Uber vs Taxi at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)
Take Taxi — recommended by locals over the alternative.
Side by side
| Factor | Uber | Taxi |
|---|---|---|
| Option | InDriver | Pre-paid taxi (airport counter) |
| Cost | NPR 500–900 | NPR 700–1,200 |
| Journey | 30–60 min | 30–60 min |
| Wait | 5–15 min | 5–10 min |
| Payment | Cash | Cash |
| Locals recommend |
- ✓ Often cheaper than pre-paid
- ! Pickup outside main gate
- ! Driver availability varies
- ✓ Set price
- ✓ Avoids haggling
- ! Slightly above local meter
Scams to watch either way
- Curbside tout swap
Touts grab your bag, walk you to a private car, and charge NPR 3,000–4,000.
Avoid: Never accept help with bags. Use ONLY the pre-paid counter inside arrivals.
- Hotel commission scam
Driver claims your hotel is 'closed/burned/moved' and takes you to a commission partner.
Avoid: Insist on the original address. Call your hotel from the airport if doubt.
- Visa form upsell
Touts charge for free visa forms.
Avoid: Forms are free inside the immigration hall.
Frequently asked
Q.Uber or Taxi from KTM — which is better?
Taxi — recommended by locals over the alternative. Pre-paid taxi (airport counter): NPR 700–1,200, 30–60 min.
Q.How much is Uber from Tribhuvan International Airport?
NPR 500–900 typical. Journey 30–60 min, wait 5–15 min. Payment: Cash.
Q.How much is Taxi from Tribhuvan International Airport?
NPR 700–1,200 typical. Journey 30–60 min, wait 5–10 min. Payment: Cash.
Q.What should I watch for on arrival at KTM?
Curbside tout swap: Touts grab your bag, walk you to a private car, and charge NPR 3,000–4,000. — Never accept help with bags. Use ONLY the pre-paid counter inside arrivals.
Fare tiers, first-30-minute checklist, all transport options ranked, and every reported scam.