road trip au nepal

Nepal's best road trips take in mountains, monasteries and more

Feb 9, 2022 • 5 min read

Roads in Nepal range from busy highways to rutted mountain tracks © Anton Jankovoy / Getty Images

Nepal is famous for its trekking trails, but the road network offers plenty of adventures at less dizzying altitudes. Having your own set of wheels – whether that means a rented bike or motorcycle or a chartered car and driver – means you can escape the crowds, explore at your own pace and visit remote areas that would otherwise be out of reach.

Self-drive rental cars are not available, but it’s easy to hire a vehicle with a driver, and some adventurous travelers drive their own vehicles or jeeps overland from Europe. If you plan to join them, you’ll need an international carnet (a customs document) and an international driving permit, and other pieces of paperwork.

A much easier option is to hire a motorbike in Nepal – just make sure you have an international driving permit or a national driving license endorsed for motorcycles, as a regular car license is insufficient.

It’s also important to consider Nepal’s poor road safety record. Many roads are in poor condition and road rules are widely flouted, leading to frequent accidents. Then there's the mountainous terrain – the steep, winding roads can be treacherous and the weather, particularly during the monsoon, is unpredictable. This is not a country for novice drivers or motorcyclists!

Yet despite these caveats, Nepal offers some truly spectacular road trips – here are five of our favorites.

Drive the Middle Hills for history and heritage

Pokhara–Gorkha; 130km (81 miles); allow 2 days

This easy road trip whisks you from the tourist hub of Pokhara to two of the most interesting and attractive towns in the Middle Hills: Bandipur and Gorkha . Initially, you'll head east along the Prithvi Highway towards the capital, gradually leaving behind stunning views of the Annapurna range before spiraling south up a steep road to Bandipur, a ridge-top bazaar town filled with beautiful 18th-century architecture.

From here, the route continues northeast to Gorkha, another medieval township and the former home of Prithvi Narayan Shah, the king who unified Nepal’s warring kingdoms in 1769. The dynasty he founded ruled Nepal almost uninterrupted until 2008, and the king's precipitously-located palace-temple, the Gorkha Durbar , sits on the ridge above town, reached by a steep stone pathway.

Although you can drive this route in a single day, it’s far better to stay overnight in Bandipur, which has several atmospheric places to stay – the Old Inn is particularly charming – and then travel onto Gorkha the following day.

Dawn over the Himalaya peaks above Nagarkot

Drive from Dhulikhel to Nagarkot for the best Himalayan vistas

Dhulikhel–Nagarkot; 56km (34 miles); allow 1–2 days

This short drive around the eastern fringes of the Kathmandu Valley combines panoramic views with trips to sacred sites and medieval hill towns. The route starts in the Newari town of Dhulikhel on the valley rim, which offers stunning views of towering peaks, especially at sunrise.

From here, drive south to Namobuddha , home to a famous Buddhist monastery and stupa, which sits amidst verdant forests. The next stop is Panauti – one of the oldest towns in the country – which lies to the west; its medieval bazaar is packed with well-preserved Newari houses and ancient temples.

The drive finishes in the village of Nagarkot , where a string of hotels and guesthouses line up along a ridge gazing up at the Himalayas. Assuming you arrive when the skies are clear, the views at sunrise are quite simply breathtaking.

Pilgrims walking on the plaza of the Janaki Mandir in Janakpur, Nepal

Get off the beaten track in Eastern Terai

Janakpur–Ilam; 320km (199 miles); allow 3–4 days

The eastern part of the Terai – a steamy, subtropical plain that spans southern Nepal – receives relatively few travelers, despite boasting a broad range of attractions. This route showcases some of the lowlands' star turns, beginning in the city of Janakpur, where the glorious Janaki Mandir – a vividly colorful temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Sita – attracts pilgrims from across South Asia.

After turning east onto the Mahendra Highway, drive to the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, where pristine areas of wetland teem with birdlife – at least 527 different bird species have been spotted here. The final stop is the mountain village of Ilam in the far east of the country, the center of Nepal’s tea-growing industry. After a long drive, it’s the perfect place to park up and kick back with a cup of chiya (sweet Nepali tea).

Adventure sports enthusiasts will love driving the Araniko Highway

Dhulikhel–Kodari; 83km (52 miles); allow 1–3 days

Named after a renowned Nepali architect from the 13th century, the Araniko Highway traces the first part of an ancient trade route from Kathmandu to Lhasa in Tibet . Following this winding road, you'll travel up from Dhulikhel to the frontier settlement of Kodari, where the Friendship Bridge stretches across into Tibet.

Along the last stretch of road before the border, you’ll find several excellent adventure sports camps – including Borderlands and the Last Resort – offering whitewater rafting and kayaking, canyoning, bungee-jumping and a host of other thrill-filled activities on or around the Bhote Kosi river.

Note that driving the Araniko Highway is not something to be undertaken lightly. Hazards include sheer drops on the side of the road, landslips and flooding, particularly during the monsoon, when this route is best avoided.

The Tribhuwan Highway is the best plains-to-the-hills drive

Birgunj–Kathmandu; 116km (72 miles); allow 2 days

This steep, dramatic route follows the oldest highway in Nepal from the frontier with India to Kathmandu. Completed in 1956, the Tribhuwan Highway winds its way up from the dusty, noisy border post of Birgunj in the lowland plains, passing through the busy town of Hetauda and the hill village of Daman, which offers perhaps the finest Himalayan views in the whole of the Middle Hills.

After an overnight stay in Daman, you'll continue north until you reach the Kathmandu Valley – which is generally heavily congested, so following back roads is a wise move – and then, finally, the nation’s capital. There are quicker, easier and less potholed routes from the plains to Kathmandu, but none match the Tribhuwan Highway for its views and sense of adventure.

You may also like: 7 expert tips to sustainably trek to Everest Base Camp Uncovering Kathmandu’s cosmopolitan culture: why you're going to want to linger longer The best places to visit in Nepal, from mountains to Buddha's birthplace

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10 Best Road Trips in Nepal: Exploring the Scenic Beauty and Culture

Top 10 Roadtrips in Nepal for Every Traveller

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, a road trip in Nepal is a perfect way to explore the country’s hidden gems and experience its unique culture. These road trips will take you through some of the most scenic landscapes, including the Himalayan mountains, valleys, rivers, and traditional villages.

Each road trip in Nepal has its own charm, and whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, you’ll find something that suits your interests. So, buckle up, hit the road, and embark on a journey of a lifetime through Nepal’s most scenic routes.

Kathmandu to Pokhara

One of the most popular road trips in Nepal is from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The drive is around 200 km and takes around 6-7 hours. The road passes through beautiful landscapes, including hills, rivers, and valleys. The highlight of the trip is driving through the Trishuli River, which is known for its white water rafting.

Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park

Chitwan National Park is one of the most popular destinations in Nepal. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, rhinos, and elephants. The road trip from Kathmandu to Chitwan is around 175 km and takes around 5-6 hours. The road passes through beautiful landscapes, including hills, forests, and rivers.

Kathmandu to Lumbini

Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world. The road trip from Kathmandu to Lumbini is around 300 km and takes around 8-9 hours. The road passes through beautiful landscapes, including hills, forests, and rivers. The highlight of the trip is visiting the Maya Devi Temple, which is the birthplace of Lord Buddha.

Kathmandu to Namche Bazaar

Namche Bazaar is a popular destination for trekkers who want to explore the Khumbu region and the base of Mount Everest. The road trip from Kathmandu to Namche Bazaar is around 345 km and takes around 2 days. The road passes through beautiful landscapes, including hills, rivers, and forests. The highlight of the trip is driving through the beautiful valleys of the Khumbu region.

Pokhara to Jomsom

Jomsom is a beautiful town located in the Mustang district of Nepal. The town is famous for its apple orchards and the view of the Annapurna range. The road trip from Pokhara to Jomsom is around 160 km and takes around 9-10 hours. The road passes through beautiful landscapes, including hills, rivers, and valleys. The highlight of the trip is driving through the Kali Gandaki Gorge, which is the deepest gorge in the world. Further 20km up from Jomson is the famous Muktinath Temple .

Kathmandu to Rara Lake

Rara Lake is a beautiful lake located in the remote region of western Nepal. The lake is surrounded by beautiful forests and mountains. The road trip from Kathmandu to Rara Lake is around 880 km and takes around 3-4 days. The road passes through beautiful landscapes, including hills, forests, and rivers. The highlight of the trip is visiting Rara Lake and exploring the beautiful surroundings.

Kathmandu to Mustang via Pokhara

Mustang is a beautiful district located in the northern part of Nepal. The district is famous for its unique culture and beautiful landscapes. The road trip from Kathmandu to Mustang is around 360 km and takes around 2-3 days. The road passes through beautiful landscapes, including hills, rivers, and valleys. The highlight of the trip is visiting the ancient town of Lo Manthang and exploring the unique culture of Mustang.

Kathmandu to Bandipur

Bandipur is a beautiful hilltop town located in the Tanahu district of Nepal. The town is famous for its traditional Newari architecture and stunning views of the Himalayas. The road trip from Kathmandu to Bandipur is around 143 km and takes around 4-5 hours. The road passes through beautiful landscapes, including hills, valleys, and forests. The highlight of the trip is visiting the picturesque town of Bandipur and exploring the beautiful surroundings.

Pokhara to Sarangkot

The road trip from Pokhara to Sarangkot is around 13 km and takes around 30-40 minutes. The road is mostly narrow and winding, but the scenery along the way is absolutely breathtaking. You will pass through lush green forests, traditional Nepalese villages, and terraced farmlands before arriving at the top of Sarangkot Hill. Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with some of the most stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu. Sarangkot is considered one of the best places in Nepal to view the sunrise and sunset, and you can enjoy these spectacular views from there.

Far West Nepal (Sudurpaschim) from Kathmandu

Far West Nepal is a relatively unexplored region of the country that is home to diverse cultures and stunning natural beauty. A road trip through this region is an adventure of a lifetime that will take you through beautiful landscapes, remote villages, and cultural treasures.

The Far West Nepal road trip starts from the city of Kathmandu and takes you through the towns of Dhangadi, Dadeldhura, and Mahendranagar. The trip covers a distance of approximately 800 km and takes around 3-4 days, depending on your pace, and stops along the way. The road trip offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountains, rolling hills, and lush green forests. You will also have the opportunity to explore the cultural heritage of the region by visiting ancient temples, palaces, and traditional villages.

One of the highlights of the Far West Nepal road trip is visiting the Khaptad National Park, which is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the endangered musk deer and red panda. The park is also a great place for hiking and nature walks. Another must-visit destination during the road trip is the Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, which is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses. The reserve is also home to a large number of migratory birds, making it a popular destination for bird watchers.

Anyone seeking to explore the lesser-known treasures of Nepal should not miss a road trip through Far West Nepal. It is an adventure that offers unforgettable experiences. With its stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and rich history, the region offers an unforgettable experience for all travelers.

Tips for a successful road trip in Nepal

Plan your route: Before embarking on your road trip, make sure you have a clear plan of your route. This will help you avoid getting lost and wasting time.
Choose the right vehicle: The roads in Nepal can be challenging, so it’s important to choose the right vehicle. A 4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for most of the road trips in Nepal.
Carry essentials: It’s important to carry essential items, including a first aid kit , food, and water. You should also carry warm clothing as the weather can be unpredictable in Nepal.
Be prepared for the unexpected: The roads in Nepal can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for the unexpected. This includes carrying extra food, fuel, spares, and tools.
Check the weather: The weather in Nepal can be unpredictable, so it’s important to check the weather forecast before embarking on your road trip.
Respect local culture: Nepal is a country with diverse cultures and traditions, so it’s important to respect the local culture and traditions.
Be prepared for the altitude: Some of the road trips in Nepal involve driving at high altitudes. It’s important to be prepared for the altitude, especially if you have any health issues. Keep emergency medicine like Diamox ready for altitude sickness.
Carry cash: Cash is king, especially in remote areas of Nepal. Some of the remote areas in Nepal may not have ATMs or credit card facilities, so it’s important to carry cash with you. More importantly, carry Nepali currency.

A road trip in Nepal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s an opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes, experience the rich culture, and connect with nature. With careful planning and preparation, you can ensure a successful road trip in Nepal. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and experience the beauty of Nepal.

Last Updated on May 17, 2023 by motologs Bihar, located in the eastern part of …

Road Trips in Nepal

Nepal is a landlocked country located in the Himalayas and home to some of the world's tallest mountains, including Mount Everest. Taking a road trip in Nepal is an extraordinary way to experience the country's stunning beauty and diverse culture. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the lush jungles of the Terai, Nepal has an array of awe-inspiring landscapes that are best explored by road.

One of the top reasons to take a road trip in Nepal is the opportunity to see the country's incredible natural wonders up close. From winding mountain roads that offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas to scenic drives through verdant forests and along crystal-clear rivers, Nepal has it all. Along the way, you can explore charming villages, meet locals, and learn about Nepal's rich cultural heritage.

Another great reason to take a road trip in Nepal is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. Nepal is a melting pot of different ethnic groups, each with their own unique customs and traditions. As you drive through the country, you'll have the chance to visit local markets, attend festivals and events, and learn about the customs of the different ethnic groups that call Nepal home.

Finally, taking a road trip in Nepal is an opportunity to experience adventure like never before. Nepal is known as the adventure capital of the world, and for a good reason. From trekking and hiking in the Himalayas to white-water rafting and bungee jumping, Nepal has no shortage of thrilling activities to offer. And what better way to experience it all than by taking a road trip through the heart of the country?

In summary, a road trip in Nepal is a perfect way to experience the country's natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventurous spirit. It's an opportunity to see the world-renowned Himalayas up close, immerse yourself in local traditions and customs, and experience adventure like never before. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Nepal's stunning landscapes and warm hospitality are sure to leave an indelible impression on your heart and soul.

Expect on your itinerary

Best months to drive, discover road trips in nepal, road trip highlights in nepal.

While travelling around Nepal, you can't forget about its capital - Kathmandu. A must-see attraction is, of course, its Old Town and the Buddhist temple, Boudhanath. It's also worth directing your steps to the old commercial district, Thamel, where you can find multiple shops, restaurants, and hotels of varied standard. You should also take a look at the nearby town of Bhaktapur for the 18th-century temple of Bhaktapur and the Royal Palace from 1428.

Central part of Nepal is a treasure trove of scenic recesses. A proof will be Pokhara located nearby Lake Phewa Tal. Among its greatest highlights, you'll find Devi Waterfall, Mahendra Gufa Cave, and Varahi Bhagvati Temple. Additional assets of this place are breathtaking views on Annapurna and the location at a stone's throw away from Baglung, ideal for the lovers of trekking, rafting, and cycling trips.

Moving slightly more to the west, you'll come across the third largest city in the country - Patan. Its characteristic element is the medieval housing and numerous Hindu temples constructed in the period between 15th and 17th centuries. While sauntering along its streets, you should definitely see Patan Durbar Square full of fascinating Newar temples. If this isn't enough for you, visit other equally interesting towns, such as Tansen, Hetauda, or Lumbini.

