Kathmandu Valley’s public transportation system is the most affordable way to travel across Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur. With a network of local buses, microbuses, Sajha Yatayat, Tempos, and electric buses, it connects almost every neighborhood and major hub in the valley. Whether you’re a local commuter, student, or tourist, understanding the routes can save time, money, and confusion.

Types of Public Transport in Kathmandu Valley

  1. Sajha Yatayat: Government-run green buses with fixed routes and set fares.
  2. Microbuses: Small vans serving busy routes with frequent stops.
  3. City Buses: Privately operated blue and green buses covering most city areas.
  4. Tempos: Three-wheeled electric Safa Tempos, mainly running short routes.
  5. Electric Buses: Recently introduced eco-friendly options, run by Sajha and private firms.

Complete List of Public Transport Routes in Kathmandu, Lalitpur & Bhaktapur

Route No.

From → To

Common Stops

Type

1

Ratnapark → Kalanki → Balkhu

Tripureshwor, Teku, Kalanki

Bus, Micro

2

Ratnapark → Koteshwor → Jadibuti

Maitidevi, Tinkune, Koteshwor

Micro

3

Lagankhel → Ekantakuna → Satdobato

Jawalakhel, Satdobato

Bus, Tempo

4

New Buspark → Balaju → Thamel

Gongabu, Samakhusi, Lainchaur

Micro

5

Airport → Gaushala → Ratnapark

Tinkune, Minbhawan, Bagbazar

Bus

6

Lagankhel → Bhaktapur

Gwarko, Balkumari, Sallaghari, Suryabinayak

Sajha Yatayat

7

Lagankhel → Godawari

Satdobato, Harisiddhi, Badegaon

Micro, Bus

8

Bhaktapur → Chabahil → Kalanki

Sallaghari, Koteshwor, Tripureshwor

Bus

9

Suryabinayak → Kirtipur

Sallaghari, Gwarko, Balkhu

Bus, Micro

10

Lagankhel → Jorpati

Jawalakhel, Tripureshwor, Chabahil

Sajha Yatayat

11

Gongabu → Satdobato → Lagankhel

Balaju, Kalimati, Ekantakuna

Micro

12

Kalanki → Thankot → Naikap

Kalanki, Machhegaun

Bus, Micro

13

Bhaktapur → Nakhkhu

Sallaghari, Balkumari, Satdobato

Bus

14

Airport → Sundhara → New Road

Sinamangal, Gaushala, Ratnapark

Bus

15

Jorpati → Old Baneshwor → Satdobato

Chabahil, Minbhawan, Tinkune

Micro, Tempo

16

Lagankhel → Patan Hospital → Gwarko

Jawalakhel, Lagankhel, Imadol

Tempo

17

Balkhu → Kalanki → Sitapaila → Swayambhu

Kalimati, Ramkot, Halchowk

Bus

18

Bhaktapur → Ratnapark

Sallaghari, Koteshwor, Maitidevi

Sajha Yatayat

19

Suryabinayak → Pulchowk

Sallaghari, Gwarko, Lagankhel

Micro

20

Thankot → Ratnapark

Kalanki, Tripureshwor, Sundhara

Bus

Fare Structure (2025)

  1. Minimum Fare: NPR 20 for up to 5 km
  2. Per Km Rate: NPR 3 – 4 after minimum distance
  3. Sajha Yatayat: Slightly higher but fixed and reliable
  4. Tempo Fares: Usually between NPR 20–35 depending on route
  5. Discounts: 50% off for students, senior citizens on some services

Useful Apps & Tools

  1. Sajha Yatayat App – Live bus tracking, route info
  2. Google Maps – Route planning and stop estimation
  3. Pathao / InDrive – Alternatives for last-mile connectivity

Tips for Using Public Transport in Kathmandu

  1. Start early to avoid peak-hour rush (8–10 AM, 4–6 PM)
  2. Always carry change for fare
  3. Ask locals or conductors for confirmation if unsure
  4. Board only from designated bus stops to avoid being skipped

Conclusion

Kathmandu’s public transportation is widespread and economical, covering most urban and semi-urban areas across the valley. With updated routes and improving facilities, it’s becoming increasingly commuter-friendly for daily travelers, tourists, and students alike.