A Guide to Transportation in Nepal

Even though Nepal is a small country, traveling there takes a long time because of the bad roads and the convoluted mountain roads. At first glance, Kathmandu seems to be a chaotic city that is challenging to get around. It can be a difficult task because of the heavy traffic and twisting streets. Nonetheless, there are mechanisms in place that will make it easy for you to visit the city’s stunning and historic areas. Additionally, there are numerous ways to leave the city and explore the rest of the nation.

Taxis

For the majority of foreign visitors to Kathmandu, taxis are frequently their first option. Generally speaking, they are less expensive than taxis in the West. Only two or three people and their belongings can fit in most taxis because of their small size. They are typically white and yellow with a black license plate and a small taxi sign on top, making them easy to identify. Although most drivers are unwilling to do so, they are expected to use the meter to calculate their fare. This implies that in order to ascertain a reasonable fare for the ride, you should bargain before boarding.

The cost of a taxi will be fixed and inflated if you are coming from the airport. Unfortunately, this cannot be negotiated, and this applies to both locals and visitors. In every other case, though, make sure to haggle because prices are exorbitant (particularly in tourist destinations like Thamel), and you ought to be able to get the price lowered by at least a few hundred rupees.

Buses and Public Transport

The city and the nearby suburbs and villages are connected by a variety of buses and tempos, which are small three-wheeled vehicles propelled by gas or electricity. This is a fantastic choice if you’re searching for a cheap way to get around the city and to neighboring places like Bhaktapur. If you are staying in Kathmandu or nearby cities, the bus fares are usually no more than 50 rupees, even though they do stop frequently and can be extremely hot and dusty. Thamel is only a short stroll from Ratna Park, where the majority of bus routes start. Finding the correct bus can be difficult because all of the signs are in Nepali. But if you pay close attention, you’ll hear the conductors—who also collect fares—yelling out their destinations. Additionally, there are always people nearby who are happy to assist you in locating the right bus. Although it can be a little chaotic, it’s the least expensive way to get there and will also give you a glimpse of Kathmandu life. Additionally, buses do not operate late into the evening, and after 8 p.m., their frequency is drastically decreased.

You have two choices if you want to take a bus outside of Kathmandu either night buses, which depart in the evening, or day buses, which depart in the morning. Even though night buses are typically more comfortable, you won’t get much sleep because the roads are still uneven.

Night buses are also risky for a number of reasons, such as the possibility of theft and drivers nodding off while operating a bus. You can reserve seats on these express buses, which is useful for making plans. But when taking the bus, pay special attention to your possessions, particularly if you have to store them on the roof. Although it’s generally safe, it’s best to exercise caution.

Tourist Buses

Pokhara Sauraha (Chitwan National Park) and Kathmandu are connected by frequent designated tourist buses, and vice versa. Compared to most local buses, the cars are roomier, cleaner, and more comfortable, and the drivers are typically more responsible. Additionally, they aren’t meant to carry more people than seats, which make you more comfortable than local buses, which only carry as many people as the vehicle can accommodate. Meals, which are typically covered by the ticket price, are also planned stops along the route.

Flights

There are numerous domestic airlines that fly to major cities across the nation if you are pressed for time or do not want to spend a day or two on a bus to get to your destination. These flights reduce travel time, but they are rather pricey for foreigners. For instance, the flight only takes 30 minutes, but the drive to Pokhara takes about 8 hours. From Kathmandu, you can also take a picturesque mountain flight that gives you a better look at Everest. Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines are two of the most well-known domestic airlines.

Driving

Due to a lack of adherence to traffic laws, driving in Kathmandu is rather chaotic. The noise persists even though laws prohibiting the use of horns have been implemented. Everyone is only thinking about themselves, so be sure to drive defensively. If you want to drive, renting a motorcycle or scooter is not too difficult. Since all rental cars come with a driver and won’t let you drive, this will be your only option to drive yourself. Nowadays, cars are frequently targeted, so if there is a banda (strike) while you are there; make sure to avoid the roads. However, since bandas are uncommon, this shouldn’t be a big problem. Additionally, it should be mentioned that rental companies may not check, but they do require an International Driving Permit. To make any traffic stops easier to handle, make sure your driver’s license is up to date.

Hiring a Car or Jeep

For longer excursions outside of the valley or for sightseeing in Kathmandu, renting a taxi for the day is usually simple. For either of these services, get in touch with Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours Team; we can set you up with a driver and a car whenever you need them. Additionally, we can set up guided tours of Kathmandu and beyond, giving you access to extra information about the locations you are visiting that you might not otherwise find.

Bicycle

Numerous mountain bike tours are available both inside and outside of Kathmandu. These excursions are exhilarating and daring, and you won’t soon forget the experience. Be ready for heavy traffic and a lack of consideration for cyclists if you plan to ride a bicycle in the city. In parts of the city with a high concentration of foreigners, there are bike lanes. Bicycles, however, share space with cars, buses, motorcycles, and tempos on the majority of roads. Both Pokhara and Kathmandu are dotted with rental stores. Finding a bike to rent outside of that, though, will be a little more difficult.

Pathao, Tootle, and InDrive (aka Nepali Uber)

In Nepal, the use of transportation apps has grown over the past few years. The most well-known are Tootle and Pathao, but inDrive has started to gain traction in Kathmandu. While Pathao originated in Bangladesh, Tootle is made in Nepal.

All provide the choice of a car or a motorcycle, and the costs are appropriately represented. Since you can ride a bike across the city, which is significantly quicker than driving a car, this is a fantastic choice for lone travelers. Additionally, the rates are typically better than most people can bargain for if you are traveling in a larger group and require a car (and give you an idea of how much you should be paying for a trip). The only drawback to these apps is that drivers frequently ask for your location. In this instance, if you are familiar with the surrounding intersections or buildings, describe them. As an alternative, you could ask a local who lives nearby, who would likely be more than pleased to assist you. The majority of drivers will be delighted to talk with you about your background and how your stay in Nepal is going.

Conclusion

To get around Kathmandu and beyond, there are numerous ways to get around. Although buses have the cheapest fares, you can save a lot of time and money by taking the Pathao or Tootle, particularly if you need a taxi. Due to safety concerns, we advise leaving the valley by renting a car or using tourist buses. Ask for help from locals if you want to take a bus within Kathmandu; most people will be happy to help. If you have any questions concerning transportation, please contact the Nepal Holiday Treks and Tours Team; we will be pleased to assist you.