LOCAL TRANSPORT

KATHMANDU VALLEY. Metered taxis and tempos (auto-rickshaws) can be hailed off the street. The charge for metered taxis is Rs. 7 at flagdown and then Rs. 12 per kilometer. There is an extra 50% charge from 8 pm to 6 am. For night taxis (8 pm to 5 am), call the Night Taxi Service at Dharma Path (Tel: 224374).

Rickshaws (two-seater tricycles) are a fun way to get around Kathmandu. They are especially useful for short trips within the old part of the city where cars can be very inconvenient because of the narrow streets. Moreover, there’s no noise or air pollution. The fare should be negotiated beforehand.

Buses, mini-buses, micro-buses and tempos ply between various points around the Valley. They leave when they have enough passengers. Last bus around 8 pm. All city buses (and those going to Banepa and Dhulikhel) leave from the City Bus Park, on the eastern side of the Tundikhel parade ground. Trolley buses to Bhaktapur leave from Tripureswor next to the stadium.

POKHARA. There are buses and metered and unmetered taxis to get around.

BHAIRAHAWA. The popular way to get around is by rickshaw and bus. Taxis can be hired. Buses leave for Lumbini where electric tempos are available to visit the different places to see. Jeeps leave for Belhiya on the border with India. Ox carts are an interesting way to visit nearby villages.

NEPALGUNJ. Pony-drawn tangas are the trademark conveyance here. Other ways to get around include rickshaw, tempo, bus and taxi. There are buses to Thakurdwara from where you enter the Royal Bardia National Park.

BIRATNAGAR. Mainly rickshaws. There are local buses to nearby villages and towns. Cars are also available for hire. Buses leave for Dharan frequently.