Do Indians Need a Passport for Nepal - Know Now!

No, Indians do not need a passport to visit Nepal; however, it can be used as a valid identity proof while entering the country. Indian citizens who do not possess a passport, must carry an original Voter ID card with a photograph, issued by the Election Commission of India, when entering Nepal.

If you are wondering, can I travel to Nepal from India without a passport? Yes, India and Nepal share an open border. It allows citizens of both countries to travel freely without a passport or visa, as per the Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship (1950). This friendly travel arrangement makes Nepal one of the most accessible international destinations for Indians.

Minors below 18 years of age cannot use a Voter ID. They must carry a birth certificate, school/college ID, or be accompanied by guardians with valid ID proof. Students travelling for education may require additional documents or a letter from the institution.

While a passport is not compulsory, Indians still need to carry a government-issued ID that meets
the entry requirements. For those searching "India to Nepal passport required," it is important to know that carrying a passport is still the safest and most accepted form of travel identification. Always double-check with airlines or border authorities before your journey to avoid inconvenience.

Let’s have a look at the documents required for air travel to Nepal from India:

Documents for Primary Identification

• A valid Indian passport, or
• An original Indian Voter ID with photo issued by the Election Commission of India.

Note: Individuals above 65 years and below 15 years are exempt from carrying the approved identity documents listed above. However, they must carry some photo identification that confirms their age and identity.

Emergency Travel Document (if no passport or Voter ID)

• Emergency Certificate - issued by the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu (only in exceptional cases).
• Identity Certificate - issued by the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu (only in exceptional cases).

Additional Notes, Documents, and Special Cases

• Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Nepal, per the 1950 Indo‑Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship granting free movement.
• Passport validity or blank pages are not mandatory since entry without a visa is permitted; however, a valid passport may still be presented if available.
• Children under 18 may use a birth certificate or a photo ID, but they still need one of the documents listed above unless accompanied by a parent holding a valid ID.
• Indian nationals residing in Nepal who plan to travel onward to a third country must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu before departure.

Here is a list of documents required for travelling to Nepal by your own vehicle:

Identification and Vehicle Documents

• Carry your original Voter ID or passport to prove identity and Indian citizenship.
• Vehicle documents required: valid driving licence, vehicle registration certificate (RC), insurance policy, PUC certificate.

Bhansar Permit (Vehicle Entry Pass)

• At the border’s customs office, apply for a ‘Bhansar’ permit (also called a day‑pass or pass/challan) to legally enter Nepal.
• Day visits to nearby Nepali towns: you may enter and return the same day using a Day Pass without paying customs duty, but you must return the pass before exiting.
• For overnight or longer stays, you must pay a daily fee, generally NPR  100 - 500 (₹62 - ₹312) depending on vehicle type.

Duration & Extensions

• Indian‑registered vehicles may stay in Nepal for a maximum of 30 calendar days per year, even after paying fees.
• Vehicles with a 'Pass' issued for a specific duration must exit Nepal before it expires. They may re-enter on a new 'Pass', provided the total stay does not exceed 30 days in a calendar year.
• Vehicles found in Nepal without a valid pass or beyond the 30‑day limit may be seized and auctioned.

Border Entry Points & Experience

• Major crossing points like Raxaul–Birgunj, Sonauli, Bhittamore, etc., issue Bhansar permits. Some smaller crossings may be quicker and less crowded.
• Integrated checkpoints (e.g. Raxaul) offer joint customs–police clearance, which reduces wait times.

Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter Nepal. Under the 1950 Indo‑Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, Indian nationals may travel freely into Nepal without a visa or passport, using either an Indian passport or a Voter ID card with a photograph as a document for identity. For those asking, “Is a passport required for Nepal?” - the answer is no, the same goes for the passport.

Officials at both land border crossings and airports accept these documents as valid proof of identity and citizenship. Indians entering Nepal do not require a visa-on-arrival, unlike citizens of most other countries. Children under 18 may travel with a birth certificate and photo ID if accompanying adults do not carry a passport or Voter ID.

Although visa rules applicable to other nationals include minimum passport validity of six months and blank pages, these are not mandatory for Indian travellers under the treaty provisions.

