Exploring Kathmandu’s maze-like net of alleyways, you’ll occasionally come across a symphony of religious chants and recitations wafting out from roadside temples. For a transient moment, you’ll be transported to an ethereal realm away from congested streets plagued by smog and constant honking—the rumbling cacophony of two-wheelers dissolves into quietude.
Surrounded by mountains, the valley city has struggled with the above-mentioned traffic woes for many years. Its less-than-ideal public transport network lacks a metro system, resulting in an excessive number of private vehicles. Heavy traffic and alarming exhaust emissions in turn affect life quality and stain the exterior of precious heritage temples. Yet the entrance of Gogoro to the city in 2024 has spurred a gradual revolution, ushering in calm and cleanliness.
A Kathmandu Native that Calls Taipei Home
Born in Kathmandu, Nepal, Anup found the love of his life in Taiwan and has called it home for over a decade. Fully immersed in the culture, he commutes by scooter like the locals and has explored every corner of the island. “Riding a scooter in Taiwan is a completely different experience from Nepal. In Kathmandu, you ride on the left, and the narrow streets make two-wheelers a more practical choice than cars. Beyond the difference in road rules and climate, driving habits vary significantly. Kathmandu’s streets echo with constant honking, and scooters often leave behind thick clouds of smog.”
Inner Peace with Zero Exhaust Emissions, Zero Vibrations
“I had my eyes on Gogoro from the start, but I never took the initiative to learn more about it. So, seeing people riding Gogoros on the streets of Nepal was a complete surprise!” The sight of Gogoro scooters in Kathmandu left a lasting impression on Anup, sparking his curiosity about the Smartscooter. It felt like a sign from the universe when he got the chance to experience one firsthand—cruising through Taipei’s iconic sights with riders from around the world and even joining the renowned Quiet Ride on Taipei Bridge.
Anup had the chance to revisit familiar spots like Taipei’s Liberty Square and the Tamsui riverside—this time on a Gogoro JEGO, experiencing them in a whole new way, with the peace and quiet to truly connect with his surroundings.
“I’m absolutely love-struck after riding the Gogoro JEGO for two days. Marketed as a scooter for everyone, it’s lightweight and offers smooth acceleration. Riding a scooter has never felt so effortless.”
Gogoro’s lighting system also left a strong impression on Anup. “Its bright LED lights make nighttime riding much safer, adding to the overall experience.” As he rode up Yangmingshan Mountain, time seemed to stand still. Under the starry night sky, he took in the breathtaking cityscape, its lights twinkling like a sea of stars.
A Groundbreaking Option for Riders in Nepal: GoStation
Anup has high praise for Gogoro’s exclusive battery-swapping system, calling it a game-changer for Kathmandu’s traffic revolution. “Kathmandu’s narrow, winding alleyways and the lack of elevators or basements in most buildings make home charging for conventional EV batteries nearly impossible. GoStations take up minimal space and provide a convenient way to swap batteries, making them the perfect solution for Nepal—especially in its historic districts.”
“I only needed to swap batteries once a day, even while riding nearly a dozen kilometers daily. With GoStations conveniently located all across Taiwan, finding a fully charged battery is effortless, no matter the distance. Plus, GoStations prioritize safety, eliminating the fire risks associated with conventional batteries.”
Gogoro’s exclusive battery-swapping system also makes long-distance group rides seamless. “Traveling on a scooter, feeling the wind on your face, is an incredible thrill. But sharing the journey with a group of friendly Taiwanese Gogoro riders makes it even more special. I’ll always cherish the memories of our electric scooter lineup and the cultural exchanges we shared around the dinner table.”
Taipei’s Present Paves the Way for Kathmandu’s Future
In calm solitude after the merry gatherings, Anup contemplated on what Gogoro means for Kathmandu’s future. “Gogoro Smartscooter is a wonderful electric scooter that ensures zero noise and zero gas emissions. I dream of a future where the faithful aren’t disturbed by noisy traffic in religious sites and one can breathe clean air in Kathmandu.”