Nepal Visa for Indian & Pakistani Passport Holders in Dubai 2026

Indian nationals have a unique privilege when visiting Nepal — completely visa-free entry with no application, no fee, and no time limit on their stay. This is based on a longstanding bilateral agreement between India and Nepal that allows citizens of both countries to travel, live, and work freely across the border.

When arriving at Kathmandu airport from Dubai, Indian passport holders proceed directly to the immigration counter marked for Indian nationals or the general line. The officer will check your passport and stamp your entry — there is no visa process, no fee, and no form to fill out.

Pakistani passport holders require a visa to enter Nepal. The good news is that Nepal offers visa on arrival to Pakistani nationals at Kathmandu airport and at designated land border crossings. The process is straightforward and the same as for most other non-Indian nationalities.

Pakistan and Nepal have generally friendly relations, and Pakistani passport holders report smooth visa on arrival experiences at Kathmandu airport. The process typically takes 20-40 minutes including queuing time.

1. 1Optional but recommended: Pre-fill the visa form at nepaliimmigration.gov.np before your flight.
2. 2On arrival at Kathmandu airport, proceed to the visa area (before the main immigration hall).
3. 3Use the automated kiosk: scan your passport, take your photo (kiosk camera), select visa duration.
4. 4Go to the payment counter with your kiosk receipt. Pay in USD cash (preferred) or by Visa/MasterCard.
5. 5Proceed to the immigration counter. Present your passport and payment receipt.
6. 6The officer stamps your passport with the visa — you are now free to enter Nepal.

Both Indian and Pakistani nationals need trekking permits if planning to trek in Nepal. The permits are the same regardless of nationality, though pricing differs for SAARC nationals (which includes both India and Pakistan).

Indian and Pakistani passport holders enjoy substantially lower trekking permit fees as SAARC nationals. Conservation area permits that cost USD 30 for other nationalities cost only NPR 200 (approximately USD 1.50) for SAARC nationals — a significant saving.

• flydubai and Air Arabia operate direct flights from Dubai to Kathmandu (approximately 4.5 hours).
• Indian nationals can also fly Dubai-Delhi-Kathmandu, which sometimes offers cheaper fares.
• Both Hindi and Urdu are widely understood in Kathmandu tourist areas, making communication easy.
• Vegetarian and halal food options are readily available in Kathmandu and along major trekking routes.
• The Nepali Rupee (NPR) is pegged to the Indian Rupee at NPR 1.6 = INR 1. Indian Rupees (up to INR 500 denomination) are accepted in many shops in Kathmandu.
• Pakistani Rupees are not widely accepted — bring USD from Dubai and exchange at money changers in Thamel, Kathmandu.
• Travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage is essential for trekking — costs AED 200-500 for a 30-day policy.
• The best trekking seasons from Dubai are March-May (spring, rhododendron blooms) and September-November (clear skies, cool weather).