While traditionally known for home-brewed alcoholic beverages like ‘raksi’ and ‘jaand’, Nepal has embraced modern brewing with fervor. Brands like Gorkha, Everest, and Sherpa craft beers have gained popularity both domestically and internationally.
These beers offer a fusion of rich Nepali heritage with contemporary flavors, providing drinkers a refreshing experience reminiscent of Nepal’s pristine landscapes and vibrant culture. Whether trekking through the mountains or lounging in a Kathmandu pub, enjoying a Nepali beer is an experience unto itself.
Top 10 Beer Brands in Nepal
Nepal has several beer brands, each with unique taste and characteristics. Here are the top 10 beer brands in Nepal that you must try:
Gorkha Beer Image/Instagram gorkhabeernepalGorkha Beer is the most popular beer brand in Nepal. It is a premium quality beer known for its smooth and refreshing taste. It is the beer of choice for many Nepalis and tourists alike.
Gorkha Beer and Everest Beer are among the most popular local beers, while Tuborg and Carlsberg are well-liked international brands. For those interested in craft beers, Sherpa Craft is a must-try.
Image/Instagram khumbukolsch Khumbu Kolsch is a craft beer from Sherpa Brewery. It is a tribute to the Khumbu region of Nepal and is known for its smooth and slightly fruity taste.
Nepal Ice, a standout among Nepali beers, has carved a niche for itself in the beer market of Nepal. Brewed by the CG Brewery Nepal, this lager boasts a smooth and crisp taste that many locals and tourists alike have come to appreciate. Introduced Year: N/A Brewery: CG Brewery Nepal Alcohol Percentage: Nepal Ice Natura (5.5%), Nepal Ice Strong (7%), Nepal Ice Premium (5.5%), Nepal Ice Magna (5.5%) Customer Rating: 4.5/5 Price: NPR 250 -350
Arna Image/Instagram arnabeerArna is a local beer brand in Nepal that has gained popularity for its smooth and crisp taste. It is available in various variants like Arna Light, Arna Extra Strong, and Arna Premium.
Tuborg Image/Google Carlsberg IndiaTuborg is another popular beer brand from the Carlsberg Group. It is known for its mild and refreshing taste, making it a popular choice among the younger crowd in Nepal.
Kingfisher Image/Instagram kingfisherworldKingfisher is an Indian beer brand that is widely consumed in Nepal. It is known for its light and smooth taste, making it a favourite among those who prefer less bitter beers.
Introduced Year: 1978 Brewery: United Breweries Group Alcohol Percentage: 4.8% Customer Rating: 3.9/5 Price: NPR 300
Carlsberg Image/Facebook TuborgCarlsberg is a Danish beer brand that has been popular in Nepal for many years. It is known for its well-balanced flavour and crisp finish.
Budweiser Image/Facebook BudweiserBudweiser, also known as the “King of Beers”, is one of the most consumed beers in the world. It is an American-style lager with a crisp and smooth taste.
Bira 91 Image/Facebook Bira 91Bira 91 has quickly become a favourite among beer lovers in Nepal. This Indian beer brand offers a variety of craft beers, with Bira 91 White being the most popular among Nepali consumers due to its smooth and refreshing taste.
Mustang Beer Mustang Beer, inspired by the mystic allure of the Mustang region in Nepal, is one of the country’s distinguished brews. Mustang Beer provides a harmonious blend of traditional brewing techniques with modern flavors, ensuring a refreshing taste that resonates with both locals and tourists. For those seeking a sip of Nepal’s rugged charm, Mustang Beer is a flavorful journey to the heart of the Himalayan nation. Alcohol Percentage: Mustang Premium Strong (8%) Brewery: CG Brewery Nepal Price: NPR 165 – 330 ML
For those who prefer their beers to be robust and full-bodied, Nepal has some strong options. Everest Premium Lager, with an alcohol content of 7.5%, and Arna Extra Strong, with an alcohol content of 7%, are two of the strongest beers in Nepal.
