Based in Thamel, we serve pickup and drop-off across Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur, plus day trips to Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, and other valley destinations. Airport pickup at Tribhuvan International Airport is available with fixed pricing.
Getting around Kathmandu by car
Kathmandu is busy and its old-city lanes are narrow, so a compact hatchback is the easiest car for getting around the valley. Traffic is heaviest from about 8 to 11 am and 4 to 7 pm; plan cross-city drives outside those hours. Around Thamel and the Durbar Squares, park at the edge and walk in.
Popular trips from Kathmandu
Nagarkot and Dhulikhel for Himalayan views are each about 1.5 to 2 hours away. Bhaktapur and Patan make easy half-day trips. For longer journeys, Pokhara is about 200 km (6 to 8 hours) and Chitwan about 150 to 170 km (5 to 6 hours) along the Prithvi Highway.
Airport pickup
Tribhuvan International Airport is about 6 km from Thamel, a 20 to 40 minute drive depending on traffic. Many visitors book a driven pickup on arrival and collect a self-drive car at their hotel the next morning.
Car rental in Kathmandu: FAQs
Can I rent a car in Kathmandu without a driver?
Yes. Self-drive rental is available with a valid home driving licence, an International Driving Permit, your passport and a refundable security deposit.
Where do I collect the car in Kathmandu?
We are based in Thamel and can arrange pickup and drop-off across Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur, or at Tribhuvan International Airport.
What is the best car for driving in Kathmandu?
A small hatchback such as the Maruti Alto, WagonR or Hyundai i20 is easiest to park and drive in the old city. Choose an SUV if you are heading out on highway or hill roads.
Guides for driving in Kathmandu
Self-Drive Car Rental in Nepal: A Practical Guide for Visitors
What you need to rent and drive a car yourself in Nepal: licence and permit, deposit, road rules, fuel, and when a driver makes more sense.
GuideKathmandu to Pokhara by Car: Route, Driving Time and Stops
Driving the Prithvi Highway from Kathmandu to Pokhara: distance, realistic journey time, road conditions, the best stops, and tips for a smooth trip.
GuideKathmandu to Chitwan by Car: Getting to Sauraha and the National Park
How to drive from Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park: the route via Mugling and Narayangarh, travel time, road conditions and what to expect in Sauraha.
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