visa?

The Nepal-India relationship enjoys special status regarding travel permissions. Thanks to the 1950 Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter and stay in Nepal. 

This unique arrangement allows Indians to cross the border and travel throughout Nepal with minimal documentation. Instead of a traditional visa, Indian nationals must carry valid proof of Indian identity.

Nepal Visa for Indians

Indian citizens enjoy a privileged status when visiting Nepal, as they don’t need to apply for a formal visa before entering. 

Instead, Indian nationals can enter Nepal by showing valid proof of Indian identity, such as a valid Indian passport or original Indian voter ID card. 

This arrangement facilitates easy movement between the neighboring countries, encouraging tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. Here are the different types of multiple-entry tourist visas for Indians –

Entry Type

Stay Duration

Validity

Fees (NPR/INR)

Processing Time

Form

Multiple Entry

15 days

As per the stay duration

NPR 4,000
(INR 2,500)

Immediately at the border

No formal application

Multiple Entry

30 days

As per the stay duration

NPR 7,000
(INR 4,500)

Immediately at the border

No formal application

Multiple Entry

90 days

As per the stay duration

NPR 17,000
(INR 10,500)

Immediately at the border

No formal application

Nepal Visa Eligibility for Indians

The Nepal visa eligibility for Indians is quite simple, as all you need is to fulfill specific criteria:

  • You must possess valid proof of Indian identity—your passport or Voter ID card with a photograph (issued by the Election Commission of India).
    • The passport should ideally be valid for at least six months from the entry date. 
  • In addition, you must
    • have no criminal record or history of being deported from Nepal
    • not be on any Nepalese security watchlist
    • have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Nepal

Note:

  • Aadhaar (UID) card is not an acceptable travel document to Nepal.
  • A 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 and Identity Certificate issued by the Embassy of India, Kathmandu, are valid for a single journey back to India.

Nepal Visa Fees for Indians

Indians are exempted from visa fees due to the bilateral arrangement between India and Nepal that allows citizens of both countries to travel freely across the border. 

Here is a basic structure of Nepal tourist visa fees for tourists that must be paid upon arrival or online.

Visa 

Validity

Fees in Nepalese Rupee (NPR)

Fees in INR

Multiple-entry visa

15 days

NPR 4,000

INR 2,500

Multiple-entry visa

30 days

NPR 7,000 

INR 4,500 

Multiple-entry visa 

90 days

NPR 17,000 

INR 10,500 

Nepal Visa Requirements & Documents for Indians

The following Nepal visa documents for Indians are required to ensure a smooth visa process. This section also includes major Nepal visa requirements for Indians:

Identity Documents

  • Valid Indian passport (recommended as the primary ID)
  • Alternatively, a voter ID card issued by the Election Commission of India
  • For children under 18, a school/college ID card along with a birth certificate showing Indian parentage
  • Passport-size photos of 35mm x 45mm

Entry Requirements

While no formal visa application is required, Indian travelers should be prepared to present their identity documents at immigration checkpoints. Border officials may occasionally ask for:

  • Return transportation details
  • Information about accommodation in Nepal
  • Basic travel itinerary

Special Permits

Some restricted or protected areas in Nepal require special permits, even for Indian citizens. These include:

  • Restricted Area Permits for some remote regions
  • Trekking permits for specific routes (Annapurna, Langtang, etc.)
  • Conservation Area Entry Permits

Nepal Visa Process for Indians

Indian nationals enjoy visa-free entry into Nepal under the 1950 Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship. However, the Nepal visa process for Indians involves specific procedures and documentation required for a smooth entry.

1. Carry a Valid ID

As mentioned earlier, Indian citizens must carry one of the following government-issued identification documents:

  • A valid Indian passport
  • A Voter ID card issued by the Election Commission of India
  • An Emergency Certificate issued by the Embassy of India in Nepal

2. Arrive at the Border Crossing or Airport

Indian travelers can enter Nepal through designated land border crossings or Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. At these official immigration checkpoints, present your valid identification document to the immigration officers.

