Choosing the right eye hospital matters — whether you need a routine check-up, cataract surgery, a corneal transplant or treatment for a serious retinal condition. Nepal is fortunate to have several world-class, affordable eye-care institutions, some of which are recognised across South Asia. This guide lists the top 5 eye hospitals in Nepal, what they specialise in, and where they are located, so you can choose the right one with confidence.
Top 5 Eye Hospitals in Nepal
1. Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology (TIO), Kathmandu
Widely regarded as the best eye hospital in Nepal and one of the finest in South Asia, Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology in Gaushala, Kathmandu has been a model of excellence since opening in 1994. A recognised WHO Collaborating Centre for Ophthalmology, Tilganga offers advanced cataract surgery, corneal transplantation, vitreo-retinal surgery, strabismus (squint) surgery and laser eye treatment. It also runs its own intraocular lens factory and an eye bank, and operates a large network of community eye centres and hospitals to reach patients across the country. Its blend of world-class quality and affordability makes it the first choice for many Nepalis.
2. Nepal Eye Hospital (NEH), Kathmandu
Founded in 1980, Nepal Eye Hospital in Tripureshwor is one of the oldest and most trusted eye-care facilities in the country. It serves thousands of patients every year with reliable, reasonably priced general and specialised ophthalmic services, and remains a go-to hospital for everyday eye problems, glasses, and common surgeries in the Kathmandu Valley.
3. BP Koirala Lions Centre for Ophthalmic Studies (BPKLCOS), Kathmandu
Affiliated with Tribhuvan University’s Institute of Medicine in Maharajgunj, BPKLCOS is Nepal’s premier teaching, research and treatment centre for eye diseases. As the academic backbone of ophthalmology in Nepal, it trains the country’s eye specialists while providing advanced clinical care, making it especially strong for complex and specialised cases.
4. Bharatpur Eye Hospital, Chitwan
Established in 1987, Bharatpur Eye Hospital is the leading eye-care centre for central Nepal, serving patients from many surrounding districts. Supported over the years by international foundations, it offers comprehensive services including notable vitreo-retina surgery, cataract care and general ophthalmology, all at affordable cost.
5. Lumbini Eye Institute, Bhairahawa
Located in Bhairahawa, Rupandehi near the Nepal–India border, Lumbini Eye Institute grew from a tiny 1983 facility into one of the largest eye hospitals in the region. It is a major relief for patients across western Nepal and the bordering Indian states, providing a full range of eye treatments and high-volume cataract surgery.
Other Notable Eye Hospitals in Nepal
Beyond the top 5, several other respected institutions deserve mention: Mechi Eye Hospital and Mechi Netralaya in Jhapa (serving eastern Nepal and bordering Indian regions), Sagarmatha Choudhary Eye Hospital in Lahan (famous for very high cataract-surgery volumes), and Reiyukai Eiko Masunaga Eye Hospital in Banepa. The “best” hospital for you often depends on your location and the specific treatment you need.
How to Choose the Right Eye Hospital
Consider four things: the specialty you need (cataract, retina, cornea, glaucoma, paediatric/squint), the hospital’s location and accessibility, whether it offers the specific surgery or technology required, and the cost and waiting time. For serious or specialised conditions, the Kathmandu institutions (Tilganga, BPKLCOS) and large regional centres are usually the safest choice; for routine care, your nearest reputable eye hospital is often enough.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which is the best eye hospital in Nepal?
Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology in Kathmandu is widely considered the best eye hospital in Nepal and one of the leading eye-care centres in South Asia.
Which is the oldest eye hospital in Nepal?
Nepal Eye Hospital, founded in 1980, is among the oldest and most trusted eye hospitals in the country.
Where can I get cataract surgery in Nepal at low cost?
Tilganga, Lumbini Eye Institute, Bharatpur Eye Hospital and Sagarmatha Choudhary Eye Hospital are all known for affordable, high-volume cataract surgery.
Which hospital is best for retina treatment in Nepal?
Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology and Bharatpur Eye Hospital are well known for vitreo-retinal surgery, while BPKLCOS handles complex specialised cases.
