Highlights

• Nepal Tourism Board launches a free shuttle bus service on election day, Falgun 21
• Three dedicated routes connect major hotels, market hubs, and the airport
• Service runs from 5 am to 7 pm, covering peak travel windows
• Buses operate round-trip on the same corridors, no extra fare required
• Targets both domestic flyers and international visitors, easing congestion
• First time the board offers door-to-door airport shuttles on a public holiday
• Operates across Kathmandu and surrounding suburbs, benefiting hotels and tourists alike
• Sets a precedent for future public-private transport collaborations

Why the Board Is Acting Now

The Nepal Tourism Board announced on Falgun 21 that it will provide complimentary shuttle buses for the election holiday. The move addresses two main concerns: the surge of passengers traveling between the airport and city hotels, and the need to maintain smooth traffic flow while polling stations operate. By offering a direct connection from the airport to key hotel districts, the board aims to keep visitors on schedule and reduce reliance on private taxis, which often increase street congestion.

What the Service Looks Like

The board introduced three distinct routes, each looping back to the airport. All buses begin at 5 am, stop at designated locations, and operate until 7 pm. The routes are:

Route	Key Stops	Operating Window
Route 1	NAC, New Road, Kantipath, Thamel, Lainchaur, Malla Hotel, Nayabazar, Shankar Hotel, Yadison, Durbar Marg, Yak & Yeti, Naxal, Gaushala, Battisputali (Dwarika’s Hotel)	5 am – 7 pm
Route 2	Maharajgunj Chowk, Narayanthan Chowk, Dhumbarahi (Ramada Hotel), Chabahil, Boudha (Hyatt Regency), Jorpati Chowk, Chabahil, Gaushala	5 am – 7 pm
Route 3	Himalayan Hotel (Kupondole), Tripureshwor, Kalimati, Soltimode, Kalanki, Ekantakuna, Satdobato, Gwarko (Royal Tulip), Tinkune, New Baneshwor, Everest Hotel	5 am – 7 pm

Each bus follows its designated route both to and from the airport. Passengers may board at any listed stop and travel directly to the airport or back to their hotel. The service is completely free; no ticket or reservation is required. Drivers will display a Shuttle Bus badge and a route number board.

Who Benefits Most

• Hotel guests – particularly those staying at listed properties who can avoid taxi queues.
• International travelers – especially early-morning arrivals needing reliable transport.
• Local commuters – workers in commercial districts gain an additional transport option during the holiday.
• Poll workers – freeing private vehicles helps maintain clearer roads for election logistics.

The board’s decision reflects a broader effort to integrate tourism infrastructure with major civic events. By eliminating cost barriers, the board aims to maintain high visitor satisfaction even on a public holiday when many businesses are closed.

How This Changes the Landscape

Providing a free shuttle during a national election is uncommon in Nepal. It demonstrates a willingness by tourism authorities to support public service functions when broader economic activity is affected. If the pilot is successful, similar collaborations may occur during festivals, major conferences, or other high-traffic periods.

This initiative may also encourage private transport operators to improve service standards. When a government-operated bus is punctual and well-maintained, passenger expectations increase for taxis and ride-hailing services. Over time, the Nepal Tourism Board could help drive improvements in the urban mobility system.

What’s Next for Travelers

• Check the route board in your hotel lobby or at the airport information desk.
• Arrive early if you need a seat, particularly on the popular Route 1 passing through tourist hubs like Thamel and Battisputali.
• Follow driver instructions – buses will stop only at listed locations to ensure timely service.
• Plan your return – the last departure from the airport is at 7 pm.

The board will monitor passenger numbers and collect feedback through a QR-code survey available on each bus. These results will determine whether the service expands to other holidays or becomes permanent.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is there a passenger limit per bus?
A: Buses follow standard capacity regulations, typically around 30 seats. No reservation is required, but arriving early improves your chances of securing a seat.

Q: Will the shuttle operate on weekends after the election?
A: The free service is available only on the election holiday, Falgun 21. Regular airport shuttles will resume according to individual hotel schedules.

Q: Are the buses wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes. Each bus has low-floor entry and designated wheelchair space in compliance with accessibility standards.

Q: Can I travel between hotels without going to the airport?
A: The routes are designed to connect hotels with the airport. While boarding at any listed stop is permitted, direct hotel-to-hotel travel without passing through the airport is not guaranteed.

Q: How will success be measured?
A: Ridership data, passenger satisfaction from the QR survey, and traffic flow analysis near the airport will serve as the primary evaluation metrics.

Q: Will this service continue for future elections?
A: The board has indicated that if the pilot meets expectations, free shuttle services may become standard on future national election days.