3. Present Documentation

Upon arrival, submit your valid Indian proof of identity to the immigration authorities.

4. Complete Entry Form

At certain border crossings, you may be required to fill out a simple entry form providing basic personal details and travel information. This process is typically straightforward and assists in maintaining travel records.

5. Immigration Clearance

After verification of your documents and entry form (if applicable), the immigration officer will grant you entry into Nepal. Indian citizens are not issued a formal visa stamp but can enter and stay in Nepal without a visa.

Note: You must obtain the necessary permits if your travel plans include visiting restricted areas or engaging in specific trekking routes. 

Restricted Area Permits (RAP) are required for Upper Mustang, Manaslu, and Tsum Valley regions. These permits can only be obtained through registered trekking agencies and require prior approval from the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. Here is the link to apply for a trekking permit.

Nepal Visa Processing Time for Indians

Since Indian nationals don’t require formal visas for Nepal, the processing time is minimal and may vary depending on the season, with longer waits during peak tourist periods.

Nepal Stay Duration, Validity, and Extension for Indians

The Nepal visa validity for Indians is exceptionally flexible compared to other international destinations. 

Unlike tourists from other countries who are limited to specific stay periods, Indian nationals can remain in Nepal for a longer duration without requiring formal extensions. 

However, even though Indian nationals can extend their stay in Nepal beyond six months, they must check in with the Indian Embassy of Kathmandu in Nepal every six months.

Category

Validity

Stay Period

Extension

Visa free entry for Indians 

6 months

15/30/90 days

N/A

Top Mistakes while Applying for Nepal Visa

Even though Indians don’t need tourist visas, there are common mistakes to avoid while applying for a Nepal visa:

  1. Insufficient ID Proof
  2. Relying solely on unofficial identification documents not widely recognized by immigration or border officials can cause delays or even denial of entry. Always carry a valid passport or government-issued ID approved for international travel.

  3. No Knowledge of Restricted Areas
  4. Some regions in Nepal, especially near borders or national parks, require special entry permits. Accessing these areas without proper documentation can lead to being fined or turned back by local authorities.

  5. Extended Stay Without Registration
  6. Staying in Nepal for more than six months for work, volunteering, or business purposes requires proper registration with local authorities. Failing to do so may result in legal issues, visa penalties, or even deportation.

  7. Currency Restrictions
  8. Nepal enforces specific rules on carrying large sums of cash, especially Indian or Nepalese currency. Entering or exiting the country without declaring excess amounts can lead to confiscation or fines at customs checkpoints.

  9. Missing Trekking Permits
  10. Popular trekking zones like the Annapurna or Everest region require TIMS cards and other permits. Trekking without them can lead to hefty fines and being escorted out of the restricted area by officials or police.

Nepal Visa Consulates/Embassy in India

Nepal has two diplomatic missions in India – an embassy in New Delhi and a consulate in Kolkata.

Embassy of Nepal in New Delhi, India

Consulate General of Nepal in Kolkata

Top Reasons to Visit Nepal

Nepal offers Indian travelers a perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty. With easy accessibility and cultural similarities, it’s no wonder that thousands of Indians choose Nepal as their travel destination each year. 

Here are the top reasons why you should consider Nepal for your next international trip:

Climate & Top Season

Nepal experiences four distinct seasons, with the best times to visit being autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May). During these months, the weather is pleasant with clear skies, making it ideal for trekking and sightseeing. 

The views of the Himalayan ranges are most spectacular during these periods, offering breathtaking panoramas that will remain etched in your memory forever.

Culture

Nepal’s rich cultural heritage blends Hindu and Buddhist traditions in a unique way that feels both familiar and exotic to Indian visitors. The numerous temples, stupas, and religious festivals showcase deep-rooted traditions that have been preserved for centuries. 

