Nepal Transportation system

Figuring out exactly how Nepal transportation works is a main priority for travelers. Knowing how to get from point A to point B can be crucial during vacations. Public transportation in Nepal has developed rapidly over the last century. There are two basic distinctions when it comes to transportation in Nepal. In the larger cities, Nepal buses, tempos and taxis, rickshaws, motorcycles, and bicycles are most popular for urban travel. Outside of the cities, in more rural areas, the choices are not fewer, but they are certainly different—and not as easily accessible—but can be arranged. Trains, planes, helicopters, some rural buses, tourist buses, and trucks are all ways to get around.

Visitors will find a host of options for Nepal transportation on many budgets. Visitors tend to stick to two main types of transport including auto-rickshaws and taxi cabs. These tend to be the best options, especially in places such as Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Bhaktapur. Rickshaws are the most popular in urban areas. They are great for short trips and small amounts of luggage, if any. Always bargain your price before you get on and don't be afraid to try another driver for a better deal. Bargaining is expected so don't be afraid to jump in with both feet. Rickshaws throw a little more adventure into things. These are two-seater tricycles best used for short jaunts, especially within old, congested sections of the city. Always work out your agreed fare before taking a lift. There are also two kinds of taxis to choose between. One is called the Ten Rupee Taxi and doesn't leave until the car is full, while the other is a private taxi that can be hired anywhere for as long as you need it.

Tempos are a type of small bus used for transportation in Nepal. There are two types of tempos. One is a three-wheeler that runs a variety of routes throughout the city carrying ten to fifteen passengers. The other is a newer version van running similar or the same routes but is faster and safer. Local buses are almost always the cheapest way to travel in Nepal, but can be extremely crowded and uncomfortable. If you're a traveler on a tight budget, this is the way you'll want to go, even if it means sitting with livestock. Tourist buses are another option in Nepal buses, and are much more comfortable but only operate on the wider, urban roadways. When choosing to travel by tourist bus, book in advance. Hotels will also often book Nepal transportation for no extra charge.

Nepal buses and three-wheeled tempos operate at regular intervals on fixed courses. They don't leave until they are full and don't have a specific schedule. Not so great for the impatient, but they are frequent and fairly regular. They are the most common choice for transportation in Nepal cities. There are also trolley buses traveling to Bhaktapur from Kathmandu and city buses to Banepa, Thankot, Banepa, and Dhulikhel.

A car rental in Nepal, along with a motorcycle or bicycle, are the three top transport rentals for tourists. Assess your needs well, as having a car rental can sometimes be a nuisance rather than a convenience. Each can be rented in larger cities and towns. Have your drivers license and passport handy to fill out all necessary paperwork. Generally, most people that hire a car also take the driver the comes with it. This is a great way to enjoy the benefits of having a vehicle, yet not being stuck with problems ensuing from driving in unfamiliar territory. Though there are no international agencies renting cars in Nepal, they are still easily available through hotels and other guide and airport services.

Nepal trains might as well not even exist, they are so infrequently used. They are at the bottom of the list for Nepal transportation options. Train routes are mostly centered around major entry points into Nepal, like Birgunj, servicing tourists and travelers coming mainly from India. There are only about sixty kilometers of railway in Nepal in total. When planning on visiting extremely remote areas of Nepal, helicopters are usually the top transportation choice. They are used far more frequently than people realize. Requiring a fraction of the landing space a plane needs, a helicopter is also a safer option. Helicopters can be reserved to fly anywhere, anytime. They are are popular for sightseeing in the Himalayas and for a close up look at Everest.