Pashupatinath Temple, located in Kathmandu, Nepal, is one of the most revered Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Raxaul, a bustling border town in Bihar, India, serves as a key gateway for travelers heading to Nepal. This route is popular among pilgrims and tourists who want to visit the temple while experiencing cross-border travel.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Raxaul to Pashupatinath Temple. You will learn about different transport options, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival.

Getting from Raxaul to Pashupatinath Temple – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical choice for reaching the Nepal border from Raxaul. However, trains do not go directly to Kathmandu, so you will combine train and road transport.

• Raxaul Junction is well connected to major Indian cities; trains run frequently to Raxaul from Patna, Delhi, and Kolkata, making it easy to reach the border town.

• From Raxaul, you can take a short train ride or taxi to the Nepal border at Birgunj, which is about 6 km away, facilitating easy entry into Nepal.

• Train fares from major cities to Raxaul range from INR 100 to 500 depending on class, and trains are generally comfortable but can be crowded during festivals like Dashain or Diwali.

• Once in Birgunj, you will need to take a bus or taxi to Kathmandu, which is approximately 135 km and takes around 5 to 7 hours by road.

• Train travel is less affected by monsoon rains compared to road travel, but delays can occur during foggy winter mornings in Bihar and Nepal border areas.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and affordable way to travel from Raxaul to Kathmandu, suitable for budget travelers who prefer road transport.

• MSRTC and private operators run regular buses from Raxaul bus stand to Kathmandu via Birgunj, with journey times of 7 to 9 hours depending on traffic and border formalities.

• Bus fares typically range between INR 400 and 800, with options from ordinary to deluxe coaches offering varying comfort levels.

• During peak festival seasons and weekends, buses can get crowded, so booking tickets in advance at Raxaul bus stand or through local agents is advisable.

• The route passes through National Highway 28A and the Tribhuvan Highway in Nepal, with several toll plazas and rest stops offering local snacks and tea.

• Monsoon season can cause roadblocks and delays due to landslides, so check weather updates before traveling.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Raxaul to Pashupatinath Temple is a flexible option for travelers who want control over their schedule and stops along the way.

• The distance from Raxaul to Kathmandu is about 140 km by road, taking roughly 6 to 8 hours depending on traffic and border crossing time.

• You will travel via NH 28A to the Raxaul border, then cross into Nepal at Birgunj, continuing on Tribhuvan Highway to Kathmandu.

• Ensure your vehicle has valid permits for cross-border travel, and carry all necessary documents for customs and immigration checks at the border.

• The route has multiple toll plazas and highway restaurants, including popular stops near Simara and Hetauda for refreshments and rest.

• Driving during early morning hours helps avoid heavy traffic, especially near the border and Kathmandu city.

Flight

Flights are not a direct option from Raxaul to Kathmandu, but you can combine road and air travel for faster transit.

• The nearest airport to Raxaul is Jay Prakash Narayan Airport in Patna, approximately 130 km away, accessible by train or taxi.

• From Patna Airport, you can take direct flights to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, with flight times around 1 hour.

• Flight fares vary between INR 3000 and 6000 depending on the airline and booking time, with more options during tourist seasons.

• After landing in Kathmandu, Pashupatinath Temple is about 6 km away, reachable by taxi or local buses.

• Flight schedules may be affected by fog in winter and monsoon weather, so check for updates before booking.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Raxaul to Pashupatinath Temple, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.

• Step 1: Reach Raxaul by train or bus from your city, as it is the main transit point near the Nepal border. Booking tickets via IRCTC or local bus counters helps secure your seat.

• Step 2: Cross the India-Nepal border at Raxaul-Birgunj by completing customs and immigration formalities. Carry your passport and visa or valid travel documents to avoid delays.

• Step 3: From Birgunj, take a bus or taxi to Kathmandu. Booking a shared jeep or tourist bus at Birgunj bus stand is economical and convenient for this leg.

• Step 4: Upon reaching Kathmandu, use local taxis or app-based cabs like Pathao or Tootle to reach Pashupatinath Temple, located about 6 km from the airport and city center.

• Step 5: Plan your visit to the temple during early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the evening aarti ceremony peacefully.

• Step 6: For return, reverse the steps and consider booking return transport in advance, especially during peak festival seasons to avoid last-minute hassles.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry sufficient Indian and Nepalese currency as some local vendors near the border may not accept cards or Indian notes older than 2016 series.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water during your trip to avoid waterborne illnesses common in cross-border travel areas.

• Book train and bus tickets early during festivals like Dashain or Tihar, as these times see heavy travel between India and Nepal.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs in Kathmandu to avoid overcharging; always confirm the fare before starting your trip.

• Pack light but include essentials like a power bank, sunscreen, and rain gear during monsoon season to stay comfortable on the road.

• Be cautious while crossing the border on foot; follow official immigration counters and avoid unofficial agents to prevent scams.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Raxaul to Pashupatinath Temple is during the dry seasons from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather and fewer travel disruptions.

Avoid traveling during the monsoon months of June to September when heavy rains can cause landslides and roadblocks, especially on the Tribhuvan Highway in Nepal.

• Avoid major festivals like Dashain and Tihar if you prefer less crowded travel, as these periods see a surge in pilgrims and tourists.

• Winter mornings can have dense fog in Bihar and Nepal border areas, causing train and road delays; plan departures after sunrise when possible.

• Early morning departures from Raxaul help avoid border traffic jams and allow smoother entry into Nepal.

• Summer months can be hot and humid, so carry water and dress comfortably for road travel.

Arrival at Pashupatinath Temple & What to Expect

Arriving at Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu is an enriching experience. The temple is located on the banks of the Bagmati River, about 6 km east of Kathmandu city center.

Local transport options include cycle rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cabs like Pathao and Tootle. Prepaid taxi counters are available at Tribhuvan International Airport and major bus stands, ensuring fair pricing.

Popular areas to stay near the temple include Thamel and Lazimpat, which offer a range of hotels and guesthouses. The temple complex is open throughout the day, with peak visiting times during morning and evening prayers.

Conclusion

Traveling from Raxaul to Pashupatinath Temple involves a combination of road and sometimes rail transport, with buses and taxis being the most practical options. For faster travel, combining a trip to Patna airport with flights to Kathmandu is also possible.

Planning your journey with attention to border formalities, seasonal conditions, and local transport options will make your pilgrimage or visit smooth and enjoyable. With this guide, you can confidently organize your travel and experience the spiritual aura of Pashupatinath Temple without stress.