Planning a trip to Nepal? Indian citizens can travel to Nepal without a visa, making it one of the easiest international destinations to visit. You do not need to apply for a tourist visa, e-Visa, or visa on arrival for your trip. Whether you are flying to Kathmandu or entering through a land border, you only need a valid Indian Passport or original Voter ID Card accepted by Nepalese immigration authorities. This guide covers Nepal’s entry requirements for Indians, accepted documents, permitted stay duration, special permits, and essential travel information to help you plan a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Do You Need a Visa?
No. Indian citizens do not require a visa to visit Nepal for tourism.
Under the India–Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, citizens of both countries can travel freely between India and Nepal without obtaining a tourist visa.
This means you do not need to:
- Apply for a Nepal tourist visa
- Apply for an online visa (e-Visa)
- Obtain a visa on arrival
- Pay any visa fee
Documents Required to Enter Nepal
To enter Nepal, carry one of the following original documents:
| Document | Accepted for Entry |
|---|---|
| Valid Indian Passport | Yes |
| Original Voter ID Card issued by the Election Commission of India | Yes |
Important Notes
- Carry the original document; photocopies are generally not accepted.
- Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Driving Licence, and other government-issued IDs are not valid travel documents for entering Nepal.
- Airlines may ask for your passport or original Voter ID before boarding.
Is Nepal e-Visa Required?
No. Nepal offers an online visa application system for travellers from countries that require a tourist visa. Since Indian citizens enjoy visa-free entry, they are not required to apply for a Nepal e-Visa.
You can travel directly to Nepal with your valid identity document.
Visa Fees for Indian Citizens
There are no visa charges for Indian citizens visiting Nepal for tourism.
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | Not Required |
| Online Visa (e-Visa) | Not Required |
| Visa on Arrival | Not Required |
How Long Can Indians Stay in Nepal?
Indian citizens are exempt from Nepal's tourist visa requirements, so standard visa validity and stay duration rules do not apply.
If you are travelling for tourism, you can visit Nepal without obtaining a visa. However, travellers planning to work, study, start a business, or stay long-term should check the applicable immigration rules and obtain required approvals from Nepalese authorities.
Entry Requirements: Confirmed flight tickets (for air travel). Immigration officials may ask about the purpose of your visit and your accommodation during your stay.
Are Special Permits Required for Nepal?
Although Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter Nepal, some destinations require additional permits. These permits help regulate tourism and protect environmentally and culturally sensitive areas.
You may need special permits if you plan to visit:
- Restricted trekking regions
- Conservation areas
- National parks
- Mountaineering expedition routes
- Certain restricted border areas
Popular trekking destinations such as Upper Mustang, Manaslu, Dolpo, and other protected regions require special permits. Depending on your itinerary, you may also need a TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) Card and conservation area permits issued by the relevant authorities. If you're planning a trekking or climbing adventure, check the permit requirements in advance or arrange them through your trekking agency.
Entering Nepal by Air vs Land
By Air
If you are flying to Nepal:
- Carry your valid Passport or original Voter ID.
- Complete immigration formalities upon arrival.
- No visa application or payment is required.
By Land
Indian citizens can also enter Nepal through designated India–Nepal border crossings.
- Carry your original Passport or Voter ID.
- Follow immigration procedures at the border.
