How do I use a hair dryer in Nepal?

Nepali power outlet

Can I use my hair dryer in Nepal?

Check your hair dryer can work in Nepal:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can check) then you will only need to use the correct power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit in the outlet.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Nepali power outlet, however this is substantially heavier, bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter will change the voltage but not the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Nepal, so please check that your power converter comes with a power adapter for Nepal otherwise you will need to bring a seperate power adapter. Note that your personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you could risk potential damage in your luggage. [9] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts you run the potential risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or blowing a fuse. Prior to using your hair dryer in Nepal please check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Nepal

Will my hair dryer work in Nepal?

This will depend on if your hair dryer can handle the 230 volt power outlets used in Nepal:

Best travel hair dryers for Nepal

Choosing the best travel hair dryer

Multiple speed options on a travel hair dryer

Choosing the best travel hair dryer

When looking for the best hair dryer choose a robust but lightweight dual voltage model that operates with a 230 volt Nepali power outlet power outlet, includes a folding handle, long power cable and an ALCI safety plug. When drying thicker hair buy a model with a bundled diffuser that uses a stronger 1600+ watt motor.

What should I look for when purchasing a blow dryer?

  1. It could be cheaper and more convenient to buy a dryer that includes both a diffuser and concentrator from the manufacturer rather than scouring stores looking for expensive third party attachments.
  2. Some hotel rooms in Nepal might have a wall mirror installed too far away from a power outlet which could make it hard to use the travel dryer, so when buying a travel hair dryer find the longest power cord available or pack either a portable mirror or an extension cord.
  3. The best travel hair dryers let you to control the speed and temperature with two options; a faster hotter speed will quickly dry thicker hair whereas a slower speed with a lower temperature can prevent damage to hair.
  4. If you have thicker or curlier hair then you may need a blow dryer with a more powerful motor; a high wattage ceramic dryer that includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster to avoid damage.
  5. Safe travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will reduce the risk of overloading and starting an electrical fire - models are identified with the two 'test' and 'reset' switches.
  6. Look for lighter travel dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models with a handle which folds mean more room to pack other items.
  7. Buying the cheapest dryer available might be risky; as well as safety concerns there is also a greater chance that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to a poor build.
  8. A 'cool shot' feature on a modern travel dryer will rapidly cool down hair after drying to hold the style but this feature could be missing in smaller or cheaper dryers.
  9. A hair dryer needs to support dual voltage in order to function with a 230 volt Nepali power outlet.
Which is a good folding dual voltage hair dryer for Nepal?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

Which is a good folding dual voltage hair dryer for Nepal?

  • Using a strong two speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler includes a cool shot button that can will quickly cool hair down to give a longer lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, a ceramic tourmaline air outlet for negative ions resulting in safer drying, two heat options, a longer 1.8m power cord and includes a concentrator attachment.

Both models can fold, have an ALCI plug to prevent power overloads and support dual voltage making both ideal for travel to Nepal in carry on luggage if used with a power adapter for a Nepali power outlet.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Which is a good hair dryer for thick curly hair?

Thick hair will take much longer to dry and will be difficult to do so without hair going frizzy, so the best option for thick hair will be an ionic blow dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer will be suitable because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers - avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [12] [13] [AD]

Which is the smallest dual voltage hair dryer for Nepal?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle

Which is the smallest dual voltage hair dryer for Nepal?

  • For quickly drying fine or thin hair on the go then a ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the most cost effective small ionic hair dryer available on the market.
  • A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is small and lightweight enough to carry in a handbag because of the 10.5oz body with folding handle that also includes options reserved for larger dryers such as a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which can emit infrared heat to protect against heat damage during use for a shinier finish.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used with a suitable plug adapter for a Nepali power outlet they should work in Nepal and fold conveniently enough to be carried for styling on the go. They have a 1.5m electric power cord, a twin speed motor and include a concentrator.  [14] [14] [15] [AD]

What is a good dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment for Nepal?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

What is a good dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment for Nepal?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m electric power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but lacks a cool shot option.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a lengthy 1.82 metre power cord for more freedom when drying with an ALCI safety plug and removable filter for cleaning. It also has a powerful 1875 watt motor including a cool shot option making it perfect for drying thicker hair.

Both ionic hair dryers feature both concentrator and diffuser with strong enough motors to make them the best hair dryers for thick hair. Each hair dryer is lightweight and folds up to pack in carry-on luggage, only requiring a power adapter for Nepal to fit into a Nepali power outlet.  [12] [13] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best travel hair dryer for Nepal?

