Raxaul is a bustling border town in Bihar, India, located right next to the Nepal border. Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, lies about 130 kilometers north of Raxaul. Many travelers use this route to enter Nepal for tourism, business, or pilgrimage.

This guide will help you understand the main travel options from Raxaul to Kathmandu. You will learn about trains, buses, cars, and crossing the border smoothly. Practical tips will make your journey easier and more comfortable.

Getting from Raxaul to Kathmandu – Main Options

Train

Train travel from Raxaul is popular for reaching the border efficiently. However, there is no direct train to Kathmandu, so you combine train and road travel. Trains are affordable and convenient for Indian travelers.

• Raxaul Junction is a major railway station connecting to Patna, Delhi, and other cities. Trains run frequently to Raxaul, making it easy to arrive here first.

• From Raxaul, you can take a short train or taxi ride to the border town of Birgunj in Nepal, which is about 7 km away after crossing the border on foot or by local transport.

• Train fares to Raxaul vary from INR 100 to 800 depending on your starting point, with travel times ranging from 3 to 12 hours from major cities like Patna or Delhi.

• Trains are generally clean and safe but can get crowded during festivals or holidays, so booking tickets in advance via IRCTC is recommended.

• Monsoon season may cause delays due to waterlogging on tracks, so plan extra time if traveling between June and September.

Bus

Buses are the most common way to travel from Raxaul to Kathmandu. Many direct and connecting buses operate daily, offering affordable and flexible travel options.

• Indian buses depart from Raxaul bus stand to the Nepal border at Birgunj, with frequent services every hour from early morning to evening.

• From Birgunj, you can board Nepalese tourist buses or local buses to Kathmandu, which take about 6 to 8 hours covering roughly 130 km on the Tribhuvan Highway.

• Bus fares from Raxaul to Kathmandu range from INR 300 to 700 depending on the bus type, with deluxe buses costing more but offering better comfort.

• Buses can be crowded during weekends and Nepalese festivals like Dashain, so booking tickets a day in advance is advisable.

• The road passes through hilly terrain after Birgunj, so expect some winding roads and occasional traffic jams near towns.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Raxaul to Kathmandu is an option for those who prefer flexibility and comfort. The route is scenic but requires careful planning due to border formalities and road conditions.

• The distance by road is about 130 kilometers via NH227 from Raxaul to the Nepal border, then continuing on Tribhuvan Highway to Kathmandu.

• Border crossing requires valid documents like passport and visa; Indian citizens can get a permit on arrival at the border without a visa.

• Driving time is approximately 5 to 7 hours depending on traffic, road conditions, and border wait times.

• Fuel stations are available along the route, but it is wise to fill up before crossing into Nepal as fuel prices and availability vary.

• Roads in Nepal can be narrow and winding; driving cautiously is important, especially during monsoon when landslides may occur.

• Toll plazas exist on Indian highways before the border; carry cash for toll payments.

Flight

There is no direct flight from Raxaul to Kathmandu as Raxaul does not have an airport. The nearest airport is in Patna, about 110 km away. Flights are suitable if you want to avoid long road travel.

• From Raxaul, you can take a train or taxi to Jay Prakash Narayan Airport in Patna, which takes about 3 to 4 hours.

• Direct flights from Patna to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu take about 1 hour and operate daily with airlines like Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines.

• Flight fares range from INR 3000 to 6000 depending on the season and how early you book.

• Flights offer the fastest and most comfortable option but require additional travel to and from airports.

• Booking flights in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and festivals.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Raxaul to Kathmandu. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth journey without confusion.

• Step 1: Reach Raxaul by train or bus from your city. Booking train tickets via IRCTC or bus tickets through local counters helps secure your seat in advance.

• Step 2: Cross the India-Nepal border on foot at Raxaul-Birgunj. Carry your passport and necessary documents; Indian citizens do not need a visa but must have valid ID.

• Step 3: From Birgunj, board a tourist bus or local bus to Kathmandu. Buying tickets at the bus stand early in the morning avoids last-minute rush and guarantees a seat.

• Step 4: Keep some Nepali rupees handy for bus fare and small expenses as Indian currency is not accepted everywhere in Nepal.

• Step 5: Upon arrival in Kathmandu, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Pathao or Tootle for safe and reliable local transport.

• Step 6: If you prefer flying, plan your trip to Patna airport first, then book a flight to Kathmandu. Arrange airport transfers in advance to avoid delays.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a printed copy of your passport and Indian government-issued ID for border crossing; digital copies may not be accepted everywhere.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water in Nepal to avoid stomach issues; street food is delicious but choose busy stalls with fresh cooking.

• Book bus and train tickets at least one day before travel during festivals like Diwali or Dashain to avoid sold-out situations.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs in Kathmandu to avoid overcharging; negotiate fares beforehand if using local taxis.

• Pack light but include a raincoat or umbrella during monsoon months (June to September) as sudden showers are common.

• Keep your luggage secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash; use travel wallets and keep valuables close to you.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Raxaul to Kathmandu is during the dry months from October to March. Weather is pleasant, and roads are safer for driving and bus travel.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains causing landslides and roadblocks, especially on the Tribhuvan Highway, so avoid traveling then if possible.

• Avoid traveling during major Nepalese festivals like Dashain and Tihar as roads and transport get crowded and expensive.

• Winter mornings can have dense fog near Raxaul and along the highway, causing delays; start your journey after sunrise for better visibility.

• Early morning departures from Raxaul help avoid traffic jams at the border and in Kathmandu city.

• Summer months (April-May) can be hot and humid, so carry water and dress comfortably for the journey.

Arrival at Kathmandu & What to Expect

When you arrive in Kathmandu, you will likely reach the main bus terminal near Gongabu or the airport if flying. Kathmandu is a busy city with many transport options.

Local transport includes taxis, microbuses, and app-based cabs like Pathao and Tootle. Prepaid taxi counters are available at the airport and bus stations to avoid fare disputes. Popular areas to stay include Thamel, Lazimpat, and Durbar Marg, all well connected by local transport.

Conclusion

Traveling from Raxaul to Kathmandu offers several options depending on your budget and comfort preferences. Buses provide the most direct and affordable route, while flights from Patna offer speed and convenience. Train travel is useful for reaching Raxaul but requires road travel afterward.

Planning your journey with proper documents, advance bookings, and awareness of seasonal conditions will help you avoid common travel hassles. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a smooth and memorable trip from Raxaul to the vibrant city of Kathmandu.