He studied acting in Mumbai in 2002 before returning to Nepal to start his career in the Nepali film industry.

He sold CDs at Mahabouddha, to promote the business of a friend, where he met Murray Kerr, the director.

[3] Thapa began his acting career with the Nepali film Sick City, playing the lead role as Krishna.

[4] Thapa cites Daniel Day-Lewis as his inspiration[3] and has expressed respect for other Nepalese actors, including Hari Bansha Acharya and Madan Krishna Shrestha.

[5] He has directed several films; Mukhauta in 2014,[24] a drama Aadha Love in 2017,[22] Sunkesari,[25] Ghar in 2019,[22] and the upcoming Teen Jantu in 2020.