If you dream about spending your holidays close to nature, you should visit one of the Nepalese nature reserves or national parks. For example, you can opt for the Chitwan National Park located in the southern part of the country and the nearby Parsa Wildlife Reserve. Each of them is home to various plant and animal species and will surely charm you with its beauty, stunning atmosphere, and pristine nature.

Suggested Road Trips in Nepal

Kathmandu to Pokhara: This is one of the most popular road trips in Nepal, and for good reason. The journey takes you through scenic mountain roads, picturesque villages, and stunning landscapes. Along the way, you can stop at popular tourist destinations such as Bandipur, Tansen and Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha. The highlight of the trip is the city of Pokhara, which offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna range and is known for its lakeside atmosphere.

Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park: For the nature lovers, the road trip from Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park is a must. The journey takes you south of Kathmandu through rugged mountain terrain and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range. Along the way, you can explore the traditional villages along Tribhuvan Highway's. The trip culminates in a visit to the Chitwan National Park.

Mustang Circuit: This road trip takes you to the remote and isolated region of Mustang, which was once an independent kingdom. The journey takes you through stunning mountain terrain and offers a glimpse into the unique culture and traditions of the Mustang people. Along the way, you can explore ancient monasteries, visit the holy city of Lo Manthang, and experience the traditional way of life in this remote region.

Each of these road trips offers a unique experience and is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Car Rentals in Nepal

Moving around Nepal is a daunting challenge, regardless of whether you are travelling by minibus, bus, taxi, or train. The streets are governed by chaos as native motorists don't follow even the most basic traffic regulations. An additional problem is the dire state of local roads, numerous accidents, and - for some - left-hand traffic.

If you cope well in difficult conditions, you can think about renting a car, for example, at the Kathmandu Airport. The best option will be to choose a 4x4 off-road vehicle which will allow you to glide along damaged road surfaces and unpaved Nepalese streets. If you are a visiting tourist, you need to have an International Driving Permit.

When taking a Road Trip in Nepal

When taking a road trip in Nepal, it is important to be aware of certain factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Road conditions: Nepal has a variety of road conditions, ranging from well-paved highways to rough dirt tracks. It's important to research your route ahead of time and be prepared for any potential hazards. Landslides and flooding can also occur during the monsoon season, so it's best to plan your trip during the dry season.

Traffic: Nepal's roads can be crowded and chaotic, particularly in urban areas. Drivers may not always follow traffic laws, so it's important to drive defensively and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Be prepared for narrow roads and steep drop-offs in mountainous areas.

Altitude sickness: If you plan to drive in Nepal's mountainous regions, it's important to be aware of the risk of altitude sickness. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, and fatigue. To avoid altitude sickness, it's recommended to acclimatize gradually and drink plenty of water.

Permits and documents: Certain areas of Nepal require special permits to access, such as the Annapurna and Everest regions. It's important to obtain these permits ahead of time and carry them with you during your trip. Additionally, you'll need to have a valid driver's license and vehicle registration documents with you at all times.

Safety: While Nepal is generally a safe country, it's important to take certain precautions when traveling by road. Avoid driving at night, particularly in rural areas where road conditions may be poor. Keep your valuables out of sight and be wary of scams or thefts targeting tourists.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip in Nepal. With its stunning mountain scenery, vibrant culture, and friendly locals, Nepal is an ideal destination for a memorable road trip.

Best Time for taking a Road Trip in Nepal

The best time to take a road trip in Nepal is during the autumn season, which is from September to November, and the spring season, which is from March to May. During these months, the weather is clear and dry, making it easier to drive on the roads. However, it is important to note that the weather in the mountainous regions of Nepal can be unpredictable, so it is important to check weather conditions before embarking on a road trip. Additionally, the monsoon season, from June to August, can make driving on roads difficult due to landslides and flooding.

What to pack for a Road Trip in Nepal

If you're planning a road trip in Nepal, it's essential to pack the right gear and equipment to ensure a comfortable and safe journey. Here are some things you should consider packing and bringing with you:

Clothing: Nepal has a varied climate, so you should pack clothes suitable for different weather conditions. Lightweight clothes for hot and humid conditions, a warm jacket, a raincoat or waterproof jacket, and hiking boots or sturdy shoes are essential.

Sun Protection: Nepal is a sunny country, so you'll need to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays. Pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a hat to keep your skin and eyes protected.

Navigation Tools: It's a good idea to bring navigation tools like a map, GPS device, or smartphone with a GPS app. These tools will help you navigate unfamiliar roads and ensure that you stay on the right track.

First Aid Kit: Accidents and injuries can happen, especially if you're planning to do some hiking or other outdoor activities. Pack a first aid kit with essential items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, painkillers, and any prescription medication you may need.

Water and Snacks: Staying hydrated is important, so bring plenty of water with you on your road trip. It's also a good idea to bring some healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, or energy bars to keep you fueled and energized during the journey.

Cash: While credit and debit cards are accepted in many places in Nepal, it's still a good idea to carry some cash with you for emergencies or in case you find yourself in an area without ATMs or card facilities.

Power Bank: A power bank or portable charger will come in handy to keep your smartphone or other electronic devices charged while on the road.

Camera: Nepal is a country of stunning natural beauty, so you'll want to capture your journey with a good quality camera. Whether you prefer a DSLR, point-and-shoot, or a smartphone camera, make sure you have enough storage and batteries.

By packing these essentials, you'll be ready to take on the adventure of a road trip in Nepal.

Guidebooks and Road Maps for Road Trip in Nepal

There are several guidebooks and road maps available for road trips in Nepal. Here are some recommendations:

Lonely Planet Nepal (Travel Guide): This guidebook is a popular choice for travelers visiting Nepal. It provides comprehensive information on the country's history, culture, attractions, and practicalities like transportation, accommodation, and food. It also includes detailed maps and suggested itineraries for road trips.

Nepal Road Atlas by Nepa Maps: This is a detailed road atlas that covers the entire country, including major highways, secondary roads, and dirt tracks. It also includes information on national parks, hiking trails, and tourist attractions. The atlas is available in both paper and digital formats.

Nepal Adventure Map by National Geographic: This map is designed for outdoor enthusiasts and covers the country's popular trekking and mountaineering routes. It includes topographic information, trail descriptions, and recommended hiking times. The map is waterproof, tear-resistant, and can be easily folded.

Nepal Map by Rough Guides: This map provides an overview of Nepal's geography, including mountain ranges, rivers, and cities. It also highlights major tourist attractions and includes a detailed street plan of Kathmandu. The map is easy to use and is available in both paper and digital formats.

Insight Guides Nepal: This guidebook provides a more cultural and historical perspective on Nepal. It includes information on the country's religious and spiritual practices, as well as its architecture and art. The book also includes suggested itineraries for road trips and a detailed section on Kathmandu.

All of these guidebooks and road maps are easily available online or at major bookstores. They will help you plan your road trip in Nepal and ensure that you don't miss any of the country's amazing sights and experiences.

Thinking of solo travel in Nepal? Nepal is a popular destination for solo travelers. On this blog, you will find everything you need to know before you visit Nepal.

The complete guide to solo travel in Nepal

Welcome to Nepal - the country where eight of the ten highest mountain peaks in the world are located, including the summit of Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world.

Nepal, the gateway to the Himalayas and one of the most beautiful countries in South Asia, is stunning in its beauty and is considered by travelers as one of the most spectacular places on earth.

Nepal is a stunning combination of jungles, rice fields, temples and deserts, rich culture, and the highest mountain ranges in the entire world.

Nepal is without a doubt - a paradise for travelers.

I arrived in Nepal at the end of September, the peak of the tourist season, the best time to go out into the mountains and conquer Nepal by foot.

I visited Nepal for 6 weeks and got to experience this wonderful country in a good way that left me with a taste of more.

Table of content

Is it safe to travel alone in nepal, when to visit nepal, how to get from kathmandu airport to thamel.

Where to stay in Kathmandu?

How to get around in Nepal?

things to do when traveling alone in Nepal

Trip to Nepal: How to plan?

How to find partners when traveling alone in nepal, travel insurance to nepal, responsible tourism in nepal.

Useful sites & apps for a solo trip to Nepal
Final thoughts

I found Nepal as a country that is very safe to travel alone.

The crime rate is low. The people are kind and always smiling.

I would say that the Nepalis are the most smiling and nicest people in East Asia.

Of course, as with any trip, one should pay attention to the cases.

Like other Third World countries, there are cases of theft in Nepal.

It's not common, but be careful and cautious.

Be careful not to leave valuables in your guesthouse when you are away.

Overall the feeling in Nepal is very comfortable and safe for anyone traveling alone. Most of the Nepalis you will meet along the way are kind and charming people, most of them speak pretty good English, so it is easy to communicate with them and get help from them.

When asked "when to visit Nepal?" one usually means to ask "when is the best time to trek in Nepal?" because this is the most common tourist activity in the country.

There are two good times of the year for a trip to Nepal that includes trekking:

The main seasons occurs between mid-September and late November .

This season there is excellent visibility and favorable weather for trekking, when at the beginning of the season, it may still rain (end of the monsoon season), and at the end of the season, it gets colder.

The secondary season occurs between mid-March and late May .

This season the visibility is less good, but the weather is favorable for trekking.

The beginning of the season is cold, and there may be snow at the high mountain passes.

Towards the end of the season, it rains more, and the visibility gets worse.

It is important to note that in recent years the season has been delayed - if we used to talk about March-April, today we already talk more about April-May, and sometimes even the beginning of June.

Kathmandu Airport is 5.5 km east of Kathmandu.

Getting from the airport to the city center by taxi takes about 20-30 minutes depending on the traffic.

The Pre Paid Taxi service will be on your left as soon as you leave the arrivals gate, the prices there are fixed in advance.

A prepaid taxi at the airport costs about 750 Nepalese rupees.

You can get out of the airport, catch a local taxi on the street and easily get a taxi for 400-500 rupees to Thamel.

Once you have collected your backpacks and left the terminal, dozens of Nepalis will be waiting for you with signs and binders of all kinds of hostels and hotels. They will offer you a free taxi if you come to the hotel.

Sometimes these are good hotels, but often the hotels are in remote parts of the Thamel, and every time you want to go to the Thamel center (where everything happens), you will have to walk 10-20 minutes or take a rickshaw each time, and it is a waste of money.

Do not hop on the first taxi that arrives, until you have finished crossing the road, you will already hear lower prices, and of course, do not be afraid to bargain.

Accommodation in Nepal: Where to stay in Kathmandu?

The best area to stay is in Thamel, the main street that houses all the tourists who come to Nepal.

In Thamel, you will have everything, guesthouses, restaurants, travel agencies, and trucking equipment stores.

4 best places to stay in Nepal for solo traveler

Elbrus Home - Great hostel! 5 minutes walk from Thamel center.

Nice atmosphere, Spacious rooms, and cute garden area.

Definitely, one of the best places to stay in Kathmandu.

Flock Hostel Kathmandu - The hostel is clean and has a cozy dorm, with many showers with hot water.

The beautiful common room and the restaurant offer great food.

Rest Up Kathmandu Hostel - Convenient and relatively cheap place, cozy, good location close to many places in Thamel, and a quiet and pleasant atmosphere.

Hotel Jampa - It's not a hostel and has no dorm rooms, but if you are looking for relaxation and privacy it's a perfect hotel.

The hotel is located in the center of Thamel, but in a quiet alley, which makes all the difference.

The hotel has Strong Wi-Fi and is close enough to any point in Thamel.

Where do you stay during the treks in Nepal?

Most treks in Nepal offer quite comfortable accommodation along the way.

On some treks, you will stay in tea houses, where you can stay in modest rooms with a bucket shower (A funny experience) or shared toilets and showers.

There are guesthouses, which offer more comfortable conditions, and sometimes, also a restaurant that serves food west.

On other treks, accommodation is in family homes in the local villages, and this is a great opportunity to get to know the local life.

When talking about transportation in Nepal, it is important to talk about the roads.

Most of the roads in Nepal are unpaved, and most of Nepal is not connected by roads.

Many villages in the country are connected by footpaths only, and when there is a road, it is usually a dirt road.

In Nepal, you can get around in several ways:

Rickshaws are a very standard way to get around nearby places in Kathmandu.

Usually, the trip is an experience - in the open air, with all the noises and smells around.

Do not forget to bargain for the price of the trip!

The most common form of transportation on roads (dirt roads) is trekking. The jeeps usually leave from a fixed point in the village and leave when his full. Get ready for a particularly bouncy ride.

Bus for tourists

Buses run between Kathmandu and Pokhara, Lumbini, and Chitwan.

You can order tickets on the 12go Asia website, the best website for booking transportation in Asia!

The taxis in Kathmandu and Pokhara are small and clumsy but traveling. Probably more expensive than a bicycle rickshaw, but relevant to longer journeys, and probably also faster.

Locals are regular buses with local passengers, hence the name.

On the local bus, the seats are less comfortable, they are not air-conditioned, the places are not marked, and at certain times can be crowded.

On the other hand, there is no need to book tickets in advance, the frequency can be high, and they are very cheap.

Traveling locally will give you the full Nepali experience - you can talk to people and experience the road directly, a bit like a rickshaw.

The ride on a local bus is tough, but provides a rare experience and glimpse into the daily lives of the Nepalese.

Best things to do when traveling alone in Nepal

Trekking in nepal.

The main reason hikers come to Nepal is the impressive treks and ridges. Whether your stay is long or short, do not give up on the experience.

It is important to choose a reputable travel agency, take a guide, and even a porter to help carry the equipment so you can enjoy the route.

Most popular treks in Nepal:

Everest base camp.

Duration of the trek: 12-18 days

Experienced hikers will be able to enjoy a trek that reaches as far as the base camp at the foot of the mountain.

A more challenging route of the trek includes the Kala Patthar and crossing the tracks between 5,360 m and 5,550 m.

The route is a kind of collection of observation points on the various ridges, the most prominent of which is Mount Everest.

Annapurna circuit

Duration of the trek: 10-14 days

The trek revolves around the Annapurna ridge area which is part of the Himalayan mountain range. The circumferential route and the heights in it vary and so do the diverse landscapes you will encounter along the way.

The trek is defined as a light-medium level and includes a 5,416 m high strip.

Annapurna Base Camp

Duration of the trek: 8 days

During the trek you will pass the heart of the Annapurna Reserve and reach a peak of 4,000 m. The view that will accompany you on the way will be the mountains that the best climbers in the world try to conquer every year.

The Langtang Trek and the Frozen Lakes

Duration of the trek: 7-14 days

You can perform the trek in combination or choose one of the routes.

The Langtang Valley is mostly identified as a glacial valley where the landscape alternates several times from green to the route of snowy mountainous terrain.

You can combine a trip with a visit to the frozen lakes located at an altitude of 4,000 m, a spectacular view when the water of the lakes turns to ice, especially in the winter months.

how to choose which one?

The various treks have different degrees of difficulty and comfort and last several days to several weeks.

Everyone will be able to find a trek that suits his physical ability, the time he has left, and his pocket.

All popular treks have a lively movement of people, and you will get to know travel partners easier.

Although these are touristy treks, they do not detract from the charm of trekking in Nepal and the impressive Himalayan ridge.

For those who travel alone in Nepal, especially for the first time, and intend to go on a trek alone, it is worthwhile to go on one of the most visited and famous treks I have mentioned here.

