A Nepali student had drowned in Wattamolla Beach in Sydney while celebrating Christmas with his friends.

Sujan Adhikari, 29, of Kirtipur had gone to swim in the beach to celebrate Christmas on Sunday.

Adhikari had completed completed Bachelors in Accounting from Victoria University and was in process for receiving permanent residency. He had gone to Australia on 2009.

Adhikari's friend Anup Raj Neupane said he died despite attempts from the beach's medical and rescue team to revive him. Preparations are being made to send his body to Nepal.