UV Index in Kathmandu, Nepal

Last updated: July 2, 2025

In the heart of Kathmandu, Nepal, awareness of the UV Index is essential for protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Understanding UV levels is crucial, as it helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, ensuring your outdoor adventures remain enjoyable and safe. With its Cwa climate, Kathmandu experiences intense UV exposure, particularly during midday hours when values peak as high as 14. Being informed about the local UV Index empowers residents and visitors alike to take necessary precautions and safeguard their skin against the sun's potent rays.

Hourly UV Index in Kathmandu

The UV Index exhibits a dramatic rise throughout the morning, starting at a mild 3 at 07:00 and surging to a peak of 14 by 11:00. This intensity signals the need for sun protection, especially as it reaches its highest point of 12 at 10:00. The afternoon sees a gradual decline, dipping to 5 by 15:00, and continuing to drop further to just 1 by 17:00. As evening approaches, the UV Index falls to 0 by 19:00, marking a significant reduction in sun exposure. Remember to stay vigilant during those peak hours for optimal sun safety!

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
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	12	extreme	10 min
11:00	14	extreme	10 min
12:00	13	extreme	10 min
13:00	11	extreme	10 min
14:00	8	very high	15 min
15:00	5	moderate	30 min
16:00	2	low	45 min
17:00	1	low	45 min
18:00	1	low	45 min
19:00	0	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Kathmandu

Throughout the year, UV levels fluctuate significantly, with marked increases during the spring and summer months. January and December see a moderate UV Index of 5, allowing for longer exposure times without risk of burning. However, beginning in February, the Index rises to 7 (high), with March reaching 9 (very high). The extreme category is prominent from April to September, peaking in July at 14, where the burn time is a mere 10 minutes—making this period particularly hazardous. Visitors and residents should be vigilant during these high-risk months, especially from April to September, taking precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak hours. As fall approaches, the UV Index gradually decreases, but caution is still advised in October and November.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Kathmandu, Nepal

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Kathmandu. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Kathmandu, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Kathmandu UV Index with Other Nepal Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Kathmandu compares to other major locations across Nepal. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Kathmandu's solar exposure compared to other cities in Nepal. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	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
Kathmandu	5	7	9	11	11	13	14	13	12	10	7	5
Patan UVI	5	7	9	11	11	13	14	13	12	10	7	5
Pokhara UVI	7	9	12	13	14	15	15	15	14	12	8	6