Getting Around Kathmandu

Navigating Kathmandu can be chaotic but rewarding. From ancient alleyways to bustling streets, here's everything you need to know about transportation in Nepal's capital.

Best Ways to Get Around Kathmandu

• 1. Taxis (Most Convenient)

  Best for: Tourists, short trips, comfort
  Cost:
  • Metered: NPR 100-300 (~$1-3) for short rides
  • Fixed fare (common): NPR 500-1,500 (~$4-12) for longer trips (e.g., Thamel to Boudha)
  Tips:
  • Always negotiate the fare before boarding (many taxis don't use meters).
  • Use ride-hailing apps (Pathao, Tootle) for better prices.

• 2. Ride-Hailing Apps (Pathao, Tootle, Indrive)

  Best for: Affordable, no-hassle rides
  Cost: Cheaper than taxis (~30-50% less)
  Options:
  • Bike taxis (fastest in traffic)
  • Car taxis (for groups)
  Note: Need a Nepali SIM card to book.

• 3. Tempos & Electric Rickshaws (Safa Tempo)

  Best for: Budget travelers, short distances
  Cost: NPR 20-50 (~$0.20-0.50)
  Routes: Fixed routes (e.g., Ring Road, Kathmandu to Patan)
  Tip: Tell the driver your stop—they won't announce it!

• 4. City Buses (Cheapest but Chaotic)

  Best for: Adventurous travelers, long routes
  Cost: NPR 15-50 (~$0.15-0.50)
  Popular Routes:
  • Kathmandu (Ratna Park) to Bhaktapur (NPR 50)
  • Kathmandu to Patan (Lagankhel) (NPR 25)
  Warning:
  • Overcrowded, no fixed schedules.
  • No English signs-ask locals for help.

• 5. Walking (Best for Short Distances)

  Best for: Exploring Thamel, Durbar Square, Boudha
  Challenges:
  • Uneven pavements, open sewers, motorbikes on sidewalks.
  • Pollution: Wear a mask in busy areas.

• 6. Rental Bikes & Scooters

  Best for: Independent exploration
  Cost:
  • Scooter: NPR 800-1,500/day (~$6-12)
  • Mountain Bike: NPR 500-1,000/day (~$4-8)
  Warning:
  • Traffic is intense—only recommended for confident riders.
  • No international license accepted (technically illegal but widely rented).

Key Transport Hubs in Kathmandu

• Taxi Stands: Thamel, New Road, Ratna Park
• Main Bus Parks:
  • Gongabu Bus Park - for Pokhara, Chitwan, long-distance
  • Ratna Park - city buses to Patan, Bhaktapur
  • Koteshwor Bus Stand - for eastern Nepal

Tips for Navigating Kathmandu

• Avoid Rush Hour: 8-10 AM, 5-7 PM - Gridlock is brutal.
• Carry Small Cash: Most transport doesn't accept cards.
• Use Google Maps Offline: Data connections are spotty.
• Learn Basic Nepali Phrases:
  • "Kati bhayo?" = How much?
  • "Yaha rokhnus" = Stop here.

Day Trips from Kathmandu (Transport Options)

Final Advice

Kathmandu's transport is cheap but unpredictable. For first-timers, taxis and ride-hailing apps are safest. Ready to brave the chaos?