​Nepal’s Telecommunication sector has a total of 34,731,859 subscriptions for Voice Telephony Service and 40,900,718 internet service subscribers according to the MIS report published by Nepal Telecommunication Authority (NTA) in October 2023. Of the total voice telephony subscribers, 97.58% use mobile service, 2.4% of users are fixed line service, and 0.01% other form of voice service. Nepal Telecom or NT (also known as Nepal Doorsanchar Company Ltd – NDCL), Ncell Axiata Limited, Nepal Satellite Telecom Pvt. Ltd (NSTPL), Smart Telecom Pvt. Ltd (STPL) and CG Telecom P.L. (STM) are the five telecom and mobile network operators active in Nepal. NCell Axiata has 51.40% of the market share based on active subscribers, Nepal Telecom follows with 48.59% and the rest have a 0.01% share in the market. The extent of telecommunication coverage across the country suggests that the availability of networks in the Karnali Province specially the remotes area is comparatively lower than in other provinces. Telecommunication services are primarily focused on the Mid-hill and the Terai regions. 

Source: MIS Report Asoj, 2080  

 

As of September 2023, there are 29,439 telecommunication infrastructure established within the country and the summary is: 

 

S.No	Particulars	Quantity
1	Number of Mobile Tower (2G)	8,594
2	Number of Mobile Tower (3G)	6,257
3	Number of Mobile Tower (4G)	8,460
4	Number of Microwave Links	6,128

 

Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) or Nepal Doorsanchar is a state-owned telecommunication regulatory body of Nepal. NTA’s objective is to create a favourable and competitive environment for the development, expansion, and operation of telecommunications services with the private sector participation in Nepal. On July 28, 2021, NTA endorsed a working guideline on the use of 5G mobile internet, paving the wat for the service providers looking to carry out test operation of advanced service in the segment.  

Nepal Telecom (NTC), the state-owned telco began testing 5G on February 5, 2023. NTC’s internal 5G testing is currently live in Kathmandu, Pokhara and Birgunj among its employees. The coverage of the Nepal Telecom’s Voice Telephony service is better illustrated via   NT | 4G Coverage (ntc.net.np) 

Ncell Pvt. Ltd. has been working in Nepal since 2004 as the first private mobile operator in the country. Ncell is part of the Axiata Group Berhad, one of Asia’s leading telecommunications groups.  

Optical fiber is laid out in the major cities. The network of optical fiber connects cities to neighbouring urban areas. BTS Towers transmit and receive the signal via radio links in and out of the rural districts. Commercial VSAT services are offered in remote and mountainous areas.  For more information on telecoms contacts, please see the following link: 4.11 Nepal Additional Services Contact List 

Telephone Services
Is there an existing landline telephone network?	Yes, in all district headquarters
Does it allow international calls?	Yes
Number and Length of Downtime Periods (on average)	Clusters of Base Transceiver Station (BTS) Tower form a web of radio link connections. Neighbouring Towers share Traffic load at the time when a Tower malfunctions, which minimizes downtime periods.
Mobile Phone Providers	Nepal Doorsanchar Company Limited (GSM, CDMA)    Ncell Private Limited (GSM)
Approximate Percentage of National Coverage	98% of Telephone Service is mobile-based services.

Telecommunications Regulations  

Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) the autonomous telecommunications regulatory body of Nepal was established in February 1998 in accordance with the Telecommunications Act, 1997 and Telecommunications Regulation, 1998. NTA determines the number of licenses to be issued for each telecommunications service and publishes a public notice specifying the time limit to submit applications for a telecommunications license.  The different types of license list issued by NTA are listed below:   

1. Network Service Provider 

2. GSM Cellular Mobile 

3. VSAT User 

4. Basic Telecommunications Services 

5. Internet with Email 

6. GMPCS 

7. International Trunk Telephone 

8. Rural VSAT User 

9. Basic Telephone Service 

10. Rural ISP 

The details of the license procedure and license fee can be found the links: License Procedure and License Fee.  

Regulations on Usage and Import
	Regulations in Place?	Regulating Authority
Satellite	Yes	Nepal Telecommunication Authority
HF Radio	Yes	Nepal Telecommunication Authority
UHF/VHF/HF Radio: Handheld, Base, and Mobile	Yes	Nepal Telecommunication Authority
UHF/VHF Repeaters	Yes	Nepal Telecommunication Authority
GPS	Yes	Nepal Telecommunication Authority
VSAT	Yes	Nepal Telecommunication Authority
Individual Network Operator Licenses Required?
Yes
Frequency Licenses Required
Yes, from Nepal Telecommunication Authority

Existing Humanitarian Telecoms Systems  

Agencies with their own telecommunications systems are the United Nations (UN), Nepal Red Cross Society, Nepal Army, Armed Police Force, Nepal Police, major embassies, and the Asian Development Bank. The most common telecom equipment used is VHF and HF radios, Satellite Phones, Broadband Global Area Networks, and VSATs.  

The UN agencies operate a telecom system under the same umbrella managed by UNDSS. A common Radio Room is manned 24/7 by radio operators from UNDSS in Kathmandu. There are Local Security Assistants (LSA) for the eastern and western regions as defined by the UN security system in the country. 

A VHF network is established across the country along the East-West highway. However, for travel in the hilly and mountainous regions, staff have to rely on HF radio and satellite phones. Additionally, mission vehicles are equipped with GSM or satellite tracking systems, and HF and VHF mobile radios for communications.   

