How To Use Uber In Nepal

Uber is Nepal exists, but it's not uber. This is a ride inside of a InDrive ride share in Kathmandu

While visiting Kathmandu, Nepal there’s really only 2 things you need to do. Have Uber set up, and make sure you can use you phone. 

For the first step, well…Uber is not used in Nepal, so make sure you have storage on your phone for a new app.

You will primarily be using either PATHAO or INDRIVE as a replacement for Uber in Nepal. Download them from the app store of your choice so you can get to the Monkey Temple, Swayambhunath

using uber in Nepal
Indrive is an app to user instead of uber in Nepal

Just like any other ride share app, you will figure it out quite easily. Similar to using Grab in Southeast Asia.

I personally used InDrive and was a big fan of it actually. The drivers never had an issue calling or texting me using the in app features. It was extremely helpful to get around Nepal.

What’s funny about Kathmandu is how small and unique the cars are. You will witness your drivers take turns that you did not even know were possible. 

How are you going to use an Uber in Kathmandu without your phone working?

SIM Card In Nepal

If you are traveling to Nepal, I feel like you have probably been to a good amount of places already. But if not, 

You will either need an eSim, or use your cell service’s international plan. I will use both depending on the length of the trip. Using my normal phone service is my preferred method because you quite frankly do nothing. Your phone just automatically works, but it costs about $10 a day.

For eSim’s in Nepal you can use Airalo, where you can find eSim’s for over 200 destinations. This will be a cheaper option. It’s pretty simple, you just buy and install one on the app and then your phone will work to order an “uber” aka InDrive or Pathao. 

As good as the apps worked, I refuse to call it anything other an Uber.

Walking In Kathmandu

Honestly, I’m a walker when it comes to new locations. It’s the best way to understand a city. I found Kathmandu extremely walkable, it’s just a little more intense than some other locations.

Some of the sidewalks are not finished, and the roads can be hilly and windy. If you’ve been to Vietnam…crossing the street felt like that.  I walked from Bouddha to Thamel, it was about an hour. There were bridges, dead ends, sewers, you name it. 

Long distance walks will not be for everybody. If you have little kids with you, I wouldn’t get aggressive walking, especially down some of the really tight streets. But odds are, you’ll be fine and I wouldn’t even think about it.

Definitely be careful, the traffic is quite insane.Â