Indian citizens may stay in Nepal indefinitely without a visa or passport; the 1950 Indo‑Nepal Treaty guarantees freedom of movement and residence. They need to present a valid government‑issued photo ID, such as a Voter ID or passport, and they are allowed entry. For those wondering whether Nepal needs passports for Indian citizens, the answer is no.

Indian nationals can enter Nepal and remain for as long as they wish, as long as they have sufficient means and comply with local regulations. If you are unsure whether Nepal needs a passport for such extended stays, be assured that it is not mandatory - unless specific vehicle regulations apply.

There is one important restriction: Indian citizens who enter Nepal by road with their Indian‑registered vehicle are limited to a 30‑day total stay in a calendar year (for vehicle stay), under customs and vehicle rules. This rule does not apply to visitors travelling by air or by themselves on foot. No formal registration or visa extension is required.

However, if an Indian stays in Nepal beyond six months, it is advisable to register with the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu for assistance or documentation purposes.

Thus, unless you bring your own registered vehicle, there is no time limit on how long an Indian citizen may stay in Nepal without a passport.

Indian citizens do not need to pay any entry fee when entering Nepal. Indian nationals enjoy visa-free movement and are exempt from any immigration fees upon entry. Presenting a valid Indian passport or an original Voter ID card with a photograph for identification purposes is sufficient for entry. If you are wondering whether “Indians need a passport for Nepal” in order to avoid entry fees, the answer is no - only a valid ID proof is required.

This means -

• There is no visa fee or special entry charge for Indians entering Nepal.
• The immigration process is simplified; Indians present one of the approved ID documents and enter without paying official fees.

While Indian citizens are exempt from entry fees, they may still need to pay the following:

• Customs or permit charges, if bringing their vehicles to Nepal.
• Local tourism or heritage site fees, if visiting specific attractions (though many sites offer free access to Indian nationals).

Embassy of Nepal - New Delhi

Consulate General of Nepal - Kolkata

Nepal offers natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual experiences. This country has something for every traveller, right from mountains, temples, wildlife, and adventure.

• Kathmandu Valley - Kathmandu Valley is home to ancient cities like Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan. Visit Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple. The medieval architecture and vibrant street life make this region a must-see.

• Pokhara - Pokhara is known as the gateway to the Annapurna range. It is a serene city surrounded by lakes and mountains. Enjoy boating on Phewa Lake, explore caves, or go paragliding for panoramic Himalayan views.

• Mount Everest and the Himalayas - The Everest Base Camp trek offers an unforgettable experience to trekkers and mountaineers. The journey offers majestic mountain views, Sherpa hospitality, and unforgettable adventure. Other famous treks include the Annapurna Circuit and the Langtang Valley.

• Lumbini - Do not miss visiting Lumbini. This spiritual heaven is the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Visit the Maya Devi Temple, monastic zone, and the Ashoka Pillar. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that draws Buddhists and history lovers alike.

• Chitwan National Park - Chitwan is a UNESCO-listed site. It offers a jungle safari experience. You may spot rhinos, Bengal tigers, elephants, and over 500 bird species. You can explore the park by jeep, canoe, or even on foot with a guide.

• Nagarkot and Dhulikhel - These hill stations near Kathmandu offer panoramic sunrise views over the Himalayas. They are ideal for short hikes and peaceful retreats.

Nepal is one of the few countries that Indians can visit without a visa or passport. The open-border policy, rich culture, and breathtaking scenery make it an easy and rewarding international getaway. Just carry a valid ID, and you are ready to explore Nepal with ease.

While no visa or passport is required for Indian citizens to enter Nepal, unforeseen travel issues can still arise. That is why we recommend securing a travel insurance policy before your journey.
At TATA AIG, we offer comprehensive international travel insurance tailored for Indian travellers. Our plans keep you protected throughout your trip, right from medical emergencies, baggage delays, and trip cancellations.

As a trusted name in travel insurance India, we allow you to claim and buy travel insurance online with just a few clicks and without any hassle.

Plan smart. Travel safe. Choose TATA AIG international travel insurance for assistance at every step during your trip to Nepal.