Best Beer Brands in Nepal
List of Best Beer
Brand Type
Arna
National
Everest Beer
National
White Rhino
International
Kingfisher
International
Nepal Ice
National
Bira 91
International
Tuborg
International
Warsteiner Beer
International
Sherpa Craft
National
Gorkha Beer
National
Cheapest Beer in Nepal: Budget-Friendly Brews
On the other hand, if you are looking for the cheapest beer in Nepal, Nepal Ice and Arna Light are two budget-friendly options that maintain taste.
Arna Extra Stron Arna 8 Arna Light Arna Extra Strong
330 ML 330 ML 330 ML 500 ML
145 150 175 205
Yeti Brewery Pvt. Ltd
Chainpur, Chitwan
4.4/5
Everest Beer Can
330 ML
155
Mount Everest Brewery Pvt. Ltd
Kathmandu
4.5/5
Barahsinghe Craft Dunkelweizen Barahsinghe German Malts Craft Pilsner Can
330 ML 500 ML
170 225
Yak Brewing Company
Darechok
4.4/5
Budweiser
330 ML
180
Raj Brewery Pvt. Ltd
Jawalakhel
4.8/5
Tuborg
330 ML
180
Gorkha Brewery
Hattisaru Rd, Kathmandu
4.7/5
Warsteiner
330 ML
185
Raj Brewery Pvt. Ltd
Jawalakhel
4.6/5
Sherpa Craft Can Sherpa Himalayan Red
330 ML 330 ML
200 200
Sherpa Brewery
Khairahani
4.8/5
Gorkha Strong Can
500 ML
215
Gorkha Brewery
Hattisar Rd, Kathmandu
4.8/5
Nepal Ice Megna Can Nepal Ice Strong Nepal Ice Natura Can Nepal Ice Premium Can
500 ML 500 ML 500 ML 500 ML
215 215 220 220
CG Brewery
Kalika Mandir Marg, Lalitpur
4.7/5
San Miguel Can
500 ML
215
San Miguel Beer Group
Ekikaran Road, Kathmandu
4.4/5
The Rise of Craft Beers in Nepal
Craft beers have been gaining popularity in Nepal in recent years. Sherpa Craft, for example, is a local craft beer brand that offers a variety of beers, including ales, lagers, and stouts. These craft beers are brewed in small batches and often incorporate local ingredients, making them a unique addition to the beer scene in Nepal.
Responsible Drinking
It is important to remember the importance of responsible drinking. Enjoying beer is a pleasurable experience, but it is essential to know your limits and not overindulge. Additionally, always plan to get home safely if you have been drinking.
1. What are the most popular beer brands in Nepal?
Nepal’s most popular beer brands include Gorkha Beer, Khumbu Kolsch Sherpa Craft, Arna, Tuborg, and Heineken.
2. What is the strongest beer in Nepal?
Everest Premium Lager and Arna Extra Strong are two of the strongest beers available in Nepal, with an alcohol content of 7.5% and 7%, respectively.
3. What is the most expensive beer in Nepal?
Old Durbar Black Chimney, a whisky-flavored beer, is one of the most expensive beers in Nepal. Other premium options include Heineken and San Miguel.
4. What is the cheapest beer in Nepal?
Nepal Ice and Arna Light are two of Nepal’s most affordable beer options that do not compromise on taste.
5. Are there any craft beers in Nepal?
Yes, Nepal has a growing craft beer scene. Sherpa Craft is a local craft beer brand that offers a variety of beers, including ales, lagers, and stouts.
6. Can I find international beer brands in Nepal?
Several international beer brands are available in Nepal, including Heineken, Carlsberg, Budweiser, and Kingfisher.
7. What is the traditional beer of Nepal?
Tongba is a conventional Nepali beer made from fermented millet. It is a warm beverage consumed mainly during winter and is an integral part of the local culture.