Pokhara is a beautiful city in Nepal known for its stunning lakes and mountain views. Gorakhpur is a major city in Uttar Pradesh, India, close to the Nepal border. Many travelers use this route to explore the Himalayas or visit Pokhara’s famous tourist spots.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Gorakhpur to Pokhara. You will learn about trains, buses, driving, and flights, along with practical tips to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Gorakhpur to Pokhara – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and affordable option to reach the Nepal border from Gorakhpur. However, there is no direct train to Pokhara, so you will combine train travel with road transport.

• The nearest major railway station is Gorakhpur Junction, well connected to cities across India, with frequent trains to Nautanwa, the closest station near the Nepal border, about 100 km away.

• From Nautanwa, you can take a taxi or local bus to Sunauli border, which is about 10 km away and the main entry point into Nepal for travelers heading to Pokhara.

• Train fares from Gorakhpur to Nautanwa range from ₹50 to ₹150 depending on the class, and the journey takes about 2 to 3 hours, with trains running multiple times daily.

• During monsoon season, trains may face delays due to track issues, so plan extra time if traveling between June and September.

• Booking tickets via IRCTC or at the station in advance is recommended, especially during festivals when trains get crowded.

Bus

Buses are a common way to travel from Gorakhpur to Pokhara, offering direct or connecting services. This mode suits budget travelers comfortable with longer journeys.

• Direct buses from Gorakhpur to Pokhara are limited, so most travelers take a bus to Sunauli border first, which takes around 3 to 4 hours and costs ₹100 to ₹200.

• From Sunauli, you can catch a tourist bus to Pokhara, which takes about 6 to 7 hours and costs NPR 800 to NPR 1200 (around ₹600 to ₹900), with buses leaving frequently throughout the day.

• Buses in India and Nepal vary in comfort; Indian state transport buses are basic, while Nepali tourist buses offer more comfort but can get crowded during peak seasons.

• Night buses are available but not recommended for first-time travelers due to road conditions and safety concerns.

• During the winter months, fog can cause delays on the highway between Sunauli and Pokhara, so plan accordingly.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Gorakhpur to Pokhara is an adventurous option for those who prefer flexibility and want to explore en route. The route covers diverse landscapes and border crossing formalities.

• The distance between Gorakhpur and Pokhara is approximately 210 km by road, taking around 8 to 10 hours depending on traffic and border crossing time.

• The main route is via NH27 from Gorakhpur to Sunauli border, then continuing on the Mahendra Highway (East-West Highway) in Nepal towards Butwal and Pokhara.

• Border crossing at Sunauli requires valid documents such as a passport and visa or visa-on-arrival for Indian citizens; customs checks may add to travel time.

• Toll plazas exist on Indian highways but are minimal; Nepali roads may have small tolls and occasional rough patches, so a sturdy vehicle is recommended.

• Rest stops with food and fuel are available along the way, especially near Butwal and major towns, but carry water and snacks for remote stretches.

Flight

While there is no direct flight from Gorakhpur to Pokhara, you can combine flights and road travel to save time. This option suits travelers prioritizing speed over cost.

• Gorakhpur Airport offers flights to Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, with a flight time of about 1 hour; fares typically range from ₹3000 to ₹6000 one way.

• From Kathmandu, you can take a domestic flight to Pokhara Airport, which takes about 25 to 30 minutes; tickets cost around NPR 3000 to NPR 5000 (₹2200 to ₹3700).

• Alternatively, from Kathmandu, you can hire a tourist bus or taxi to Pokhara, which takes 6 to 8 hours by road.

• Flight schedules can be affected by weather conditions, especially fog in winter and monsoon rains, so check updates before booking.

• Booking flights well in advance through airlines’ websites or travel agents is advised to get better fares and seat availability.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Gorakhpur to Pokhara. It helps you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your train or bus ticket from Gorakhpur to Nautanwa or Sunauli in advance using IRCTC or local bus counters to secure your seat and avoid last-minute rush.

• Reach Gorakhpur station or bus depot early, at least 30 minutes before departure, to manage crowds and find your platform or bus easily.

• At Nautanwa or Sunauli border, carry your passport and necessary documents; Indian citizens can get a Nepal visa on arrival, but check current rules before travel.

• From the border, book a reliable taxi or tourist bus to Pokhara; pre-booking through travel agents or apps can save time and ensure safety.

• Carry local currency (Nepalese Rupees) or Indian Rupees accepted in border towns; exchange some money before crossing for small expenses.

• On arrival in Pokhara, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Pathao or Tootle for local travel; avoid unmetered taxis to prevent overcharging.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your passport and visa documents handy during the border crossing; photocopies can help if originals are misplaced but carry the originals for verification.

• Drink bottled water and avoid street food near the border to prevent stomach issues; Pokhara has many hygienic restaurants for safe meals.

• Book tickets online where possible, especially for trains and flights, to avoid scams and long queues at counters.

• Use local transport apps or trusted taxi services in Pokhara for safe and fair-priced rides; negotiate fares beforehand if using private taxis.

• Pack light but include essentials like a power bank, snacks, and a basic first aid kit, as some areas en route have limited facilities.

• During monsoon, roads can be slippery and prone to landslides; check weather updates and avoid night travel on hilly stretches.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Gorakhpur to Pokhara depends on weather and festivals. Avoiding peak traffic and bad weather will make your trip smoother.

Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains causing road delays and train disruptions. Winter fog from December to February can reduce visibility and slow down travel.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Dashain and Tihar in Nepal, and Diwali in India, as transport gets crowded and prices rise.

• Early morning departures are best to avoid traffic jams and reach border crossings before peak hours.

• Traveling in spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) offers pleasant weather and clear mountain views.

• Check local news and weather forecasts before your trip to anticipate any travel advisories or road closures.

Arrival at Pokhara & What to Expect

When you arrive in Pokhara, you will find a welcoming city with many transport options. The main bus station and airport are well connected to the city center and tourist areas.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Pathao and Tootle are common and reliable for local travel. Many hotels offer pickup services if informed in advance. The Lakeside area is the most popular place to stay, close to restaurants, shops, and attractions.

Conclusion

Traveling from Gorakhpur to Pokhara involves a combination of transport modes, with buses and cars being the most common choices. Train travel helps reach the border efficiently, while flights offer a faster but costlier alternative.

Planning ahead with ticket bookings, checking weather conditions, and preparing documents will make your journey smooth. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and culture of Pokhara.