On these treks, You will surely get to know people and gain tremendous shared experiences.

try adrenaline activities

Nepal is best known for the quality rafting it offers to many travelers. Streams of varying difficulty and hikes start from several hours and last several days.

You will not have to worry about equipment, everything is included through the various travel agencies in Pokhara and Kathmandu.

Apart from rafting, you will find in the Kathmandu Valley a bungee jumping site alongside the possibility to learn to kayak on the Bhote Kosi River or paragliding in the Pokhara area.

visit nature reserves

Apart from the nature reserves in the mountainous area of Nepal, you will find two interesting reserves located in the south of the country, in the flat Trai area.

The Radiyya Nature Reserve and the Chitwan Nature Reserve offer an introduction to wildlife such as elephants, tigers, rhinos, birds, and more. They can be reached through an organized trip from one of the agencies in the cities or independently.

Volunteering

Nepal is a third-world country, one of the poorest in the world.

Western tourism that comes to it helps the local economy, but the best help comes from the actions of tourists who join the various organizations in the country and volunteer to give their time and energy for the benefit of the weak population.

Do some shopping

You can buy everything here cheaply.

In addition to a variety of handicrafts and handicrafts, you will find climbing and trekking equipment, cameras, spices, clothes, and more in Nepal.

For travelers whose time is limited and limited, it is advisable to know in advance which trek they want to do.

Some go trekking independently, and some choose to take a guide or porter who knows the way.

Porter is a local whose main job is to carry the equipment for you (it is important not to overload it too much).

The porter is well versed in the route and will help you find good places for accommodation and food.

Sometimes the porter will take you to a place you may not like, for the reason that he gets free meals there or that his friends are there.

The porter must be attentive to your needs.

Did you come to Nepal alone? Did you go out with partners, and things did not work out? Don't worry.

Nepal is a friendly country for travelers alone, women and men alike.

The Thamel in Kathmandu and Lakeside in Pokhara, are packed with travelers all day long. Including countless restaurants and inviting travel agencies, where you can leave a sign (many do this), and even while wandering or shopping you may meet your next partner.

Did this happen, and you did not find a partner?

Do not be afraid to go out alone with Porter - on the trek you will meet lots of travelers!

Whether during the walk or at your accommodation that day, you will stay in small villages where most hikers sleep in the same places, and it is impossible not to know people.

If you go on a trek around Annapurna, after 2-3 days, you will already know all the hikers who started the trek in your time.

As mentioned, I traveled to Nepal alone and met lovely people already on the first day of the trek.

I left Kathmandu for the Annapurna circuit trek alone, and I was a little apprehensive at first if I met people, and it was easier than I thought.

Already on the jeep from Kathmandu to the village where the trek begins, I met amazing people who had a quick connection between us, and we went the whole trek together, and we stayed together for the rest of my trip in Nepal.

Beyond that, even on the trek itself, I met a lot of people each day, and for a moment, I did not feel alone.

Of course, I'm talking about touristy treks like the Annapurna circuit trek or the Everest Base Camp trek, that many hikers from all over the world come to do.

So do not be afraid to visit Nepal alone, you will never feel alone, and you will have the opportunity to meet enough people along the way and make new friendships.

* It is important to emphasize

You need to have a TIMS card and a national park/conservation area permit to enter and trek in these areas. But all parts of these regions are not safe.

The more frequent trekking routes are advisable to trek alone but I recommend you not to trek alone in Nepal.

Nepal is not like Europe or other places in the world where you can easily go trekking alone without any worries.

When trekking in Nepal, you need to make sure that there will always be people around you, even if you do not know each other, they can help you if something happens to you.

On popular treks, it is rare to be alone, but in any case, never try to cross a mountain pass when you are alone!

If life is important to you, be responsible enough, and stick with one group or someone else.

Of course, I traveled alone to Nepal, but I never had a day when I hiked alone in Nepal.

There were always people around me, whether it was the partners I met or other hikers in sight.

It is important not to underestimate this because no matter how much experience you have in trekking, trekking in Nepal is a completely different thing than what you are familiar with.

Local communication and local SIM card

It is easy to connect to WiFi in the accommodation and restaurants, and even on the touristy treks (Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp), there is WiFi available.

Of course, in the mountains, the wifi will be slow and temporary, and sometimes even expensive.

It's very convenient to walk around with a local SIM.

Where to buy a local SIM in Nepal?

You can buy a SIM at the airport in Kathmandu - at the exit of the airport, there are stalls of the two Nepali cellular companies.

It's a little more expensive than buying in Thamel, but not significant.

There are two companies - NCell and NTC \ Namaste.

As long as you're not on the trek, it really does not matter.

In the Annapurna area, it is better to use NTC, and in the Everest area, it is better to use NCell.

How do you communicate on treks when there is no reception?

Satellite messenger device.

It is a device that allows sending a distress signal in case of emergency, and to send an 'everything is fine' message to the family.

Not everywhere on the trek, there is cellular reception, and there are places where you would like the opportunity to be in communication for your safety.

This is why more and more travelers today want to take a satellite device for their trip, especially if they are traveling alone.

Important to note!

* Do not go on a trek alone without a satellite device.

* Do not go on a trek alone without insurance that includes extreme locating and rescuing.

Even if you have maps, lots of experience, and have done a lot of research.

If you catch altitude sickness, lose your way, or fall - the satellite device can make the difference between life and death.

I'm not saying these things to scare you, but to be alert enough and understand what you're heading for.

I met enough people during the trek in Nepal who thought they were brave and could do anything, and they thought they could not get altitude sickness and eventually realized this the hard way.

Trek in Nepal is not a scary thing, and it is a fun and wonderful thing. But it is important to know all the possible scenarios and be prepared for them accordingly.

The Himalayas attract many adventurous hikers.

In addition to them, the flowing rivers are a sought-after, exciting rafting attraction.

This means that many visitors to Nepal will experience adventures that involve a certain risk.

It is important to choose an insurance policy that will cover the various activities in Nepal.

No one wants anything bad to happen to him during the trip. But if this happens, you should have health insurance and not be left helpless in a foreign country.

Travel insurance to Nepal must include challenging activities, locating, and rescuing.

The culture in Nepal is not similar to the Western world, therefore gestures and deeds that we think are simple and natural, are sometimes considered insulting and inappropriate by Nepalis.

For the most part, they will not say anything, but the locals will greatly appreciate and respect the travelers who will behave according to their culture.

Dress: Nepalis believe that in Nepal, you should dress like Nepalis. Short or bare clothes are not well received as well as intimate contact between a man and a woman.

Naked or shirtless walking is unacceptable.

You may notice men or women walking hand in hand or hugging members of the same sex, but this shows intimacy and not the sexual background.

Conversation: When meeting people, greet each other by saying Namaste which is accompanied by clasping hands on each other. This action blesses the person standing in front of you, and the Nepalis respect those who practice this way.

Behavior: Do not touch the head of another person (especially children), do not pass over someone sitting lower than you.

In receiving and giving objects or money, it is customary to use both hands or the right hand with the left palm resting on the right elbow.

Behavior in temples: Shoes should be removed and left at the entrance to temples.

When passing near or around a stupa, temple, or walls with prayer wheels, should be done clockwise.

Smoking is not allowed inside them, and a modest donation is welcome.

Photography: Ask permission before photographing people and holy places.

Respect the privacy at public ceremonies and events (especially cremation and bathing in the river).

Table manners: Eating around the Nepali table is done with the right hand. Mix the food, turn it into lumps using the five fingers, and inhale from the palm to the mouth.

Because the right hand is dirty from the food, the left hand is used to drink, add food, etc. However, in tourist restaurants, cutlery is served.

Useful sites and apps for a solo trip to Nepal:

12GoAsia - The best site to book tickets for public transport, buses, and trains in Nepal and Asia.

Booking.com - Comparison of hotels and accommodations

Hostel World - the best site for booking a hostel and dorms

Skyscanner - Compare prices of flights to Nepal at attractive prices

Xe currency - Currency conversion app

Maps.me - Navigation offline.

You can download the maps in advance to navigate offline, very useful.

You can use the App even on various treks!

Y.r - Weather. I use it all over the world.

Tripadvisor - recommendations for places to eat, accommodation, agencies, and more

Safety Wing - Travel insurance for Nepal

Final thoughts on a solo trip to Nepal

In my case, the decision to travel to Nepal has always been there.

I knew I wanted to get to this fascinating country and walk to the foot of the Himalayas.

Today after I have already visited Nepal alone, I can say that it is the best thing I have done.

I met amazing people in Nepal, had tremendous experiences, charming trekking partners, and got to know a fascinating and different culture from what I know.

As with any trip I take, when I go on a trip alone, I always know people from different places in the world, and ages, and that is what is beautiful about traveling alone, and Nepal is no different in this matter.

Now all you have left is to look for an attractive flight ticket, organize a bag, do not forget to take a camera of course and visit one of the most beautiful and fascinating countries in the world!

Thank you for reading!

Read My Other Blogs:

12 best reasons to visit nepal

Scotland road trip Itinerary for 14 days

How to plan the ultimate norway road trip

15 most amazing places in Norway

2 days in bergen norway

8 most scenic routes in norway

3 Day Madrid Itinerary

how to spend weekend in Amsterdam

2 weeks in sicily: the perfect sicily road trip

how to spend 3 days in prague

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Roaming through Nepal: A Road Trip Guide!

Buckle up! A wild journey awaits in Nepal

Are you ready for an adventure unlike any other? Nepal, the land of the Himalayas, offers an amazing and diverse landscape that is perfect for a road trip. Pack your bags, buckle up, and get ready to explore the scenic routes and amazing sights that await you in Nepal.

With winding roads, jaw-dropping views, and stunning natural beauty, Nepal is a road trip paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this guide will help you plan the perfect road trip through Nepal.

===The best routes for a road trip in Nepal

Nepal has plenty of options when it comes to planning a road trip. The most popular routes include the Kathmandu-Pokhara-Chitwan circuit, the Annapurna Circuit, and the Everest Base Camp trek. Each of these routes offers unique sights and experiences that are sure to make your road trip unforgettable.

The Kathmandu-Pokhara-Chitwan circuit is a classic route that takes you through some of Nepal’s most popular destinations. This route will take you through the bustling city of Kathmandu, the lakeside town of Pokhara, and the peaceful jungle of Chitwan. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to see stunning mountain views, experience local culture, and even spot some wildlife.

The Annapurna Circuit is another popular route that takes you through the Annapurna mountain range. This route is known for its breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and charming mountain villages. Along the way, you’ll also have the opportunity to trek through the world-famous Thorong La Pass, one of the highest mountain passes in the world.

The Everest Base Camp trek is the ultimate adventure for those who are looking for a challenge. This route takes you through the Khumbu Valley, where you’ll have the opportunity to see some of the highest peaks in the world, including Mount Everest. Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to visit local monasteries, experience Sherpa culture, and trek through stunning mountain landscapes.

===From mountains to temples: Must-see stops along the way

No road trip in Nepal would be complete without stopping by some of the country’s top attractions. From ancient temples to stunning natural wonders, Nepal has something for everyone.

Some of the must-see stops along the Kathmandu-Pokhara-Chitwan circuit include the Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, and the Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most important Hindu temples in the world. In Pokhara, be sure to check out the stunning Phewa Lake and the World Peace Pagoda. And in Chitwan, take a jungle safari to spot rhinos, tigers, and other wildlife.

Along the Annapurna Circuit, be sure to stop by the charming village of Manang and the stunning Tilicho Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. And on the Everest Base Camp trek, don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit the Tengboche Monastery and the Khumbu Glacier.

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime

A road trip through Nepal is an adventure unlike any other. From the stunning mountain views to the ancient temples and charming villages, Nepal has something for everyone. So pack your bags, buckle up, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. With this guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip through one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

Most Reliable Trip Booking Site

Best places to take a road trip in Nepal

Nepal is a country of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a diverse topography that makes it an ideal destination for road trips. The country is home to some of the most picturesque roads in the world, which offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas, serene lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush green valleys.

Here are some of the best places to take a road trip in Nepal:

Kathmandu to Pokhara: This is one of the most popular road trips in Nepal, and for good reason. The road between Kathmandu and Pokhara is a scenic route that passes through beautiful countryside and charming villages. Along the way, you will see stunning views of the Himalayas and the lush green forests of the region.
Kathmandu to Chitwan: Another popular road trip is the journey from Kathmandu to Chitwan. The road passes through the Terai region of Nepal, which is famous for its wildlife and jungles. The road is dotted with small towns and villages, and you will see many traditional Nepalese houses along the way.
Kathmandu to Lumbini: Lumbini is the birthplace of Buddha, and the road from Kathmandu to Lumbini is a journey through history and culture. Along the way, you will see many temples and monasteries, as well as stunning views of the Nepalese countryside.
Mustang Circuit: The Mustang Circuit is a popular road trip for adventure-seekers. The road is challenging, but the rewards are worth it. The circuit takes you through the Upper Mustang region of Nepal, which is a remote and isolated area with a unique culture and history.
Kathmandu to Namche Bazaar : The road from Kathmandu to Namche Bazaar is a journey through the heart of the Khumbu region. The road takes you through small villages and past Buddhist monasteries, and you will see stunning views of the Himalayas along the way.
Pokhara to Jomsom: The road from Pokhara to Jomsom takes you through the Annapurna region of Nepal. The road is a challenging one, but the views of the mountains and the countryside are breathtaking.
Karnali Highway: The Karnali Highway is a remote road that takes you through the Karnali region of Nepal. The road is challenging, but the rewards are worth it. The road takes you through stunning countryside, past waterfalls, and through charming villages.

In conclusion, Nepal is a country of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, and a road trip through the country is an experience like no other. Whether you are seeking adventure, culture, or simply a chance to explore the beauty of Nepal, there is a road trip for you. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the journey through this incredible country.

What are you looking for?

Our ultimate 3 week nepal itinerary: the best places in 2024.

Nepal was the last country on our 3 month stint travelling through Asia in 2018.

After 3 weeks in India and 3 weeks in Sri Lanka , we were excited to visit the homeland of the infamous Himalayan mountain range and, of course, Mount Everest.

As well as this, it was a pleasant break from the heat of the south and we were eagerly awaiting the cool, clean mountain air of Nepal.

But with limited time to explore the country, we had to plan our trip carefully and design a 3 week Nepal itinerary that allowed us to visit all of Nepal's most famous areas, as well as provide a potential opportunity to go hiking in the Himalayas.

Well, after 3 weeks in Nepal, I can safely say that we achieved all of our aims in designing a route that allowed us to see everything we wanted … and more!

So sit back, relax and dig into the perfect 3 week backpacking route around Nepal .

Travellerspoint

A quick bit about Nepalese visas

Like most countries in Asia, Nepal requires tourists to secure a visa before being allowed into the country.

For us, and most people, this means flying into Kathmandu airport and filling out a visa upon arrival.

When you enter the arrivals building in the airport, the entire layout is actually very confusing.

But, there is a 3 step process to follow.

