Using your curling iron in Nepal

Nepali power outlet

Summary

Check that your curling iron can work in Nepal:

If not then either:

  • Use a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] - you may still need to use the right power adapter for Nepal however these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for the rigors of travel.
  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing curling iron and other applicances with a 230 volt Nepali power outlet, however this is considerably bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel curling iron. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but won't change the physical shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit in the wall outlet used in Nepal, therefore check that your voltage transformer has the right power adapter for Nepal otherwise you will need to purchase another power adapter. Be aware that your existing curling iron might not be suitable for travel and you could risk damage in transit. [9] [AD]
Warning: If your curling iron won't handle 230 volts used in Nepal you run the risk of a blown fuse, damage to your curling iron or even an electrical fire hazard. Prior to using your curling iron in Nepal please read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a curling iron in Nepal

Will my curling iron work in Nepal?

This depends on if your curling iron can handle the 230 volts as used in Nepal. If you're using either a dual voltage curling iron or your curling iron can operate using 230 volts and you have the appropriate plug adapter then you'll be able to use the curling iron in Nepal. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter, read our section on can you use a power converter with a domestic curling iron in Nepal for help deciding which option is more suitable. [9] [AD]

Nepal power outlets and plug sockets

What mains voltage is used in Nepal?

The normal residential voltage in Nepal is 230 volts.

What frequency is used in a Nepali power outlet?

The frequency in a Nepali power outlet is 50 Hz. [10]

Which plug adapter will you need to use a curling iron in Nepal?

Type C, D and M power outlets

Which plug adapter will you need to use a curling iron in Nepal?

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

  • Plug Type C - You can identify the power outlet by the 2 circular holes next to each other.
  • Plug Type D - This plug outlet (known as a type D power outlet) looks like three holes forming a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth.
  • Plug Type M - You can identify the power outlet by the three large holes forming a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth.

A recommended plug adapter to bring when using a 230 volt curling iron in Nepal is a Type D power adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of using a power adapter for Nepal. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage curling iron you will need to confirm if you also need to bring a power converter.  [6] [11] [AD]

Buy a plug adapter for Nepal

Dual voltage curling irons

Is my curling iron dual voltage?

One method to tell if your curling iron supports dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug or the handle. This location will depend on the make and model of your curling iron and should also state in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage curling irons can change automatically, however other irons will have a button which allows you to operate between different regions depending on which country you are visiting.

  • Single voltage could 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 curling iron 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 curling iron then you should be able to use it in Nepal.
  • Dual voltage will typically say a large range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your curling iron will be capable of being used in Nepal or any other country if these numbers are shown.

Travelling to Nepal with a curling iron

Is it better to bring travel curling iron or dual voltage curling iron to Nepal?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage curling iron rather than packing your existing domestic curling iron to Nepal as it is safer to assume that it will operate correctly with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Nepali power outlet, as long as you bring the correct power adapter for Nepal. Note that packing expensive domestic curling iron could put it at risk because of potential damage or loss in your check in luggage by airline baggage handlers in Nepal. The inconvenience and costs involved in repairing or replacing an expensive specialised domestic curling iron in Nepal could outweigh the cost of purchasing a much cheaper dual voltage travel curling iron [2] before setting off. If you intend to pack your own curling iron in your luggage either slide it inside a sneaker or boot to protect from light knocks, alternatively use a heat resistant and shockproof hot tools travel case which also allows the curling iron to be transported immediately after use without waiting to cool down.  [12] [AD]

Can I carry on a curling iron to Nepal in my hand luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for curling irons there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered curling iron in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA recommends that you should check that the airline that is taking you to Nepal will allow a curling iron onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing your curling irons in a dedicated heat resistant protective hot tools travel case leaves it easily accessible for airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly and will avoid a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cables tightly around electronic items). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive curling irons in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to bring hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against drops and knocks during transit.   [12] [13] [14] [AD]

Power converters for Nepal

Do you need a voltage converter to use your curling iron in Nepal?

The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a curling iron using a different voltage to operate with the 230 volt power outlet used in Nepal. Travellers who want to use their existing curling iron can use a power converter, but it could be more expensive to purchase a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel curling iron [2]. Also worth noting, a travel curling iron can be substantially lighter than a power converter making a travel curling iron more suited for travelling. [9] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

An expensive and bulky power converter will convert a 230 volt Nepali power outlet to work with a non-230 volt curling iron, whereas a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit into a power outlet found in Nepal. [9] [AD]

How to use a curling iron in Nepal using a type C power adapter

How to power your curling iron in Nepal by using a two pinned Type C power adapter.

  1. Ensure that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel curling iron which can toggle between different voltages make sure the switch is set to accept 230 volts for use in Nepal - consult the manufacturers instructions for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. If the shape of the power outlet used in Nepal isn't the same shape as the plug shape on your curling iron you will need to use a Type C plug adapter [4]. The Type C plug adapter helps fit different plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet used in Nepal by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Firstly plug in the Type C plug adapter in the power outlet. This ungrounded wall outlet is identified by 2 round holes adjacent to each other for live and neutral.
  4. Plug in the curling iron into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Nepali power outlet. The hair curling iron can now be used in Nepal. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Nepal using a type C power adapter

How to use a curling iron in Nepal using a type D power adapter

Instructions showing how to use a curling iron in Nepal with a Type D travel charger.

  1. Check that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply - if not then don't continue because you could blow a fuse, damage your curling iron or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage curling irons sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the iron ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts; consult the owners manual for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your curling iron isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Nepal you will need to buy a Type D plug adapter [6]. This Type D plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries for use in a power outlet found in Nepal by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the curling iron to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type D plug adapter into the Nepali power outlet. The wall outlet (known as a Type D power outlet [5]) can be recognised by 3 round holes in a triangle pattern.
  4. After that plug in your curling iron into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Nepali power outlet.
  6. Your curling iron can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Nepal using a type D power adapter

How to use a curling iron in Nepal using a type M power adapter

How to use a curling iron in Nepal using a Type M travel charger.

  1. Check that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't continue because you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Travel curling irons sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the iron make sure the switch is set to accept 230 volts for use in Nepal - consult the user guide for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. If the shape of the power outlet used in Nepal isn't the same shape as the plug on your curling iron you will need to use a Type M plug adapter [8]. The Type M plug adapter will fit different plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet used in Nepal by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start the process by plugging the Type M plug adapter in the power outlet. The power supply (sometimes called the Type M power outlet [7]) looks like 3 round holes in a triangular shape.
  4. Then plug in your curling iron into the Type M plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Nepali power outlet.
  6. Your hair curling iron can now be switched on. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Nepal using a type M power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Nepali Wikipedia page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel curling iron
  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. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  11. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  12. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  13. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for curling irons -
  14. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.