Getting around · Nepal
Renting a Scooter in Kathmandu
Where to rent, what it costs, the licence rules and how to handle Kathmandu's traffic on two wheels.
You can rent a scooter in Kathmandu easily — most rentals cluster in Thamel, cost roughly NPR 1,000–1,500 a day for an automatic, and require a valid motorcycle licence plus an international driving permit for foreigners. The catch is the traffic: Kathmandu's roads are dense, fast and largely lane-free, so self-driving suits confident riders and rewards them with total freedom to explore the valley.
Where to rent
Thamel is the main rental district, with many shops offering automatic scooters, geared motorbikes and even trail bikes for day trips out of the valley. Before you ride off:
- Inspect the bike — test the brakes, lights, horn and indicators.
- Photograph existing damage so you are not blamed for it on return.
- Check the fuel level and agree how it should be returned.
- Confirm the deposit — shops usually hold your passport or cash.
Rules and paperwork
By law you need a valid motorcycle licence; foreigners should carry an international driving permit endorsed for two-wheelers alongside their home licence. Police checkpoints do ask, and the correct permit also keeps any insurance valid. A helmet is legally required for the rider and passenger, and the shop should provide one.
Costs
- Daily rate: around NPR 1,000–1,500 for an automatic scooter; more for bigger bikes.
- Multi-day discounts are common — ask.
- Fuel is extra, paid at petrol stations separately from the rental.
Riding in the city
Kathmandu traffic is not for nervous beginners. Lanes are advisory, horns are constant, and pedestrians, cyclists and stray dogs all share the road.
- Ride defensively and expect the unexpected.
- Avoid night riding — poor lighting and worse hazards.
- Practise in quieter areas before tackling the core.
- Keep documents on you for checkpoints.
If that sounds stressful, you are not alone — many travellers prefer to skip the wheel. Compare a relaxed alternative in Pathao vs inDrive in Kathmandu, or learn to negotiate a cab in our Kathmandu taxis and fair fares guide. For an easier first ride, Pokhara's quieter roads make renting a scooter in Pokhara far more beginner-friendly. See every option at the Kathmandu and Pokhara city transport hub, and plan inter-city travel with getting around Nepal.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I rent a scooter in Kathmandu?+
Thamel is the main hub for scooter and motorbike rental, with numerous shops offering everything from automatic scooters to larger trail bikes. You can also find rental outlets near other tourist areas. It pays to inspect the bike, test the brakes and lights, and photograph any existing damage before riding off.
Do I need a licence to rent a scooter in Kathmandu?+
Legally you need a valid motorcycle licence, and for foreigners that means an international driving permit endorsed for two-wheelers, carried alongside your home licence. Some shops are lax about checking, but police checkpoints do ask, and riding without the correct permit can mean fines and invalid insurance.
How much does it cost to rent a scooter in Kathmandu?+
Expect a daily rental rate in the region of NPR 1,000 to 1,500 for an automatic scooter, with discounts for multi-day hires and larger motorbikes costing more. Fuel is extra and paid separately, and shops usually hold your passport or a deposit for the duration of the rental.
Is it safe to ride a scooter in Kathmandu?+
Kathmandu's traffic is dense, fast and unpredictable, with few lane rules, so it is best suited to confident, experienced riders. Wear the legally required helmet, ride defensively, avoid riding at night, and consider practising in quieter areas first. Nervous riders are often better off with ride apps or taxis.