Birgunj is a major commercial city located in southern Nepal near the Indian border, while Pokhara is a popular tourist city nestled in the western hills of Nepal. Many travelers move between these two cities for business, tourism, or transit to the Himalayas. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Birgunj to Pokhara using different transport modes.

You will learn about train, bus, car, and flight options, including travel times, costs, and practical tips for a smooth journey. Whether you prefer comfort or budget travel, this guide covers all you need to plan confidently.

Getting from Birgunj to Pokhara – Main Options

Train

Train travel between Birgunj and Pokhara is limited as Nepal’s railway network is still developing. However, there are nearby Indian railway options that some travelers use combined with road transport.

• Birgunj is connected to Raxaul in India by a short border crossing, where you can catch Indian trains towards major hubs like Gorakhpur or Lucknow, but no direct train to Pokhara exists yet.

• From Indian railway stations near the border, travelers usually take a train to Kathmandu or other cities, then switch to buses or flights to Pokhara, making train travel indirect and time-consuming.

• Train fares on Indian Railways from Raxaul to major hubs range from INR 100 to 500 depending on class, but this option requires multiple transfers and visa arrangements.

• Train travel is less popular for this route due to lack of direct connectivity, longer travel times, and border crossing formalities, especially for tourists.

Bus

Buses are the most common and affordable way to travel from Birgunj to Pokhara. Several bus operators run daily services connecting these cities via the Tribhuvan Highway.

• Buses depart from the Birgunj Bus Park, heading north on the Tribhuvan Highway (NH 29) covering approximately 220 km to Pokhara in 7 to 9 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Ticket prices range from NPR 600 to 1200 for ordinary and tourist deluxe buses, with deluxe buses offering better comfort and fewer stops.

• Buses run frequently from early morning till late afternoon, but it is advisable to book tickets a day in advance during peak seasons like Dashain and Tihar festivals.

• Road conditions can be affected by monsoon rains causing delays or landslides, so check weather reports before traveling during June to September.

• There are several roadside eateries and rest stops along the highway where you can take breaks and buy local snacks or tea.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Birgunj to Pokhara offers flexibility and comfort, especially for groups or families. The route is scenic but requires careful planning.

• The drive covers about 220 km via the Tribhuvan Highway, taking roughly 6 to 8 hours depending on traffic and stops along the way.

• You can rent a car from Birgunj or hire a private taxi; daily rental rates for cars start around NPR 6000 to 9000 depending on vehicle type and season.

• The highway passes through towns like Hetauda and Narayanghat, where you can stop for meals or refuel; toll plazas are present, so keep some cash handy for toll fees.

• Driving during daylight is recommended for safety, as some stretches can be narrow and winding, especially near the hills approaching Pokhara.

• During monsoon season, landslides and roadblocks are common, so check local traffic updates and avoid night driving.

Flight

Flying is the fastest but more expensive option to reach Pokhara from Birgunj. Pokhara Airport receives daily flights from Kathmandu, and Birgunj has a domestic airport with limited services.

• Birgunj Airport operates limited flights mainly to Kathmandu; from there, you can catch a connecting flight to Pokhara Airport, making this a two-leg journey.

• Flight time from Kathmandu to Pokhara is about 25 to 30 minutes, with fares ranging from NPR 3000 to 7000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• Flights are frequent but can be delayed or canceled due to weather conditions, especially during monsoon or winter fog.

• Booking flights in advance through airlines’ websites or travel agents is recommended to secure seats and better prices.

• From Pokhara Airport, taxis and local buses are available to reach city center or lakeside areas within 15 to 30 minutes.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are traveling from Birgunj to Pokhara for the first time, follow this simple plan to ensure a smooth trip.

• Step 1: Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, time, and comfort. Buses are economical, cars offer flexibility, and flights save time.

• Step 2: Book your tickets in advance, especially during festivals or peak tourist seasons. Use local bus counters, IRCTC for Indian trains, or airline websites for flights.

• Step 3: Arrive early at the departure point, such as Birgunj Bus Park or airport, to avoid last-minute rush and secure good seats.

• Step 4: Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank. Road journeys can be long and sometimes lack good food stops.

• Step 5: During the journey, stay alert for announcements and keep your belongings safe. Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Pathao or Tootle upon arrival in Pokhara.

• Step 6: Once in Pokhara, confirm your accommodation and local transport options ahead of time to avoid confusion after arrival.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a copy of your ID and travel documents, especially if crossing the India-Nepal border near Birgunj, as police checks are common.

• Drink bottled water and avoid street food during the journey to prevent stomach issues, particularly on long bus rides.

• Book bus or flight tickets a day or two in advance using trusted agents or official websites to avoid scams and sold-out situations.

• Use local transport apps like Pathao or Tootle in Pokhara for affordable and safe rides; avoid unmetered taxis at the airport or bus station.

• Pack a small first-aid kit and motion sickness tablets if you are prone to travel sickness on hilly roads.

• During monsoon season, check weather and road conditions before starting your journey to avoid delays or cancellations.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Birgunj to Pokhara is during the dry months from October to May when roads are clear and weather is pleasant. Monsoon rains from June to September can cause landslides and travel delays.

Winter months from December to February can be cold, especially in Pokhara, with occasional fog affecting flights and road visibility. Plan your departure times early in the day for smoother travel.

• Avoid traveling during major Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar when buses and flights are crowded and prices rise.

• Monsoon season often causes roadblocks and slippery roads on the Tribhuvan Highway, so extra caution is needed.

• Early morning departures help avoid traffic jams near Birgunj and ensure timely arrival in Pokhara before dark.

• Winter fog can delay flights and reduce visibility on roads, so check weather updates before traveling during December and January.

Arrival at Pokhara & What to Expect

Pokhara Airport and Bus Park are well connected to the city center and popular tourist areas like Lakeside. Upon arrival, you will find prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs for easy onward travel.

Most travelers stay near Phewa Lake or Lakeside area, which is about 6 km from the airport and 1 to 2 km from the bus park. Local buses and taxis are available, but taxis are recommended for convenience with luggage.

Prepaid taxis from the airport or bus park offer fixed fares, avoiding bargaining hassles. App-based services like Pathao and Tootle are affordable and reliable for short rides within Pokhara.

Conclusion

Traveling from Birgunj to Pokhara offers multiple options depending on your priorities. Buses are the most economical and popular choice, while private cars provide comfort and flexibility. Flights save time but require connecting through Kathmandu. Train travel is not practical due to limited connectivity.

Plan your trip by booking tickets in advance, checking weather and road conditions, and choosing departure times wisely. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable journey through Nepal’s diverse landscapes from the plains of Birgunj to the hills of Pokhara.