Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Bhaktapur, Nepal, is crucial for safeguarding your health under the sun. With UV levels soaring as high as 12 around midday, awareness can play a significant role in preventing sunburn and promoting long-term skin health. The city's unique Cwb climate presents its own challenges, exposing residents and visitors to variable yet potentially harmful UV radiation. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can take proactive measures against excessive sun exposure and enjoy all that this historic gem has to offer while keeping your skin safe.
The UV Index reaches its peak around midday, starting the day at a modest 3 at 07:00, then climbing sharply to 12 by 11:00. The sun’s intensity is truly felt at 10:00 when the index hits 11, followed by a slight decline as the afternoon progresses. By 14:00, it drops to 6, and by late afternoon, it wanes further, plunging to 1 by 17:00. The index finally settles at 0 after 18:00, signaling the end of the sun's impact for the day. Stay protected during the peak hours, especially between 10:00 and 14:00!
Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
---|---|---|---|
07:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
08:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
09:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
10:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
11:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels exhibit significant seasonal variations, with the highest risk occurring from March to September. Notably, April, May, June, July, and August are classified as extreme exposure months with a UV Index reaching up to 14, where the burn time is a mere 10 minutes. As early as February, the UV Index escalates to 7 (high), signaling an increase in sun exposure risk. For January and December, visitors and residents can expect moderate UV levels, with a safer burn time of 30 minutes. As such, individuals are strongly advised to take protective measures during high and extreme UV Index months, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure, especially during midday when the sun’s rays are strongest.
UV Risk Categories
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Biratnagar UVI | 5 | 6 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 7 | 5 |
Birganj UVI | 5 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 5 |
Patan UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 |
Kathmandu UVI | 5 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 13 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 |
Bhaktapur | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 7 | 5 |
Pokhara UVI | 7 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 8 | 6 |