Transportation in Kathmandu

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Getting Around Kathmandu

The first thing many tourists notice about Kathmandu is the universal lack of street names and address numbers, except for main roads such as Tri Devi and Ring Road.

Mostly directions are given relative to a "chowk" or "tole", which is an intersection, often with a market or square, or a significant landmark such as a temple or a restaurant. The two main landmarks in the tourist district of Thamel are the Kathmandu Guest House and the Hot Breads Bakery.

By Foot

In spite of all the modes of transport available, walking is still the best and the most reliable way of moving goods and of getting from point to point. Walking is also the only option of getting around in the rest of Nepal. More goods are carted by human porters in Nepal than all other forms of transportation combined.

By Bus

The public bus transportation system in Kathmandu is very economical but also exceedingly crowded and very few transitory tourists use it.

There are around 40 bus routes around Kathmandu Valley and Kathmandu itself and the frequency of buses are good. However, there is no fixed timetable that is followed. Buses depart only when they are full - from the Old Bus Park towards the eastern side of Tundikhel Parade Ground.

Always check the destination of the bus by asking the driver or his assistant, as most buses do not have the destination written in front of the bus and if they do, it is in Nepali.

Bus services are frequent between 5:30am and 9pm. Our advice is that the best way to move around in the city and see the major sights is still on foot - due to the great possibility of being misunderstood by the bus driver.

By Taxi

Several taxi companies operate in Kathmandu. Many of these only have one or two vehicles in their fleet so they are easy to spot, especially outside major hotels, along Durbar Marg or on the main streets. They can be easily identified due to the "taxi" sign and black number plates.

Taxis have fare meters but tourists are advised to ensure that the meter is switched on, since most taxi drivers are unwilling to use them.

By Car

You can only hire a car with a driver, not separately. This is very expensive and it is much more economical to hire a taxi for the whole day and strike a bargain on the price with the driver.

By Bike

Although cycling is an option in Kathmandu, the traffic and pollution make it an unpleasant experience. Both bicycles and motorbikes can be rented from the numerous shops in Thamel.

Motorbikes are generally old and cause a lot of pollution and therefore it is much better to rent a bicycle. While hiring one, you will have to deposit your passport or a large amount of cash or an international driving licence.

By Tempo or Rickshaw

Auto Rickshaws or "tempos" are electric, have fare meters and are environmentally friendly. Those which ply the roads on a fixed route also have a fixed price.

The tempos which were banned by the government are the older ones which were two-stroke and smelly. Use only the pedal rickshaws for short trips and fix the fare before you set out. Giving tips for good service is expected and this is usually around 10 percent of the fare.

Since these are mostly used by tourists, you will hardly find rickshaws outside the tourist area of Thamel. Bargain for the price before you get in and if it is not suitable, just look for another one. Prices are higher after daylight hours and in less crowded areas.

By Train

There are no train services in Kathmandu.