The Nagdhunga Sisnekhola tunnel, the first road tunnel in Nepal, is due to open in January 2026, and the final testing and slope reinforcement works are currently being carried out. The tunnel will reduce traveling between Sisnekhola and Balambhu from more than 30 minutes to only 7 minutes, making traffic congestion less of a problem on the Nagdhunga route. Strict rules to prohibit pedestrians, two-wheelers, and risky vehicles will be there at the Rs22 billion project constructed by the Japanese company Hazama Ando Corporation with the aid of Japan and Nepal. Some toll rates are already decided upon by the government on the basis of the type of vehicles that are to ride through the tunnel once it is complete.
The Nagdhunga Sisnekhola Tunnel to Open From January 2026