Existing UN Telecommunication Systems
	UN (Common Network) *	WFP
VHF Frequencies	169.9750 MHz, 165.4750 MHz, 170.4750 MHz, 165.9750 MHz, 171.1750 MHz, 166.6750 MHz, 169.8250 MHz, 165.3250 MHz	161.150 MHz  154.250 MHz
HF Frequencies	3.300 MHz, 4.2633 MHz, 5.280 MHz, 6.2359 MHz, 7.5395 MHz, 8.1156 MHz, 9.2063 MHz, 4.355 MHz, 8.257 MHz, 11.395 MHz	N/A
Locations of Repeaters	Shivapuri, Halchowk, Nagarkot, Phulchowki, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Dhangadhi, Damak, Janakpur	N/A
VSAT	N/A	Uplink Fq. Tx: 5925.445 MHz  Downlink Fq. Rx: 3692.85 MHz  VSAT Service Provider: Marlink

*UN Common System Network is managed by UNDSS in Nepal. 

 

Internet Service Providers (ISPs)  

The five major Telecommunication providers along with 127 other companies are registered as Internet Service providers. List of authorized companies to provide the internet with email service: NEPAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS AUTHORITY (नेपाल दूरसञ्चार प्राधिकरण ) – Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) 

Wired Broadband services are provided through coaxial cable or optic fibre. Wireless Broadband services like Wi-Fi and WiMax and Mobile Broadband-like 3G, 4G services are available. Of these services 3G and 4G is the most popular choice among consumers.   

Internet Service Providers
Are there ISPs available?	Yes
If yes, are they privately or government owned?	Government - 1    Private – 127
Dial-up only?	No, ADSL and fiber optics
Approximate Rates (local currency and USD - $)	Unlimited data   200 Mbps, NPR  1300/month  300 Mbps, NPR  1550 /month	9.76- 11.64 US$/Month
	Broadband
Max Leasable ‘Dedicated’ Bandwidth	As specified by the organization’s requirement

 

Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) 

Nepal Telecom’s GSM 4G LTE, CDMA2000 (3G, EVDO), and 4G WiMAX services can be accessed by acquiring a SIM card, NT recharge card, and USB dongle for WiMAX. SIM cards have to be purchased from NT offices, but NT Recharge cards can be purchased through any retail shop or digitally by using mobile money services.   

NCELL mobile service is GSM 4G LTE standard. NCELL SIM cards could be purchased through NCELL offices, particularly in urban areas and SIM recharge cards can be acquired through retail shops or digital mobile money services. Upload speed can be 18 Mbps to 3 Mbps and download speed can be 37 Mbps to 10 Mbps. 

Both NTC and Ncell have sales counters at the arrival area of Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, Nepal. Travelers can conveniently purchase a SIM card upon arrival by filling out a simple form and providing a copy of their passport and visa. The cost of the SIM is just NPR 100 (USD 0.75).  

For additional information on Mobile Network Operators in Nepal please visit the GSM Association website.   

Company	Number of Agent Outlets by Area	Network Strength by Area	Contracted for Humanitarian or Government Cash Transfer  Programmes?	Services Offered  (i.e. Merchant Payment,  Bulk Disbursement,  Receive & Make Payment)
Nepal Telecom	184 branches and exchanges in all 7 provinces	Strong network in urban areas, limited or no network in remote locations	No	Fixed Landline Telephone, Mobile telephony 3G/4G, CDMA telephone, Wired and Mobile Internet
Ncell	31 Ncell centres in all 7 provinces	Strong network in urban areas, limited or no network in remote locations	No	Mobile telephony 3G/4G and mobile internet

Link of NTC 4G coverage by area: NT | 4G Coverage (ntc.net.np) 

Link of Ncell centres: Ncell Centre (axiata.com) 

 

Overview 

The main market centres in Nepal’s seven provinces are as follows: 

Province	Capital	Major Market	Remarks
Koshi Province	Biratnagar	Itahari, Dharan, Mechinagar, Dhankuta
Madhesh Province	Janakpur	Birgunj, Lahan, Rajbiraj
Bagmati Province	Hetauda	Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur,
Gandaki Province	Pokhara	Vyas, Balung
Lumbini Province	Deukhuri	Ghorahi, Tulsipur, Nepalgunj, Bhairahawa
Karnali Province	Birendranagar	Jumla
Sudurpaschim   Province	Godawari	Dhangadhi, Mahendranagar, Dadeldhura

 

The Provincial capitals along with major market cities of the respective provinces have adequate capacity to respond to the programme support needs of the agencies. Most of the agencies present in the country have established head offices in Kathmandu along with their support offices in the major cities in other provinces.  

As per the Nepal Market Update – January 2024, the cost of food basked in Karnali Province is the highest whereas the lowest is in Madhesh Province followed by Lumbini Province. The cost of essential food items remain persistently high in Karnali Province and mountain belt because of its ruralness.  Jumla’s market although capable of providing adequate support within its locality, would not sustain the needs of surrounding districts or areas. A proper channel to access the remote districts of Karnali Province from Birendranagar or Nepalgunj through airways should be planned.   

 
For more information on company contact details, please see the following link: 4.11 Additional Services Contact List.  

Accommodation 

Nepal with rich ancient cultures set against the most dramatic scenery in the world is a land of discovery and unique experience. Tourism is one of the mainstays of Nepalese economy. A report published by Hotel Association of Nepal (HAN) in 2019 shows that there are 138-star hotels and 1151 tourist standard hotel with total capacity of 43999 beds are in operation in Nepal. This data does not include small lodges and home-stays. 

