How To Reach Nepal: Travel Options & Transportation Guide

Nepal is one of the most accessible international destinations for Indian travellers, offering a seamless entry process, varied travel options, and the charm of the Himalayas. Whether you’re seeking a quick arrival by air or a more scenic and economical road journey, here’s a complete guide to how you can reach Nepal from India.

1. By Air – The Fastest and Most Convenient Option

Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM)

This is Nepal’s only international airport, and it serves as the primary entry point for international travellers. Flights to Kathmandu are available from several Indian cities.

Direct Flights Available From:

• Delhi 
• Mumbai 
• Kolkata 
• Varanasi 
• Lucknow 

Airlines Operating: Air India, IndiGo, Nepal Airlines, Buddha Air

Flight Duration: 1.5 to 2.5 hours (depending on the departure city)
Estimated Cost: USD 100 to USD 350 (one-way), depending on season and booking time

Pros: Quick, comfortable, reliable
Cons: Most expensive mode of transport

2. By Road – The Most Popular and Budget-Friendly Option

Travelling by road is a favourite for backpackers and budget travellers. India and Nepal share an open border that allows free movement for Indian and Nepali citizens with a proper ID.

Key Border Crossings:

1. Sunauli (UP – Bhairahawa, Nepal): Most frequented; ideal for travellers from Delhi, Gorakhpur, Varanasi 
2. Raxaul (Bihar – Birgunj, Nepal): Ideal for travellers from Patna, Bihar, and Kolkata 
3. Panitanki (West Bengal – Kakarbhitta, Nepal): Best suited for those travelling from Siliguri, Darjeeling, Sikkim 
4. Banbasa (Uttarakhand – Mahendranagar): For those coming from western Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand 
5. Jamunaha (UP – Nepalgunj) and Mohana (UP – Dhangadhi): Central and far-western routes, less crowded 

Road Travel Options:

1. Direct Bus Services:

• Delhi to Kathmandu: AC Volvo buses run by government and private operators; journey time is 24–30 hours. Fare approx. INR 2,300. 
• Varanasi to Kathmandu: AC Volvo buses by UPSRTC; journey time 15–21 hours.
  These buses usually cross at the Sunauli border. 

1. Multi-Modal Option (Train + Local Bus/Jeep):
   This is often the most flexible and cost-effective route.

Steps:

1. Take a train to the nearest Indian border city (e.g., Gorakhpur for Sunauli, Raxaul for Birgunj) 
2. Use local transport to reach the border 
3. Cross on foot or via rickshaw (Indian nationals need only a valid government-issued ID) 
4. Onward journey inside Nepal via local buses or shared jeeps to destinations like Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini 

Example:
From Delhi, take a train to Gorakhpur → shared jeep to Sunauli (2-3 hours) → walk across to Bhairahawa (Nepal) → bus to Kathmandu (10-12 hours)

1. Private Car/Jeep:
   You can drive your car or hire one. A permit and entry tax may be required at the border. Indian-registered vehicles are allowed for up to 30 days annually.

Pros: Affordable, offers cultural immersion, good for flexible plans
Cons: Slower, road conditions in Nepal can be tough, and longer travel time

3. By Train – Limited, But Growing Connectivity

Direct international train routes are few, but you can combine Indian railways with road travel.

Jaynagar (India) to Kurtha (Nepal):
A bi-national passenger train service connects Bihar to the Dhanusa district of Nepal.
From Kurtha, hire a vehicle for further travel into Nepal.

Alternative Option:
Take a train to Gorakhpur, Raxaul, or Siliguri and continue by bus or jeep.

Pros: Cost-effective, convenient within India
Cons: Requires additional road transport after border crossing

Important Tips for All Travellers:

• Documents Required:
  Indian citizens need a valid government-issued ID (Aadhar, Voter ID, Passport).
  Other nationalities need a passport and typically get a visa on arrival in Nepal. 
• Currency:
  Indian Rupees are accepted in many Nepali cities (especially near the border), but it’s advisable to carry some Nepali Rupees for local travel and purchases. 
• Time Difference:
  Nepal is 15 minutes ahead of Indian Standard Time. 
• SIM Cards & Connectivity:
  Indian SIM cards may not work without international roaming. Buy a Nepali SIM (Ncell or NTC) upon arrival for mobile data and calls. 
• Road Conditions:
  Roads in Nepal can be narrow and bumpy, particularly in rural or mountainous areas. Expect longer travel times. 
• Advance Booking:
  Especially during peak tourist season (spring and autumn), flights and direct bus services should be booked in advance. 

Final Thoughts

Reaching Nepal from India is easier than ever, with multiple travel options for every type of traveller. Whether you prefer the speed of a direct flight or the scenic beauty of a road trip, this journey offers both spiritual and cultural enrichment.

Choose the route that fits your travel style, and get ready to explore one of South Asia’s most breathtaking destinations.