Current Time in Dharan
Nepali culture regarding time
Nepali culture regarding time
Life rhythm based on nature and religion
In Nepal, a lifestyle that is in harmony with nature, starting with sunrise and ending with sunset, is common. Especially in rural areas, agricultural work and religious events have a strong influence on daily sense of time.
A relaxed sense of time called "Nepalese time"
In many areas except urban areas, time is considered only as a guideline, and it is common to act later than planned. It is not uncommon for events to start 30 minutes to an hour late.
Hindu and Buddhist events influence the sense of time
Religious schedules such as full moon and new moon days, festivals, and memorial services play a major role in people's daily life, and the entire society moves in accordance with that rhythm.
Values regarding time in Nepal
A culture that values relationships over time
In Nepal, respect for others and respecting harmony are prioritized over punctuality, so some delays and changes are tolerated.
Patience and flexibility are valued
It is considered a virtue to take things slowly and not rush, and being pressed for time is not considered desirable. It is also believed that a calm progress will smooth human relationships.
Emphasis on family and community ties
It is valued to prioritize family and community events and mutual help over time, and there is a tendency to value community harmony over personal schedules.
Things about time that foreigners should know when traveling or moving to Nepal
Appointment times are only a guideline
Meetings and events usually start later than scheduled, and if you arrive on time, they may not be ready yet. You need to be prepared to respond flexibly.
Public institutions are relatively punctual, but there are many exceptions.
Government offices and banks have set business hours, but sometimes the person in charge is absent, or work does not proceed as planned due to power outages or traffic conditions.
Time delays due to traffic and infrastructure are commonplace.
Buses, trains, and flights are often delayed due to weather and road conditions, making it difficult to travel on time, so it is important to have some leeway in your schedule.
Interesting trivia about Nepalese time.
The only "UTC+5:45" time zone in the world.
Nepal uses a unique standard time zone of "UTC+5 hours and 45 minutes" in 15-minute increments, which is rare in the world, and its uniqueness stands out on time maps around the world.
Uses the traditional solar calendar "Bikram calendar".
Nepal uses its own calendar called the "Bikram calendar" in conjunction with the Gregorian calendar, and holidays and events are often determined based on this calendar.
The start times of festivals are sometimes determined by "astrology"
The start times of important religious events, weddings, and other such events are often decided based on the "best time" determined by astrologers, and the way time is used has religious significance.