Keep walking through until you discover the table containing thousands of small white forms. You will need to fill one of these out first of all. It is possible to fill out the bigger form, but to do so you need a photo. We actually wasted 5 minutes filling these big forms out unnecessarily because it is so unclear as to what you should be doing in there!
After you fill out the small form, keep heading forward where, on the left, you will see 4 or 5 machines. Wait in the queue and, when it's your turn, you will need to re-input all of your details into this and then have your picture taken.
Once done, it will print out a slip. Take this and your original form and head to the ticketing counters straight ahead and pay your fee. Afterwards, you can go to one of the official desks where your passport is stamped and you are free to enter Nepal.

A quick word of warning …

Through the website claims that they take most major currencies, it is actually illegal to use Indian Rupees in the airport.

We arrived with the necessary sum in Indian rupees after an official at the airport in Delhi assured us this was ok.

Well, it's not, and we were stuck with a whole bunch of worthless Indian currency.

Instead, we were able to use our card to pay.

It was $USD40 each and this is for a one month visa.

For up to date visa fees for all nationalities, check out the official page here .

The perfect 3 week Nepal itinerary circuit

We started our 3 week Nepal route in Kathmandu, as I imagine most people do.

This itinerary is slightly different from the exact one we took.

But I have tweaked it slightly because, after taking the direction we did, I think that this arrangement of stops and nights in each one makes the most sense.

Here’s a map of the ideal 3 week Nepal backpacking route ...

Stop 1: Kathmandu - 2 nights

There are quite a few temples and other religious sites to see in Kathmandu, so it’s worth taking a couple of nights here to explore them.

Also, after a presumably long flight here, it’s unlikely you're going to want to jump straight on a 8 hour bus and head to your first destination.

It’s a good city to get your bearings, book your bus tickets and see the sites.

Also, once you’re done exploring the rest of Nepal, Kathmandu will be the least appealing place to stay!

It’s highly polluted and incredibly busy, so it’s good to get it out of the way.

Where we stayed in Kathmandu: Hotel Amaryllis

Stop 2: Pokhara - 3 nights

Pokhara turned out to be my favourite city in Nepal.

The best place to stay is in the outskirts of the city by Phewa lake.

Here, you will find tonnes of hotels and even more bars and restaurants all in a massive strip back from the lake.

You could stay here for a month and eat in another restaurant each night and, best of all, they are all so cheap.

There’s plenty to do in and around Pokhara, so I recommend taking one day to walk up to the Peace Pagoda , head out onto the lake and pursue the souvenir stalls all through town.

You can take another day for a day walk out to a popular local area like Sarangkot.

And another day could be spent doing something a little more high octane, such as white water rafting, taking a helicopter ride or paragliding near the Himalayas.

More importantly, Pokhara is the perfect landing point for heading out hiking into the Annapurna region.

Where we stayed in Pokhara: Hotel Tulsi

Stop 3: Annapurna trek - 7 nights

The Annapurna region is a massively popular hiking spot in Nepal.

There are a total of 30 peaks that are above 6,000 metres high, with one being more than 8,000 metres.

Whilst in Pokhara, you’ll see perhaps 50 tour companies in town, all of which offer Annapurna hiking tours ranging from 2 days to 7 days and more.

The Annapurna Circuit is quite a popular route, but it takes up to 2 weeks and can, apparently, be very physically taxing.

In this 3 week Nepal itinerary, I’ve allowed for 7 days of hiking, but you could easily skip out one or two other stops if your main reason for visiting Nepal is hiking and you want to take a bit longer.

Stop 4: Lumbini - 2 nights

Once you’re done hiking, it’s time to head south to Lumbini.

This is an incredibly important spot in Nepal for one key reason: it's the birthplace of Buddha.

Every year it attracts thousands of international tourists and thousands more Buddhist pilgrims.

You’ll find a whole bunch of temples in Lumbini and there’s plenty to see in two days.

But it is also a nice place to relax for a night or more after your long, tiring time spent hiking further north.

Stop 5: Chitwan (Sauraha) - 3 nights

After leaving the cold mountainous Annapurna region just a few days before, you will feel like you’re in an entirely new country when in Chitwan!

It’s time to get the t-shirts and sunglasses out and bask in the sunlight.

To me, Chitwan seems like a small town that must have exploded in popularity in the last 5 or 10 years.

There is a main strip now filled with a good few dozen restaurants and cafes, not too unlike Pokhara.

But the most popular reason for going here is to explore the Chitwan National Park and try to spot a whole range of jungle animals; like leopards, elephants and rhinos.

As a side note, they do offer elephant riding and washing most mornings down by the lake.

We went there and were shocked by how many tourists still seem to think it’s OK to ride elephants ; all whilst a trainer is there stabbing the poor creatures in the side with a bullhook.

Alternatively, make the most of your time in Chitwan by booking onto a 2 or 3 day jungle safari, either by jeep or on foot.

Where we stayed in Chitwan: Wild Horizons Guest House

Stop 6: Kathmandu - 1 night

After the long bus ride back from Chitwan, take it easy and relax.

There are no more long journeys ahead seeing as your final stop, Nagarkot, isn't very far from the city.

I recommend taking any time you have here to peruse the market streets in Thamel and pick up any souvenirs or gifts for friends and family back home.

It is entirely possible for you to skip this stop and as soon as you arrive back from Chitwan, book a taxi straight out to Nagarkot.

Stop 7: Nagarkot - 3 nights

As it’s only 1.5 hour drive away, this is a nice way to end your trip after a number of unpleasant bus journeys across the country.

We chose to get a taxi from Kathmandu to Nagarkot and, for reference, the fair going rate is 2500 rupees.

On our outward journey I managed to get it for 2000 rupees, but once we arrived I ended up paying 2500 instead.

Though it’s not massively far, the road out there is really awful and I felt the driver deserved the extra 500 rupees for his effort.

The last half of the road into Nagarkot is in almost complete disrepair.

Apparently, the government have been saying they will fix it for years now but, like most things in Nepal, it appears road construction runs very slowly.

But once you’re there you’ll feel like you’re in a world away from Kathmandu!

You are higher in the mountains, and you get wonderful views of the Himalayan mountain range.

On some clear days, you can also see Mount Everest far in the distance.

Well, that is of course, if you’re not us!

For the 2 nights we were there, there was mist all day long so we only got to see a couple of peaks.

Also, be aware that only the most expensive hotels in Nagarkot have heating. It is very, very, VERY cold (the climate is completely different to Chitwan)

But as long as you spend your day out hiking and enjoying the local trails, then you’ll be warm.

Where we stayed in Nagarkot: Everest Window View

Total = 21 Nights = 3 Weeks

How do you get around Nepal?

You have a few different options when it comes to getting around Nepal. These include:

Buses are the most common and most affordable way to get to and from all of the spots listed above.

You can pick up affordable bus tickets in all major cities and, as long as it's not a peak season, you can usually get bus tickets all the way up until a day or 2 before leaving; at least in December this was the case.

Do be warned that the roads in Nepal are perhaps the worst we have seen anywhere in the world.

They are notoriously deadly and a number of buses do go over cliff edges every year. And it’s really no surprise when the drivers of the local tourist buses drive like lunatics.

It's not uncommon to see buses and cars overtaking each other on sharp bends with massive drops.

As such, make sure you book onto a trusted, high quality tourist bus, rather than local buses.

Finally, if like us you suffer from motion sickness, then take anti-sickness pills beforehand and prepare yourself, as the journeys in Nepal take twice as long as everywhere else; purely because of how winding and hilly all the roads are.

2. Private car

On the way from Chitwan to Kathmandu, we ended up hiring a private car to drive us.

This was because Cazzy had seriously injured her foot the day before and needed to get to a hospital to get it x-rayed; we figured a private car would be much quicker and less bumpy.

Which turned out to be true!

Instead of paying 800 rupees each, we paid 4,500 each for a modern, 4x4 vehicle that turned out to be very comfortable and about two hours quicker than bus.

So if money’s not an issue, then I would highly, highly, HIGHLY recommend this option.

Though we never took this mode of transport ourselves, there are a large number of small airports located all across Nepal.

Yes, it does cost a lot more money to fly, rather than drive from places like Kathmandu to Pokhara; however, it is a lot faster and more comfortable.

You can read more about internal air travel in Nepal in this article .

Planning the perfect 3 week Nepal itinerary for you

Though this 3 week itinerary through Nepal suited us well, it can, of course, be changed to suit your needs!

For example, if you are more interested in hiking and have no desire to see temples or monuments, then I recommend getting out of Kathmandu as fast as possible.

You could instead spend more time in Pokhara, doing a longer hike and also skip out on Lumbini.

There are plenty of other backpackers I know who would much rather spend a few nights more in Nagarkot, simply because it’s so quiet and peaceful and offers plenty of relaxing day hikes.

So before settling on your own 3 week Nepal itinerary, I recommend deciding exactly what it is you want to gain from your time in Nepal.

You can then adjust your duration in each place to suit you best and make the most of your limited time in this truly breathtaking country.

If you have any more questions or suggestions about places to visit in Nepal, then please do let me know below!

Also, be sure to check out:

Our 90 Top Travel Tips!

Let us know what you think.

5 million people can't be wrong

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Kathmandu Airport Guide

Top Destinations in Nepal

One Week in Nepal

Tipping Guide

Getting Around

Top Things to Do in Nepal

Complete Guide to Kathmandu

Top Things to Do in Kathmandu

Top Things to Do in Pokhara

Sacred Sites

Amazing Festivals

Top National Parks

Must-Try Food

Annapurna Circuit

Manaslu Circuit

Himalaya Trail

Facts About Mt. Everest

Trek to Everest Base Camp

Your Trip to Nepal: The Complete Guide

There's a lot to love about small, landlocked Nepal, with its numerous wildlife-filled national parks, ancient Hindu and Buddhist cultures, and more than its fair share of the tallest mountains on Earth . Sandwiched between India to the south and China (Tibet) to the north, the South Asian country's landscape and culture shares similarities with its neighbors, but is also distinctly different. And, despite looking small on the map, its mountainous geography and limited road networks mean that Nepal is stunningly diverse. Popular among trekkers and mountaineers, Nepal is also a fun destination for families, couples, high-budget travelers, and anyone else looking to be surprised and impressed.

Nevertheless, Nepal is a low-income developing country and faces some serious infrastructure challenges. Travelers will have a better time if they're not in a hurry and learn to go with the flow. Here are some important tips for getting the most out of your trip to Nepal.

Planning Your Trip

Best time to visit : For most outdoor activities in most parts of the country, the best time to visit is from September to November, and from March to May. Winter (December to February) is comfortable at lower altitudes. Traveling during monsoon season (June to August) is not advised, except to areas in the Himalayan rainshadow (Mustang, Dolpo, and others).
Languages: Nepali and Newari in Kathmandu. Elsewhere, many indigenous and regional languages are spoken, including Maithili, Bhojpuri, Tharu, Gurung, Tamang, and Sherpa. English is spoken as a second language by educated professionals in the main cities.
Currency: Nepali Rupee (NPR)
Getting around: Take domestic flights for longer distances, local and tourist buses between the main cities, and private taxis within cities and along major highways.
Know before you go: Not all of Nepal is at high altitude. It ranges from not much more than sea level on the plains bordering India to 2,700 feet in Pokhara, 4,600 feet in Kathmandu, and 29,000 feet at the summit of Everest. This means how you pack and what you wear should depend on where you're going, and in which season.

Things To Do

Nepal is famous as a mountain adventure playground, and whether you're into high-altitude mountain climbing or gentle walks in the hills, you'll find it. In addition to hiking, you can go whitewater rafting and kayaking, paragliding , zip lining, bungee jumping, and more. But you don't have to be ultra-athletic to enjoy Nepal, as the towns and cities offer cultural and artistic attractions, while the national parks have wildlife safaris and bird watching.

Go trekking. Trekking trails follow the mountainous paths that Nepalis have been using for centuries, and range from lower-altitude day walks near the main cities to multi-week adventures high in the mountains.
Tour the temples of Kathmandu. Nepal's capital, Kathmandu , is an ancient city that has traditionally been at the crossroads of trade routes and culture. Its combined Hindu and Buddhist traditions can best be seen in the multitude of temples throughout the Kathmandu Valley, including Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and the Durbar Squares in Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur.
Join a jungle safari. Spot rhinos, crocodiles, elephants, monkeys, birds, deer, and perhaps even the Royal Bengal Tiger in Nepal's jungle parks, including Chitwan, Bardia, and Koshi Tappu.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on sacred sites in Nepal , national parks in Nepal , and the Great Himalaya Trail .

What to Eat and Drink

The staple foods of the Nepali diet are rice and lentil curry, a dish called dal bhat. Most Nepali people will eat dal bhat at least once a day; it may be a simple meal of just rice, lentils, and a pickle, or it may be a more elaborate affair with vegetable and meat curries (chicken, mutton, or buffalo), salad, curd, papad, and fruit. Dal bhat is available in restaurants and food establishments throughout the country, and may have regional variations in the type of lentil or vegetables used. Nepali curries are generally much less creamy or buttery than those eaten in neighboring Northern India. Vegetarianism isn't that common, although vegetarian food is easy to find (vegan food less so).

Nepali cuisine also has Tibetan influences, and a favorite snack among Nepalis belonging to various ethnic groups is Tibetan momos. These are small dumplings filled with meat or vegetables and served steamed, fried, or in a soup.

In terms of alcoholic beverages, locally produced beer brands are popular everywhere (particularly Gorkha and Everest brands), but in rural areas it's more common for locals to drink and serve homemade rice wine, called chhang or raksi.

Where to Stay

Almost all visitors to Nepal will arrive in, or pass through, Kathmandu. In the capital, the central Thamel district is most popular with travelers—this is where the greatest concentration of hotels, tour companies, restaurants, and shops can be found. Other areas with good quality hotels and guesthouses include Patan, Boudha, Lazimpat, and Bhaktapur.

Beyond the capital, Pokhara and the small towns around the Chitwan National Park are popular and offer a good range of accommodation, from high-end resorts to mid-range hotels and homestays. Pokhara is an especially scenic city because it's set on a lake (Phewa Tal) and is right beside the Annapurna range. Should you stay here, try to get a room with a lake and/or mountain view. Safari lodges around Chitwan often offer all-inclusive packages, or at least jungle safari services for an extra fee.

In rural and mountainous areas, it's not hard to find accommodation, but standards vary enormously. "Teahouses" offer basic accommodation in popular trekking areas, usually with private rooms, shared toilets, and home-cooked meals.

Getting There

Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport is the only international airport in Nepal. Direct flights arrive from a variety of Asian and Middle Eastern cities, including Istanbul, Dubai, Qatar, Delhi, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore. To reach Nepal from further afield, such as North America and Europe, it's usually necessary to connect to a flight from one of these other cities first. There are also regular flights to/from Lhasa (Tibet) and Paro (Bhutan).

To enter Nepal overland, there are a number of border crossings along the India border, and limited options on the northern border with China (Tibet). Long-distance buses operate from Delhi , but these can take more than 30 hours, so are only a good option if you're on a very tight budget. Other buses can be taken from places in Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh , Bihar, and West Bengal states in India. Be aware, though, that some border crossing points are only open to Nepali and Indian citizens (it's an open border). Citizens of other countries are only permitted at a few select crossings.

