Private Alto Taxi in Kathmandu with Driver

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) is small and easy to navigate. Here is what happens from the moment you land:

1. Immigration: fill in the arrival form, then get your visa on arrival if you need one (see the next section). Queues can take 30 to 60 minutes in busy seasons.
2. Baggage claim: collect your bags and pass through customs.
3. Exit the terminal: walk out of the arrivals hall. Many people will offer taxis and help with bags. Politely say no thanks, because your driver is already waiting.
4. Find your name sign: your driver waits in the arrivals area holding a sign with your name. You also have his phone number in your confirmation.
5. Ride to your hotel: the drive to Thamel usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.

Can’t see your driver? Message us on WhatsApp at +977 9712067531 with your location and we connect you within minutes.

Most nationalities can get a tourist visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport. You can fill in the online form before you fly to save time, or use the kiosks in the arrivals hall.

• Tourist visa fees are currently about USD 30 for 15 days, USD 50 for 30 days and USD 125 for 90 days.
• Bring US dollars in cash. Card payment at the visa counter is not always available.
• Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months, with a blank page.
• Some nationalities must get a visa before travelling, so check your country’s rules first.

Your driver will contact you by phone or WhatsApp, so it helps to be reachable when you land.

• Airport Wi-Fi is available but can be slow.
• Ncell and Nepal Telecom (NTC) sell tourist SIM cards at counters in the arrivals area and in Thamel. You need your passport.
• If you have no data on arrival, don’t worry: your driver will be holding your name sign.

Read our full guide to SIM cards and internet in Nepal.

• Your ride is prepaid online, so you do not need cash for the driver, except for extras you agree on, such as an extra stop, and optional tips.
• The local currency is the Nepalese rupee (NPR). Cash is still king for small shops, temples and taxis you hail on the street.
• There are ATMs and money exchange counters at the airport and plenty in Thamel. Many ATMs have a withdrawal limit per transaction and charge a fee.
• Keep some small notes for entrance fees, snacks and tips.

Kathmandu’s roads are busy and distances can take longer than you expect. Plan with these rules of thumb:

• Rush hours are roughly 8 to 10 am and 4 to 7 pm.
• Airport to Thamel usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.
• Festival days and occasional strikes (bandhs) can close roads. We will tell you in advance if your ride is affected.
• For flights, leave your hotel at least 3 hours before an international departure and 2 hours before a domestic one.

Many hotels in Thamel and the old city sit on narrow lanes, and some lanes are closed to cars at certain times.

• The small Alto can reach most hotels, which is one reason it is so popular.
• Send your hotel’s Google Maps pin when you book, not just the name.
• If a lane is closed, your driver will stop at the nearest street and walk with you, or tell you exactly where to meet.

The Suzuki Alto is a compact car. It is the best value for:

• 1 to 3 passengers
• Hand luggage, backpacks or up to 2 medium suitcases

Choose a bigger vehicle if you are 4 or more people, carry large trekking duffels or several big suitcases, or need extra space for comfort. Message us before booking and we will suggest the right car.

• Kathmandu is generally safe for visitors, including solo and female travellers.
• Late-night arrivals are common. Pre-booking means you do not need to find a taxi at the airport in the dark.
• Before pickup you receive your driver’s name, car details and phone number. Check them before you get in.
• Our WhatsApp line is open during your ride if you need anything.

Tipping is not required, but it is appreciated for good service. Many travellers round up or give a small tip for an airport transfer, and a little more after a full day of sightseeing. Tips are paid directly to the driver in cash.

• Your driver waits while you explore and takes you to the next stop.
• Entrance fees for foreign visitors are charged at most heritage sites, such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, Patan and Bhaktapur. They are not included in the taxi price.
• Dress modestly at temples, with shoulders and knees covered, and remove your shoes where asked.
• Your driver is not a licensed tour guide. If you want explanations of the history and culture, ask us to add a guide.

Starting a trek? We can drive you from your hotel to the domestic terminal for flights to Lukla or Pokhara, or arrange a larger vehicle for longer journeys such as the drive to Ramechhap in the trekking seasons.

Planning a trek with us? See the Everest Base Camp Trek and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek, which include airport transfers.