The Short Guide
If you’re starting an online store in Nepal, your payment gateway choice will make or break your checkout experience. Here’s what’s available and what I use for Langtang Gear.
eSewa
The most widely used digital wallet in Nepal. Most of your customers will have it. The API is straightforward. Integrates well with Laravel and WordPress.
Verdict: Essential. Don’t start without it.Khalti
Growing fast. Better developer experience than eSewa in some ways — cleaner API docs, sandbox environment that actually works. Popular with younger customers.
Verdict: Add it second. You’ll get a meaningful chunk of payments through Khalti.Fonepay
Connects directly to bank accounts and supports card payments. Useful for customers who don’t use wallets. A bit more paperwork to set up but worth it.
Verdict: Needed for card payers. Set it up early.Cash on Delivery
Not a gateway, but a reality. A significant portion of Nepali customers will not pay before they receive the product. You need to factor this into your pricing and cash flow.
Verdict: Not optional. Build it into your operations from day one.My Setup
Langtang Gear runs all four. The split varies, but roughly: eSewa and Khalti cover the majority, Fonepay covers card users, and COD covers the rest.
You don’t need international payment gateways unless you’re selling outside Nepal. If you are, it’s a different conversation — and a harder one.
