Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Kathmandu, Nepal, understanding the UV Index is crucial for maintaining your skin health and preventing sunburn, especially given the city’s Cwa climate, characterized by its hot summers and sunny days. During peak hours, particularly between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, UV levels can soar to dangerously high readings, peaking at 13. Awareness of these UV levels allows residents and visitors alike to take proper precautions—such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing—ensuring a safer, more enjoyable experience under the Himalayan sun. By staying informed, you can protect your skin and embrace all that Kathmandu has to offer without the painful repercussions of overexposure to UV rays.
As the sun rises, the UV Index starts at a mild 3 by 07:00, perfect for early morning strolls. By 08:00, it ramps up to 6, signaling a peak in sunlight intensity. The UV Index skyrockets to a maximum of 13 between 11:00 and 12:00, necessitating effective sun protection. After noon, the intensity begins to wane, dropping to 11 at 13:00 and steadily decreasing as the afternoon progresses. By 15:00, it falls to 4, and in the evening, the index drops to 1-0, indicating a safe period for outdoor activities as the sun sets. Enjoy the sunshine while staying mindful of the UV levels!
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 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
12:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
13:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
15:00 | 4 | 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 |
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.
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 |
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 |