The land border with Tibet is only really a possibility if you've arranged a Tibet tour with a Nepal or China-based tour company, and shouldn't be relied upon as a general entry point. The border is often closed, with little or no notice, by the Chinese authorities.

Culture and Customs

You'll rarely, if ever, be pressured into leaving a tip, but it is certainly welcome as most Nepalis earn very low wages. When tipping in a restaurant, it's polite to round up the bill to the nearest round number, or to leave about 10 percent in change. When tipping a guide, porter, driver (except short-distance taxi driver), or someone else who has provided you a service, it's better to give this to them directly, at the end of their service. If you give it to their company with the request that the tip be passed on, there's a high chance your guide won't receive it. Again, about 10 percent of the total cost of the service is appropriate.
Nepali culture is quite traditional, so it's appropriate to dress modestly. Women will generally feel more comfortable covering their shoulders, chests, and knees with loose-fitting clothing. Men should avoid wearing tank tops as these are considered underwear. In Kathmandu and Pokhara, you will likely see young Nepalis of all genders wearing modern clothes, but the vibe is more conservative in small towns and villages.
Tourists are generally allowed in temples, but be respectful. It's not a great idea to get your camera right up into someone's face as they go about their daily rituals. A few temples, such as Kathmandu's Pashupatinath and Patan's Krishna Mandir, prohibit non-Hindus from entering certain sections, but these are signposted. When visiting a Buddhist stupa or passing a mani stone wall in rural areas, always pass it on its left. This is the custom, and not doing so is rude.

Money Saving Tips

Nepal is a good value destination and prices are generally low, although not as low as some other South and Southeast Asian countries because of the logistics of transporting goods to Nepal.

In general, the higher you go in the mountains, the more expensive food becomes. A meal that could be bought for $5 in Kathmandu will likely be double that in Namche Bazaar or elsewhere high in the mountains. Budget accordingly, with cash, as there are few-to-no ATMS away from the main roads.
When taking a taxi a short distance, such as from the airport or between tourist attractions, settle on a price with your driver before starting out. Ask at your hotel what the price should be. You'll still probably be charged an inflated tourist fare, but you'll save yourself some stress if you agree on a price beforehand—meters are rarely used (or in working order).

How to Travel From Delhi to Kathmandu by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Your Trip to Kathmandu: The Complete Guide

The Top 20 Things to Do in Nepal

The Top 15 Destinations in Nepal

The Top 10 Dishes to Try in Nepal

15 of the Most Beautiful Sacred Sites in Nepal

Where Is Mount Everest?

The Most Colorful and Interesting Festivals in Nepal

One Week in Nepal: The Ultimate Itinerary

The Most Beautiful National Parks in Nepal

The Best 12 Hikes in Nepal

How to Go Teahouse Trekking in Nepal

The Weather and Climate in Nepal

The Best Time to Visit Nepal

How to Trek Nepal's Manaslu Circuit

20 Top Things to Do in Diverse India

Nepal Road Trip Route Plan

In the second part of our blog post series of our Nepal trip in partnership with OYO Rooms , we talk about our Nepal Road Trip Route Plan!

The Nepal Road Trip Route Plan

Day 1: delhi to lucknow.

We set out from Delhi bright and early. We didn’t expect the first day to be very taxing as it was still the plains after all. We had one of the best roads ahead of us, a clear sky and 6 lanes of pure tarmac to Lucknow, our first pit stop on our Nepal road trip route plan.

The Yamuna Expressway

We had planned the entire trip on the ScoutMyTrip platform. So we knew where to tank up and where the restaurants were concentrated. So a quick breakfast and on wards we went.

The Lucknow expressway has no petrol pumps on it. Period. Every gas station is at least a 4-5 km detour and would take an additional 30 mins or so. So we tanked up after the 2 nd toll from Agra.

We reached the hotel, duly appointed by OYO Rooms in Lucknow , checked in and were raring to go try out the Lucknowi cuisine. This is where Saumya and her local knowledge helped! Saumya was able to feed us with the best and tastiest kababs from the famous Tundey Kababi and top it all up with some sumptuous kulfi and also fill up our heads with the stories of the rich heritage that Lucknow boasts. A city really worth spending time in, which was a good call for our Nepal Road trip route plan.

A quick visit to the Bara Imambara and a serene walk through the Bhool Bhulaiyya and we were ready for more food! The evening was spent sampling the famous chats on the streets of Lucknow.

Bara Imambara

This is another feature that we have been working on since ScoutMyTrip was conceptualized. We believe that the local flavor cannot be experienced unless there is a local person telling you what’s in trend and what’s not at the time of your visit. The idea of the platform is to bring together the traveler and the local so that they can help each other. We tested this in Lucknow and it paid great dividends!

Day 2: Lucknow to Gorakhpur

Early next morning, we had a sampling of the famous Chai of Sharmaji with round samosa (blasphemy!) and bun maska before proceeding towards Gorakhpur on our Nepal road trip route plan.

While planning the route, we found that we would pass Ayodhya and Faizabad. With a detour of less than 20-30 kms we could see both these famous locations. We didn’t need too much convincing and took the turns. Being aware of these detours is a key and essential part of the road trip experience. Being in control of what you can see and do is what separates the road trip from other types of holidays! We definitely loved both these stops on our journey.

We reached Gorakhpur late in the evening and after a quick meeting and briefing of what was in store the next day, we hit the sack.

Day 3: Gorakhpur to Kathmandu

We were aware that the roads to Kathmandu weren’t great. Our community of travelers had asked us to reach the border early so that we can get the permits and quickly start our journey. Rains and slush awaited us on the other side of the border at Sanauli and the locals in Gorakhpur advised us to reach the turning at Narayanghat before 12pm so that we can cross it before it closes for construction on a daily basis.

Well we planned for this and were able to reach there by 11:30, but as they say, man proposes but god disposes. The road was shut down that day at 11! A quick enquiry at the local police station gave us an alternate mountain route through Hetauda . The locals kept pointing to smaller shortcuts that would help us reach Kathmandu faster, but the roads kept deteriorating, till we were on just rocks and slush. Luckily both Vineet and I were experienced in driving in the mountains and we managed the long arduous journey. Here again, choosing the right vehicle for the journey matters. In today’s world where the humble Alto or Maruti 800 has travelled to Khardung La, it’s not as if the vehicle won’t reach the destination, but safety and comfort does matter. The Scorpio that I was driving was a power horse and climbed the steep inclines with ease. Stones and slush didn’t matter and it seemed to love the mountains. Vineet however had the Eco Sport and that was a struggle. The petrol version to boot, the small SUV would often get stuck in the gravel and we would need to come out and drag the car out of the deep muck it got caught in! These small nuggets of information that the community and road trip experts can add on each route would definitely help the road tripper be better prepared!

Nepal Entry Gate at Sanauli.

We finally reached Kathmandu, 300 kms in 18 hours. Back breaking drive, but strangely rejuvenated! We had passed by some absolutely stunning vistas and the sight of the newest property of OYO Rooms was one for sore eyes. Stunning exteriors were not only matched by the clean and neat rooms but also bettered by the warm smiles and service that the team at the hotel gave us. It was very comforting to see a smiling face at the end of a tiring journey and we really appreciated it.

Day 4 and 5: In Kathmandu

Day 6: kathmandu to gorakhpur.

After spending two days exploring beautiful Kathmandu we began our return journey. We didn’t want the same experience of the mountain roads again, and decided to leave earlier to pass through the Narayanghat roads which was a change to our earlier Nepal road trip route plan.

The roads on this side of the mountains were definitely better & wider but that also meant traffic. The drivers of large buses and trucks were forever trying to overtake from the wrong side of the road, and this is something you really need to be careful of! We made slow progress, where at one point, we took 3 hours to cross 20 kms. That’s how bad the traffic was.

Entering India coming back from Nepal

Slowly but steadily we reached the border and like a switch was turned on, the road conditions improved drastically! We got down on the Indian side of the border and literally kissed the tarmac! No more bumpy roads, no more body rolls, just plain beautiful roads! Suddenly the few potholes here and there didn’t seem so bad.

Night halt was at the same hotel in Gorakhpur as part of our Nepal road trip route plan.

Day 7: Gorakhpur to Agra

We again left early next morning, took the expressway and decided to go all the way to Agra. We were passing through UP and the Taj beckoned! One of our community experts had suggested that we look at a different angle while photographing the Taj and Ami, wanted to do this before the sun sets. So we decided to set the pace. We reached just in time to get the pics and boy, did they justify the breezing through!

The next day, our community got to click the Taj in the first light, before the crowds started coming in. Our stay again was in an OYO Rooms and this was a new concept where they had taken a house and converted that into a managed apartment. The property was walking distance from the Taj, and close enough to the Sarafa bazaar where the food joints are concentrated. They took care of all our creature comforts and had even provisioned for an inverter for the frequent power outages that Agra is famous for. Kudos to the team here!

The Taj Mahal Image. Credit: Ankit Sharma

Day 8: Agra to New Delhi

The last day of a road trip is always a bitter sweet one! We were heading home, the adventure was ending. We had spent a good 8 days exploring the roads, the culture and the food of each of the places we visited as part of our Nepal road trip route plan.

Delhi, Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Kathmandu, Agra, and many many smaller towns along the way. None of these would have been possible if we hadn’t planned for our cars on Nepal road trip route plan.

Till date, I maintain that if we need to explore the country side of this beautiful nation, the roads are the best bet. The local flavor and the taste of the country cannot be seen or experienced in any other way.

Sure, you can fly down to Lucknow to eat the chats, but to get lost in the streets of Ayodhya, to drive through the small lanes of the spice alley of Gorakpur, to find yourself in the mountains of Nepal, to capture the beauty of the Taj at twilight, you need to mingle with the people and travel on the roads of India. Not only does this enrich you, it brings the travelers closer to each other. I believe that I have made friends on this trip that I will cherish for the rest of my life, and that is possible only by traveling on the roads together…

In our earlier blog, I introduced the main protagonists of the Nepal road trip. If you haven’t read that, I would recommend starting your journey with us from the previous blog: The Community on the Nepal Road Trip .

You can read more about all the experiences we had during our road trip on these blog posts:

By ThrillingTravel

My Epic Indo-Nepal road trip – from Delhi to Kathmandu
Nepal Pashupatinath Temple, Kathmandu

By Magictravels

A memorable road trip – Part 1
A memorable road trip – Part 2

By RoadToTaste

Delhi to Kathmandu – 2500 km Enroute to OYO with ScoutMyTrip
OYO Rooms gets a new home in Kathmandu – Hello Nepal
Places to visit in Kathmandu

By the SaltAndSandals

A Food and Cultural Trail in Lucknow
The different types of OYO rooms on my way to Kathmandu

By CrazeMag

OYO Rooms 001 Kathmandu , a great base for your Capital trip in Nepal
Bhaktapur Nepal : The Serene City of Devotees , Culture & Heritage

By 365DaysOfBliss

The Most Epic Road Trip From Delhi To Katmandu | Clothing Edit
Lucknow Food Trail : 6 Best Places You Must Try When In Lucknow
Exploring Kathmandu In 48 Hours

Need help planning a road trip ? Check out our road trip planner!

Deepak Ananth

Deepak Ananth is the co-founder and CEO of ScoutMyTrip. A Traveler, wannabe chef, lover of fine scotch and finer rum (old monk) and story teller. Deepak’s earliest road trips were with his dad in the trusty old Ambassador. He rides a Royal Enfield 500cc bike. His fondest trip was to Shillong from Mumbai and back. Totally over 5000 kilometers in 20 odd days.

Nepal Road Trip With The Community

10 things you can do on a long weekend.

Finally got around to reading this DeeLux and what an account of the trip. Thank you for breezing through to Agra – just so that we could capture the moment at the right time. I know that I would have had regrets if I had missed that one. Reading through this has left me with nostalgia – something that will always get me going #AageSeRight.

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[…] because I was quite clueless. So, I read up so much, I did a lot of planning, I researched on the route places to see cities to break your journey. It was really hard and then to get the team together […]

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You use a very beautiful images, all images is so attractive. I really appreciate the work you have done, you explained everything in such an amazing and simple way.

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The Rediscovery of Nepal: A Road Trip

Somewhere along the way, people forgot to take the road to Nepal.

The capital Kathmandu was for long associated with hippies seeking Nirvana, but Nepal was classier than that. Its forests were the hunting grounds for royalty and the elites from all across the world. It may a abhorrent idea today, but we are talking of a different era. Adrenalin seekers got their high in Nepal – it could be scaling Mount Everest and other peaks, or exploring the many trails of the Himalayas. For Hindus and Buddhists, a pilgrimage to Nepal has been important to their faith.

And then things changed. Economic issues were always there in this impoverished landlocked state but that did not deter tourism. The mass assassination of the royal family, struggles in establishing an efficiently functioning democracy and political unrest for decades took its toll. Tourism plummeted. Nepal lost. But the loss to travellers who stayed away was no less.

Because Nepal is a country that has to be visited. Once, and then again. It is safe to travel to – always has been. The Nepalese have hospitality in their DNA, and you want to be served by them. And become their friend as they show you their wonderful country.

DRIVING INTO NEPAL

I live in New Delhi, the capital to India – not too far from the Nepalese borders depending how you perceive distances. To put it in perspective: I headed out at the crack of dawn in my car, crossed into Nepal a little after noon, and was driving my own car inside the Shuklaphanta National Park tracking rhinos well into the twilight hour. The heavy woods and tall grasses took on a golden hue and the skies turned red and orange and eventually dark grey before I drove out of the reserve. I could not have asked for a better welcome to what would turn out to be a memorable road trip.

Over three weeks, I savoured a traveller’s buffet. Wildlife, rivers, lakes, temples, festivals, people, history, architecture, mountains, artists, coffee – my plate was full. And yet every course whetted my appetite for more.

SHUKLAPHANTA NATIONAL PARK

My first stop was Mahendranagar, close to the reserve, just across the border from India. The hotels there are modest but camps have now come up in the park. The 305 sq. kms. reserve is home to about 24 mammal species and 350 bird species. Animal sightings are not so common but the jungle is a delight to be in anyway.

Additional excursions included a walk across the Dodhara Chandani pedestrian suspension bridge, one of the longest in Asia at 1.45 miles (2.3 km) connecting far-flung villages across the Mahakali river, and off-roading to the relatively obscure Lake Betkot with blue and green waters dedicated to Hindu God Shiva.

BARDIA NATIONAL PARK

Bardia is a natural heritage we all have to treasure. For long, it was a hunting ground for Nepal’s royal family and their rich and powerful friends; it was declared a national park in 1988. Spread over 968 sq. kms. (100,000 hectares), it is home to 53 species of mammals including the Royal Bengal Tiger and the one-horned rhinoceros and over 400 species of birds and several varieties of reptiles and water animals.

Having been promised Gangetic Fresh Water Dolphins and wildlife sightings, I signed up for a 28 kms (17 miles) cruise down the Karnali river running along Bardia. I was disappointed not to spot any dolphins – human activity has pushed them to the verge of extinction. But it was still a delightful day out with many birds including the Rudy Shelducks giving us company. The clear blue waters and the silence had a calming effect on me.

