He started his career with the Bollywood movie Ek Duuje Ke Liye.

[6] Thapa started his modelling career in 1974 in Mumbai (then Bombay), with Binny's and Mafatlal Fabrics.

[citation needed] During his early days, he was also engaged in sports and was a professional football player for ICL Club Bombay and Orkay's Sports Club.

[citation needed] Besides acting and sports, he also worked as a photo journalist for JS Magazine (Junior Statesman) and covered the Bhutan Coronation in 1974.

[9][10] Thapa has featured in many Nepalese, Bhojpuri and Hindi films.