Smartphone penetration in Nepal has risen from 42% of the population in 2016 to nearly 70% as of 2020. With this rapid uptake, developers and platforms are increasingly seeking to establish a foothold in the nation.
Among the fastest growing sectors around the world for smartphone, services are those belonging to the sports betting and gaming markets, with leading comparison platforms such as oddschecker providing a range of free offers through affiliates to their customers across the globe. Elsewhere, global demand is also high for social media apps, transportation providers like Uber, and food delivery services.Â
While the market is still moving towards maturation in Nepal, there is a range of international and domestic apps and start-ups gaining traction in the region. Below we’re going to take a look at some of the most promising home-grown apps and services available in Nepal today.
Merojob
Taking a leaf out of the book of large international job boards like Monster and Indeed, Merojob is a Nepali job-seeking platform with over 600,000 registered users. With everything listed there from work in tourism and services to agriculture and textiles, Merojob gives Nepali residents a comprehensive overview of the job market in their area or chosen sector.
Daraz
This app is the most popular shopping app available in the country, and for good reason. Combining an online comparison service with a dedicated search engine and marketplace, Daraz has positioned itself as the true one-stop shop for Nepalis seeking a bit of retail therapy.
With categories covering everything from consumer electronics to utilities and clothing, it offers a great alternative to larger international rivals that are less able to pass on meaningful savings or stock the relevant items and brands Nepalis expect.
Foodmandu
Nepal’s take on the UberEats / Deliveroo service model, Foodmandu connects Nepalis with thousands of restaurants in their region – providing high-speed service and doorstep delivery. At present, coverage is largely focused on the Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur areas, though expect an organic expansion of the service into more rural regions before long.
Tootle
This app is a ride-sharing service that connects those looking for a lift with those willing to offer it. This is a great initiative that is not only a more eco-friendly alternative to individual car ownership but is cost-effective for all involved. With many parts of the Kathmandu valley tricky to access without a dedicated vehicle, Tootle offers a viable alternative to negotiating public transport or paying for a taxi.
eSewa
Nepal’s challenger financial service, eSewa is among the most popular payment service providers in the country today. Not only does eSewa provide Nepalis with a means to make digital payments across a range of categories from utility bills to retail, but it makes the process of transferring money between people seamless and straightforward. Additionally, eSewa incorporates robust digital wallet features, helping you categorize and manage your finances all from within its robust application.
Basobaas
Popular start-up Basobaas can lay claim to being the most popular real estate and property marketplace in Nepal. With the ability to sell, buy and rent properties from across the country, this platform is unrivaled when it comes to seeking out affordable accommodation that meets your needs, both within Kathmandu and beyond.
Nepflights
While there is a range of international carriers operating in Nepal’s airspace, Nepflights is without a doubt the best place to find competitive deals on domestic flights within the country. Quickly survey an overview of all flights available within the country on a single page, thereby giving you the flexibility and freedom to move around at your speed – be it for business or pleasure.
YELLOW Nepal
Based out of Kathmandu, YELLOW is an organization that seeks to provide location-based search and reviews for entertainment, restaurants, and events all in one place. A great way to get special deals and coupons for affiliated providers in your region, YELLOW makes the process of accessing your available options for food, fun, and exploration straightforward and efficient.
