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Pokhara Entry Requirements

Pokhara Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Home › Entry Requirements
Important Notice Entry requirements can change at any time. Always verify current requirements with official government sources before traveling.
Information last reviewed December 2024. Always verify with official government sources and the Department of Immigration Nepal before traveling, as visa policies and health requirements can change.
Pokhara, Nepal's stunning lakeside city and gateway to the Annapurna region, welcomes international travelers through Pokhara International Airport or overland routes from Kathmandu and the Indian border. Entry requirements for Pokhara are governed by Nepal's national immigration policies, as it is not a separate country but a major tourist destination within Nepal. Most international visitors will first enter Nepal through Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or via land borders with India and Tibet/China before traveling to Pokhara. Nepal offers a convenient visa-on-arrival system for most nationalities, making it relatively easy for tourists to visit Pokhara and other parts of the country. The immigration process is straightforward, though travelers should be prepared with proper documentation, passport photos, and visa fees in cash (USD or equivalent). Since the opening of Pokhara International Airport in 2023, some international flights now arrive directly, though most travelers still enter through Kathmandu. Whether arriving by air directly to Pokhara or traveling overland from Kathmandu, visitors should ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay, have proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds for their visit. The immigration authorities are generally welcoming to tourists, as tourism is a vital part of Nepal's economy, particularly in the Pokhara region known for trekking, paragliding, and natural beauty.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Nepal offers visa-on-arrival for most nationalities at major entry points including Pokhara International Airport, Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, and land border crossings. A limited number of nationalities require pre-arranged visas.

Visa on Arrival
15 days (USD 30), 30 days (USD 50), or 90 days (USD 125)

Most nationalities can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Pokhara International Airport, Kathmandu airport, or land borders

Includes
United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand Most European Union countries Japan South Korea Singapore Malaysia Thailand Brazil Argentina South Africa Israel Most other countries not listed as restricted

Indian nationals do not require a visa for Nepal. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months. Two passport-size photos required. Payment in USD cash preferred, though some locations accept other major currencies or cards. Free visa for children under 10 years.

Online Visa Application
15, 30, or 90 days (same fees as visa on arrival)

Pre-fill visa application online before arrival to save time at immigration

Includes
All nationalities eligible for visa on arrival
How to Apply: Apply through Nepal Immigration's online portal (https://nepaliport.immigration.gov.np) up to 15 days before arrival. Complete the form, upload photo, and receive a receipt to present at immigration. Still need to pay fees on arrival.
Cost: Same as visa on arrival: USD 30 (15 days), USD 50 (30 days), USD 125 (90 days)

This is not an e-visa but a pre-registration system. Payment and visa issuance still occur on arrival. Significantly reduces waiting time at immigration counters.

Pre-arranged Visa Required
Varies by visa type, typically 15-90 days for tourist visas

Certain nationalities must obtain visa from Nepalese embassy/consulate before travel

Includes
Afghanistan Iraq Cameroon Ghana Somalia Liberia Ethiopia Nigeria Zimbabwe Palestine Syria
How to Apply: Apply at nearest Nepalese embassy or consulate with completed application form, passport photos, passport copy, travel itinerary, and proof of accommodation. Processing typically takes 3-7 business days.

These restrictions are subject to change. Check with the nearest Nepalese diplomatic mission before making travel plans. Some nationalities may also be restricted from certain trekking areas.

Arrival Process

The entry process for Pokhara depends on your arrival point. If arriving directly at Pokhara International Airport on an international flight, you'll complete immigration there. Most travelers enter Nepal through Kathmandu and complete immigration formalities there before traveling to Pokhara domestically.

