Last updated: June 2, 2025
In Pokhara, Nepal, being aware of the UV Index is vital for protecting yourself from harmful solar radiation and maintaining healthy skin. With its picturesque landscapes and outdoor activities, understanding UV levels is essential for sunburn prevention and overall skin health. The city's climate, characterized by Cwb (temperate) conditions, can lead to significant UV exposure, especially during midday hours when the index spikes to a maximum of 15 around 11:00 AM. This can make enjoyable adventures around the stunning lakes and mountains hazardous without proper precautions. Stay informed and keep your skin safe in this beautiful region!
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins a steady climb, reaching its peak of 15 at 11:00 AM. From a moderate level of 3 at 7:00 AM, it surges to an intense 13 by 10:00 AM and maintains a strong presence until just after noon. The intensity wanes in the afternoon, dipping to 9 at 2:00 PM and then dropping swiftly to 5 at 3:00 PM. By the evening, levels fall to a minimal 1 by 5:00 PM, and nighttime brings a complete halt with a UV Index of 0 after 7:00 PM. It's essential to stay sun-smart during those peak hours, especially between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, when the UV radiation is at its most perilous.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 09:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 13 | extreme | 10 min |
| 11:00 | 15 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 14 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 12 | extreme | 10 min |
| 14:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure varies significantly, with certain months presenting higher risks than others. January starts with a UV Index of 7, categorized as high, allowing for a burn time of 25 minutes. However, as we move into February with a UV Index of 9 (very high) and March reaching 12 (extreme), the risk increases sharply, culminating in June through August where it peaks at 15 (extreme) and a minimal burn time of just 10 minutes. September and October also remain perilous, with UV indices of 14 and 12, respectively. High-risk months are concentrated from February to October, particularly during the summer, so it’s crucial for both visitors and residents to take precautions such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. In contrast, November and December see a slight reduction in risk, with UV Indices dropping to 8 and 6, but vigilance should still be maintained.
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 | 7 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 8 | 6 |