Getting around · Namobuddha
How to Get to Namobuddha from Kathmandu
Taxi, private car, local bus via Panauti or on foot — how to reach Namobuddha and how long it takes.
Namobuddha sits about 40km southeast of Kathmandu in Kavrepalanchok, on a hill reached by a narrow, climbing road through Dhulikhel and Panauti. It's an easy day trip with the right transport, and an even better overnight one. Here's how to get there, with times and the best plan for each kind of traveller.
The short answer
The simplest option is a private taxi or hired car, about two to three hours door to door from Kathmandu, with the freedom to stop along the way. Budget travellers can take local buses via Panauti or Dhulikhel and change for a Namobuddha-bound bus or jeep. For the most rewarding arrival, walk in from Dhulikhel along the ridge.
By taxi or private car
A taxi or hired car is the most popular choice. The route runs through Bhaktapur, up to Dhulikhel, then down to Panauti and up the final hill to Namobuddha. Agree the fare before you set off, and ask the driver to wait or arrange a return pickup, as transport on the hill itself is sparse.
By local bus
The cheapest way is by local bus, but it takes patience. Buses run from Kathmandu towards Panauti or Dhulikhel; from either you change to a local bus or shared jeep up to Namobuddha. Travel in daylight, expect crowded vehicles, and allow plenty of time. See our national guide to getting around Nepal for the wider picture.
On foot from Dhulikhel
For many, the best arrival is walking. The well-trodden trail from Dhulikhel follows the ridge for about 13km (3–4 hours), passing villages, terraces and chortens, often extended into the Dhulikhel–Namobuddha–Panauti loop. It is the traditional pilgrim approach and turns the journey into part of the experience.
Good to know
- The last stretch of road is narrow and winding; allow extra time in monsoon.
- Carry cash in rupees — there are no reliable ATMs on the hill.
- Combine the trip with Panauti's medieval temples, just below the hill.
- Decide between a day trip and a night with our guide to where to stay in Namobuddha.
Once you've planned the journey, check the best time to visit Namobuddha for clear skies. For the full overview, see the Namobuddha travel guide.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Namobuddha from Kathmandu?+
About 40km southeast of Kathmandu in Kavrepalanchok. By road it takes roughly two to three hours via Bhaktapur, Dhulikhel and Panauti, as the last stretch is a narrow, climbing hill road. From Dhulikhel it is a shorter drive of under an hour.
Is there a bus to Namobuddha?+
Yes, but not a fast direct one. Local buses run from Kathmandu's Ratna Park area towards Panauti or Dhulikhel, from where you change to a Namobuddha-bound local bus or jeep. It is cheap but slow, so many visitors prefer a taxi or private car.
Can you walk to Namobuddha?+
Yes — one of the best ways to arrive is on foot from Dhulikhel along the ridge, a roughly three-to-four-hour hike of about 13km that many do as the Dhulikhel–Namobuddha–Panauti loop. It is a classic, well-trodden pilgrim route.
What is the easiest way to reach Namobuddha?+
A private taxi or hired car door to door is the simplest, taking two to three hours from Kathmandu and letting you stop in Bhaktapur or Panauti on the way. Agree the fare in advance and consider arranging the return trip too.
