How To Reach Bhaktapur

Bhaktapur, the ‘City of Culture’, is considered the most well preserved of the three cities that make up the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal. With courtyards and monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this ancient city was once the capital of the Valley, and is now one of the top locations people visit on their trip to Nepal. Tourism plays a vital role in the economy of the city that requires tourists to pay a token amount of entry fee when visiting, which also helps in the sustenance and repair of its extensive architecture and monuments. Its proximity to the capital also helps in maintaining a constant inflow of travellers to the city; people who are looking for a change of scene from the daily hustle of Kathmandu. Read for the best and most convenient ways to reach Bhaktapur.

The closest airport from Bhaktapur is the Tribhuvan International Airport located in Kathmandu. One can choose to fly in to the airport from all top destinations in the world and in to the domestic terminal of the capital from any major city in Nepal. Bhaktapur is a mere 13 km away from Kathmandu and can be reached via road routes upon landing in the capital.

There are regular buses operating between Kathmandu and Bhaktapur. The mini bus runs from Ratna bus stand and Ring Road stand in Kathmandu and drops off at Kamal Binayak stand in Bhaktapur; the bigger buses drop off at Chyamasingha stop. The Express buses start from Baagbazaar in Kathmandu and are generally faster due to lesser stops mid journey. The ride usually lasts anywhere between 45 minutes to an hour, and can be a great way to mingle with the locals through the journey.

People not keen on traveling in a crowded vehicle can choose to take a taxi from Thamel in Kathmandu to Bhaktapur directly. Driving enthusiasts can bring their own cars from Kathmandu, and are required to take the Arniko Raj Marg road route to Bhaktapur.

Bhaktapur is a small town, one that is best explored on foot. There are no rickshaws or public transportation available, so walking is the best option to go about your day along the narrow roads and streets here. Locals do own motorbikes, which can make the roads a little crowded with numerous pedestrians around.