Nepal runs on 230 V at 50 Hz and uses three plug types: C (two round pins, the most common), D (three round pins, Indian style) and M (three larger round pins). Bring a universal travel adapter, or buy one in Thamel for about NPR 300 to 600. Most phone, camera and laptop chargers are rated 100 to 240 V, so they need only the adapter. You need a voltage converter only for a device marked 110 to 120 V alone, such as some hair dryers and shavers.
- Voltage and frequency230 V, 50 Hz
- Plug typesC (most common), D and M, all round pins
- Flat-pin plugs (US, UK, Australia)Need an adapter
- Chargers marked 100 to 240 VAdapter only, no converter
- Power cutsDaily load-shedding ended in 2018, short outages still happen
- Charging on the Everest trailOften free or cheap below Namche, about USD 3 to 6 a device above
- Power bank to bringAbout 20,000 mAh, in your hand luggage
- Power banks on flightsCabin only, up to 100 Wh without airline approval
If you are a foreigner planning to pay a visit to Nepal, it is good to know about the plugs used here and what adapters you require. Plugging in with the wrong kit can be risky. A forced plug or a device run on the wrong voltage can short, overheat or, in the worst case, start a fire. A plug is an electrical device that is connected to the power outlets or sockets, generally placed on the wall. Plugs connect the electrical devices to the power supply, acting as an intermediate, ensuring the devices receive the right amount of voltage and frequencies. Plugs come in different shapes and sizes with specific pins to fit into particular outlets. Now, coming to adapters and why we need them. Different countries have different plugs that may not always fit into the electrical outlets of Nepal. Therefore, adapters help you to fit your electrical devices in the power sockets/outlets that were formerly incompatible.
Nepal's mains supply is 230 V at 50 Hz, the same as most of Europe, India and Australia. The United States, Canada, Japan, Colombia and parts of Brazil run on 100 V to 127 V. If a device built only for 110 to 120 V goes straight into a Nepali socket, it gets about double the voltage it was made for and can burn out, and in the worst case hurt you. So before travelling to Nepal, check the label on each charger and appliance. Only a device rated for 110 to 120 V alone needs a voltage converter.
Another important point is that all the Plugs types in Nepal are made to fit the round pins hence, the flat prongs can not be fitted in them. To solve this issue, a travel plug adapter comes in handy. Plug adapter has holes for pins made in them that fit your electronic device and when connected to the power socket, even the flat prongs devices can be used. Most travellers need only the plug adapter. A converter is for the few single-voltage devices covered further down.
Nepal uses three types of plugs, namely plug type C, plug type D, and plug type M. A few practical tips before we dive in. A cheap universal travel adapter from any Thamel shop (NPR 300 to 600) handles all three socket types. Most modern phone and laptop chargers are dual-voltage (100 to 240 V) and need no converter at all. Many newer hotels now offer USB charging ports. And on trekking routes, lodges below Namche often charge for free or cheaply, while higher up you pay about USD 3 to 6 (roughly NPR 450 to 900) per device, so a good power bank pays for itself quickly.
Nepal Plug Types at a Glance
Nepal has no single national plug standard, so you will meet all three types, sometimes on the same wall. Type C is by far the most common, then the Indian-style type D, then the heavier type M. Many hotels fit universal sockets that take several plug shapes.
| Type | Pins | Earth | Rated current | Typical use in Nepal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C (Europlug) | Two round pins, 4 to 4.8 mm, 19 mm apart | No | Up to 2.5 A for the flat Europlug | Phone and camera chargers, laptops, most hotel sockets |
| D | Three round pins in a triangle, 5.1 mm and a 7.1 mm earth pin | Yes | 5 to 6 A | Lamps, TVs, older buildings, Indian-made appliances |
| M | Three larger round pins, 7.1 mm and an 8.7 mm earth pin | Yes | 15 to 16 A | Heaters, geysers, fridges and other heavy appliances |
A type C plug also fits the round holes of a type D socket, which is why a two-pin European charger works in most Nepali rooms. Pin sizes are from the international plug standards summarised by WorldStandards.
Plug type C
Type C plugs ( also known as the Europlug ) have two round pins parallel to each other. Each pin has a diameter of 4 mm to 4.8 mm and is separated by a 19 mm distance. This plug works on a voltage range of 220 to 240 V. Plug type C also fits in the socket of plug type E, plug type F, plug type J, plug type K, etc. They are generally used for low-power devices like cameras, cell phones, laptop chargers, etc.