1
1. Visa Application (if arriving internationally)
If you haven't pre-filled the online form, complete a visa application form at the airport. Forms are available at counters before immigration. Fill in your personal details, intended length of stay, and accommodation information.
2
2. Payment of Visa Fee
Proceed to the visa fee payment counter. Pay the appropriate fee based on your intended stay (15, 30, or 90 days). USD cash is preferred, though some locations accept EUR, GBP, AUD, CAD, CHF, or cards. Keep your receipt.
3
3. Immigration Counter
Present your passport, completed application form (or online receipt), payment receipt, and passport photos at the immigration counter. The officer will review your documents, may ask basic questions about your visit, and stamp your visa in your passport.
4
4. Baggage Claim and Customs
Collect your luggage and proceed through customs. Most travelers can use the green channel (nothing to declare). If carrying items requiring declaration, use the red channel.
5
5. Exit Airport/Border
Exit the arrivals area. At Pokhara Airport, taxis and hotel pickups are available outside. Keep your passport and visa accessible as there may be occasional checkpoints, especially if trekking.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport
Must be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry. Ensure you have blank pages for visa stamps.
Passport Photos
Two recent passport-size photos (though some travelers report only one is needed). Photos are also available at airports for a fee if you forget.
Visa Fee in Cash
USD 30, 50, or 125 depending on duration. USD cash strongly recommended. Bring exact change if possible.
Completed Visa Application Form
Available at airport/border or pre-filled online. Include details of accommodation in Nepal (hotel name and address).
Proof of Onward Travel
Return ticket or proof of onward travel. Rarely checked but good to have available.
Proof of Sufficient Funds
Evidence you can support yourself during your stay. Rarely requested but recommended to carry bank statements or credit cards.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Pre-fill the visa application online before arrival to skip long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons (October-November and March-April).
Bring multiple passport photos from home as they're cheaper than buying at the airport, and you'll need them for trekking permits if planning to trek.
Have USD cash ready for visa fees. ATMs are available after immigration, but the visa payment counter may not accept cards reliably.
Write down your Pokhara accommodation details (name and address) before arriving, as you'll need this for the visa form.
Keep your visa receipt and passport accessible throughout your stay. You'll need to show them when registering at hotels and obtaining trekking permits.
If arriving in Kathmandu first, you can extend your visa at the Immigration Office in Pokhara (Damside) if needed, rather than returning to Kathmandu.
Download offline maps and have accommodation contact numbers ready, as WiFi may be limited immediately upon arrival at Pokhara Airport.

Customs & Duty-Free

Nepal's customs regulations are relatively straightforward for tourists. Most personal items and tourist goods can be brought in duty-free, but there are restrictions on certain items. When arriving at Pokhara International Airport or having entered through Kathmandu, you'll pass through customs after collecting your baggage.

Alcohol
1.15 liters of spirits or wine
Must be 18 years or older. Alcohol is legal but culturally sensitive in some areas. Not recommended to bring for trekking.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes or 50 cigars
Must be 18 years or older. Cigarettes are available locally but international brands may be limited in Pokhara.
Currency
Foreign currency exceeding USD 5,000 (or equivalent) must be declared; Nepalese Rupees exceeding NPR 25,000 must be declared
Complete currency declaration form if carrying amounts above threshold. Keep declaration form to show when departing. Indian currency above INR 25,000 must also be declared.
Gifts/Goods
Personal effects and gifts up to NPR 25,000 in value
Items should be reasonable for personal use during your stay. Professional equipment may require temporary import permits.
Electronics
One laptop, one camera, one mobile phone, and similar personal electronic items
Professional photography/video equipment may require declaration and temporary import documentation. Drones require special permits from Nepal Civil Aviation Authority.

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics and illegal drugs - Nepal has strict drug laws with severe penalties including long prison sentences
  • Weapons and ammunition - including knives with blades over certain length, firearms, explosives
  • Antiques over 100 years old - Nepal prohibits export of antiques and cultural artifacts
  • Wildlife products - items made from endangered species, including certain furs, ivory, and traditional medicines
  • Nepalese currency over NPR 25,000 - bringing in or taking out large amounts of local currency is restricted
  • Counterfeit goods - fake branded items, pirated media
  • Obscene materials - pornographic content in any form
  • Items depicting the Nepalese flag or national emblem inappropriately

Restricted Items

  • Drones and UAVs - require permit from Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal before bringing into country; not allowed in trekking areas
  • Professional film/video equipment - may require special permits and documentation for temporary import
  • Satellite phones - require special permission from Nepal Telecommunications Authority
  • Prescription medications - bring in original containers with prescription; carry doctor's letter for controlled substances
  • Religious materials for distribution - may require clearance if bringing large quantities
  • Gold and precious metals - amounts exceeding personal jewelry may require declaration and documentation

Health Requirements

Nepal does not require specific vaccinations for most travelers, but health precautions are strongly recommended. Health requirements may vary based on your country of origin and recent travel history.

Required Vaccinations

  • Yellow Fever - required only if arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic countries in Africa or South America (certificate must be presented)

Recommended Vaccinations

  • Hepatitis A - recommended for all travelers due to food and water safety concerns
  • Typhoid - recommended, especially if visiting smaller cities, villages, or trekking
  • Hepatitis B - recommended for travelers who may have contact with blood or bodily fluids
  • Rabies - recommended for trekkers and those who may have contact with animals
  • Japanese Encephalitis - recommended for travelers spending extended time in rural areas, especially during monsoon season
  • Routine vaccinations - ensure measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, and polio are up to date
  • COVID-19 - recommended to be fully vaccinated according to current guidelines

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance with emergency evacuation coverage is strongly recommended and required by some trekking agencies. Medical facilities in Pokhara are limited compared to Kathmandu, and serious conditions may require evacuation. Ensure your policy covers trekking activities if planning to trek in the Annapurna region, including helicopter evacuation which can cost USD 5,000-10,000. Altitude sickness is a real concern for trekkers and is not always covered by standard policies.

