Kathmandu, Oct. 9 -- Advance bookings for bus tickets for Dashain opened on Friday, drawing crowds of passengers to ticket counters at Gongabu's New Bus Park and other major departure points in Kathmandu.

Punya Prasad Sitaula (Saroj), president of the Federation of Nepalese National Transport Entrepreneurs, said passengers had begun queuing for tickets as many were expected to leave the capital from Saturday. Transport operators are also preparing buses for the festival rush, he said, adding that authorities need to ensure smooth road conditions.

Passengers can book tickets at major transport hubs, including New Bus Park, Kalanki, Balkhu, Koteshwar and Chabahil, according to the Department of Transport Management. Those unable to visit ...