S. N	Hotels	District	Province	Class (Star)
1	Soaltee Crowne Plaza	Kathmandu	Bagmati	5
2	Hyatt Regency	Kathmandu	Bagmati	5
3	Hotel Annapurna	Kathmandu	Bagmati	5
4	Hotel Radisson	Kathmandu	Bagmati	5
5	Hotel Yak and Yeti	Kathmandu	Bagmati	5
6	Hotel Shangri-La	Kathmandu	Bagmati	5
7	Hotel Malla	Kathmandu	Bagmati	5
8	Pokhara Grande	Kaski	Gandaki	5
9	Soaltee Westend Premier	Banke	Lumbini	5
10	Tiger Palace Resort	Rupandehi	Lumbini	5
11	Hotel Everest	Kathmandu	Bagmati	5
12	Fulbari Resort	Kaski	Gandaki	5
13	Hotel Himalaya	Lalitpur	Bagmati	4
14	Hotel Shanker	Kathmandu	Bagmati	4
15	Swiss Int'l Sarowar	Kaski	Gandaki	4
16	Hotel Siddhartha View	Banke	Lumbini	4
17	Cygnett Inn Krishna	Banke	Lumbini	4
18	Hotel Opera	Mahakali	Sudurpaschim	4
19	Hotel Ichchha	Bara	Madhesh	4
20	Hotel Mystic Mountain	Kathmandu	Bagmati	4
21	Siddhartha Sunny Resort	Surkhet	Karnali	3
22	Suva Hotel Pvt Ltd	Surkhet	Karnali	3

The table above is not an exhaustive list of hotels. There is an abundance of hotels in Kathmandu as well as major tourist destinations like Pokhara, Chitwan and in gateway cities like Nepalgunj, Bhairahawa, Birgunj and Biratnagar.  

If one ventures further into districts, accommodation facilities are available at district headquarters but are rare in rural municipalities. Alternatives like homestay should be sought. 

 

Electricity and Power 

Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) was established on August 16, 1985, with the primary objective of generating, transmitting, and distributing adequate, reliable, and affordable power by planning, constructing, operating, and maintaining all generation, transmission, and distribution facilities in Nepal's power system, both interconnected and isolated. 

NEA purchased 5,118 GWh of electricity from Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and 2,488 GWh from NEA’s subsidiaries within the country in the fiscal year 2022/ 23. Apart from this NEA also imports power from India. The total energy imported from India in the fiscal year 2022/ 23 was 1,833 GWh as compared to 1,543 GWh in FY  2021/ 22, an increase by 18.79%. Out of the total available energy, NEA and its subsidiaries contributed 43.80%, whereas import from India and purchase from domestic IPPs accounted for 14.82% and 41.38% respectively.  

(Source: Nepal Electricity Authority: Annual Report august 2023) 

SN	Production Unit	District	Province	Owner	Type	Installed Capacity (MW)	Current Production (MW)
1	Kaligandaki A Hydroelectric Power Station	Syangja	Gandaki	NEA	Hydroelectric	144
2	Middle Marsyangdi	Lamjung	Gandaki	NEA	Hydroelectric	70
3	Marshyangdi Hydropower Station	Tanahun	Gandaki	NEA	Hydroelectric	69	69
4	Upper Marsyangdi A	Lamjung	Gandaki	SSPC, China	Hydroelectric	50
5	Gandak Hydropower Plant	Nawalparasi	Gandaki	NEA	Hydroelectric	15	15
6	Modi Khola Hydropower Station	Parbat	Gandaki	NEA	Hydroelectric	14.8	14.8
7	Madkyu Khola	Kaski	Gandaki	Sikles Hydropower Pvt. Ltd	Hydroelectric	13	13
8	Thapa Khola	Mustang	Gandaki	Mount Kailash Energy Co. Pvt. Ltd.	Hydroelectric	11.2	11.2
9	Lower Modi 1	Parbat	Gandaki	United Modi Hydropower Pvt. Ltd.	Hydroelectric	10	10
10	Andhi Khola	Syangja	Gandaki	Butwal Power Company Ltd.	Hydroelectric	9.4
11	Seti Hydropower Station	Pokhara	Gandaki	NEA	Hydroelectric	1.5	1.5
12	Fewa Hydropower Station	Pokhara	Gandaki	NEA	Hydroelectric	1	1
13	Duhabi Multifuel	Morang	Koshi Province	NEA	Diesel Power station	39	0
14	Mai Hydropower Station	Illam	Koshi Province	Sanima Hydropower Limited	Hydroelectric	22	22
15	PuwaKhola Hydropower Station	Illam	Koshi Province	NEA	Hydroelectric	6.2	6.2
16	Chatara Hydropower Station	Sunsari	Koshi Province	NEA	Hydroelectric	3.2	3.2
17	Kulekhani I Hydropower Plant	Makawanpur	Bagmati	NEA	Hydroelectric	60	60
18	Khimti Khola	Dolakha	Bagmati	Himal Power Ltd	Hydroelectric	60	60
19	Trishuli 3A	Rasuwa	Bagmati	NEA	Hydroelectric	60
20	Bhotekoshi Power Plant	Sindhupalchowk	Bagmati	Bhotekoshi Power Company Ltd	Hydroelectric	45	45
21	Kulekhani II Hydropower Plant	Makawanpur	Bagmati	NEA	Hydroelectric	32	32
22	Trishuli Hydropower Station	Nuwakot	Bagmati	NEA	Hydroelectric	24	24
23	Chilime Hydropower Plant	Rasuwa	Bagmati	Chilime Hydro Power Company Ltd	Hydroelectric	22	22
24	Hetauda	Makwanpur	Bagmati	NEA	Diesel Power Station	14.41	0
25	Devighat Hydropower Plant	Nuwakot	Bagmati	NEA	Hydroelectric	14.1	14.1
26	Sunkoshi Hydropower Station	Sindhupalchok	Bagmati	NEA	Hydroelectric	10.05	10.05
27	Indrawati II	Sindhupalchok	Bagmati	National Hydropower Co. Ltd	Hydroelectric	7.5
28	Mailun Khola	Rasuwa	Bagmati	Mailun Khola Hydropower Pvt. Ltd.	Hydroelectric	6
29	Sunkoshi Small Hydropower Plant	Sindhupalchok	Bagmati	Sanima Hydropower Limited	Hydroelectric	2.5
30	Panauti Hydropower Station	Kavre	Bagmati	NEA	Hydroelectric	2.4	2.4
31	Jhimruk Khola	Pyuthan	Lumbini Province	Butwal Power Company Ltd.	Hydroelectric	12	12
32	Chameliya Hydropower Plant,	Darchula	Sudurpaschim	NEA	Hydroelectric	30	30

