Getting around · Bhaktapur
How to Get to Bhaktapur from Kathmandu
Local bus, taxi or ride-hailing from Thamel — times, costs and the entry fee, sorted.
Getting to Bhaktapur from Kathmandu is quick and easy — it's about 13 km east of the city. You can take a cheap local bus, a metered or negotiated taxi, or a ride-hailing app, then pay the old-city entry fee at the gate. Here's exactly how to do it.
The short answer
From Thamel, the simplest route is a taxi or ride-hailing car (around 45 minutes, traffic permitting). Budget travellers can catch a local bus or microbus from the Ratna Park / Bagbazar area heading along the Araniko Highway. On arrival, pay the foreigner entry fee at one of the old-town gates.
Your options
- Taxi. Door-to-door and flexible. Agree the fare before you set off, or use an app like Pathao or InDrive for a metered price. Roughly 45 minutes from Thamel.
- Local bus / microbus. The cheapest way — board near Ratna Park or Bagbazar and ride to the Bhaktapur bus stand, then walk into the old town. Slower and busier, but very cheap.
- Private car or tour. Many guesthouses arrange a half- or full-day car with a driver, handy if you're combining Bhaktapur with Nagarkot.
Good to know
- Allow for the entry fee and keep your ticket. Go early to beat the crowds.
Next steps
Once you arrive, dive into the best things to do in Bhaktapur. Travelling around the valley? Get connected first with our guide on how to get a SIM card in Kathmandu.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Bhaktapur from Kathmandu?+
Bhaktapur lies about 13 km east of central Kathmandu. By taxi the drive usually takes around 45 minutes, though traffic on the Araniko Highway can stretch it longer at peak times.
Is there an entry fee to Bhaktapur?+
Yes. Foreign visitors pay an entry fee to enter the old-city heritage zone, collected at the gates. Keep your ticket, as it can be checked inside and extended for multiple days on request.
What is the cheapest way to get to Bhaktapur?+
A local bus or microbus from the Ratna Park / Bagbazar area is the cheapest option, costing only a fraction of a taxi. It's slower and more crowded but a genuine local experience.