Next stop was Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and believed to be the birthplace of the Buddha in 623 B.C. The central attraction is the sacred garden with its Maya Devi Temple named after Buddha’s mother Queen Mahamaya or Maya Devi; a pillar has been erected by King Ashoka to mark this sacred spot. There are ancient excavations inside including a marker stone depicting the exact spot where Buddha was born and a bas-relief of Mayadevi.

Lumbini is one of the four important places associated with the life of Buddha, the others being Bodh Gaya (where he attained enlightenment), Sarnath (where he first preached) and Kasia (where he passed away and attained Nirvana). The Sacred Garden is a massive complex with elaborate monasteries built by many countries including Germany, China, Thailand, Myanmar, South Korea, Nepal and India. Hop on to cycle-rickshaws to navigate the town.

Tansen was a famous Hindustani classical singer in the court of Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, but what I savoured in this town by the same name were the touching Gandharva songs sung by Til Bahadur Gandharva at a Shiva Temple on a mound; notes from his sarangi added soul to his vocals. The temple, located in Bhairavsthan outside town, has a golden Trishul (trident – a weapon of Lord Shiva) boasted by locals to be the biggest in the world. Want a high? Ask the priests for some ganja (cannabis). I am not kidding.

Tansen itself is a pretty town, home to the culturally rich Newars, a prominent trading community. The town on a hill with its undulating cobblestoned streets and houses with exquisite doors and windows make for pretty picture postcards.

I rate Pokhara as the single best place to visit for travellers in the Indian subcontinent. Settled around the beautiful Fewa Lake at an altitude of 3,000 feet with the 23,000 feet high Machhapuchre (Fish Tail) peak dominating the landscape, the setting leaves you starry-eyed. Treks on the Annapurna circuit, whitewater rafting, paragliding and other high adrenalin adventure await you here. You can put your feet up and enjoy true espressos and yummy wood fired oven pizzas in restaurants offering fine dining at reasonable prices. I could not help shopping for the finest collection of Tibetan artefacts. Early morning is the time to hike up to the Peace Stupa for a panoramic view of Pokhara as the rising sun lights up the area.

BANDIPUR AND GORKHA

And then I chanced upon Bandipur, a lesser known gem of the country and once an important trading town; the Newars of Bhaktapur had settled here in the 1800s. A no-vehicle zone, you can amble along its streets interacting with locals including children who always seem happy. Spend the night at boutique lodges like the Old Inn. Take a hike to the Siddha Caves, supposedly the biggest in Nepal. A short drive away is Gorkha, a historical town, where the famed Gorkha soldiers come from. I could not see the local palace there, being a particularly heavily rainy day.

On the way, I stopped for a cable car ride up to Manakamana Temple; the way below seems like a dessert bowl serving clouds with snow-capped peak jutting out of those. Whatever your religious views, go up there for wonderful panoramas.

It was with a sense of excitement that I drove into Thamel, the ‘tourist badland’ of Kathmandu. Much sobered down with political troubles keeping backpackers away, Thamel is still the place for the best of coffees, food and shopping in Nepal – with sex and drugs being peddled for those needing a headier cocktail. In between the fun, a visit to Patan is a must. Known as the ‘City of Fine Arts’ the structures in the PatanDarbar Square are dated 16th century onwards; most were built during the reign of King Siddhi Narsingh Malla (1618-1661 AD), the first independent Malla dynasty king of Patan. Don’t miss the Patan Museum, with its fine displays depicting the history of the city. No less impressive is Bhaktapur with its temples and courts and a potter’s village where you can see how clay items are produced. Unfortunately, both these cities suffered extensive damages in the massive earthquake of 2015.

Follow this with a visit to Pashupatinath, the most revered of temples for Lord Shiva in the world. And if you are lucky like me, you will be there on Shivaratri when a million devotees and sadhus go there to pray and fast. You can even pick up some marijuana sticks for Rs. 10 each as a ‘prasad’ or offering to Lord Shiva from these ‘holy men.’

CHITWAN NATIONAL PARK

Getting to the Tiger Tops resort inside Chitwan National Park turned out to be one interesting ride. Parking the car at Meghauli airport – where only charter flights land and cattle graze much of the day – I was taken in World War II period Land Rovers up to a river, crossed it in a shallow row-boat and hopped on to another vintage Land Rover (I could have chosen an elephant too). It is another matter that all lodges inside the core of the reserve have since been asked to shut down and relocate to the periphery.

If you want to go off the grid and yet enjoy some fine things in life, go to Chitwan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the forest in a 4-wheel or on foot – but watch out for any grumpy rhinos. Cruise down the Rapti and Narayani rivers with crocodiles, ghariyals and birds for company – and locals fishing for dinner.

End the great journey with a sundowner – fully aware that there will be another morning when you will find yourself driving to Nepal.

APPROXIMATE DISTANCES / TIME TAKEN * Delhi – Shuklaphanta Wildlife Park (in Mahendranagar): 360 kms (225 miles) / 9 hours (Add one hour for border formalities) * Shuklaphanta Wildlife Park – Bardia National Park: 160 kms (100 miles) / 2:30 hrs * Bardia – Lumbini: 340 kms (212 miles) / 6:30 hrs * Lumbini – Tansen: 80 kms (50 miles) / 2:30 hrs * Tansen – Pokhara: 130 kms (81 miles) / 3:30 hrs * Pokhara – Bandipur: 78 kms (49 miles) / 2 hrs * Bandipur – Gorkha: 50 kms (31 miles) / 1:10 hrs * Gorkha – Kathmandu: 150 kms (94 miles) / 4 hrs * Kathmandu – Chitwan National Park (Meghauli Airport): 180 kms (112 miles) / 4:30 hrs Note: The above are actual driving times and do not include any stops, delays etc.

2 thoughts on “The Rediscovery of Nepal: A Road Trip”

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Nepal itinerary: how to spend one month in Nepal

This post helps you in planning your Nepal itinerary. Nepal is a unique and memorable country. Most people know Nepal because of the Himalayas. But the country has so much more to offer than mountains alone.

Its natural beauty is outstanding and much more diverse than you would think. From lush tropical jungles, rolling hills with terraced rice paddies, high-altitude deserts and frozen glaciers.

Any Nepal itinerary can include a wide range of outdoor activities, including trekking , hiking, white water rafting, and paragliding. It also offers a great opportunity for wildlife safari and birdwatching.

Nature is one of the main reasons to visit Nepal , but there is lots of culture as well. Nepal is a multicultural country with a rich history and cultural heritage, reflected in its many temples, shrines, monasteries, and palaces.

Your Nepal itinerary

Since 2006 I have visited Nepal a couple of times. Everytime my Nepal itinerary was different. Besides the tourist highlights like the Annapurnas, the Everest and Kathmandu there are also plenty of lesser known places to explore.

In my experience, you would need at least one month in Nepal to see the major highlights and do one of the famous treks in the Himalaya.

A one Month Nepal itinerary

Day 1-2: kathmandu.

Kathmandu is the capital and largest city of Nepal. Most start their Nepal itinerary here and only stay enough time to arrange the permits for their treks. But Kathmandu is certainly worth a couple of days.

Kathmandu is home to a number of historical sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Durbar Square. It is changing fast and while modern shopping malls pop up everywhere, you can also still find lots of traditional architecture in the small backstreets. Throughout the city you will find ancient temples, shrines and stupas.

Kathmandu also offers plenty of opportunities to experience local culture and traditions. From trying Nepalese food, staying with a Nepalese family in a homestay, watching prayers at the local temples to participating in festivals and celebrations.

In other words it is a great start to any Nepal itinerary and a good introduction to the country. Kathmandu is also a great base to explore the ancient Kathmandu valley

Day 3: Bhaktapur

One of the most recommended day trips from Kathmandu is the old Newari city of Bhaktapur. Bhaktapur is often referred to as the “cultural gem” of the Kathmandu valley. The main square is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is home to a number of temples, palaces, and other historical buildings.

The city has some of the most beautiful traditional Newari architecture, which is characterized by intricate wood carving, brickwork, and pagoda-style roofs. walking through the streets of Bhaktapur feels like a journey back in time.

You should certainly visit Bhaktapur during one of its local festivals. The Nepali new year called Bisket Jatra as well as Gai jatra are celebrated with lots of festivities. During the festivals, large wooden chariots are paraded through the streets, accompanied by music, dance, and other performances.

If you have time for only one day trip in your Nepal itinerary, let it be Bhaktapur.

Day 4-5: Kathmandu valley

Bhaktapur is not the only day trip possible from Kathmandu. The beautiful Kathmandu valley has plenty of charming and authentic villages that you can visit if you have more time in your Nepal itinerary.

The Kathmandu valley is at the heart of the ancient Licchavi dynasty that ruled the valley from the 5th till the 8th century as well as the Malla dynasty from the 12th till the 17th century.

These ancient kingdoms have left behind hundreds of medieval temples, shrines and palaces. The indigenous Newar people still have their own culture and follow ancient customs that are very different from the Hindus that came to the Kathmandu valley later on. It was only in the late 18th century that Hindu king Prithvi Narayan Shah conquered the valley and it became part of present day Nepal.

Kathmandu became the new capital of Nepal and changed tremendously. However, the rest of the Kathmandu valley kept its own ancient traditions. The Newari architecture with its intricate wood carvings and multi roofed pagoda style temples is still present in many of the villages of the valley.

Day 6-7: Bandipur

In Between Kathmandu and Pokhara you will find Bandipur . A must stop in your Nepal itinerary if you travel in between these cities.

Bandipur is one of the few traditional Newari towns outside of the Kathmandu valley. It’s only been a few years that tourism is promoted here and due to its distance from the capital it gets only a handful of visitors. As a result, the town has an authentic feel and offers a good insight into the well-preserved Newari culture.

Bandipur is a charming village with traditional architecture and beautiful views of the surrounding hills. The village is only 1000 meters high, which is not high for Nepal. However, it is one of the highest points in the valley.

Bandipur is on a ridge with beautiful views all around you. The stunning sunsets and sunrises are one of the reasons to spend at least one night in the village. During the day you can explore one of the easygoing hikes or you can visit one of the nearby caves.

Day 8-9: Pokhara

Almost every traveler includes Pokhara in their Nepal itinerary. Pokhara is the gateway to the Annapurna mountains. The city itself isn’t particularly beautiful, but it is a great place to relax and unwind after a trek. Because of the relaxed atmosphere, travelers often stay a couple of days.

Pokhara offers everything that a backpacker might want. Cheap places to stay, good food, spas, yoga courses as well as adventure sport centers. Paragliding is hugely popular, but you can also arrange white water rafting trips or kayaking trips.

At the heart of Pokhara is the scenic Phewa Lake that is a popular spot for boating and swimming. Here you have beautiful views over the Annapurna mountains.

Day 10-12: Chitwan

Chitwan National Park is a protected area in the southern part of Nepal. It is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna and a popular spot for wildlife watching when backpacking Nepal.

The park is particularly known for its population of Bengal tigers and rhinoceroses, as well as other wildlife such as leopards, crocodiles, and over 450 species of birds. It is the best place in Asia to see the one-horned rhinos in their natural habitats.

Chitwan Park is a popular tourist destination. You can choose from a variety of activities including jungle safaris and canoeing on the Rapti and Narayani rivers.

Day 13 – 30: Himalaya

Most people go to Nepal to see the Himalayas. One of the reasons that I recommend at least one month in Nepal is that this allows you to do one of the tea house treks that Nepal is famous for.

The most popular treks are the Annapurna Circuit trek and Everest Base camp trek. Other treks include the Poon hill trek, the Gokyo lakes trek or the Langtang trek.

I often get the question whether to go to the Everest region or Annapurna region. A very difficult choice as both are spectacular. I might have a small preference for the Annapurnas due to the cultural aspect and the bigger diversity in landscapes. That said, the Gokyo Lakes trek in the Everest region is one of my favorite treks too.

In this Nepal itinerary you have two weeks for trekking. This is tight for the Everest and Annapurna Circuit trek. I would actually recommend at least three weeks to give you enough time for acclimatization as both treks go over 4000 meters.

If you prefer treks that don’t go that high I would suggest the Poon hill trek in the Annapurnas or the Langtang trek . These treks are more realistic if you have only two weeks.

Nepal itinerary extensions

Bardiya (4-5 days).

Bardiya National Park is located in the Terai region of western Nepal. It is considered as one of the most remote and undisturbed wilderness areas in Nepal.

Bardiya has a large population of Bengal tigers, as well as other wildlife like the Asiatic elephant, greater one-horned rhinoceros, Gaur(Indian Bison), crocodiles and swamp deer. It is also a bird watcher’s paradise and home to over 500 species of birds, including the endangered Bengal florican and Sarus crane. Bardiya is a remote and rural area with traditional Tharu villages. The indigenous Tharu people are famous for their hospitality and welcoming nature, which makes visiting a Tharu village a truly unique and memorable experience.

Bardiya National Park is less touristy and commercialized compared to Chitwan National Park, which makes it a great place for those looking for a more secluded and authentic wilderness experience.

Sustainable Travel in Nepal

Nepal is seeing more tourists every year. While Tourism is a welcome source of income it can also have negative consequences. Traveling sustainably in the country, involves conscious choices that minimize your environmental impact and support the local community.

Support the local community : You can support the community by purchasing goods and services from local vendors, artisans, and restaurants. It is better to try Nepali Cuisine that uses local ingredients rather than imported foreign foods. Nepali food is vegetarian friendly and it is very easy to follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Stay in small scale sustainable hotels : It is also better to stay in locally-owned guesthouses or homestays to support the local economy directly. These accommodations often have a more positive impact on the environment compared to large hotels.

Nepal has a number of community based tourism initiatives with excellent homestays. Where possible, I can recommend staying in a homestay for an authentic cultural experience. You might want to bring a small book with pictures of your family to break the ice.

You can try to look for guesthouses or homestays that prioritizes sustainable practices. That said, environmental awareness is still low. It’s up to you to use water sparsely, turn off lights, air conditioning, and heating when leaving your accommodation.

Use public transportation : Nepal has a well-developed public transportation system with buses and minivans. Opt for public transport, whenever possible, instead of taxis or private cars to reduce carbon emissions. Avoid internal flights. The journeys on road might be long, but the views are spectacular.

Leave no Trace principle : Nepal is famous for its natural beauty and mountains. When hiking, stick to designated trails when they are there, avoid disturbing wildlife or picking plants, and leave no trace of your presence. Ensure you take all your trash back with you and dispose of it responsibly.

To avoid single-use plastics, invest in reusable items. For example, you can bring your own water bottle with a filter that you can refill at your accomodation. At last, use biodegradable and eco-friendly personal care products to minimize pollution of water sources.

Respect the culture : Besides environmental concerns it is also important to respect the culture. Nepal is an incredibly multicultural country with different ethnicities that each speak their own language. Nevertheless, it is good to learn about common local customs and traditions beforehand and be mindful of your behavior.

People will appreciate it, if you dress modestly, especially at religious sites. Learning a few basic phrases in Nepali, can go a long way in building meaningful connections and to learn more about the local culture. Not everybody is happy to have their picture taken. When in doubt, ask permission.

Disclaimer : This post with a one month Nepal itinerary contains affiliate links. If you buy any service through any of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support!