Conair
MiniPRO
This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers.
BaByliss
PRO
https://www.amazon.co.uk/BaByliss-Travel-2000-Hair-Dryer/dp/B0056FXFRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1520000711&sr=8-1&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Tourmaline+Titanium+Travel+Dryer&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=b63332fd20a821dec0b5e56af0330da8
Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.co.uk/BaByliss-Travel-2000-Hair-Dryer/dp/B0056FXFRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1532458776&sr=8-1&keywords=Conair+dual+voltage+hair+dryer&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=f9cccd664854ebe2be03a43f6a0c7cce&language=en_GB
Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Conair-Group-Ltd-5549U-TRESemme/dp/B00I4R4A84?crid=3P4NIYAG2C5JL&keywords=Ceramic+tourmaline+hair+dryer+concentrator+dual+voltage&qid=1695044687&sprefix=ceramic+tourmaline+hair+dryer+concentrator+dual+voltage%2Caps%2C65&sr=8-8&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=c6cca6f1cdf99277aafe116a9bf0d0ba&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Red-Hot-37070-Professional-Settings/dp/B01G3E9R46?dchild=1&keywords=X5%2BSuperlite%2B1600W%2BDual%2BVoltage%2BCeramic%2BIonic%2BTravel%2BDryer&qid=1623853478&sr=8-9&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=dac34b2236e4574360f73c2fbe82110d&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Compact-Foldable-Lightweight-Portable-Technology/dp/B07HTWRMW5?crid=GOV3SFXX8LUZ&keywords=1875+watt+travel+dryer+with+folding+handle+and+dual+voltage&qid=1668535844&sprefix=1875+watt+travel+dryer+with+folding+handle+and+dual+votage%2Caps%2C49&sr=8-42&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=c1c76abbfb0ab79c7b377ec225918f66&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in Nepal Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Works in US Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Dual voltage Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Watts 1200 1000 1875 1875 1600 1875
Folds Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ceramic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ionic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Tourmaline Yes Yes Yes
Infrared Yes
Speed settings 2 2 2 2 2 2
Heat settings 1 1 1 2 1 1
Cool shot Yes Yes Yes
Removable filter Yes Yes
Concentrator Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Diffuser Yes Yes
ALCI safety plug Yes Yes Yes Yes
Cord length 1.52m 1.52m 1.52m 1.8m 1.65m 1.82m
Color
Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy

Original testing and suitability of hair dryer models was compiled 2017, subsequent updates performed monthly - last updated September 2023.

Nepal power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Nepal?

Power outlets in Nepal are 230 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used in Nepal?

The frequency of the current from a Nepali power outlet is 50Hz. [16]

Which travel adapter will you need to use a hair dryer in Nepal?

Type C, D and M power outlets

Which travel adapter will you need to use a hair dryer in Nepal?

There are three different types of power outlets used in Nepal, these are type D, C and M with the primary power outlets being type D:

  • Plug Type C - This unearthed wall outlet can be recognised by the two circular holes adjacent to each other for live and neutral.
  • Plug Type D - The plug socket, also called a type D power outlet, looks like three holes in a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth pins.
  • Plug Type M - You can recognise the plug socket by 3 round holes forming a triangular shape.

A recommended power adapter to bring to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Nepal is a Type D power adapter; read the step-by-step instructions below for full details of using a hair dryer in Nepal using a plug adapter. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you also have to use a power converter.  [6] [17] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can I use a dual voltage hair dryer in Nepal?

  1. First check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or it will work with a 230 volt power socket.
  2. If the hair dryer supports dual voltage please make sure it is set to work in the 220-240V range. The switch is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug your hair dryer into the correct power adapter for Nepal and also plug in the power adapter into the Nepali power outlet.
  4. It is normal for a majority of travel hair dryers operating within the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on a low setting, however the speed and temperature should be adequate for drying hair. Check the hair dryer instructions to find out if this is appropriate for your model of dryer to avoid the risk of overheating.
  5. The hair dryer is now ready to operate in Nepal.

How do I switch a travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which changes between two sets of voltages however some hair dryers can automatically detect the voltage from a Nepali power outlet.
  2. The switch or dial needs a coin or screwdriver to set the hair dryer to the correct voltage between a 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. Also, it's worth jotting down the two switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to fading on some models of hair dryer.
How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

One way to tell if your hair dryer will handle a dual voltage outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or handle of the hair dryer. This location might vary depending on the make or model of your hair dryer and could also be written on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models might change automatically, however other hair dryer models will feature a button which allows you to toggle between different regions depending on which country you are in.

  • Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Nepal then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Nepali power outlet.
  • Single voltage might also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 230 volts used in a Nepali power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Nepal.
  • Dual voltage will typically say a larger range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Nepal or any other country if these numbers are shown.

Travelling to Nepal with a hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Nepal?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Nepal?