Financial Services 

Nepal Rastra Bank (Central Bank –Nepal)  

NRB, the central bank of Nepal, established in 1956 under the Nepal Rastra Bank Act 1955 is the monetary, regulatory and supervisory authority of banks and financial institutions. The new Nepal Rastra Bank Act 2002 has ensured operational autonomy and independence to the Bank. The Board of Directors, chaired by the Governor, is the apex body of policymaking and the Governor discharges his duty as the chief executive of the Bank. 

 

Company Overview
Company Name	Nepal Rastra Bank ,Central Office
Address	Baluwatar Kathmandu, Nepal  P. O. Box 73  Phones: 977-1-4410158, 977-1-4410201, 977-1-4411250, 977-1-4419804, 977-1-4419805, 977-1-4419807  Fax: 977-1-4410159
	Available?	Comments  (max / min transfer or exchange amounts, etc.)
Has IBAN, BIC, or SWIFT number?	Yes	BIC/SWIFT Code -NRBLNPKA   Max transfer amount equivalent to USD 40,000   (For transfer above USD 40,000, Letter of Credit is required)  Min transfer amount: USD 1
Provides currency exchange?	Yes	The account holder should have a foreign ($) account.  Max currency exchange amount per day is USD 3,000 but for exchange above USD 3,000, a letter from custom office required
Will initiate / receive wire transfers?	Yes
Provides Loan / Credit services?	Yes
Other Comments or Key Information	All type of banks should take a license from Central Bank of Nepal (Rastra Bank of Nepal)

 

Other Locations
Nepal Rastra Bank   Banking Office   Thapathali, Kathmandu  Phone: 977-1-4419804 977-1-4419805 977-1-4419806 977-1-4419807  Fax: 977 1 4227378	Lumbini Province     Nepal Rastra Bank, Siddharthanagar  Rupandehi  Phones: 977-71-520188  Fax: 071 520189
Koshi Province    Nepal Rastra Bank, Biratnagar  Morang  Phones: 977-21-442190 977-21-442058 977-21-442772  Fax: 021-442319	Sudurpaschim Province    Nepal Rastra Bank, Dhangadhi  Kailali  Phones: 977-91-523172  Fax: 091 521322
Madhesh Province    Nepal Rastra Bank, Janakpur  Dhanusa,  Phones: 977-41-520362  Fax: 041 520302	Madhesh Province    Nepal Rastra Bank, Birgunj  Parsa  Phones: 977-51-418098 977-51-418272 977-51 418165  Fax: 051-418102
Gandaki Province    Nepal Rastra Bank, Pokhara  Kaski  Phones:  977-61-462714 977-61-465115  Fax: 977 061-462561	Lumbini Province    Nepal Rastra Bank, Nepalgunj  Banke  Phones: 977-81-520683  Fax: 081 520226
Sudurpaschim Province    Nepal Rastra Bank, Dhangadhi  Kailali, Nepal  Phone: 977-91-523172  Fax: 977 91 521322	Karnali Province    Nepal Rastra Bank, Surkhet  Surkhet, Nepal  Phone: 977-83-520517  Fax: N/A

 

As of Mid-Jan 2022, the number of financial institutions in the country as licensed by Nepal Rastra Bank are as follows: 

Type of Financial Institution	Number
Class “A”; commercial banks	27
Class “B”; development banks	17
Class “C”; finance companies	17
Class “D”; microfinance	67

Almost all commercial banks have presence in provinces. Nepal Rastra Bank issued directives to Class A, B and C financial institutions to maintain presence in all districts of the country.  

 

NIC Asia Bank Limited 

NIC Asia is one of the largest private sector commercial banks in the country in terms of capital base, balance-sheet size, number of branches, ATM network, market share, and customer base. The bank is one of the fastest growing banks in Nepal, which believes in the highest standards of corporate governance and follows best international management practices. The bank has its operation in Nepal only and operates extensively in all the 7 provinces. All branches are inter-connected through V-Sat and are capable of providing online, real-time transaction.  

 

Company Overview
Company Name	NIC Asia Bank Limited
Address	Trade Tower, Thapathali, Kathmandu  Phone: 01- 5970101  Fax: 01-5111180    Toll Free: 16600177771 (NTC) 1810-21-77771 (Ncell)
	Available?	Comments  (max/min transfer or exchange amounts, etc.)
Has IBAN, BIC, or SWIFT number?	Yes	Swift Code: NICENPKA
Provides currency exchange?	Yes	There are no such limits for max/min exchange any amount can be exchanged.
Will initiate / receive wire transfers?	Yes	Mobile Banking Min: 1 Million- 10 Million   Internet Banking (Marchant Payment) Min: 10 Million – 30 Million  Internet Banking (Account Transfer) Min: 10 Million – 50 Million) per day.  (Source: What is the minimum and maximum amount for fund transfer per day? : NIC ASIA SUPPORT (nicasiabank.com)
Provides Loan / Credit services?	Yes	The limit of the loan depends on the type of loan.
Other Comments or Key Information	The entire transactions are done based on the provisions rolled out by Nepal Rastra Bank, which might change from time to time.

