If you’ve ever seen a phone number beginning with the +977 country code, you’re looking at a number from the beautiful, mountainous nation of Nepal. The 977 prefix is the specific international dialing code assigned to this South Asian country, acting as the gateway for every phone call directed there from abroad. Answering the question, “977 is a code for which country?” is simple: it’s Nepal. But understanding how to use this code, navigate its complexities, and stay safe from potential scams requires a much deeper dive.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the country code 977. We’ll cover the step-by-step process for dialing a 977 phone number, explain the difference between landline and mobile formats, and explore the most affordable ways to connect. More importantly, we’ll provide a critical security alert on common phone scams associated with this code, so you can make calls with confidence and peace of mind.
The Core Explanation: What and Where is the 977 Country Code?
Every country in the world has a unique identifier for its telephone network, and 977 is the international code for Nepal. This code, also known as the 977 ISD code, ensures that when you dial it, your call is routed directly to Nepal’s telecommunications system.
The Anatomy of a Call to Nepal
Placing an international call isn’t as simple as just dialing the 977 code country prefix. The full number follows a universal structure:
- Exit Code: This is the number you dial to signal you’re making a call outside your current country. In the United States and Canada, the exit code is 011. For most of Europe and Asia, it’s 00. On any mobile phone, the plus sign (+) universally replaces the exit code.
- Country Code: Next, you dial the country code of your destination. For Nepal, this is 977. So, if you’re wondering, “which country code is 977?“, the answer is always Nepal.
- Area Code (or STD Code): After the country code, you dial a regional identifier known as the 977 area code or STD code. This routes the call to a specific city or region. For example, the area code for Kathmandu is 1.
- Subscriber Number: This is the final, unique phone number of the person or business you are trying to reach.
So, when you see a number formatted as +977-1-XXXXXXX, you now know it’s a landline in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal.
A Glimpse into the Country 977: Nepal
The +977 country is Nepal, a landlocked nation nestled in the Himalayas between India and China. It’s a country of dramatic landscapes, home to Mount Everest and eight of the world’s ten tallest peaks. Its vibrant capital, Kathmandu, is a bustling hub of ancient temples, rich history, and modern life. Understanding this context helps explain its telecommunications landscape, where rugged terrain has led to a massive adoption of mobile phones over traditional landlines.
The Deep Dive: How to Dial a +977 Phone Number Correctly
Now that you know +977 is which country, let’s get practical. Dialing Nepal requires paying attention to whether you’re calling a landline or a mobile phone, as the format is different.
Calling a Nepalese Landline
A landline number in Nepal has a total of 8 digits following the country code.
- Format: [Exit Code] + 977 + [Area Code] + [Local Number]
- Example (Calling Kathmandu from the US): 011 + 977 + 1 + XXXXXXX
- Example (Calling Pokhara from the UK): 00 + 977 + 61 + XXXXXX
Here are some common +977 area code destinations:
- Kathmandu: 1
- Pokhara: 61
- Bharatpur (Chitwan): 56
- Biratnagar: 21
Calling a Nepalese Mobile Number
Mobile numbers are far more common in Nepal and have a 10-digit format. They do not use a city-specific area code. Instead, they start with a mobile prefix, which is always 98 or 97.
- Format: [Exit Code] + 977 + [Mobile Number]
- Example (Calling a mobile from any country using a cell phone): +977 + 98XXXXXXXX
A Critical Note on Time Zones: Before you call, remember that Nepal has a unique time zone: UTC+05:45. This 45-minute offset can be tricky, so double-check the local time in Kathmandu to ensure you’re not calling at an inconvenient hour.
Clearing Up Confusion: Debunking Common Myths
Many people get confused by the string of numbers in international dialing, leading to common errors. Whether you’re searching for +977 country code, or even common misspellings like +977 county code or +977 country cide, it’s important to get the facts straight.
One of the most frequent mistakes is confusing different numerical codes. For instance, a search for the “00417 country code” is a perfect example of this. Let’s break it down:
- 00 is a common exit code used in many countries.
- 41 is the actual country code for Switzerland, not Nepal.
- 417 is a domestic area code in the United States, serving southwestern Missouri.
This shows why it’s vital to understand the different parts of an international number. The country code 00977 is another common but incorrect search; the 00 is the exit code, while 977 is the country code itself. The correct international format always starts with +977.
Practical & Actionable Advice: Calling Affordably and Safely
Knowing what country is +977 is only the first step. The next is to ensure your call is both cost-effective and secure.
The Economics of Calling Nepal
Using your standard mobile or landline carrier to call Nepal can be incredibly expensive, with rates sometimes reaching several dollars per minute. The most affordable way to call is by using Voice over IP (VoIP) services. Apps and platforms like Skype, Viber, and other specialized calling services transmit the call over the internet, drastically reducing the cost to just a few cents per minute. This is the smartest choice for anyone making frequent or long calls to a 977 phone number.
Security Alert: Be Wary of +977 Phone Scams
Unfortunately, the +977 phone code is sometimes used by scammers. The widespread use of digital wallets and mobile banking in Nepal has led to a rise in sophisticated fraud. Here are the key threats to watch out for:
- OTP & Digital Wallet Scams: This is the most common scam. A fraudster will call, impersonating an official from a bank or a digital wallet service like eSewa or Khalti. They will create a sense of urgency—claiming there’s a problem with your account or that you’ve won a prize—to trick you into revealing your One-Time Password (OTP). NEVER share your OTP with anyone. No legitimate company will ever ask for it over the phone.
- The “One-Ring” Scam: You might receive a call from a +977 number that hangs up after just one ring. Scammers do this to spark your curiosity. If you call back, you could be connected to a premium-rate number that charges exorbitant fees, with the money going to the scammers.
- Lottery and Prize Scams: You may receive a message on WhatsApp or Viber from a +977 number claiming you’ve won a lottery. To collect your prize, you’ll be asked to pay a “processing fee” or “tax.” This is always a scam.
If you receive a suspicious call or message from a +977 code number, do not engage. Block the number and report it to the relevant authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which country code is 977?
The 977 country code belongs exclusively to Nepal. Any phone number that begins with +977 originates from or is registered in Nepal.
- What is the difference between the +977 country code and a 977 area code?
This is a key distinction. The +977 code is the country-level identifier for all of Nepal. A 977 area code, on the other hand, is a shorter, 1- or 2-digit code used after the country code to specify a region within Nepal, such as 1 for Kathmandu or 61 for Pokhara. So, if you’re wondering where is area code 977, the answer is that 977 itself isn’t an area code, but the country code that comes before it.
- How do I call a mobile number in Nepal with the +977 prefix?
Calling a mobile is simpler than a landline. Dial your country’s exit code (or + on a mobile), followed by 977, and then the 10-digit mobile number, which will start with 98 or 97. You do not need a city area code.
- Is a call from a +977 phone number safe to answer?
While most calls will be legitimate, you should be cautious with unsolicited calls from any international number, including the +977 code. If you don’t recognize the number, it’s often safest to let it go to voicemail. Never call back a number that rings only once, and never provide personal or financial information to an unsolicited caller.
Conclusion: Connect with Nepal with Confidence
The +977 country code is your direct link to the heart of the Himalayas. By understanding how to properly structure the number, being mindful of the local time zone, and choosing an affordable calling method, you can easily connect with friends, family, or colleagues in Nepal.
However, knowledge is also your best defense. Being aware of the common scams associated with the 977 which country code can protect you from financial loss and give you the confidence to manage your communications safely. So, the next time you see the +977 prefix, you’ll know exactly what it is, where it’s from, and how to handle it like an expert.
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