Current Health Requirements: Check current COVID-19 and other health requirements before travel as these change frequently. As of late 2024, Nepal has lifted most COVID-19 entry restrictions, but requirements may be reinstated. Visit the Nepal Department of Immigration website and consult your country's travel health advisory. Consider malaria prophylaxis if traveling to Terai region (lowlands), though not necessary for Pokhara or mountain areas. Bring sufficient prescription medications as specific brands may not be available locally.
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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate
Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Kathmandu for citizen services
Most embassies are in Kathmandu, not Pokhara. Register with your embassy if planning extended stays or trekking in remote areas. Check your government's travel advisory website before departure.
Immigration Authority
Department of Immigration, Nepal - Main office in Kathmandu; Branch office in Pokhara at Damside for visa extensions
Website: https://www.immigration.gov.np - For visa extensions, visit Pokhara Immigration Office, Damside, near the lake. Bring passport photos and extension fees.
Emergency Services
Emergency number: 100 (Police), 102 (Ambulance), 101 (Fire)
Tourist Police in Pokhara: Located at Lakeside (Baidam). Phone: +977-61-462761. They assist tourists with emergencies, complaints, and information.
Medical Emergency
Manipal Teaching Hospital, Pokhara (main hospital): +977-61-526416. Western Regional Hospital: +977-61-520066
For serious medical emergencies or altitude sickness, helicopter evacuation to Kathmandu may be necessary. Keep travel insurance details accessible.
Trekking Permits
Nepal Tourism Board Office, Pokhara - for TIMS cards and trekking information
Located at Lakeside. Also available through trekking agencies. Required for most treks in Annapurna region.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children require their own passport and visa (free for children under 10 years). If traveling with only one parent or without parents, carry a notarized letter of consent from the absent parent(s) authorizing the child to travel. This is not always checked but recommended to avoid issues. Ensure children are included in travel insurance. Consider altitude limitations for young children if trekking - consult a doctor before taking children above 3,000 meters.

Traveling with Pets

Pets can enter Nepal but require: (1) Valid health certificate from country of origin issued within 7 days of travel, (2) Rabies vaccination certificate (at least 30 days before travel but not more than 12 months), (3) Import permit from Department of Livestock Services, Nepal, obtained in advance, (4) Quarantine may be required upon arrival. Bringing pets to Nepal is complicated and not recommended for short visits. Very limited pet-friendly accommodations in Pokhara. Consider carefully whether this is in the pet's best interest.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas can be extended at the Department of Immigration in Pokhara (Damside) or Kathmandu. Extensions available for up to 150 days total per calendar year (including initial visa). Cost: USD 3 per day for extensions. Bring passport, passport photos, and extension fee. Process takes 1-2 days. For stays beyond tourist visa limits, consider: Student visa (if enrolled in Nepali institution), Business visa (requires company sponsorship), Volunteer visa (through registered NGO), or Non-tourist visa (for research, mountaineering). Overstaying results in fines of USD 3 per day for first 30 days, USD 5 per day thereafter, plus potential entry ban.

Trekking in Annapurna Region

Trekking from Pokhara requires: (1) TIMS card (Trekkers' Information Management System) - USD 20, available in Pokhara at Nepal Tourism Board or through trekking agencies, (2) Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) - NPR 3,000 for foreigners, available at Nepal Tourism Board in Pokhara or entry checkpoints, (3) Passport copy and passport photos. Solo trekking is permitted in Annapurna region but hiring a guide is recommended for safety. Some restricted areas require special permits and guides.

Working or Volunteering

Tourist visas do not permit work or volunteering. If planning to work or volunteer, obtain appropriate visa before arrival: Business visa (for paid work, requires company sponsorship and approval from Department of Labour), Volunteer visa (for unpaid work with registered NGO, requires NGO sponsorship and Social Welfare Council approval). Working on tourist visa is illegal and can result in deportation and entry ban. Many volunteer organizations in Pokhara can arrange proper documentation if contacted in advance.

Students and Researchers

Student visa required for academic study, available through sponsoring educational institution in Nepal. Research visa required for formal research projects, obtained through sponsoring institution and Nepal Academy of Science and Technology. Both require approval before arrival. Tourist visas cannot be converted to student/research visas within Nepal - must be obtained from Nepalese embassy abroad or before entry.

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