Last updated: July 2, 2025
In Namche Bazar, Nepal, understanding the UV Index is crucial for safeguarding your skin against the intense sunlight prevalent in this high-altitude region. With UV levels often peaking at a staggering 16 around midday, awareness of these fluctuations is essential for preventing sunburn and maintaining overall skin health. Given the area’s ET climate, characterized by cool temperatures and sunny days, the risk of UV exposure can be deceptively high, making it important for residents and visitors alike to be vigilant. Embracing UV safety can enhance your outdoor experiences in this breathtaking Himalayan locale while protecting your skin from harmful effects.
The UV Index data reveals a dynamic and intense sunlight experience throughout the day. Starting at 07:00, the index is a mild 4, but the real intensity kicks in as the sun rises higher. By 08:00, it climbs to 7, reaching a peak of 16 between 11:00 and 12:00—the optimal time for sun protection. As the afternoon progresses, the index begins to drop, sliding to 9 at 14:00 and tapering off to 5 by 15:00. The evening brings a gentle descrescendo, with values dropping to 1 by 17:00 and fading to 0 as night approaches. If you're planning outdoor activities, make sure to gear up with sunscreen and protective clothing during the most intense hours!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 09:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 10:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 16 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 16 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | 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 |
The UV Index exhibits significant seasonal changes, with extreme levels prevailing from March to October, peaking at 16 in the summer months of June, July, and August. The high-risk months are primarily from March to September, where the burn time decreases to just 10 minutes during the extreme UV exposure. In contrast, January and February remain very high with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes, while November sees a decrease to a 9 UV Index with a 15-minute burn time. December offers a respite with a 7 UV Index, allowing for a safer 25-minute burn time. Residents and visitors should prioritize sun protection during the high-risk months, utilizing sunscreen, protective clothing, and shade, especially during midday hours.
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 |
| Pokhara UVI | 7 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 8 | 6 |
| Namche Bazar | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 7 |