Nepal Power Plugs, Wall Sockets & Electrical Outlets
In Nepal, power plugs and sockets (electrical outlets) of Type C (CEE 7/16 (Europlug), two round pins, ungrounded), Type D (BS 546, three large round pins in triangular pattern, grounded) and Type M (BS 546 (15A), three large round pins in triangular pattern, grounded) are used. Wall sockets run at 230V and 50Hz. Check if you need a travel adapter, electrical adapter or voltage converter before travelling to Nepal.
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Nepal uses:
Understanding Nepal's Power Plugs and Sockets
Nepal power plug standards are based on the British colonial-era system, with electricity supplied at 230V and 50Hz throughout the country. Travelers will most commonly encounter the Type D plug, a grounded 3-pin plug design with three large round pins arranged in a triangular pattern, though Type M and Type C plugs also appear depending on the appliance and building. Understanding which plug top your devices use, and which socket-outlet you'll find in your accommodation, will help you pack the right adapter before you arrive.
Do All Sockets in Nepal Look the Same?
Not every socket-outlet in Nepal is identical. Type D remains the dominant standard for everyday household plugs rated at 5A, while Type M, with its larger 8.7mm earth pin, is reserved for higher-power appliances such as air conditioners and water heaters that draw more current. Smaller electronics may also use the two-pin Type C Europlug, which fits loosely into some Type D and M sockets but is only rated for low-power devices.
- Type D: three round pins in a triangle, grounded, 5A, used for most household devices
- Type M: three larger round pins, grounded, 15A, used for high-power appliances
- Type C: two round pins, ungrounded, 2.5A, suited to phones, cameras, and small chargers
Nepal Travel Adapter Guide
Because Nepal primarily uses the Type D 3-pin plug alongside Type M for heavier appliances, visitors from countries using flat-pin or different round-pin plugs will need an adapter. A universal travel adapter that covers Type D and Type M sockets is the safest choice, since the two are not interchangeable despite their similar triangular pin layout.
Is a Voltage Converter Necessary?
Nepal's electrical supply runs at 230V, 50Hz, which matches the standard voltage used across most of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Most modern electronics, including phone chargers, laptops, and cameras, are dual-voltage and will operate safely without a converter. A voltage converter is only needed for single-voltage appliances designed for 110-120V systems, such as certain hair dryers or kitchen appliances from North America.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, unless your home country already uses Type D or Type M plugs. Nepal primarily relies on the grounded Type D 3-pin plug for household devices and Type M for higher-power appliances, so travelers from most regions will need a compatible adapter.
Yes, most phone chargers are dual-voltage and work fine on Nepal's 230V, 50Hz supply. You'll typically just need a plug adapter to fit a Type D or Type C socket, not a voltage converter.
Nepal uses a 230V supply at 50Hz frequency, which is consistent with the electrical standards found across much of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Nepal mainly uses the Type D plug, a grounded 3-pin design with three round pins in a triangular pattern rated at 5A. Type M is used for higher-power appliances, and Type C two-pin plugs are common for smaller electronics.
