Pokhara is a beautiful city in Nepal known for its stunning lakes and mountain views. Varanasi, located in Uttar Pradesh, India, is famous for its spiritual heritage. Many travelers journey between these two places for tourism and cultural experiences.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Varanasi to Pokhara. You will learn about different transport options, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect on arrival in Pokhara.

Getting from Varanasi to Pokhara – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is popular for part of the journey, especially within India. However, there is no direct train to Pokhara, so you will combine train travel with road transport.

• You can take a train from Varanasi Junction (BSB) to Gorakhpur Junction (GKP), which takes about 3.5 to 5 hours covering around 250 km. Trains run frequently and fares range from ₹150 to ₹600 depending on class.

• From Gorakhpur, you can take a bus or taxi to Sunauli border, the main crossing point to Nepal. This road journey takes about 3 to 4 hours and costs ₹200 to ₹500 by bus.

• After crossing the border at Sunauli, you can hire a shared jeep or bus to Pokhara. This leg is about 200 km and takes 6 to 8 hours, with fares around NPR 800 to NPR 1500 (₹500 to ₹900).

• Train travel is comfortable and affordable but requires multiple changes and border crossing formalities, so plan for a full day or overnight journey.

Bus

Direct bus services from Varanasi to Pokhara are limited, but you can travel by bus to the Nepal border and then switch to Nepalese buses or taxis.

• MSRTC and private buses run from Varanasi to Nautanwa or Sunauli border, taking about 7 to 9 hours and costing ₹300 to ₹700 depending on bus type.

• From Sunauli, frequent Nepalese buses and shared jeeps operate to Pokhara. The road is scenic but can be rough in monsoon, so travel time varies between 6 to 9 hours.

• Bus services may be crowded during festivals and holidays, so book tickets early or arrive at the bus stand early in the morning.

• Night buses are available but can be less comfortable; daytime travel is recommended for safety and sightseeing.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Varanasi to Pokhara is an adventurous option for those who prefer flexibility and want to explore en route.

• The total distance is about 600 km, combining Indian highways NH27 and NH730, and Nepal’s highways after crossing at Sunauli border.

• Driving time is approximately 14 to 16 hours depending on traffic, border crossing time, and road conditions.

• Expect toll plazas on Indian highways and possible delays at the border due to customs and immigration checks.

• Fuel stations and rest stops are available on Indian highways, but fewer on Nepal side, so plan fuel and food breaks accordingly.

• Carry valid documents including Indian and Nepalese permits, vehicle registration, and insurance if crossing the border by car.

Flight

There is no direct flight from Varanasi to Pokhara, but you can combine flights and road travel for faster transit.

• Fly from Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (VNS) in Varanasi to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. Flights take about 1.5 hours and cost ₹3000 to ₹6000.

• From Kathmandu, take a domestic flight to Pokhara Airport, which takes about 25 to 30 minutes with fares around NPR 3000 to NPR 5000.

• Alternatively, from Kathmandu, you can take a tourist bus or taxi to Pokhara, which takes 6 to 8 hours on a scenic route.

• Flight schedules can be affected by weather, especially in monsoon and winter fog, so check timings and book in advance.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is for first-time travelers making the journey from Varanasi to Pokhara. It helps you prepare and avoid common issues.

• Step 1: Book your train or bus ticket from Varanasi to Gorakhpur or directly to the Nepal border in advance via IRCTC or local bus counters to secure a seat.

• Step 2: Reach the departure station or bus stand early, at least 30 minutes before departure, to avoid last-minute rush and confirm your seat.

• Step 3: On arrival at Sunauli border, carry your passport and Nepal visa or get a visa on arrival; keep some Nepalese rupees handy for transport and snacks.

• Step 4: Choose a shared jeep or bus from Sunauli to Pokhara; negotiate fare if needed and confirm drop-off points near your hotel or city center.

• Step 5: Upon arrival in Pokhara, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Pathao or Tootle for local travel; avoid unmetered taxis for safety and fair pricing.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your travel documents, passport, and visa ready when crossing the India-Nepal border to avoid delays or fines.

• Drink bottled water and eat at clean, busy eateries during the journey to prevent stomach issues common in cross-border travel.

• Book train and bus tickets early during festival seasons like Diwali or Dashain to avoid sold-out situations and overcrowding.

• Use local transport apps in Pokhara for safe and affordable rides; avoid accepting rides from strangers at bus stands or airports.

• Pack light but carry essentials like a power bank, snacks, and a raincoat, especially during monsoon months when roads can be slippery and delays common.

• Be prepared for long waits at the border during peak hours; carry some cash in both Indian and Nepalese currency for tolls, snacks, and minor expenses.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Varanasi to Pokhara is during the dry seasons when roads are clear and flights operate smoothly. Avoid heavy monsoon months due to landslides and roadblocks.

Winter mornings can be foggy, especially near the border and in Kathmandu, so plan flights and road travel accordingly to avoid delays.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Dashain in Nepal and Diwali in India as transport is crowded and prices may rise.

• Monsoon season (June to September) can cause roadblocks and slippery roads on the Nepal side, increasing travel time significantly.

• Early morning departures from Varanasi help avoid city traffic and give more daylight for border crossing and onward travel.

• Late evening travel is not recommended due to limited public transport and safety concerns on rural roads in Nepal.

Arrival at Pokhara & What to Expect

Pokhara’s main bus station and airport are well connected to the city center. On arrival, you will find prepaid taxi counters and app-based cab services to reach your accommodation safely.

Popular areas to stay include Lakeside, which is close to Phewa Lake and many restaurants. The city is tourist-friendly, but always confirm taxi fares before starting your ride. Local buses are available but can be crowded and less comfortable for newcomers.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Pokhara from Varanasi depends on your budget and time. Combining train and road travel is economical but takes longer, while flights via Kathmandu save time but cost more. Planning your journey with advance bookings and understanding border crossing procedures will make your trip smooth.

Remember to check weather conditions and travel during the best seasons to avoid delays. With proper preparation and practical tips, you can confidently plan your travel from Varanasi to Pokhara and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and culture of Nepal.