Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah is expected to visit India in the last week of November, potentially marking his first bilateral foreign visit since taking office in March 2026. Ahead of the proposed visit, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is scheduled to travel to Kathmandu on November 4 to prepare the groundwork and discuss the agenda with Nepalese officials.
According to diplomatic sources, Shah's visit is likely to take place around November 22, although an official announcement from either government is still awaited. The visit is expected to play an important role in strengthening diplomatic and economic relations between India and Nepal.
Misri's visit will focus on reviewing bilateral relations and identifying key areas of cooperation. Discussions are expected to cover trade, economic partnerships, air and land connectivity, digital infrastructure, border management, employment opportunities and educational cooperation.
India's newly appointed ambassador to Nepal, Sudhakar Dalela, is also scheduled to arrive in Kathmandu on November 3 to take charge of his diplomatic assignment. His arrival, followed by Misri's visit, will form part of the preparations for Shah's proposed trip to New Delhi. India News +1
Several development projects on the agenda
The proposed visit could see the inauguration of several India-funded infrastructure projects in Nepal. These include the Nepal Police Academy in Panauti, a bridge in Darchula and an integrated check post in Bhairahawa.
The two countries are also considering marking the beginning of construction on major projects, including the integrated check post at Dodhara Chandani, the Lower Arun hydropower project and a petroleum pipeline connecting Siliguri in India with Jhapa in Nepal.
India is also expected to announce additional financial assistance for Nepal, including support for reconstruction following the recent Bhotekoshi floods. Nepal, meanwhile, is likely to seek fresh Indian investment in hydropower and tourism-related infrastructure. The Economic Times
Focus on resetting bilateral relations
Relations between New Delhi and Kathmandu have experienced diplomatic challenges in recent months, particularly over the Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura border dispute.
Nepal has maintained its territorial claims over these areas, while India has rejected those claims. Kathmandu has also indicated its intention to address bilateral differences through existing diplomatic mechanisms.
The proposed visit comes after several senior Nepalese leaders, including Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal, visited India for discussions with Indian officials.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had invited Shah to visit India following his assumption of office on March 27.
If confirmed, Shah's visit could provide an opportunity for both countries to address outstanding concerns and expand cooperation in trade, energy, infrastructure and regional connectivity.
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