The race to bring high-speed internet to every corner of the globe has reached Nepal, where the rollout of 5G networks is gaining momentum. As the world transitions to next-generation connectivity, Nepal is making strides to ensure its major cities are not left behind. From Kathmandu to Pokhara, telecom providers are working to deploy 5G infrastructure, promising faster internet speeds, lower latency, and enhanced digital experiences for millions. This article explores the progress of 5G network expansion in Nepal’s major cities, the challenges faced, and the potential impact on the nation’s digital landscape.

The Dawn of 5G in Nepal

Nepal’s journey toward 5G began with initial trials and discussions around 2019, but progress has been gradual due to various challenges. Unlike neighboring India, which has extended 5G services to over 70 cities, Nepal has yet to announce an official nationwide launch date for commercial 5G services. However, recent developments indicate that the country is now accelerating its efforts to bring 5G to its urban centers.

In 2022, Nepal Telecom, one of the country’s leading telecom providers, announced plans to conduct 5G trials in Kathmandu, with intentions to expand testing to one location in each of Nepal’s seven provinces. These trials marked a significant step toward understanding the feasibility of 5G in Nepal’s unique geographical and economic context. Since then, both Nepal Telecom and private operator Ncell have been working to overcome hurdles and lay the groundwork for broader 5G deployment.

Current State of 5G Expansion

As of 2025, 5G network expansion in Nepal remains in its early stages, with a focus on major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, Biratnagar, and Bharatpur. These urban hubs, known for their population density and economic activity, are prime candidates for 5G rollout due to the potential for high user adoption and commercial viability.

Kathmandu: The Epicenter of 5G Trials

Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital and largest city, has been the focal point for 5G trials. Nepal Telecom has prioritized the city for its infrastructure upgrades, leveraging existing 4G towers and testing 5G equipment on spectrum bands such as 3.3GHz. Reports suggest that limited 5G connectivity is already available in select areas of Kathmandu, with plans to expand coverage by mid-2025. The city’s dense population and thriving business ecosystem make it an ideal testing ground for 5G applications, from smart city initiatives to enhanced mobile broadband.

Pokhara: A Tourist Hub Goes High-Speed

Pokhara, a major tourist destination, is another city targeted for 5G expansion. The city’s growing digital needs, driven by tourism and local businesses, have prompted telecom providers to prioritize 5G deployment. Nepal Telecom has reportedly begun testing 5G in Pokhara, with commercial services expected to launch in the near future. The introduction of 5G could transform Pokhara’s digital infrastructure, enabling faster connectivity for tourists and supporting local enterprises.

Biratnagar and Bharatpur: Emerging Digital Hubs

Biratnagar, an industrial powerhouse in eastern Nepal, and Bharatpur, a rapidly growing city in the Chitwan Valley, are also on the 5G radar. These cities are seeing increased investment in telecom infrastructure as providers aim to cater to their expanding populations and economic activities. While 5G services are not yet widely available in these areas, preliminary trials and infrastructure upgrades are underway, signaling a commitment to bringing next-generation connectivity to these regions.

Key Players in Nepal’s 5G Rollout

Two major telecom operators dominate Nepal’s 5G landscape: Nepal Telecom and Ncell.

• Nepal Telecom: As a state-backed provider, Nepal Telecom has taken the lead in 5G trials and infrastructure development. The company has invested heavily in upgrading its network to support 5G, focusing on urban areas with high demand. However, financial constraints and declining revenues have slowed progress, with the company’s annual income dropping significantly in recent years.
• Ncell: Ncell, a private telecom operator, has faced regulatory hurdles in obtaining approval for 5G trials. Despite these challenges, the company is actively working to secure the necessary permissions and spectrum allocations to launch 5G services. Ncell’s expertise in 4G deployment positions it as a key player in the eventual 5G rollout.

Both operators are collaborating with global technology vendors such as Nokia, Ericsson, and Huawei to acquire 5G equipment and expertise. These partnerships are critical to overcoming technical challenges and ensuring a smooth transition to 5G.

Challenges to 5G Expansion

Despite the optimism surrounding 5G in Nepal, several challenges continue to hinder progress:

1. Financial Constraints: The high cost of 5G infrastructure, estimated at around USD 500 million (approximately NPR 70 billion), poses a significant barrier. Nepal Telecom’s declining revenues and Ncell’s regulatory challenges have limited their ability to invest in 5G at scale.
2. Device Compatibility: A lack of 5G-compatible devices among consumers remains a major obstacle. Many Nepalis still use 4G or older devices, reducing the immediate demand for 5G services.
3. Regulatory Delays: The absence of clear regulatory frameworks and spectrum allocation policies has slowed 5G deployment. Ncell, in particular, has faced delays in securing approval for 5G trials, hampering its ability to compete with Nepal Telecom.
4. Geographical Challenges: Nepal’s rugged terrain and remote regions make it difficult to deploy 5G infrastructure beyond urban centers. Ensuring nationwide coverage will require significant investment and innovative solutions.
5. Low Monetization Potential: Telecom providers are cautious about 5G expansion due to uncertainties around monetization. Without widespread use cases or a critical mass of 5G users, operators may struggle to justify their investments.

The Potential Impact of 5G in Nepal

The successful rollout of 5G in Nepal’s major cities could have far-reaching implications for the country’s economy, education, healthcare, and digital inclusion.

• Economic Growth: 5G’s high-speed connectivity and low latency could drive innovation in sectors such as e-commerce, tourism, and manufacturing. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in cities like Biratnagar and Bharatpur could leverage 5G to access global markets and streamline operations.
• Smart Cities: Kathmandu and Pokhara could benefit from 5G-enabled smart city initiatives, including traffic management, public safety, and energy efficiency. These advancements could enhance urban living and attract investment.
• Education and Healthcare: 5G could revolutionize access to online education and telemedicine, particularly in urban areas. Students could access high-quality digital content, while healthcare providers could offer remote consultations and real-time diagnostics.
• Digital Inclusion: By bridging the digital divide, 5G could empower underserved communities in urban outskirts, providing access to high-speed internet and digital services.

Looking Ahead

Nepal’s 5G journey is still in its infancy, but the commitment to expanding coverage in major cities signals a promising future. Overcoming financial, regulatory, and technical challenges will be critical to realizing the full potential of 5G. As Nepal Telecom and Ncell continue their efforts, collaboration with global partners and government support will play a pivotal role in accelerating deployment.

For now, the focus remains on urban centers, but the long-term goal is to extend 5G connectivity to rural and remote areas, ensuring that all Nepalis can benefit from the digital revolution. As 5G networks take root in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and beyond, Nepal is poised to embrace a new era of connectivity, innovation, and opportunity.