 

Other Locations
Region(s)	Service Location(s)
Koshi Province     Road  Opposite D.S.P Office, Biratnagar - 3 Nepal  977 021-450401 , 021-450403, 021-511921, 021-518534 , 021-518923, 021-518936	Morang - 15, Bhojpur – 3, Dhankuta –  4, Illam – 1, Jhapa-  16, Khotang – 1, Okhaldhunga – 1, Panchthar – 1, Sankhuwasabha – 1, Solukhumbu – 1, Sunsari –  11, Taplejung – 1, Terathum – 1, Udayapur – 2
Madhesh Province     Ram Mandir Chowk, Janakpur   Phone: 977-041-590570/ 041-590571  Mobile:  9801982025	Dhanusha –  9, Saptari – 4, Siraha – 6, Mahottari  3, Sarlahi –  10, Bara –6, Parsa –  7, Rautahat –  6
Bagmati Province    Trade Tower, Thapathali, Kathmandu  Phone: 5970101	Kathmandu –  67, Sindhuli –  2, Ramechhap – 1, Dolakha – 1, Bhaktapur – 8, Dhading – 6, Kavre –  4, Lalitpur –  12, Nuwakot –  4, Rasuwa – 1, Sindhupalchok –  2, Chitwan – 9, Makwanpur - 3
Gandaki Province    Pokhara Metropolitan city Ward no. 10, Amarsing Chowk, Kaski 061- 433895	Kaski –  12, Baglung – 1, Gorkha –  2, Lamjung – 1, Manang – 0, Mustang – 0, Myagdi –  1, Nawalpur – 7, Parbat –  1, Syangja – 2, Tanahun –  5
Lumbini Province     Butwal Sub-Metropolitan City,  Shrawan Path, Butwal,  Rupandehi   977-071-533250 /533240 /533238   Mobile: 9801982421 (BM)	Rupandehi –  27, Kapilvastu –  9, Nawal Parasi –  4, Argakhanchi – 1, Gulmi – 1, Palpa –  2, Dang – 5, Pyuthan – 1, Rolpa – 1, Eastern Rukum – 1, Banke –  6, Bardiya - 3
Karnali Province    Birendra Chowk, Birendra Nagar, Surkhet   Phone: +977-083-524092  Mobile: 9801982546	Surkhet –  2, Western Rukum – 1, Salyan – 1, Dolpa -0, Humla – 0, Jumla – 1, Kalikot – 1, Mugu –  1, Dailekh – 1, Jajarkot – 2
Sudurpaschim Province  Dhangadi - 3, Godawari Road   Phone: +977-091-417061/62  Mobile: 9801982570	Kailali –  10, Achham – 1, Doti – 1, Dadeldhura – 1, Bajhang – 1, Bajura – 1, Kanchanpur – 4, Baitadi – 1, Darchula - 1

 

Nepal Investment Mega Bank 

Nepal Investment Mega Bank (NIMB) is one of the leading commercial banks of Nepal having a presence in all 7 provinces of Nepal with 260 branches. 

Company Overview
Company Name	Nepal Investment Mega Bank
Address	Durbar Marg, Kathmandu  Phone: 01-5342530, 01-5328229  Email: info@nimb.com.np
	Available?	Comments  (max/min transfer or exchange amounts, etc.)
Has IBAN, BIC, or SWIFT number?	Yes	Swift Code: NIBLNPKT
Provides currency exchange?	Yes	There are no such limits for max/min exchange any amount can be exchanged.
Will initiate / receive wire transfers?	Yes	EBanking Limit 20,00,000 Max. Daily limit.  (Source: eBanking (nimb.com.np)
Provides Loan / Credit services?	Yes	The limit of the loan depends on the type of loan.
Other Comments or Key Information	The entire transactions are done based on the provisions rolled out by Nepal Rastra Bank, which might change from time to time.

 

 

Other Locations
Region(s)	Service Location(s)
Koshi Province   Rangeli Road, Biratnagar - 7, Morang  Phone: 021-511354, 021-511384  Email: biratnagar@nimb.com.np	Bhojpur -2, Dhankuta -0, Ilam -1, Jhapa -4, Khotang -0, Morang-7, Okhaldhunga -2, Panchthar -3
Madhesh Province   Janak Chowk, Janakpur - 2, Dhanusa  Phone: 041-590226/27/28/29  Email: janakpur@nimb.com.np	Bara – 3, Dhanusa – 5, Mahottari – 1, Parsa – 3, Rautahat – 1, Saptari – 0, Sarlahi – 4, Siraha - 2
Bagmati Province  Durbar Marg, Kathmandu  Phone: 01-5342530, 01-5328229  Email: info@nimb.com.np	Bhaktapur – 6, Chitwan – 13, Dhading – 4, Dolakha – 4, Kathmandu – 49, Kavrepalanchok – 1, Lalitpur – 9, Makwanpur – 2, Nuwakot – 2, Ramechhap – 2, Rasuwa – 2, Sindhuli – 3, Sindhupalchok - 5
Gandaki Province  Birauta, Pokhara – 17, Kaski  Phone: 061-465580/465581  Email: birauta@nimb.com.np	Baglung – 1, Gorkha – 2, Kaski – 20, Lamjung – 2, Manang – 1, Mustang – 2, Myagdi – 1, Nawalpur – 5, Parbat – 3, Syangja – 3, Tanahu – 5
Lumbini Province   Butwal  Phone: 071-539991,071-539992,071-539993  Email: customerservicebw@nimb.com.np	Arghakhanchi – 2, Banke – 3, Bardiya – 2, Dang – 4, Gulmi – 2, Kapilvastu – 4, Palpa – 3, Nawalparasi – 3, Pyuthan – 3, Rolpa – 1, Rupandehi - 12
Karnali Province  Neta Chowk, Surkhet  Phone: 083-524330, 083-524331  Email: customerservicesk@nimb.com.np	Dailekh – 2, Dolpa – 0, Humla – 0, Jajarkot – 0, Jumla – 2, Kalikot – 2, Mugu – 0, Rukum – 0, Slayan – 2, Surkhet – 1
Sudurpaschim Province  Main Road, Dhangadi  Phone: 091-417502/03, 091-523706  Email: customerservicedg@nimb.com.np	Achham – 2, Baitadi – 2, Bajhang – 1, Bajura – 0, Dadeldhura – 1, Darchula – 3, Doti – 1, Kailali – 4, Kanchanpur – 1