Depending on the hotel and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the hotel room, either packed away in the bedroom cupboard, drawer or wardrobe, found on a bathroom wall or could potentially be of a slower air hose variety. If staying in budget hotels, motels and hostels a shared hair dryer could be available at reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer policy you could either call ahead to the hotel in Nepal or look on the booking web site to find out if a suitable hairdryer available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but normally rudimentary models with no diffuser, notorious for low heat and slow air speeds. For those concerned with hygiene might want to check for grime from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

For guests who don't want to take a chance that a suitable or sanitary hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer.  [2] [AD]

Should I bring a domestic blow dryer or a travel hair dryer to Nepal?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to packing an existing domestic blow dryer to Nepal (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Nepali power outlet (provided that you bring the correct power adapter for Nepal). Certain types of travel hair dryer will typically feature a collapsible handle and are lighter which helps reduce the size and weight when packed in luggage compared to packing a domestic blow dryer. It is also worth concidering that packing your expensive domestic blow dryer could place it at risk because of potential damage or loss in transit by an airport baggage handler. The costs involved in repairing an expensive quality blow dryer in Nepal could outweigh the costs of purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case beforehand .  [18] [AD]

Is a blowdryer allowed on a flight in Nepal?

Folding travel hair dryer

Is a blowdryer allowed on a flight in Nepal?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA suggests that you should check that the airline who is flying you to Nepal will allow hair dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing your blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible when going through airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of power wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cables tightly around electronic items such as hair dryers). If you do intend to bring fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against knocks and bumps during transit.   [18] [19] [20] [AD]

Power converters for Nepal

What is the difference between a voltage converter and a plug adapter for Nepal?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a voltage converter and a plug adapter for Nepal?

A heavy and expensive power converter transforms a 230 volt Nepali power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, but a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in Nepal. [9] [AD]

Can you use your hair dryer with a voltage converter in Nepal?

The correct type power converter (or voltage transformer) allows your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 230 volt power outlet used in Nepal. A power converter is more suitable for travellers who want to bring along their existing hair dryer, however it could be considerably cheaper to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to buy a power converter. Also worth noting, a power converter is considerably heavier and bulkier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for packing. [9] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Nepal using a type C power adapter

Instructions showing how to use your hair dryer in Nepal with a Type C power charger.

  1. Ensure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 230 volt power supply - but if not then don't proceed as you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Travel hair dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer ensure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting - please consult the instructions for more details on how to do this.
  2. You will need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4] if the shape of the power outlet which is used in Nepal isn't the same shape as the plug of your hair dryer. The Type C plug adapter helps convert plugs on appliances from other countries for a power outlet found in Nepal by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Insert the Type C plug adapter in the Nepali power outlet. The power supply can be recognised by the two circular holes adjacent to each other for live and neutral.
  4. Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Nepali power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Nepal. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Nepal using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Nepal using a type D power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Nepal by using a Type D travel adapter.

  1. Please make sure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet; but if it doesn't then do not attempt these instructions because you may blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Some blow dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer make sure you have set it to accept 230 volts for use in Nepal; please consult the user guide for more details on how to do this.
  2. You will need to bring a Type D plug adapter [6] if the shape of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same type of power outlet used in Nepal. This Type D plug adapter is designed to adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries for use with a power outlet used in Nepal simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. First you'll need to plug in the Type D plug adapter into the wall outlet. This power outlet, technically known as a Type D power outlet [5], looks like three holes in a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth pins.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Nepali power outlet. You can now turn on your hair dryer to use in Nepal. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Nepal using a type D power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Nepal using a type M power adapter

Instructions showing how to power a hair dryer in Nepal with a three pin Type M travel charger.

  1. Make sure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply - but if not then don't proceed because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Travel hair dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting - please consult the instructions for more details on how to do this.
  2. You'll need to bring a Type M plug adapter [8] if the shape of the power outlet which is used in Nepal isn't the same shape as the plug of your hair dryer. The Type M plug adapter will help convert plugs on appliances from other countries for a power outlet used in Nepal by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Insert the Type M plug adapter in the Nepali power outlet. You can identify the plug outlet by the 3 circular holes forming a triangular pattern.
  4. Then plug in the hair dryer into the Type M plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Nepali power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on your hair dryer to use in Nepal. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Nepal using a type M power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia.org page about Nepal
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  4. Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
  5. iec.ch - Type D power outlet
  6. Type D plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
  7. iec.ch - Type M power outlet
  8. Type M plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type M travel adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in African countries like South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Swaziland, as well as in parts of India..
  9. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  10. Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Negative Ions Travel Dryer - This hair dryer features two speed and heat settings, dual-voltage and a foldable handle whilst equipped with an ALCI plug to help prevent electric shock..
  11. Conair 1875 Watt Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage - This travel-ready hair dryer uses a high 1875-watt motor for efficient and rapid hair drying. Smart voltage technology adjusts to foreign voltage, maintaining heat and speed settings for convenience..
  12. X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
  13. Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
  14. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
  15. Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
  16. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  17. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  18. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  19. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  20. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.