Country
Nepal
Himalayas, spirituality, and progressive queer laws
LGBTQ+ status
Moderate for LGBTQ+
Marriage equality
Civil union
Decriminalized
Yes
Anti-discrimination
Partial protection
Adoption rights
Not available
Equal age of consent (18)
Equal
Gender recognition
Yes (self-ID)
About the country
Nepal is a mountainous country in South Asia, home to the world's highest peaks, including Everest. Despite deep religious traditions (Hinduism and Buddhism), Nepal surprises with progressive LGBTQ+ laws. A third gender has been officially recognised since 2013, and in 2023 the Supreme Court ruled to legalise same-sex marriage.
LGBTQ+ in this country
Nepal decriminalised same-sex relations in 2007 and became the first South Asian country to include LGBTQ+ protections in its constitution. In 2023 the Supreme Court ruled to recognise same-sex marriages, paving the way for marriage equality in the region. The Blue Diamond Society actively defends LGBTQ+ rights and organises the annual Kathmandu Pride Festival.
Key events
August
Kathmandu Pride Festival
Kathmandu
Cities in Nepal
Visas & entry
Israeli passport
Visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport. 30 days ~$40, 90 days ~$100. E-visa also available.
Russian passport
Visa on arrival. 15 days ~$30, 30 days ~$50, 90 days ~$125. E-visa available.
US passport
Visa on arrival or online. 30 days ~$40, 90 days ~$100.
Travel tips
- 1 Kathmandu has a small but active LGBTQ+ scene — check out bars in the Thamel district.
- 2 Blue Diamond Society is Nepal's main LGBTQ+ organisation; it holds events and helps travellers.
- 3 Trekking groups of any orientation are welcome — mountain guides are very professional.
- 4 Be respectful of local customs in villages and at religious sites.
- 5 Pokhara is a peaceful lakeside tourist city with an open and friendly atmosphere.