Plug type D
Type D plugs have three round pins that are arranged in the shape of a triangle. The top pin is the longest, at 20.6 mm with a diameter of 7.06 mm, and the other two are shorter, at 14.9 mm with a diameter of 5.08 mm. The long pin is the earth. Type D plugs can carry more current than type C plugs, typically 5 to 6 A. They are used for lamps, televisions, sound systems and similar mid-sized appliances, while bigger loads such as refrigerators and air conditioners usually use type M.
Plug type M
Type M has three round pins laid out as a triangle similar to that of type D. The type M pins are slightly thicker than that of type D. The singular inner pin has a length of 28.6 mm and a diameter of 8.7 mm, two outer pins have the length of 18.6 mm and a diameter of 7.06 mm. Plug types M and D run on the same 230 V supply, but type M carries much more current, about 15 to 16 A against 5 to 6 A for type D.
How to use a plug adapter the correct way?
Here is a proper guide to assist you through the process of using a plug adapter:
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First and foremost, determine the type of electrical socket (C, D, or M), then find the plug adapter that fits in the socket. Before getting the adapter to check the holes are made in an adapter to fit your electrical appliances.
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To make sure it is safe, use it in the shop itself and see it is completely safe.
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To use the adapter, insert it into the power outlet and check to see if it is firmly connected.
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If the adapter has a power light, check that it comes on before you plug in your device.
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Now, connect your electrical device carefully, insert it all the way in, and use it carefree.
How to use a voltage converter?
Now, here is a guide on how to use a voltage converter:
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Read voltage specifications and compatibility before purchasing it.
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Check the voltage your device can handle and see if it is compatible with the voltage in Nepal. Now check and make sure the voltage converter is able to convert it according to the needs of your electrical appliance.
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Now in any place in Nepal where you stay, connect the voltage converter to the power socket and check to see if it is connected properly.
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Plug your 110 V to 120 V device into the converter, never straight into the wall socket.
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Finally, use the device to ensure all the safety measures are taken.
How to determine if your device needs a voltage converter?
There are dual voltage-rated devices and single voltage-rated devices. Typically dual rated voltage device does not need a voltage converter (although this is not always the case). In the case of a dual voltage-rated device, you need to check the appliance rating plate that is written on the body of the electrical device. It is normally written as Input: 100 V to 240 V (just an example), if this range falls in the standard of Nepal’s voltage supply then your appliance can be operated safely. Hence, no need to use the voltage converter your device is going to adjust the voltage by itself. If the range on the label stops below 230 V, the device is not safe on Nepal's supply without a converter.
For single voltage-rated devices check the voltage they can work with as these devices can only work with the voltage mentioned. If the voltage on the appliance does not include 230 V, get a voltage converter. In most cases, single voltage-rated devices from 110 V countries do need one.
Will My Device Work in Nepal?
Read the small print on the charger or the appliance's rating plate. The input line tells you everything.
| Label on your device | Common examples | What you need in Nepal |
|---|---|---|
| Input 100 to 240 V | Phone, tablet and laptop chargers, most camera chargers, e-readers | Adapter only |
| Input 220 to 240 V | Devices bought in Europe, the UK, India or Australia | Adapter only if the plug shape differs |
| Dual voltage with a 110/220 switch | Some travel hair dryers and kettles | Switch to 220 and use an adapter |
| Input 110 to 120 V only | Many North American hair dryers, straighteners, electric shavers | Converter needed or leave it at home |
For a trek, the simplest answer is to bring only devices that charge over USB. Lodges up high have limited power, and a hair dryer is one of the items we suggest leaving in Kathmandu in our guide to what to pack and what not to bring.
Voltage converter Vs. voltage transformer
Voltage converters and voltage transformers both perform the same function. The only difference between these two is in the duration you need to keep the voltage in check for. Voltage converters are made for short bursts of use, such as a hair dryer for a few minutes, and the maker states the limit. Voltage transformers, on the other hand, can run for hours, so they suit electronics that stay plugged in, and good ones have thermal protection that stops them overheating.
Caution note: most simple travel adaptors do not carry the earth connection, so don't use them with appliances that need earthing. Use them with double-insulated devices. The double-insulated symbol has two square shapes, one square inside the other.
Power Cuts in Nepal Today
Nepal's long daily power cuts, known as load-shedding, are history. The Nepal Electricity Authority ended them in Kathmandu first, then in other cities, and declared the whole country free of load-shedding in 2018. Short unplanned cuts still happen, more often in the hills and during storms, and hotels in cities usually run a backup generator or inverter.
The 26 August 2026 Rasuwa flood damaged several hydropower plants and a substation on the Trishuli and Bhotekoshi, and parts of Rasuwa lost power for days. On 23 September 2026 the Nepal Electricity Authority said there would still be no load-shedding this winter (Kathmandu Post). A small power bank covers you if your room loses power for an evening.