 

Standard Chartered Bank Nepal Limited 

Company Overview
Company Name	Standard Chartered Bank Nepal Limited
Address	New Baneshwor Branch P.O.Box 3990, New Baneshwar, Kathmandu    Tel: +977 1 5970500
	Available?	Comments  (max/min transfer or exchange amounts, etc.)
Has IBAN, BIC, or SWIFT number?	Yes	Swift Code: SCBLNPKA
Provides currency exchange?	Yes	Provides foreign exchange services at attractive rates for various purposes
Will initiate / receive wire transfers?	Yes	Fund transfers limits:  Per transaction: NPR 5,00,000.00/-  Per day: 1,000,000.00/-  Per month: 3,000,000.00/-  Maximum number of transactions per day: 5  (Source: ConnectIPS Terms and Conditions and Limits – Standard Chartered Nepal (sc.com)
Provides Loan / Credit services?	Yes	Provides   Personal Loal, Cash Backed Loan and Mortgage Loan
Other Comments or Key Information	The limit of the loan depends on the type of loan.

 

Other Locations
Region(s)	Service Location(s)
Koshi Province   P.O. Box 201, Main Road-7, Biratnagar, Morang  Tel:977-21-590091, 977 – 21-590092   Fax No:977-21-590082	Morang – 1,   Sunsari – 1,
Madhesh Province    Branch-Birgunj, Adarsha Nagar Branch Adarsha Nagar-13, Birgunj  Tel: 051-529494   Fax No: 051-529677	Parsa - 1
Bagmati Province    New Baneshwor Branch P.O.Box 3990, New Baneshwar, Kathmandu  Tel: 977-1-5970500  Fax No:	Kathmandu -5,   Lalitpur – 2,   Chitwan – 1
Gandaki Province    Pokhara P.O box: 08, New Road, Pokhara,   Phone: 977 061 523875, 523876, 536231, 536230   Fax: 977 061 531676	Kaski - 2
Province 5    Branch-Nepalgunj, Banke Branch Surkhet Road, Ward No 13, Nepalgunj Banke,   Tel:977-81- 531555  Fax No:	Rupandehi – 1,   Banke - 1
Karnali Province	N/A
Sudurpaschim Province	N/A

Mobile Money 

Money mobile is an emerging sector, and with an increase in smart phone users, it is gaining popularity. The covid pandemic also led to the increase in most people shifting from conventional mode of payment to online payment system. The popular online payment service providers in Nepal are eSewa, IME Pay, Khalti and QR scan.  

The following services are available: self-wallet management, link/load from bank accounts, cash out at agents and banks, utility bills, merchant and bulk payment, and remittance. Currently there is no interoperability among different mobile wallets and mobile phone providers; however, amount from one bank can be transferred to another bank through Fone Pay app and connect IPS. 

 

Mobile money and its general information
License	Yes
Number of the phone operator	5
Phone penetration	123%
MM provider	5
Mobile remittance	0.5%
Leading company	eSewa phone pay Pvt. Ltd.
Other company	IME Digital solution   Sparrow Pay   Q-Pay   Prabhu Technology

Clearing and Forwarding Agents  

Nepal Transit and Warehousing Co. Ltd. (NTWCL) is a wholly owned undertaking of Government of Nepal reporting to the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies (MoICS), established on September 15, 1971 under the provisions of the Treaty of Transit between Nepal & India. The company functions as representative of the Government to provide warehousing facilities at Port of Kolkata, India and conduct all the transit-related activities including undertaking of government-owned cargo, clearing and forwarding and managing of transport between gateway port and Nepal. NTWCL, is duly registered in both Nepal and India under the company act of both countries. 

NTWCL is a government-owned company under the MoICS, primarily responsible for the incoming cargo handling at major entry points. 

 

