Trying to figure out if buses and metros in Nepal take cards or if Ill need small cash. Any recent experiences?
I found the bus system stressful in Kathmandu. With no card options and constant haggling over change, it felt messy. I tried catching a microbus in Kalanki to Bhaktapur, but the conductor overcharged me until another passenger intervened. Having only larger notes from an ATM made it worse. For travelers used to structured metro systems, the chaotic cash-based setup in Nepal can feel overwhelming. I ended up using taxis or booking a scooter just to avoid the hassle.
The cash-only system in Nepal is simple and cheap. I never paid more than a few rupees to get across Kathmandu. The local tempos rattling through Durbar Marg or buses toward Boudhanath were crowded but fun, and everyone just handed over coins or small bills. For longer journeys, I booked a Greenline tourist bus to Pokhara, and though it was cash-only at the office, it included lunch and felt comfortable. In a way, not having to worry about cards made it straightforward.
When I stayed in Thamel, I tried taking the Sajha bus from Ratna Park to Jawalakhel. It was super cheap, but the conductor almost refused my 500 NPR note because fares were only 20 NPR. He finally gave me a fistful of coins after grumbling. None of the buses I took had any electronic payment option. Even tourist buses to Pokhara and Chitwan required cash at New Bus Park. I relied heavily on small notes from local shops.
Nepal doesn’t have a metro, and all public transport is cash-based. In Kathmandu, you’ll find Sajha Yatayat green buses and plenty of microbuses and tempos (three-wheelers). You pay the conductor in Nepalese rupees, usually very small amounts like 20-30 NPR for city rides. No card readers are used. For longer trips, like buses from Kathmandu to Pokhara, you buy paper tickets at bus parks with cash as well. Keep small notes, as change is always a hassle.