Visa Extension, Power, SIM and Disruptions · Visa and time

What time zone does Nepal use and what are usual working hours?

By Base Camp Tours, licensed Nepal travel agency (Tourism License 3121/080) · Updated · 1 min read

The short answer

Nepal Time is five hours and forty-five minutes ahead of Universal Time, which is fifteen minutes ahead of India. Remember this when you call home or when you set alarms for early flights, since the difference with India is easy to miss.

Offices and banks typically work Sunday to Friday and are closed on Saturday, while many shops and tourist services stay open every day. Hours vary and shorten on holidays, so check before you plan a visit. Mountain flights leave early in the morning, so plan to sleep in the same area the night before.

Key facts

Time
UTC+5:45
From India
15 minutes ahead
Offices
Sunday to Friday
Flights
Often early morning

How it works

  1. Set your phone to Nepal timeOn arrival.
  2. Check opening daysOffices Sunday to Friday.
  3. Plan early startsFor flights and treks.
  4. Confirm hoursBefore special visits.

Insider tip

Set your phone clock to Nepal time on arrival.

Avoid this

Do not plan office errands for a Saturday.

Related questions

Is Nepal 15 minutes ahead of India?

Yes, Nepal Time is 15 minutes ahead of Indian Standard Time.

Do shops open on Saturday?

Many do, but government offices are closed.

Quick trip match

Plan your Nepal trip in 60 seconds

Answer four short questions. We show trips that fit, and a planner can send a route and price. Free, no payment.

Keep reading

More guides to explore

Talk to a planner

Tell us the dates. We will draw the route.

Send your dates, group size and budget. A planner replies with a route, hotels and a clear price, free and with no obligation.

  • Licensed agency, Tourism License 3121/080
  • Own full-time guides and drivers
  • Private and customised departures