Address of Office in Nepal/India	Service
NTWCL  P.O. Box.1194    Baluwatar, Kathmandu, Nepal  Tel: 01- 4441985, 4438247, 4438317    Email:   info@nepaltransit.com  http://www.nepaltransit.com/	Cargo, clearing and forwarding and managing of transport
NTWCL (TIA Branch Office)  Tribhuvan International Airport, Cargo Complex, Sinamangal, Kathmandu, Nepal  TEL: +977- 9841792206 (Roman Kumar Shrestha)  Email: tia@nepaltransit.com	Main Function   To operate warehousing for Nepalese import and export air cargoes.
NTWCL (Branch Office)  Custom Premises, Kakadvitta  Tel: 977-23- 562248  Email:mailto: kakadvitta@nepaltransit.com, ntwclkvt@gmail.com	Main Function  Clearing and forwarding services for the Nepalese goods through Phulbari, India-Banglabandh (Bangladesh route)  Guarantee undertaking services and all other tranist related activities for the above-mentioned routes
NTWCL (Branch Office)  Branch Office, Custom Area, Birgunj  Phone No: 051-521356, 051-621540  E-mail: birgunj@nepaltransit.com, ntwcbirgunj@gmail.com	Main Function  Boarder clearing of Nepalese imports and exports.  Guarantee undertaking for the movement of Nepalese private commercial vehicles from the Nepalese boarders to Kolkata, Haldia and back  Warehousing facilities for Nepalese goods in Birgunj with 7991 Sq.ft available space and & Raxaul Nepal Siding with 18311.55 Sq.ft available spaces..
NTWCL (Branch Office)  41C, Ekbalpore Road, Kolkata – 700023, India  Tel: 0091-33-24496688  Fax: 0091-33-24496670  Email:   kolkata@nepaltransit.com , ntwccu@gmail.com    Sub-Branch Offices  Haldia Township, District Midhnapur, Haldia, India.  Tel. 0091-3224-263374  E-mail: haldia@nepaltransit.com    Radhikapur, North Dinajpur, West Bengal, India,  Tel: 0091-3522-352162  E-mail : radhikapur@nepaltransit.com	Main Function  Clearing and Forwarding of Nepalese imports and exports through Kolkata and Haldia Port  Guarantee undertaking services for Nepalese cargoes in transit through Kolkata and Haldia Port.   Available Service  Approximately 4972 sq. metre open land at CGR Road, Kolkata Port and   6985 sq mtr open land at Haldia Dock, Haldia, India.
NTWCL (Tatopani Branch)  Larcha, Sindhupalchok, Nepal  E-mail : tatopani@nepaltransit.com  Mobile: 9851254257 (Tek Raj Kandel)
NTWCL (GBIA Branch)  Bhairahawa, Nepal  E-mail : gbia@nepaltransit.com  Mobile: 9848743512 (Tara Kumari Joshi)	Main Functions:  Operation of warehousing service for Nepalese Import and export air cargoes
Undertaking Services: According to the provisions of the Indo-Nepal Transit Treaty, Nepalese importers have to pay duty equal to the Indian customs duty on the Nepalese transit cargo in case of loss, pilferage etc. while in transit within the Indian territory. NTWC in lieu of this duty insurance provides guarantee-undertaking service for the import cargo of Nepal and Government owned undertakings from November 9, 1982.  Source: Nepal Transit & Warehousing Company Ltd.

 

Association of freight forwarding agents in Nepal (NEFFA)  

Nepal Freight Association (NEFFA) provides related information, consultations, and platforms for the workshop, seminars, interactions, training, etc. There are 110 companies as General Members and 7 companies as Associate members in the association. NEFFA’s mission is to facilitate international trade by delivering goods at the destination in an efficient and fast manner. (source: Nepal Freight Forwarders Associations - Cargo Nepal, Freight Forward in Nepal |) 

Handling Equipment 

Nepal Intermodal Transport Development Board (NITDB) is a Government agency that develops Inland Container Depots (ICDs) and Integrated Check Posts (ICPs). NITDB outsources management of the infrastructure and provision of logistics handling equipment to private companies. There are 8 ICDs and 4 ICPs  

TransNepal Freight Services Pvt. Ltd is the company that manages Biratnagar ICD and Bhairahawa ICD. Himalayan Terminal Pvt Ltd manages Birgunj ICD. The remaining 3 ICDs (Khakarbhitta, Rasuwa and Tatopani are managed by NITBD.  

Airport Ground Handling: Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) is responsible for ground handling of cargo at Tribhuvan International airport, Gautam Buddha International airport and is scheduled to operate in Pokhara Regional International airport. Indian Airlines and Thai Airways have ground handling equipment for their own needs, whereas Nepal Airlines does ground handling work for the other airlines and for themselves. (Source: https://myrepublica.nagariknetwork.com/news/nac-s-ground-handling-servi…).

 

Postal and Courier Services 

Postal and courier services includes express delivery services. General Post Office (GPO) Nepal serves as the Office of Exchange (OE) in Nepal under the department of postal service Nepal. Recently, it has been operating a Mobile Postal Service within the capital, It provides the following services at present: 

• Letter Service (Ordinary Letter and Registered Letter) 

• Parcel Service 

• Express Mail Services (Domestic and International) 

• Post Box Service (Ordinary and Online) 

• Postal services 

• Banking services  

Printing and Publishing 

The Government of Nepal formulated a new national information policy in the year 2049 BS (1992) that changed the name of Department of Printing and Publication to the Department of Printing. Department of Printing is under Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MOCIT). Department publishes security printing materials of the government and majority of the government related documents.  

 

Taxi Companies 

There are around 11,000 taxis in the Kathmandu valley and around 5500 taxis in Pokhara (kathmandupost.com)  Airport taxis are also available at both domestic and International terminals at Kathmandu, and major national Airports. Taxi services are not present in the hilly regional airports.  Travelers can book taxis via online apps like “Easy Taxi Nepal” and “Taximandu”, “Pathao” and “Indrive” applications. 

Vehicle Rental 

Vehicle rental services are available in Kathmandu and in the major cities in the country, offering city cars, 4x4 vehicles and mini buses, with or without driver. Many rental services are local tourist companies,  

Ride-hailing services like “Pathao” and  “InDrive” are popular in Kathmandu, they offer both 2 wheelers and taxis for service, although they have  faced repeatedly regulatory and legal setbacks. The current law prohibits private vehicles from car-pooling or any other commercial services. Section 8 of the Motor vehicles and Transportation Management Act 1993 states that private motor vehicles cannot be used for public transport services. 

CarhireNepal.com is a professionally managed car rental services company in Nepal 

Vehicle Rental in Nepal | Hire car, jeep, Van, HiAce, Bus in Nepal (easytransportnepal.com) 

Waste Management and Disposal Services 

The Metropolitan City, sub- Metropolitan cities, municipality and rural municipality (local government) have the main responsibility for managing solid waste. The Ministry of Urban Development (MoUD), Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration (MoFAGA), Solid Waste Management Technical Support Centre (SWMTSC) have also roles and responsibilities for managing the municipal waste.  

