Uber launches services in Kathmandu

KATHMANDU: Global ride-sharing platform Uber has officially launched its services in Nepal.

The company began operations in the Kathmandu Valley on Tuesday as part of a trial phase and is expected to roll out full-fledged services in the coming days.

Earlier, Uber had announced a strategic partnership with Taximandu to facilitate its entry into the Nepali market. At present, Uber is offering both motorbike and cab services within the Kathmandu Valley.

Uber is the latest multinational platform to enter Nepal’s expanding ride-sharing sector, following the arrival of inDrive and Yango. The entry of these platforms has intensified competition in recent years.

The homegrown Tootle, which is no longer in operation, was the first company to offer ride-sharing services in Nepal. The sector later saw significant shifts with the entry of Bangladeshi platform Pathao. The competition further deepened with the arrival of inDrive and Yango in recent years. Several homegrown platforms, including Sarthi, Sajilo and Taximandu, are also currently in operation.