Getting around · Nepal
Kathmandu to Bhaktapur
Local bus, taxi or private car — how to travel from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur, the medieval city and Durbar Square, in under an hour.
Bhaktapur is the easiest excursion from Kathmandu — just about 13km away, though city traffic stretches it to 45 to 60 minutes by taxi or local bus. As part of the Kathmandu Valley, it has no airport, so you travel by road only. Its beautifully preserved medieval Durbar Square makes it one of the best day trips in Nepal.
At a glance
| Mode | Duration | Approx cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 45–60 min | USD 10–18 | Easiest and most comfortable |
| Local bus | ~60 min | Under USD 1 | Cheapest; crowded |
| Private car (with wait) | 45–60 min | USD 30–50 | Includes return and waiting time |
By local bus
Local buses and microbuses run frequently from Kathmandu (around Ratna Park or Bagbazar) to Bhaktapur. They are extremely cheap but crowded and slow in traffic. This is the budget choice, and a fine one for a flexible day trip if you do not mind the squeeze.
By taxi or private car
A taxi is the simplest way to go, dropping you near the entrance to the old city in around 45 to 60 minutes. Note there is a small entry fee for the heritage zone. If you want to combine Bhaktapur with the hills, hire a car for the day and continue up to Nagarkot afterwards.
Which option to choose
Take a taxi for an easy door-to-door trip, or the local bus to save money. Because the city is so compact and walkable, many people arrive by taxi, explore on foot for a few hours, then continue on rather than return straight to Kathmandu.
Tips
- Go early to enjoy Durbar Square before the tour groups arrive.
- Keep your entry ticket; you may need it to re-enter the heritage zone.
- Pair Bhaktapur with Nagarkot for a perfect day-trip-plus-sunrise combo.
Plan onward travel with getting around Nepal. It is the natural first stop on the Kathmandu to Nagarkot route. Discover the temples and pottery of Bhaktapur before heading back to Kathmandu.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur?+
It is only about 13km, but Kathmandu traffic means it takes roughly 45 to 60 minutes by taxi or local bus. Outside rush hour it can be quicker; in heavy traffic it can take longer.
How much does a taxi from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur cost?+
A one-way taxi costs around USD 10 to 18 depending on bargaining and time of day. The local bus is very cheap, usually well under USD 1, but slower and crowded.
Is there a flight from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur?+
No. Bhaktapur is part of the Kathmandu Valley, just a short drive from the capital, so there is no airport or flight. You travel by road only.
Is Bhaktapur a good day trip from Kathmandu?+
Yes, it is one of the best half- or full-day trips from the capital. The well-preserved medieval Durbar Square, Pottery Square and Nyatapola temple are easy to explore on foot, and you can pair it with Nagarkot.
What is the best way to get to Bhaktapur?+
A taxi is the easiest and most comfortable, while the local bus is the cheapest. Many travellers take a taxi out, explore on foot, then bus back, or combine Bhaktapur with a trip up to Nagarkot.
