Why can Indians travel to Nepal without a passport?

Nepal allows Indians to travel to their country without a passport or visa because of the special historical and political relationship between India and Nepal. This is based on the India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship of 1950, which promotes open borders and close ties.

Reasons Why Indians Can Travel to Nepal Without a Passport:

1. 1950 India-Nepal Peace and Friendship Treaty

• This treaty allows free movement of people and goods between the two countries.

• Citizens of both countries can live, work, own property, and travel freely without a visa or passport.

2. Open Border Policy

• India and Nepal share a long, open, and friendly border of over 1,700 km.

• Citizens can cross using valid government-issued ID (like a voter ID, Aadhaar, etc. — though Aadhaar is not officially accepted for air travel).

3. Cultural and Ethnic Ties

• Deep cultural, religious, and family ties between people on both sides.

• Many families live across the borders in places like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Sikkim in India, and adjoining districts in Nepal.

4. Economic and Social Interdependence

• Indians and Nepalis frequently cross borders for trade, education, tourism, employment, and even marriage.

What ID Do Indians Need to Travel to Nepal?

• By land: No document needed in most cases, but carrying a government-issued photo ID is recommended.

• By air: Must carry a passport or voter ID card (other IDs like Aadhaar are not valid for air travel to Nepal).

Summary:

Nepal allows Indians to travel without a passport due to the 1950 treaty, open borders, and strong historical, cultural, and political ties. This is a unique arrangement based on friendship and mutual respect between the two nations.