Getting Around Kathmandu
Getting Around Kathmandu
All City Transport Options: What Locals Use and What’s Best for Tourists
General Overview
Getting around Kathmandu can be quite the adventure. One thing that surprised me about Kathmandu transport is just how much local flavor it has compared to other cities I’ve been to. The public transport here definitely takes some practice—it's not always the most efficient but offers an entirely unique experience.Now, if you're not feeling adventurous enough to ride the local buses, you have a few main options: the colorful microbuses, tempos (the three-wheeled things that dart around everywhere), and the big old buses that look like they belong in a time capsule. They generally run from around 6 AM until about 8 PM. Prices are pretty reasonable too—most rides cost between 20-50 NPR, a bargain compared to taxis, where you could spend around 300 NPR for a short trip.
Oh, before I forget, a common tourist mistake is underestimating the chaos during rush hour, especially around 8-9 AM. I made that blunder on my first week here and ended up squished in a microbus with what felt like a hundred other people! Not ideal. But here's a local hack: if you can, plan your travel times well. Early mornings or late afternoons tend to be less crowded.
A pleasant surprise I found was how friendly the drivers can be; they'll often let you know where to get off if you look lost. Speaking of specific routes, the microbus 9 is fantastic for heading towards Thamel, while the buses labeled “Biratnagar” can take you to more hidden spots around the city.
Weather-wise, be prepared for sudden downpours during the rainy season; those can make waiting for a bus feel like an eternity. Plus, if you’re in the tourist district during festival times, you might find transport prices jacked up, especially if you're trying to get close to Durbar Square.
For a money-saving tip, consider using local rideshare apps like Tootle for motorbike rides, which can be a fraction of the price of riders during peak hours. And don’t forget, group discounts on some of the public transport options can really stretch your budget.
In terms of safety, always keep an eye on your belongings—pickpocketing can be an issue, especially in crowded buses. So stay alert.
Wrap up your day with a sunset stroll to a spot like Swayambhunath. It’s an uphill trek, but once you’re up there, the view of the city will make all that public transport chaos worth it.
Types of Transport
popular with tourists
Taxis in Kathmandu are widely available and can be a convenient way to navigate the city, especially if you're traveling to popular areas such as Thamel, Durbar Square, and Boudhanath Stupa. It's important to agree on the fare before starting your journey, as most taxis do not use meters; typical fares range from NPR 200 to NPR 800 depending on your destination. Always carry small denominations of cash, as most taxis may not accept card payments and ATM facilities can be limited in certain areas. For a smoother experience, download a taxi-hailing app like "Pathao" or "Taxisnepal" to request rides and get an estimated fare. Lastly, ensure you always share your ride details with someone and keep an eye on local safety tips, especially at night.
popular with tourists
The bus network in Kathmandu is quite extensive, covering key areas like Thamel, Kathmandu Durbar Square, and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). Fares typically range from NPR 20 to NPR 50, and payment is made directly to the conductor when you board, so always keep small change handy. For tourists, it’s wise to plan your route in advance using a local map or Google Maps, as not all bus stops are well marked. Pay attention to peak hours, as buses can be overcrowded, and consider traveling early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the busiest times. Additionally, safety is important; be mindful of your belongings and avoid traveling on buses that appear excessively crowded or those that look poorly maintained.
Walking in Kathmandu is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture and explore its stunning architecture, particularly in areas like Thamel, Durbar Square, and the historic neighborhoods of Patan and Bhaktapur. While there are no costs associated with walking, it’s wise to wear comfortable shoes since the streets can be uneven and often crowded; cash is handy for any small purchases along the way, such as street food or souvenirs. A great tip is to pick up a local map or use a smartphone app to navigate, as many streets can be confusing and may not be clearly marked. Remember to stay hydrated and take breaks in local cafes to soak in the atmosphere, and always be cautious of street traffic and honking vehicles, as the flow can be unpredictable. For time-saving, try to plan your walking route in advance, especially if you want to hit multiple famous sites in a single day, as the distances can be deceiving.
Here you can learn about all types of transport in Kathmandu. What transport is available, how to reach tourist attractions and which mode of transport is optimal.