In a major step to ease transportation for both national and international travelers, the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), in coordination with the Tourist Police, has arranged a dedicated shuttle bus service connecting Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) with key hotels and prominent locations across Kathmandu. The service, inaugurated on September 9, 2025, aims to provide convenient, affordable, and timely transit options for passengers arriving in or departing from the capital city.
The shuttle service is expected to significantly reduce the hassle of finding private taxis or negotiating fares, particularly for first-time visitors and tourists unfamiliar with local transport options. Officials emphasized that the initiative reflects NTB’s commitment to improving the tourism experience in Nepal, ensuring comfort and safety for travelers while supporting efficient urban mobility.
Direct Assistance Available for Passengers
Passengers utilizing the shuttle service can directly contact the assigned assistants on each route for guidance and information. These assistants will provide real-time updates regarding bus schedules, boarding points, and estimated travel times, ensuring passengers can plan their movements efficiently. The buses are designed to continuously circulate on their respective routes, allowing flexible boarding and drop-off for travelers throughout the day.
The Tourist Police will also oversee operations to maintain order, provide security, and assist passengers in case of any difficulty, thereby enhancing the overall travel experience and safety within the city.
Five Dedicated Routes Cover Key Destinations
The shuttle service will operate along five distinct routes, covering major hotels, business districts, and popular landmarks. Each route has been designed to cater to high-demand areas, minimizing waiting times and maximizing coverage for both tourists and local travelers.
Route 1:
This route serves the heart of the city, covering several centrally located hotels and major intersections. It connects Tribhuvan International Airport with NAC, New Road, Hotel Annapurna, Hotel Yak & Yeti, Thamel Chowk, Lainchour Chowk, Hotel Shanker, Ambassador, and returns to the Airport. The bus on this route can be reached via Bus No. 916, contact Shyam at 9845515472.
Route 2:
This comprehensive route spans multiple key hotels and business centers, including Gausala, Shifal, Bhagawatibahal, Hilton Hotel, Marriott, Durbar Marg, Hotel Radisson, Hotel Shangrila, Narayan Gopal Chowk, Maharajganj Chowk, Hyatt Regency, Chabahil Chowk, and Hotel Dwarika, before returning to the Airport. Passengers can board Bus No. 861, contact Rosan at 9851338612 for this route.
Route 3:
Designed for travelers heading toward central and northern parts of Kathmandu, this route includes Tinkune Chowk, Hotel Everest, Maitighar Chowk, Hotel Himalaya, St. Xavier’s School, Hotel Soaltee, and Hotel Grand, looping back to the Airport.
Route 4 and Route 5:
Details for the remaining two routes, covering additional strategic areas and hotels, are also planned to ensure full city coverage. Passengers are encouraged to check NTB announcements for route updates and boarding points.
Focus on Tourist Convenience and Safety
Officials from the NTB emphasized that the shuttle service is not only a convenience measure but also a step toward promoting safe and organized urban transport for visitors. With increasing tourist arrivals in Kathmandu, especially during festival seasons and peak travel months, this initiative is expected to streamline airport transfers, reduce traffic congestion around key city areas, and offer a predictable travel schedule for passengers.
The shuttle buses are equipped with adequate seating, air-conditioning, and signage to help passengers identify their stops easily. By linking major hotels directly with the airport, NTB aims to reduce dependency on private vehicles, promote sustainable urban transport, and enhance the overall tourism infrastructure of Nepal.
Looking Ahead
The Nepal Tourism Board has committed to monitoring passenger feedback and adjusting routes, timings, and frequency as needed to optimize the service. With the support of the Tourist Police, this shuttle bus service is poised to become a vital component of Kathmandu’s visitor management strategy, ensuring that tourists can enjoy a seamless, safe, and comfortable entry and exit experience from Nepal’s gateway.
