Getting Around The City in Nepal
Navigating cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Chitwan today is far easier thanks to ride‑sharing apps. Here’s a snapshot of the major platforms and some local tips for safer, smarter travel.
Popular Ride‑Sharing Apps in Nepal
Pathao
- Launched in Kathmandu in late 2018 and is now available in several cities across Nepal. It offers bike, car, food and parcel delivery services all in one app.
- Known for a large network of drivers, fixed fare pricing, and insurance coverage for riders and passengers
inDrive
- Entered Nepal around 2022. This global app lets users set their own fare, offering price negotiation and more control over their ride.
- Often cheaper than other options, though insurance coverage—and app availability—can vary
Other Local Options
Tootle: Nepal’s original bike‑sharing app, started in 2017; still active in Kathmandu but now overshadowed by larger players
Sajilo Saathi, Taximandu, eDrive Nepal, JumJum, and Sahara are other rising home‑grown apps offering varying coverage, EV rides, safety features like SOS buttons, or wallet integration like eSewa and Khalti
Public Transport: Cheap But Challenging
Standard public vehicles buses, micro‑buses, and shared tempos, are notably inexpensive. However:
- They often stop unpredictably, become overcrowded, and offer little communication with drivers or conductors.
- Experience can involve constant pushing, uncertainty on timing, and limited English.
- Especially in narrow historic neighbourhoods, their size restricts access.
Walkable Old‑Town Areas
Many older parts of cities, such as Thamel, Asan, Patan, or Basantapur, are best explored on foot. Alleyways and heritage zones are often unmotorable. While charming, not all areas are accessible by vehicle.
Best Options for Easy Navigation
- Use ride‑hailing apps (Pathao, inDrive, and others) for efficient, relatively safe transport.
- Opt for bike rides when roads are congested or the destination is within narrow lanes.
- Car rides offer more comfort and cargo space if you have luggage or prefer lower exposure to traffic.
Safety Tips for Riders
- Always wear a helmet on two-wheelers—even if not required by law, it’s a simple step for protection.
- At night, consider travelling with a friend or in groups for added security.
- Prefer apps with verified drivers, GPS tracking, emergency (SOS) features, and in-app support (Pathao, Sajilo, JumJum stand out).
- Be mindful that inDrive rides may lack formal insurance, so there’s a trade‑off between price and coverage.
Tourist Comparison Notes
- Pathao: Fixed fares, in‑app support, better insurance—commonly recommended for visitors.
- inDrive: Affordable via negotiation, but less formal structure; ideal for budget‑minded locals or expats.
- For cost, Indrive is better. For safety, Pathao is more reliable. Pathao offers insurance and responsive service.
Combine them with walking in pedestrian zones, and stay alert with safety gear and smart choices. Enjoy the journey!