Adventure Road Trips

The popularity of road trips is multiplying in Nepal. With the extension of gravel roads, places that were once only accessible by foot are now accessible by vehicles. Road trips are particularly beneficial to people who have a minimal amount of time or want to avoid the hassle of long treks.

Most of the remote areas of Nepal now have full access to frequent buses, jeeps or private vehicles. One such prime example is the Upper Mustang region. We needed a staggering 15-16 day strenuous walk to reach Upper mustang ! But with the extension of roads upto Lo Manthang, many travel accommodations can complete the trip within less than seven days. The cases are alike for the Annapurna circuit , Rara Lake , and Jomsom-Muktinath route .

Don’t expect the roads to be full pitched though since the steep terrain and the lack of funding pose as a barrier. Most of these roads are rough, dirty, and give you the experience of a true mountainous terrain. The road leading to Muktinath acts as an exception though with pitch roads all the way to the top.

The expansion of roads to some of the remote places in Nepal has made travelling more convenient for fellow travellers. If you wish to avoid the long route of trekking and opt for a visit in a shorter duration, a road trip might be the perfect option for you!

Rara Lake Jeep Tour

2,990 m Max. Altitude
7 Days Trip Duration
Easy Trip Grade
US$ 850 Per Person

Jomsom Muktinath Jeep Tour

3800m Max. Altitude
9 Days Trip Duration
US$ 650 Per Person

Upper Mustang Jeep Tour (Road Trip)

4600 m Max. Altitude
8 Days Trip Duration
Moderate Trip Grade
US$ 2000 Per Person

Nepal & Bhutan Journey

18 days | discover the colourful world of nepal and captivating bhutan.

Journey into the heart of Nepal and experience the colourful sights of this enchanting region. Mingle with local villagers and craftspeople, visit temples and sacred Buddhist sites, travel the cobbled streets of tiny mountain towns and search for unique wildlife. From the whirlwind of Kathmandu to the lush jungle of Chitwan National Park, and with plenty of delightful hidden gems in between, you'll take an unforgettable tour of Nepal then turn your sights to Bhutan, known for its breathtaking natural scenery, quiet towns and few tourist numbers. This 18-day trip offers scenic delights, an insight into the local culture and plenty of adventure.

Trip overview

Take a jeep safari with a local guide in Chitwan National Park – a beauty brimming with exotic wildlife – and you may be lucky enough to spot rhinos or elusive leopards and tigers.
Visit a Tibetan refugee camp and get to know the community before taking on a cooking demonstration to learn how to create traditional momos (steamed dumplings).
Hike to Taktsang, commonly known as the Tiger's Nest, the small monastery clinging to a rocky cliff 900 metres above the valley floor, and soak in its magnificence.
Discover the 15th-century fertility temple of Chimi Lhakhang, and visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, an ancient fortress and religious centre that sits at the confluence of two rivers.
Experience Bhutanese hospitality in the Paro Valley when you enjoy a homecooked meal at a rustic farmhouse and opt to take a soak in a traditional hot stone bath.
By travelling on this trip, you'll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Forget Me Not. Donations help them provide job training, work experience and employment opportunities for young people who've grown up in institutionalised Nepalese orphanages.
While on a map we aren't travelling particularly far, the reality of road travel in Nepal and Bhutan is that things always take longer than you expect. Some roads will be bumpy, dusty, or even unexpectedly blocked requiring reroutes and plenty of patience. We fly the farthest distances to make the most of our time together.
Bhutan is a high-altitude destination, so taking it easy for a day or two makes for a much more comfortable trip. Drinking tea and water and avoiding strenuous exercise will help you acclimatise after arriving.
The trek to Tiger's Nest is quite vigorous but well worth the climb. Please ensure you bring sturdy walking shoes and comfortable clothes. To make the most of this hike, it's best if you have at least a moderate level of fitness.
Hotels in some destinations may vary in standard and facilities, and on occasion, hot water may be limited. There will be times when the location of our accommodation will mean it is practical to eat at the hotel restaurant rather than heading out for meals.
You will see tour operators offering elephant riding activities and many tourists taking part in them during your time in Chitwan. Intrepid Travel has a strong elephant welfare policy and as such we discourage travellers from riding elephants in Nepal or anywhere around the world. Please refer to the ‘Responsible Travel’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.

Namaste! Welcome to Nepal. Arrive in Kathmandu and take your complimentary airport transfer to the hotel. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm where you'll meet your trip leader and fellow travellers. The evening is free to explore the streets of Kathmandu, whose mixture of ancient architecture and modern development, and rich artistic and cultural heritage means it remains the legendary destination it has been for decades. Crowded markets and bazaars are the centre of Nepali life, and the narrow streets are home to holy men, monks, bicycles, incense, goats, and sacred cows. You may like to join your leader and group for an optional dinner at one of Kathmandu's fine Nepali restaurants.

There are no meals included on this day.

The arrival transfer is only valid if arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-trip accommodation through Intrepid. Please provide your flight details at the time of booking, or at a minimum 14 days before travel.

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Weather permitting, you'll have the option to take a Mount Everest scenic flight this morning. This experience will take you over Sagamartha National Park through a crescendo of the highest peaks in the world, getting up close to Mount Everest. After breakfast, you'll explore Kathmandu, visiting Pashupatinath, the most famous Hindu temple in the country, located on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. Here you'll see Hindu holy men (sadhus) meditating, pilgrims bathing and occasionally funeral pyres burning on the ghats. You'll also visit Bodhnath Stupa, one of the most significant Buddhist shrines in the world, where you can observe Buddhist monks in prayer in the monasteries surrounding the stupa. After lunch, it's time to explore Swayambhunath Temple (the Monkey Temple). A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of the city's most famous temples and fascinatingly reflects Buddhist and Hindu beliefs. From here, you'll head to Durbar Square, which sits at the front of the old royal palace. You'll get a chance to admire the beautiful temples and browse the stalls of merchant's wares. The evening is yours to explore the city as you wish.

Kathmandu - Pashupatinath Temple
Kathmandu - Boudhanath Stupa
Kathmandu - Durbar Square
Kathmandu - Swayambhunath Temple
Kathmandu - Everest scenic flight from - USD215

Today you'll leave your hotel early and hit the road to Pokhara in a private vehicle. Time to relax after you arrive. If you wish, you can stroll around and take in the views of the lake (Phewa Tal), which is the second largest in Nepal.

Your travel time today will be approximately 9-10 hours. We recommend to bring water for the travel and arm yourself with a little bit of patience as there might be some disruption on the road to Pokhara.

If you're an early riser, you'll have the option to wake up early and enjoy the sunrise over Sarangkot Hill this morning. Then, after breakfast, you'll visit the Peace Pagoda, where spectacular views of the mountains await. Take in vistas that span the Annapurnas to the famous fishtail peak, Machhapuchhare, and back to Pokhara. From here, you'll visit the fascinating International Mountain Museum to learn the amazing tales of past climbing expeditions – some ending in triumph, some ending in tragedy. After a morning of exploring, you'll head to a local Tibetan Refugee Camp for lunch. You'll hear stories of their journey from Tibet to Nepal, learn about local life and take part in a traditional cooking demonstration to find out how to make delicious momos (steamed dumplings). Of course, you'll sit down for a group lunch and tuck into the fruits of your labour. In the afternoon, you'll take a scenic boat ride across the lake (Phewa Tal). You can stretch your legs and check out Taal Barahi temple in the middle of the lake or simply admire the views from the boat.

Pokhara - Peace Pagoda
Pokhara - Tibetan community visit with momo lunch
Pokhara - International Mountain Museum
Pokhara - Sunrise from Sarangkot Hill
Pokhara - Phewa Tal Lake boat trip

Today you'll travel to Bandipur by private vehicle. This traditional Nepalese town is a natural treasure and one of the country's hidden gems. Bandipur was once an essential stop for traders travelling to Tibet, and the town's single main street is still lined with buildings that once housed a wide variety of merchants. Many of the buildings have been converted now, but their architecture remains. Enjoy a peaceful stay in this charming, rural location.

Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Enjoy a day of free time to explore Bandipur further. The surrounding hills are ideal for hiking along trails that will take you through tribal villages and hilltop shrines that once doubled as fortresses. Bandipur is saddled on a high ridge above Dumre, making for an exceptional view of the Himalayan panorama. You may prefer to visit the town's temples or relax with a coffee and a spectacular view.

Bandipur Day Trip

After breakfast, you'll drive to Chitwan National Park. After arriving and settling in, you'll be introduced to the camp staff and resident naturalists, who'll discuss the activities for the upcoming days. A late-afternoon safari will take you through forests and across grasslands to spot wildlife and explore the park. In the early evening, the local Tharu dance troupe may perform a cultural program. You'll enjoy dinner as a group and then the evening will be all yours – maybe relax in the bar and discuss the day's animal sightings or listen to the stirrings of the jungle at night.

Village Tour, Sunset view & Tipical Tharu Stick Dance(Cultural Show Around 30 Minute)

Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Embark on an early-morning excursion. This could include another safari to different parts of the park (in search of the great Indian rhino, deer and exotic birdlife) or joining one of the other activities available in the park. After breakfast, you’ll leave the lodge and go on a dugout canoe adventure on the Rapti River. This is an exciting trip with chances to catch a glimpse of marsh mugger crocodiles and various birds that inhabit the riverbanks. A program will be organised for the rest of the day and may include further excursions by jeep or a visit to one of the nearby villages.

Canoe Ride & Jeep Safari at The Chitwan National Park

If you’re an avid wildlife lover, an optional early-morning birdwatching safari is available today – a worthwhile addition to your trip. After breakfast, drive along the Trisuli River to Bhaktapur and enjoy a stop along the riverbank for lunch. Bhaktapur was once the capital of Nepal and the Great Malla Kingdom during the 15th century. Its rich heritage, inspiring temples and artisanal history played a big part in Bhaktapur being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy an evening of exploration on your own, soak up the lovely atmosphere in one of the local cafes, or simply relax in your hotel.

Chitwan NP - Bird watching tour

Your travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours.

Spend the morning exploring Bhaktapur's famous temples, starting at Durbar Square, which is said to be the most beautiful piece of art in Nepal. Durbar Square is home to the majestic Lion Gate and Golden Gate. You’ll also visit the Pashupati Temple – a replica of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu. In the afternoon, drive to Kathmandu. The evening is yours to spend as you wish – your group may like to head out for an optional final dinner as your Nepal adventure comes to an end.

Bhaktapur - Leader-led walking tour

Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour.

Your trip officially comes to an end after breakfast today. If you would like to stay longer, just speak to your booking agent.

After arriving at Paro Airport and making your way through immigration and customs formalities, you will be greeted by your guide and driver and warmly welcomed to the enchanting Land of the Thunder Dragon. Drive alongside mountains, rivers, and fields of red rice to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital city. If you arrive in the morning, you'll have lunch and then head out for some sightseeing. Stop in at the Nado Poizokhang Incense Factory, Bhutan’s most famous traditional incense maker, as well as the colourful Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre. If you arrive in the afternoon, you'll meet the rest of your group in the evening for a welcome meeting before heading out together for dinner. Take an evening wander through the fascinating streets of Thimphu, the world’s only capital city without a traffic light!

Hotel (1 night)
Thimphu - Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre
Thimphu - Nado Poizokhang Incense Factory

Today’s travel time from Paro Airport to Thimphu is approximately 2 hours.

Please provide your flight details at the time of booking, or at a minimum 14 days prior to travel, as we may not be able to confirm a request made within 14 days of travel.

Travel in Bhutan is strictly controlled and to do any independent travel outside of a group tour is extremely difficult and expensive to arrange. We provide a group visa for travellers on our tours in Bhutan, which stipulates that all travellers must arrive and depart on the same days that our tour program starts and finishes. Travel outside the tour dates on independent visas is not permitted, and additional nights of accommodation cannot be booked.

Today begins with a pleasant walk that meanders gently up the valley through paddy fields, pristine woodlands, and a Tibetan village, a trail that continues uphill (1 hour) to the Cheri Dorji Dhen monastery – built in 1620 by Shabdrung, the first ruler of Bhutan. Back in Thimphu, stop to enjoy the incredible views from the Buddha Dordenma before visiting Simply Bhutan, a living museum where you can explore the traditional homes and lifestyles of the Bhutanese. You may like to try your hand at archery, Bhutan's national sport. Stop by the National Memorial Chorten – many Thimphu residents consider this to be the heart and soul of the city and gather here every day to pray and walk clockwise around the chorten. Afterward, visit a local institute where students become masters of Bhutan's 13 national arts and crafts - from carpentry and masonry to paper making and embroidery. The incredible National Textile Museum is a great way to learn more about the history of craft in Bhutan and if you’re in the mood for a spot of shopping, the National Handicrafts Emporium offers high-quality traditional goods and a small family-run enterprise that manufactures paper and paper products using traditional methods.

Thimphu - National Memorial Chorten
Thimphu - Village walk to Cheri Dorji Dhen
Thimphu - National Textile Museum
Thimphu - Buddha Dordenma
Thimpu - Simply Bhutan Heritage Museum

This morning, drive to Punakha – the ancient winter capital of Bhutan. Stop at Dochula Pass for a breathtaking view of the eastern Himalayas, including Bhutan's highest mountain, the majestic Gangkhar Puensum. Continue the journey before taking another break. Enjoy a short walk to visit Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility temple built in 1499 by lama Ngawang Chogyel. Arrive in Punakha for a good night’s rest before another day of exploration tomorrow.

Punakha Valley - Chimi Lhakhang

Today’s travel time is approximately 2.5 hours.

After breakfast we head out on a short hike (1.5 hours) to Khamsum Yulley Monastery – an elaborately decorated chorten, built to ward off evil spirits and bring peace and harmony to all living things. As with many monasteries in Bhutan, your leader may need to hunt around for the caretaker with the keys to have a look inside! Afterwards, head down to the convergence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu Rivers, two of the main rivers of Bhutan, and admire breathtaking views of the majestic Punakha Dzong, the second oldest and second-largest Dzong in the country, as well as the cantilever bridge that spans across the river. Drive up to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery and take in the serenity and the views of this mountaintop site. Return to Punakha for the evening.

Punakha - Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten hike
Punakha - Punakha Dzong view & photo stop
Punakha - Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery

This morning head back over the Dochula Pass and continue to Thimphu. The roads in Bhutan are narrow, and while the distances don’t appear to be very far, due to the nature of the roads and the many valleys they pass through, travelling can take some time – so this is a good chance to relax and enjoy the passing scenery. After lunch continue into the Paro Valley, stretching your legs with an optional wander around town on arrival. Get a good night's sleep tonight as tomorrow will be an active and exciting day!

Today’s travel time is approximately 5 hours.

After an early breakfast followed by a short drive, prepare for your hike to see the legendary Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) – a magnificent monastery, clinging on a rock cliff 900 metres above the valley floor. After approximately 1 hour ascending the mountainside, reach a small teahouse that has a wonderful panoramic view of the temple and the ideal place to enjoy lunch. For those interested, it’s possible to get a closer view by hiking another 45 minutes to 1 hour (each direction) to reach the small chorten directly across from the temple. Anyone not interested in hiking any further can relax at the teahouse and enjoy the view. In the evening, after returning to Paro, experience Bhutanese hospitality and a taste of tradition with a home-cooked meal at a local farmhouse. Soak up the friendly atmosphere and consider taking an optional hot stone bath. A great way to relax after your hiking, this bath is a form of traditional Bhutanese medicine where fresh river water is mixed with local herbs and heated with fire-roasted river stones. A soak in these soothing waters is bound to revive and relax you.