Under the MoFAGA, Solid Waste Management Technical Support Centre (SWMTSC) is responsible for providing technical support to manage solid waste to the local governments. Currently, municipalities and private companies are involved in the collection of wastes following wastes using the collection point method, waste collection through bell (whistleblowing) and door-to-door collection (Sharma, 2017) and waste collection through mobile apps such as Khaalisisi.com, and doko recyclers. There are some designated landfill sites near major Metro/municipalities for solid waste management. 

Safe disposal and sustainable management of Municipal Solid Waste is a problem countrywide. Illegal dumping of waste at different locations and open air burning of waste is a common practice, creating hazards to human health and environment. 

Nepal Swachha Batabaran Sirjana Kendra is taking the responsibility of managing the wastes from the public places such as the premises of temples. Clean Nepal has been engaging in the collection of household wastes every once or twice a week and is responsible for managing the animal carcasses within the Kathmandu Valley.  

Nepal Pollution Control and Environment Management Center (NEPCEMAC), Sarsafai Jaagaran Sahakari (SaSaJa) cooperative and Sarsafai Jagaran Sanstha (SaSaJa) organization and few scrap dealers were identified working inside Teku Waste Collection Center. "Khaalisisi" (empty bottles) which was founded in 2017 and aims at mitigating the problem of disposing the waste at the landfill site and encourages recycling of wastes. Similar to Khaalisisi.com is another digitized form of waste recycling which is known as "Doko Recyclers". It was founded in 2017 and provides both household and corporate waste management services. Doko and Khaalisisi both up-cycle specific wastes to create new marketable products. Hatti Hatti, Tyre Treasures, and Dhaasoo are among few other companies up cycling solid waste in Kathmandu. (Souce: institutional architecture of municipal solid waste management (mswm) nepal, June 2020 

Disclaimer: Inclusion of company information in the LCA does not imply any business relationship between the supplier and WFP / Logistics Cluster, and is used solely as a determinant of services, and capacities.  

Please note: WFP / Logistics Cluster maintain complete impartiality and are not in a position to endorse, comment on any company's suitability as a reputable service provider. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overview 

Waste management has been a major environmental challenge in Nepal. Rapid and uncontrolled urbanization, lack of public awareness, and poor management by municipalities have intensified environmental problems mostly in urban areas of Nepal. The highest waste category consists of organic waste with 66%, followed by plastics with 12%, and paper and paper products with 9%. The composition analysis of institutional wastes revealed 45% paper and paper products, 22% organic wastes, and 21% plastics. 

 
A report published by the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) in 2022 on “Solid Waste Account as part of System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA) of the Urban municipalities of Nepal” showed that the total amount of waste generated from the country’s municipalities is approximately one million mt/year, of which 3,86,690 mt/year is contributed by households, 2,45,884 mt/year by business houses, 1,03,244 mt/year by educational institutes, 94,392 mt/year by industries, 1,01,507 mt/year by health institutions, and 66,220 mt/year by other sectors. 

The country has issued several laws regarding waste disposal and management. 

1. Environment Protection Act 2076 (2019): This act aims to amend and consolidate laws relating to the environment. 

2. Health Care Waste Management Guideline (2014): Provides guidelines on safe management of health care waste. 

3. Solid Waste Management Act, 2068 (2011): This act aims to manage solid waste systematically and effectively by reducing waste at its source, promoting re-use, processing, and proper discharge. 

4. Solid Waste Management Rules, 2070 (2013): These rules were issued by the Government of Nepal under the Solid Waste Management Act. 

5. Local Self Governance Act, 1999: Provides a framework for local bodies to manage waste within their jurisdictions. 

 

Municipalities are responsible for the collection, transport, treatment, and final disposal of solid waste. Solid Waste is collected in several ways, including door-to-door collection, collection through community bins, roadside pick-up, and self-delivery.  

The major landfill site for dumping waste generated in the Kathmandu Valley is Sisdol Landfill in the Nuwakot district. The site is filled up and has been causing environmental pollution in the area. A new sanitary landfill site is under construction at Banchare Danda, which lies 2 km west of the existing Sisdol landfill site. Sites for treatment facilities and sanitary landfills are yet to be identified by many municipalities and waste is currently being disposed of without treatment in crude dumping sites, creating public health risks and environmental problems. Most of the municipalities practice open dumping either on the riverside or roadside. There is no large-scale recycling program initiated by the government, however, the Kathmandu metropolis has recently started making compost from biodegradable household wastes, collected from its Ward 27. There are several private firms engaged in waste collection and recycling of waste. Notable private entities are Kahalisisi, Nepsemyak, and Doko Recyclers, these companies provide various waste management services including collection, transportation, and recycling or disposal of waste materials. 

Hazardous Waste Disposal 

Apart from the Health Care Waste Management Guidelines issued in 2014, there are no significant rules or laws that address the concern of hazardous waste disposal. Recently, Kathmandu metropolis has started monitoring the waste management practices of health facilities. The waste generated from home appliances, telecommunication devices including batteries, and the waste generated from vehicle maintenance workshops are still dumped in landfill sites. 

Medical Waste Overview and Disposal 

There is no proper waste management system in place for managing medical waste in Nepal. According to WHO, out of the total amount of waste generated by healthcare activities, about 85% is general, non-hazardous waste and the remaining 15% is considered hazardous material that may be infectious, toxic, or radioactive. A study published by UNDP in February 2022 titled “Need of Healthcare Waste Management System” states that, In Nepal, only a few hospitals have a well-established healthcare waste management system in place. Most hospitals and healthcare facilities either mix hazardous hospital waste with municipal waste and send it to landfill sites as general waste or burn it in the hospital's open space or backyard.