Transportation in Pokhara
Indrive and Pathao for Hiring Taxis, Cars, Bikes, and Scooters in Pokhara
Indrive and Pathao have become essential apps for getting around Pokhara, offering a variety of transportation options including taxis, cars, motorbikes, and scooters. These services are popular for their convenience, affordability, and the ability to book transport directly from your phone.
Indrive
App-Based Service: Indrive is an app-based platform where you can easily hire a taxi, car, or motorbike. The unique aspect of Indrive is that passengers can negotiate the fare with the driver before the trip starts.
Services Available:
Taxis and Cars: Indrive is widely used for booking both taxi rides and private cars in Pokhara. This is ideal for tourists who prefer comfort, privacy, and a more personalized service compared to public transport.
Motorbikes: For solo travelers or those seeking a more adventurous way to explore the city, you can also book motorbikes through Indrive. This is a great way to navigate the smaller streets or reach places that taxis may find difficult to access.
Scooters: Indrive is an excellent option for renting scooters as well. They offer a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore Pokhara’s surrounding areas, such as Phewa Lake or Sarangkot, at your own pace.
Pricing: The fare for taxis and cars is negotiable, making it flexible for travelers. Motorbike and scooter rental rates are also affordable and generally lower than traditional car hire.
Example Pricing: Expect to pay around NPR 400-600 for a short taxi ride within the city. Scooter rental could range from NPR 800-1,200 per day, while motorbikes may cost NPR 1,500-2,500 for daily rentals.
Pathao
Versatile Ride-Hailing & Delivery App: Pathao offers more than just taxi services; it’s a full-service ride-hailing app. It’s popular in Pokhara for motorbike rides, cars, and scooter rentals.
Services Available:
Motorbike Rides: Pathao’s motorbike service is extremely popular, especially among tourists looking for a quick, affordable, and fun way to get around Pokhara. It’s ideal for short distances and for avoiding traffic in the busy Lakeside area.
Car and Taxi Rides: If you’re looking for more comfort, you can book car rides or a private taxi through Pathao, much like other ride-hailing apps like Uber. Pathao’s taxis are a great way to go from one point to another, especially if you want to avoid crowded buses.
Scooter Rentals: Pathao also offers scooter rentals, making it an excellent choice for solo travelers or couples looking to explore Pokhara’s natural beauty, like Sarangkot or Begnas Lake, at their own pace.
Pricing:
Motorbike and Scooter Rentals: Renting a scooter on Pathao is affordable, with prices generally ranging from NPR 500–1,000 per day, depending on the type and brand.
Taxi and Car Fares: Car rides start from around NPR 300 for short distances, but longer trips may cost more, depending on the route and duration.
Summary of Indrive and Pathao for Transportation in Pokhara
Indrive and Pathao are the two most popular ride-hailing services in Pokhara, offering a wide range of vehicles:
Indrive allows you to negotiate fares and choose from taxis, private cars, motorbikes, and scooters.
Pathao also offers motorbikes, cars, and scooter rentals, in addition to its ride-hailing service for short-distance trips.
For Taxis & Cars: Both apps are convenient for tourists who want to book a private taxi or car without the hassle of negotiating with local taxi drivers.
For Bikes & Scooters: Motorbike and scooter rentals through these apps are affordable, flexible, and allow tourists to explore Pokhara’s sights at their own pace. Renting a scooter or motorbike is a great way to experience the scenic beauty of Pokhara, especially around places like Phewa Lake and Sarangkot.
Pricing: Both apps offer competitive prices, with scooter and motorbike rentals ranging from NPR 500-1,200/day and taxi fares starting around NPR 300-600 for short trips.
Taxis:
Metered (driver don’t want to use) and unmetered taxis are widely available.
Fares are negotiable for unmetered rides (always agree on a price before boarding).
Local Buses (Microbuses & Minibuses):
Cheap and crowded, mainly used by locals.
Routes cover major areas like Lakeside, Mahendrapul, Baglung Bus Park, and Prithvi Chowk.
Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals:
Popular among tourists for exploring at their own pace.
Rentals available in Lakeside (valid license required).
Intercity Transport from Pokhara
Tourist Buses:
Comfortable, air-conditioned buses to Kathmandu (6-8 hours) and Chitwan (4-5 hours).
Book through travel agencies or hotels.
Public Buses:
Cheaper but less comfortable than tourist buses.
Depart from Baglung Bus Park (Kathmandu, Butwal, Sunauli/India border).
Private Jeeps & Cars:
Faster and more flexible for group travel.
Can be hired for trips to Jomsom, Muktinath, or Kathmandu.
Domestic Flights:
Pokhara Airport (PKR) offers flights to Kathmandu, Jomsom, and Manang.
Quick (25 min to Kathmandu) but weather-dependent.
Adventure & Scenic Transport
Boats (Row & Paddle):
Available on Phewa Lake for leisure or transport to the World Peace Pagoda.
Paragliding & Helicopter Tours:
Popular for aerial views of the Annapurna range.
Future Developments
Pokhara International Airport (PIA):
Expected to expand international flight options in the future.
Tips for Travelers
Bargain for taxi fares.
Pre-book tourist buses during peak seasons.
Check road conditions if traveling by land during monsoons (June-Sept).
Pokhara’s transport system is a mix of convenience and local charm, catering well to both budget travelers and those seeking comfort. Would you like recommendations for a specific route?