Visa-Free Travel to Nepal From India. It is close to India, cheap, and full of natural beauty. The Himalayas, temples, markets, and peaceful places make it a perfect travel destination. But before you travel, it is important to know the visa rules. The good news is that Indians do not need a visa to enter Nepal. But you still need to follow some rules and carry proper documents.
This guide explains all the visa requirements, documents, travel tips, and rules for Indian citizens who want to visit Nepal.
Visa-Free Travel to Nepal From India
Do Indians Need a Visa for Nepal?
No, Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter Nepal. According to the Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship (1950), Indian nationals can travel to Nepal without a visa and stay there for as long as they want. They can also work, study, or live in Nepal without any special permit. But you still need valid identity proof.
What Documents Are Needed?
Even if you don’t need a visa, you must carry valid ID proof. Below are the accepted documents:
For Adults (18+ years):
You can carry any one of the following:
- Passport (Indian)
- Voter ID card issued by the Election Commission of India
These two are the most accepted documents.
Other ID cards like Aadhaar card, PAN card, or driving license are not accepted for air travel.
For Children (Below 18 years):
If you are traveling with a child below 18 years, they must have a:
- Valid passport
OR - Birth certificate with a school/college photo ID
They also need to travel with their parents or guardian.
How Can Indians Travel to Nepal?
Indians can travel to Nepal by air or by road.
1. By Air:
There are daily flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Varanasi to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
When you travel by air:
- Carry your passport or voter ID
- You must show your ID at check-in and immigration
You do not need a visa or entry permit at the airport.
2. By Road:
Nepal shares an open border with India. You can enter Nepal through the following main border points:
- Raxaul – Birgunj
- Sunauli – Bhairahawa
- Jogbani – Biratnagar
- Banbasa – Mahendranagar
- Panitanki – Kakarbhitta
There is no restriction on entry through road. But at some entry points, officials may ask for your ID and entry form.
You may have to fill a “Travel Declaration Form” and show your ID.
What If You Are Taking Your Vehicle?
If you are going to Nepal in your private car or bike, you need to get a vehicle permit.
This is called a “Bhansar” permit and can be collected at the Nepal border check-post.
You need:
- Your vehicle registration papers (RC)
- Driving license
- Pollution under control (PUC) certificate
- Indian insurance (some checkpoints may ask for a local Nepal insurance too)
You will also have to pay a small tax for the vehicle, based on the number of days.
Make sure to follow all local traffic rules in Nepal.
Can Indians Stay Long-Term in Nepal?
Yes. Indians can stay in Nepal without any time limit. You can stay for tourism, work, or study.
You don’t need a visa or residence permit. But if you plan to stay longer than 6 months, it’s better to register with the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu for safety.
If you want to work or start a business, you may need to take special permission from local offices in Nepal, though not always.
Entry Rules at Nepal Airport for Indians
If you are traveling by flight, keep these points in mind:
- You must carry a valid passport or voter ID
- Show the ID at the airline counter in India
- On arrival in Nepal, you will go through immigration, but you won’t need a visa
- Fill out the arrival card with your details
- You may be asked about your stay plans and return date
Currency Rules for Indians
Indian currency is accepted in Nepal, but not all notes are allowed.
As of now:
- ₹100 and ₹50 notes are accepted
- ₹200, ₹500, and ₹2000 notes are not allowed in Nepal officially
But in local shops, ₹500 may still be accepted.
To avoid problems, it is best to:
- Carry Nepali currency (NPR) for shopping
- You can exchange INR to NPR at the border or in Kathmandu
- 1 INR = 1.60 NPR (as per fixed exchange rate)
You can also withdraw cash using Indian ATM cards in Nepal, if your card supports international transactions.
Tips for Staying in Nepal
- Carry extra photocopies of your ID
- Always have a printout of your hotel booking
- Nepal is cheaper than India for food and stay
- Try local food like momo, thukpa, and dal bhat
- Electricity and Wi-Fi are available in most places
- Use local SIM cards for cheap internet (Ncell or Nepal Telecom)
Safety and Rules
- Nepal is safe for Indian travelers
- Respect local customs and religion
- Don’t carry drugs or banned items
- Always follow immigration and police rules
- Keep emergency contacts with you
Indian Embassy in Nepal
If you need help, visit the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu.
Address:
Embassy of India
Lainchaur, Kathmandu, Nepal
Phone: +977-1-4410900 / +977-1-4411699
Website: www.indianembassy.org.np
You can register with the embassy if you are staying long-term.
Summary of Travel Rules for Indians
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Needed? | ❌ No |
| Travel Documents | ✅ Passport or Voter ID (for adults) |
| Children’s Documents | ✅ Passport or birth certificate + school ID |
| Entry by Road Allowed? | ✅ Yes |
| Entry by Air Allowed? | ✅ Yes |
| Vehicle Entry? | ✅ Yes, with Bhansar permit |
| Max Stay Duration | Unlimited |
| Currency Allowed | ₹100, ₹50 (No ₹500 or ₹2000 officially) |
| Long-Term Stay | Allowed (register at embassy if over 6 months) |
| Work or Study? | Allowed, may need local permission |
Conclusion
Traveling to Nepal is easy for Indians. You don’t need a visa, and there is no time limit. You just need a proper ID and some planning. Whether you go by road or fly to Kathmandu, the journey is simple. Nepal welcomes Indian tourists with open arms.
Enjoy the mountains, temples, food, and friendly people of Nepal. It’s like a home away from home!