Around 800,000 Nepalis have left the Kathmandu Valley over the past week to return to their hometowns to vote in a pivotal national election, authorities say, triggering massive traffic congestion across the capital.
Roughly one-tenth of Nepal’s 30 million people live in the valley the country’s most densely populated region for work or study. But under Nepal’s electoral laws, citizens must cast ballots in their registered constituencies, typically their birthplace. Nepalis living abroad are not permitted to vote.
Highways leading out of Kathmandu are jammed with jeeps, minibuses and vans, with traffic officials reporting hours-long delays over the weekend.
The vote marks the first national election since youth-led anti-corruption protests in September 2025 forced the government from power, reshaping the country’s political landscape.
Saroj Chapagain, 38, spends 14 hours on a public bus to reach his hometown in Bardiya district.
“I have come home to cast my ballot in order to safeguard the constitution and the system,” he says. “My one vote may not be decisive on who wins or who loses but it can play crucial role in safeguarding the constitution. I think my participation in this election will hold a special meaning.”
Others are less optimistic. Ophthalmologist Rabindra Singh Thakuri says he and his friends do not want a parliament “dominated by new faces.”
“All of my friends support the traditional political parties, a government dominated by newcomers] will not provide the country with any meaningful way forward,” he tells The Kathmandu Post.
About 19 million people including nearly one million first-time voters are eligible to elect 275 members of parliament. Of those seats, 165 will be decided through a first-past-the-post system, while the remainder will be allocated via proportional representation. Nearly one-third of the 3,400 candidates are under 40.
The Election Commission of Nepal has suspended most public and private transport services from Wednesday until polls close on Thursday, except for essential services. Domestic flights continue operating.
Authorities also declare Wednesday, Thursday and Friday public holidays to accommodate both the election and the Fagu festival of colours, also known as Holi.
One of the most closely watched races is in Jhapa-5, a long-time stronghold of former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. Oli, who steps down following last year’s protests, is seeking to retain his seat.
He faces an unusual challenger in Balendra Shah, a former rapper who gains prominence for provocative songs criticising Nepal’s political elite, in a contest seen as a test of whether voters favour established parties or political newcomers.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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