Pashupatinath Temple, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site, and Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, exemplify Nepal’s diverse cultural landscape.

Attractions

From the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu Valley to the serene beauty of Pokhara and the wildlife of Chitwan National Park, Nepal offers diverse attractions. 

The historic Durbar Squares, ancient cities of Bhaktapur and Patan, and of course, the majestic view of Mount Everest are just a few highlights. For spiritual seekers, Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, provides a peaceful retreat for meditation and reflection.

Activities

Adventure enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Nepal, ranging from high-altitude trekking and mountaineering to white-water rafting and paragliding. 

The Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp treks are world-famous challenges for hiking enthusiasts. For those seeking less strenuous experiences, jungle safaris in Chitwan, boat rides on Phewa Lake in Pokhara, or shopping in Thamel offer enjoyable alternatives.

Costs

One of Nepal’s most appealing aspects for Indian travelers is its affordability. Your Indian rupee goes a long way in Nepal, and you get excellent value for money in accommodation, food, and activities. 

The absence of visa fees and currency exchange complications further enhances the economic appeal for Indian tourists.

Expense Category

Cost in NPR

Cost in INR

Budget Accommodation

NPR 800-1,500/night

INR 500-940 /night

Mid-range Hotel

NPR 2,500-5,000/night

INR 1,560-3,125/night

Luxury Hotel

NPR 8,000+/night

INR 5,000+ /night

Local Meal

NPR 200-400 

INR 125-250 

Restaurant Meal

NPR 500-1,000 

INR 315-625 

Taxi (Short Distance)

NPR 250-500 

INR 156-315

Trekking Permit

NPR 2,000-3,000 

INR 1,250-1,875 

Entry to Major Attractions

NPR 500-1,500 

INR 315-940 

Suggested Reading: Exploring Nepal on a Budget

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FAQs

Do Indians need a visa for Nepal?

No, Indian citizens do not need a formal visa to enter Nepal. They can travel using valid proof of Indian identity, such as a passport or voter ID card. The Aadhaar card is not valid.

Is there a Visa on Arrival for Indians in Nepal?

The Visa on Arrival concept doesn’t apply to Indians since they don’t require a visa. Indian nationals simply present their identity documents at immigration checkpoints for entry.

Is Nepal visa easy to get for Indians?

Indians enjoy the easiest entry requirements for Nepal among all nationalities, with no visa requirement, making it essentially a visa-free destination for Indian citizens.

What are the Nepal visa fees for Indians?

There are no visa fees for Indian citizens entering Nepal, as they are exempt from visa requirements under the bilateral arrangement between India and Nepal.

What is the eligibility for a Nepal visa for Indians?

Indian citizens must simply possess valid proof of Indian identity, such as a passport, voter ID card, Aadhaar card, or driving license, to be eligible for entry into Nepal.

What are the general requirements for a Nepal visa for Indians?

The only general requirement is having valid identification proving Indian citizenship. No additional paperwork or visa application is needed for regular tourist visits.

What documents are needed for a Nepal visa for Indians?

Valid Indian passport (recommended), or alternatively, voter ID card, Aadhaar card, or driving license. Children may need a school/college ID witha birth certificate showing Indian parentage.

Are children eligible to apply for a Nepal visa?

Yes, Indian children can enter Nepal without a visa, just like adults. They should carry proof of identity and may travel with a school/college ID along with a birth certificate showing Indian parentage.

What’s the process for obtaining a Nepal visa for Indians?

No formal visa process exists for Indians. To gain entry, simply arrive at any official Nepal border crossing with valid Indian identification documents.

How much bank balance is required for a Nepal tourist visa?

There is no specific bank balance requirement for Indians entering Nepal, though having sufficient funds for your stay is always advisable when traveling internationally.

How long does a Nepal tourist visa take to process?

Since no formal visa, there is no processing time for a Nepal visa for Indians. Entry clearance at immigration checkpoints typically takes just a few minutes.