Pokhara is a beautiful city located in the western part of Nepal, known for its stunning lakes and Himalayan views. Delhi, the capital of India, is a major travel hub with many connections to Nepal. This route is popular among travelers seeking adventure, nature, and cultural experiences.

This guide will help you understand the main ways to travel from Delhi to Pokhara, including trains, buses, cars, and flights. You will also find practical tips and a step-by-step plan to make your journey easy and enjoyable.

Getting from Delhi to Pokhara – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train from Delhi towards Nepal is a unique experience but requires multiple connections and is less direct. It suits travelers who want a budget-friendly and scenic route.

• The nearest major Indian railway station to Nepal is Gorakhpur Junction, about 700 km from Delhi, reachable by direct trains in 10-14 hours with fares ranging from ₹300 to ₹1,200 depending on class.

• From Gorakhpur, you can take a bus or taxi to the Nepal border at Sunauli, approximately 100 km away, which takes around 3-4 hours and costs ₹200-₹400 for buses.

• After crossing the border, local buses or taxis connect to Pokhara, about 200 km from Sunauli; bus fares range from NPR 400 to NPR 800, and travel time is 6-8 hours depending on road conditions.

• Train travel frequency from Delhi to Gorakhpur is good, but onward transport to Nepal depends on bus schedules and border crossing times, which can be delayed during festivals or monsoon season.

Bus

Buses from Delhi to Pokhara are available but involve multiple changes and long travel hours. This option suits budget travelers comfortable with long journeys and flexible timings.

• Direct buses from Delhi to Nepal border towns like Sunauli or Bhairahawa are rare; most travelers take buses to Gorakhpur or Lucknow first, then switch to Nepal-bound buses.

• From Delhi ISBT Kashmiri Gate, buses to Gorakhpur take around 12-15 hours, costing ₹500-₹1,000 depending on the operator and bus type.

• At the Nepal border, you must cross immigration and then board local buses to Pokhara, which take 6-8 hours with fares around NPR 400-700.

• Bus travel can be crowded and less comfortable, especially during peak festival seasons like Dashain or Tihar in Nepal, so plan accordingly.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Pokhara is an adventurous option for those who enjoy road trips and want flexibility. It requires careful planning and permits for crossing the India-Nepal border.

• The distance from Delhi to Pokhara is approximately 1,200 km via NH 27 and the Nepal border at Sunauli, taking around 24-28 hours of driving time without long breaks.

• The route passes through major cities like Lucknow and Gorakhpur, with several toll plazas and rest stops offering food and fuel; expect toll charges totaling ₹500-₹800.

• Indian vehicles need a valid permit to enter Nepal; check with Nepalese authorities or travel agents before the trip to avoid border issues.

• Road conditions in Nepal can be challenging, especially during monsoon season, with narrow mountain roads and occasional landslides on the way to Pokhara.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Pokhara from Delhi, ideal for travelers with limited time or those who prefer convenience.

• There are no direct flights from Delhi to Pokhara; you must fly to Kathmandu first, with multiple daily flights from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport to Tribhuvan International Airport.

• Flight duration from Delhi to Kathmandu is about 1 hour 45 minutes, with fares ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹12,000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• From Kathmandu, you can take a domestic flight to Pokhara, which takes about 25-30 minutes and costs NPR 3,000 to NPR 6,000; flights are frequent but can be delayed due to weather.

• Alternatively, from Kathmandu, you can take a tourist bus or taxi to Pokhara, which takes 6-8 hours by road, offering a scenic but longer journey.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Pokhara, helping you prepare and navigate the journey smoothly.

• Book your train or flight tickets early through IRCTC or airline websites to get the best fares and seat availability, especially during peak seasons.

• If traveling by train and bus, plan your connections carefully, allowing buffer time for border crossing and possible delays at immigration checkpoints.

• Carry valid travel documents, including your passport, visa for Nepal, and any vehicle permits if driving, as these are mandatory at the India-Nepal border.

• Pack light but include essentials like water, snacks, and a power bank, as some bus and train routes have limited food options and charging points.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Delhi and Kathmandu for safe and reliable local transport to and from airports or stations.

• Check weather forecasts before departure, especially if traveling by road, to avoid monsoon-related disruptions or fog delays in the mountains.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your valuables and travel documents secure, especially at crowded bus stands and border crossings, to avoid pickpocketing or loss.

• Drink only bottled water and eat freshly cooked food during your journey to prevent stomach issues common among travelers in India and Nepal.

• Book tickets online when possible to avoid last-minute rush and higher prices at stations or airports, especially during holidays.

• Use local transport apps and prepaid taxi counters at airports and stations to avoid overcharging and ensure safe rides.

• Carry a small first-aid kit with medicines for common ailments like motion sickness, headaches, and minor cuts, as pharmacies may not be easily accessible on the road.

• During monsoon season, check road conditions regularly and be prepared for delays or detours due to landslides or flooding on the Nepalese highways.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Pokhara depends on weather and festivals. Avoid the monsoon months for safer and more comfortable travel.

Winter mornings can be foggy in northern India, causing train and flight delays, while Nepal’s mountain roads may be icy or slippery.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali in India and Dashain in Nepal, as transport is crowded and tickets sell out quickly.

• Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rain and possible landslides on the route, making road travel risky and slower.

• Early morning departures from Delhi are best to avoid city traffic and catch connecting transport on time.

• October to December offers clear skies and pleasant weather, ideal for flights and road trips to Pokhara.

Arrival at Pokhara & What to Expect

When you arrive in Pokhara, you will find a relaxed city with good local transport options. The Pokhara Airport is small but well organized, with prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs available.

Most travelers stay near Lakeside, the main tourist area, which is about 6 km from the airport and accessible by frequent taxis and local buses. Walking and renting bicycles or scooters are popular ways to explore the city.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Pokhara from Delhi is by flying via Kathmandu, combining speed and comfort. However, adventurous travelers can choose train and bus or self-drive options for a budget-friendly and scenic journey.

Planning your trip carefully, booking tickets in advance, and being aware of seasonal conditions will help you travel smoothly. With the right preparation, you can enjoy this beautiful route and the stunning landscapes of Nepal with confidence.