Charging on a Trek
On the main teahouse treks you plug into the lodge's dining-room sockets or pay for a charge at the counter. On the Everest trail, lodges below Namche run on micro-hydro power and charging is often free or cheap. Higher up, power comes from solar panels and small generators, so lodges charge per device and the sockets fill fast in the evening (see our guide to internet and charging on the Everest trek).
| Where | Power source | Typical cost to charge a device |
|---|---|---|
| Kathmandu and Pokhara hotels | Grid, with backup in most hotels | Free |
| Lower trail lodges (below Namche on Everest, lower Annapurna villages) | Grid or micro-hydro | Free or cheap |
| Higher lodges (above Namche on Everest) | Solar panels and small generators | About USD 3 to 6 a device |
| Highest lodges (Gorak Shep and similar) | Solar and generator | Top of the range, and a wait for a socket |
- Bring a power bank of about 20,000 mAh and top it up whenever you get the chance.
- Carry one universal adapter and a short USB cable for each device, as lodge sockets are often type C or D only.
- Cold drains batteries fast, so above about 4,000 m sleep with your phone, camera batteries and power bank inside your sleeping bag.
- A small solar panel is a useful backup on longer treks, but it charges slowly and should not be your main source.
- Bring small rupee notes, because charging is paid in cash up high.
Power Banks on Flights
Power banks travel in your hand luggage, never in checked bags. Under the international aviation rules tightened by ICAO in March 2026, each passenger can usually carry up to two power banks, each up to 100 Wh without asking the airline. Between 100 and 160 Wh you need the airline's approval, and anything above 160 Wh is not allowed. You can't charge a power bank from the aircraft's sockets, and some airlines now ban using one on board at all.
A 20,000 mAh power bank at 3.7 V holds about 74 Wh, so it is within the limit. The watt-hour rating is usually printed on the case. Airlines can set stricter rules. In October 2026 Nepal Airlines banned one specific power bank model on its India flights (Kantipur), so check your airline's dangerous goods page before you fly, including for domestic flights such as Kathmandu or Manthali to Lukla.
Also Read:
Peak Climbing Permits and Cost in Nepal
Best Travel Insurance For Trekking Up To 6000m In Nepal
Advice to use electrical appliances safely while traveling in Nepal:
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Do not touch any power sockets with wet hands.
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If the sockets or the pins of the plugs look damaged, then refuse to use them.
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Make sure cables are not damaged or nicked in between. If the nicked cables are held with insulating tapes then immediately complain about it to the owners of the place you are staying at and have them changed.
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If your adaptor or voltage converter does not fit in the power socket, do not force in it. Doing this can damage power sockets and the adaptors.
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Always stay aware. If you notice even a slight burning smell, or buzzing or fizzing sounds from a cable, switch off the power at once and check what is wrong.
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Do not overload plug sockets. If too many electrical devices are connected at once, then overheating can lead to a fire outburst.
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Newer buildings often have RCDs (residual current devices), which cut the power automatically when something goes wrong. Think of them as a smart fuse. Older guesthouses may not have them, so take extra care with damaged sockets there.
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If you find bare wires pushed straight into a socket where you are staying, don't use it, and tell the owner.
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People traveling with children never allow their children to play with electrical appliances and power sockets.
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Keep drinks, water, and other liquids away from the power supply and electrical devices.
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When not in use, ensure the power supply is switched off.
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Before buying any type of electrical appliance, travel plug adaptors, travel voltage converters, or travel voltage transformers, inquire to see if it is not damaged in any way and is safe to use.
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Know where the fire extinguisher and the exits are in your hotel.
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Learn some basic first aid skills for electric shock.
Frequently Asked Questions
What plug do I need for Nepal?
Nepal uses types C, D and M, all with round pins. A universal travel adapter covers all three. If your plug has two round pins, as in most of Europe, it already fits most Nepali sockets.
Do I need a voltage converter in Nepal?
Usually not. Nepal is 230 V, and chargers for phones, cameras and laptops are almost always rated 100 to 240 V. Only a device labelled 110 to 120 V alone needs a converter.
Can I buy adapters in Nepal?
Yes. Shops in Thamel and Pokhara's Lakeside sell universal adapters for about NPR 300 to 600. Check that the pins fit snugly before you buy.
Can I charge my phone on a trek?
Yes, in almost every teahouse. It is often free or cheap in lower villages, and costs about USD 3 to 6 a device in higher lodges on the Everest trail. Bring a power bank for the days when sockets are full.
Can I take a power bank on a flight to Nepal?
Yes, in your hand luggage only. Up to 100 Wh is allowed without airline approval, which covers a 20,000 mAh power bank. Check your airline's rules, as some limit how many you can carry or ban using them on board.