Paro - Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) Monastery hike
Paro - Home-cooked dinner
Paro - Farmhouse hot stone bath

Today’s hike is quite challenging and good quality, comfortable shoes are required. Please remember to drink lots of water and wear layers as it gets quite cold as you ascend. Don't forget a sunhat! You will also be at 3120 metres above sea level so remember to take your time as altitude can have an impact.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before a departure transfer to Paro airport for your flight out of Bhutan.

Complimentary Airport Departure Transfer

16 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 8 dinners

Private vehicle, Plane

Hotel (12 nights), Guesthouse (3 nights), Lodge (2 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. Complimentary airport arrival and departure transfers are included. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 5,6,9 (Guesthouse) and Days 7,8 (Lodge) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 3. Entry to Bhutan is very strict and travellers can only enter Bhutan on a group visa as part of a tour. All travellers must arrive on Day 12 and depart on Day 18 to be eligible for a group visa. At time of booking, please provide your booking agent with a scanned colour copy of your passport, a scanned colour passport photo, proof of travel insurance that includes your name on the certificate. 4. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport). Fees may apply for adding or amending details within 60 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing new tickets. 5. Bhutan's airlines are renowned for last minute changes to flight timetables into and out of Bhutan. Please allow a minimum of 24 hours transit time before and after your flights into and out of Bhutan. Timetables are available on the Druk Airlines and Air Bhutan websites. 6. This trip includes international flights as indicated on the trip map. This flight has a luggage allowance of 20kg for check in luggage and 5kg for carry on. 7. The Sustainable Development Fee, charged by the government of Bhutan, is included in your trip price. It only applies to the days you will spend in Bhutan.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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An enchanting himalayan ghat road trip from raxaul to kathmandu, nepal.

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How to Go Nepal Tour from India by Road: A Comprehensive Guide 2023

Introduction

If you’re an adventurous soul seeking to explore the beauty of Nepal from India, going on a road trip can be an exhilarating and immersive experience. The journey from India to Nepal by road presents an opportunity to witness breathtaking landscapes, interact with diverse cultures, and create lifelong memories. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of planning and executing a road trip from India to Nepal, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable adventure.

How to Go Nepal Tour from India by Road: The Ultimate Road Trip

1. plan your itinerary.

Before embarking on your road trip, it’s essential to plan your itinerary meticulously. Consider the duration of your trip, the attractions you wish to visit, and the route you’ll be taking. Nepal offers a plethora of attractions, including Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, and Mount Everest, among others. Research these destinations, assess their accessibility by road, and decide how much time you want to spend at each location.

2. Check Travel Requirements

Before crossing the border into Nepal , ensure you have all the necessary travel documents. Indian citizens require a valid passport and an entry permit, which can be obtained at the border checkpoints. It’s also crucial to check the visa requirements and obtain the relevant visa for your stay in Nepal. Keep copies of your documents and identification handy during the journey.

3. Choose the Right Vehicle

Selecting the right vehicle is crucial for a comfortable and safe road trip. Opt for a sturdy vehicle with good ground clearance and sufficient storage space for your luggage and supplies. Ensure that your vehicle is in excellent condition, with regular maintenance and thorough checks before the trip. Carry essential tools, a spare tire, and an emergency kit for any unforeseen situations.

4. Plan Your Route

Choosing the right route is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Several routes connect India and Nepal, each offering unique experiences and scenic beauty. The most popular route is via the Sunauli border crossing, which connects Gorakhpur in India to Bhairahawa in Nepal. Research alternative routes based on your preferences and choose the one that suits your itinerary and convenience.

5. Understand Customs and Immigration Procedures

Familiarize yourself with the customs and immigration procedures at the border crossing points. Follow the instructions provided by the authorities and ensure that you have all the required documents for a hassle-free entry into Nepal . Be prepared for security checks and customs inspections to ensure compliance with the regulations.

6. Pack Essential Supplies

While on a road trip, it’s crucial to pack essential supplies to ensure your comfort and safety. Carry an adequate amount of water, snacks, and food items for the journey, as availability may vary along the route. Additionally, pack warm clothing, camping gear (if applicable), toiletries, and any prescribed medications you may need during your stay in Nepal.

7. Secure Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a vital aspect of any journey, providing financial protection against unforeseen circumstances. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other travel-related risks. Familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of your insurance policy to understand the coverage and make any necessary arrangements before your road trip.

8. Stay Updated on Road Conditions

Keep yourself informed about the current road conditions and weather updates along your chosen route. Check for any road closures, diversions, or construction work that may impact your journey. Stay connected to local news sources, online forums, or travel apps that provide real-time updates on road conditions. This information will help you to plan your Nepal trip accordingly and avoid any unnecessary delays or inconveniences.

How to Go Nepal Tour from India by Road A Comprehensive Guide

9. Safety First

Safety should always be a top priority during your road trip. Follow traffic rules, wear seatbelts, and drive responsibly. Be cautious while driving through unfamiliar terrains, especially in hilly areas or mountainous regions. Stay alert and avoid driving during adverse weather conditions. It’s advisable to have a basic understanding of vehicle maintenance and troubleshooting in case of any minor issues along the way.

10. Explore Enroute Attractions

One of the significant advantages of a road trip is the opportunity to explore enroute attractions. Break your journey into manageable segments and plan stops at interesting places along the way. Discover hidden gems, local markets, scenic viewpoints, and cultural landmarks. Immerse yourself in the local culture, try regional cuisine, and interact with the locals to enhance your overall travel experience.

11. Accommodation Options

Research and book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Nepal offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and homestays. Consider the location, amenities, and budget while making your bookings. Booking platforms and travel websites provide user reviews and ratings to help you make an informed decision.

12. Currency Exchange and Cash Withdrawal

Ensure you have enough local currency for your expenses in Nepal. Exchange Indian Rupees for Nepalese Rupees at authorized currency exchange centers or banks before entering Nepal. Additionally, carry a sufficient amount of cash for emergencies or areas where card payments may not be accepted. ATMs are available in major cities and tourist hubs, allowing you to withdraw cash if needed.

13. Language and Communication

While Nepali is the official language of Nepal, English is widely spoken in tourist areas. However, it’s beneficial to learn a few basic Nepali phrases to communicate with locals and show respect for their culture. Carry a phrasebook or use language translation apps to overcome any language barriers during your journey. Stay connected through mobile data or local SIM cards for communication and navigation purposes.

14. Explore Local Cuisine

Nepalese cuisine offers a diverse array of flavors and culinary delights. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in local delicacies and traditional dishes during your road trip. From momos (dumplings) and dal bhat (lentil soup with rice) to gundruk (fermented leafy greens) and sel roti (sweet rice bread), the gastronomic experiences in Nepal are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

15. Embrace the Adventure

A road trip from India to Nepal is not just about reaching your destination; it’s about embracing the adventure and enjoying the journey itself. Be open to new experiences, interact with fellow travelers, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the landscapes. Take photographs, document your memories, and create stories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

How to Go Nepal Tour from India by Road: FAQs

Q1: what documents do i need to travel from india to nepal by road.

To travel from India to Nepal by road, you will need a valid Id card like Aadhar Card, Votar Id or Pan card , an entry permit for your stay in Nepal. Ensure you have copies of these documents for ease of verification at the border checkpoints.

Q2: Is it safe to travel from India to Nepal by road?

Yes, traveling from India to Nepal by road is generally safe. However, it’s essential to follow safety precautions, drive responsibly, and stay updated on road conditions. Adhere to traffic rules and regulations and be cautious while driving through hilly or mountainous terrains.

Q3: Can I rent a vehicle in India to travel to Nepal?

Yes, it is possible to rent a vehicle in India for your road trip to Nepal . Several car rental companies offer cross-border services, allowing you to pick up the vehicle in India and drop it off in Nepal. Ensure you have the necessary permits and documents for cross-border travel.

Q4: How long does it take to travel from India to Nepal by road?

The duration of the journey depends on the route you choose and the traffic conditions. On average, it takes approximately 10-12 hours to travel from the India-Nepal border to Kathmandu by road. However, this can vary based on factors such as the chosen route, road conditions, and breaks along the way.

Q5: Do I need a visa to enter Nepal?

Yes, Indian citizens require a visa to enter Nepal. You can obtain a visa at the border checkpoints or apply for it in advance at the Embassy of Nepal or Consulate General of Nepal in your country. Ensure you fulfill the visa requirements and carry the necessary documents for visa application and entry into Nepal.

Q6: What is the best time to travel from India to Nepal by road?

The best time to travel from India to Nepal by road is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and favorable road conditions, making it ideal for a road trip. However, it’s advisable to check the weather forecast and road conditions before planning your journey.

Embarking on a road trip from India to Nepal is a thrilling adventure that allows you to witness the natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality of the Himalayan nation. By following the tips and guidelines provided in this comprehensive guide, you can plan a successful and memorable journey. From planning your itinerary to understanding the travel requirements, choosing the right route, and embracing the adventure, every step contributes to a rewarding experience. So gear up, pack your bags, and hit the road for an unforgettable Nepal tour from India by road .

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Exercise a high degree of caution in Nepal due to the risk of civil unrest and natural disasters.

Nepal (PDF 733.49 KB)

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 100 or go directly to the hospital.

Call 100 or visit the nearest police station. Alternatively, call the Tourist Police.

Traffic Police

Tourist police.

1144 – headquarters
470 0750 – Kathmandu
146 2761 – Pokhara

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Nepal.

A small number of incidents involving Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) occur annually, often associated with political events, such as election periods. Physical confrontations between rival political organisations can also occur. In November 2022, there were several small-scale explosions in Nepal.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. An attack could happen anywhere and at any time.

Political protests are commonplace and general strikes occasionally occur. Strikes can disrupt essential services. Don't visit government buildings during political unrest. Reconsider the need to operate a vehicle during strikes as it may be a target. Don't participate in public protests as it would breach your visa conditions, and you would be arrested and deported.
Pickpocketing and petty theft are common. Bag-snatching and 'snatch-and-grab' attacks by thieves on motorbikes occur. Keep your belongings close. Don't travel alone; females are at a higher risk of assault.
Travellers have been victims of armed robberies and assaults, including sexual assaults. Drink spiking often occurs before a sexual assault. Never accept food, drinks, gum or cigarettes from strangers. Don't leave your food or drinks unattended.
Nepal experiences earthquakes, landslides, floods and severe weather. Be prepared for a major emergency. Keep an emergency kit that includes first aid supplies and bottled water.

Full travel advice: Safety

Altitude sickness is a risk above 2,500m. It can be life-threatening. It can affect anyone, even people who are physically fit. Ensure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation from altitude. Some towns, including Kathmandu, have high levels of seasonal smog and pollution. Get medical advice if you have breathing difficulties.
Malaria is a risk in the Terai (plains) and Hill districts and Chitwan National Park. Consider taking anti-malarial medicine for these areas. Other mosquito-borne diseases are becoming more common, including in Kathmandu. These include dengue and Japanese encephalitis. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis before you travel.
Rabies is common. It's fatal without immediate treatment. Avoid dogs, monkeys and other mammals. Get medical help straight away if an animal bites or scratches you.
HIV/AIDS is common. Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.
Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are common. These include typhoid, cholera and hepatitis. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
Medical facilities in Nepal are very limited, especially outside Kathmandu. In Kathmandu, treatment at high-standard clinics is expensive. If you're seriously ill or injured, you'll need medical evacuation. Ensure your travel insurance covers this.

Full travel advice: Health

Don't use or carry illegal drugs. You may be offered illegal drugs in tourist areas. Penalties for drug offences are severe, including for possessing small amounts.
Be careful when taking photos. It's illegal to photograph army barracks, checkpoints and military personnel.
Don't participate in public protests as it would breach your visa conditions, and you would be arrested and deported.
It's illegal to convert people from their religion. Punishment can include jail. If you're suspected of trying to convert people, you will likely be deported and banned from re-entering Nepal.
Same-sex relations are legal. However, society is conservative. LGBTI travellers have reported harassment and discrimination. Avoid public displays of affection.
Nepal doesn't recognise dual nationality. Always travel on your Australian passport.

Full travel advice: Local laws

You need a visa to enter Nepal. Visas-on-arrival are available, but travellers should check with the nearest Nepal Embassy for details and conditions.
You no longer need to complete a pre-departure COVID-19 (PCR) test or show a vaccination certificate on arrival in Nepal.
Nepal is issuing trekking and mountaineering permits, but you should check with your intended tour provider on operations in the 2023 spring and autumn seasons.
The local currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Exchange foreign currency for NPR at banks and exchange bureaus in major centres. Major hotels and commercial centres accept credit cards. ATMs are uncommon in remote areas. Carry enough cash to cover your needs.
Only use registered taxis and authorised limousines. Taxi drivers often refuse to use meters and overcharge travellers. Negotiate the fare with the driver before you go. Avoid public buses and vans. They're overcrowded and poorly maintained. Intercity buses often have serious accidents. Women may be harassed on public buses.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

The Consular Services Charter details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
To stay up to date with local information, follow the Embassy's social media accounts.
For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Kathmandu .

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Civic unrest and political tension.

A small number of incidents involving Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) occur annually, often associated with political events, such as election periods. These attacks have caused deaths and serious injuries. Physical confrontations between rival political organisations can also occur.

These incidents usually don't target travellers, but you could get caught up in violence aimed at others.

Threats have been made against religious organisations in Nepal. This includes schools.

Demonstrations and protests

Calls for political protests, strikes and demonstrations sometimes are common. Violent clashes between protesters and authorities can occur. Avoid visiting government buildings during political unrest.

During strikes, authorities may enforce curfews at short notice in the areas that protests affect. This happens throughout Nepal.

Illegal roadblocks and enforced national or local strikes can occur. These happen without notice and continue for long periods.

Road travel can be dangerous. Protesters may forcibly stop vehicles, including taxis, or target them with projectiles.

Travel services may also be affected. This includes travel to trekking areas and outside of the Kathmandu valley.

To reduce your risks during strikes:

limit your movements - don't go out unless you have to

During periods of unrest:

avoid demonstrations, protests and other public gatherings
monitor the media for new threats, especially when political tensions are high
avoid affected areas
obey curfews
follow the instructions of local authorities

More information:

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Petty crime

Pickpocketing and petty theft are common, especially:

at tourist sites and airports
from hotel rooms

Bag-snatching and 'snatch-and-grab' attacks by thieves riding motorcycles occur. Victims are often injured.

Police have increased their presence in Thamel and Durbar Marg to reduce crime in these areas.

To reduce your risk of petty crime:

only carry a copy of the main pages of your passport, not the original
walk on footpaths away from the curb, with your bag held on the opposite side to the traffic
keep your personal belongings close, especially in crowded areas
avoid travelling alone, especially if you're a woman
never trek alone
If you're the victim of fraud or a scam, report it to local police immediately.

Violent crime

Travellers have been victims of armed robberies and assaults, including sexual assaults .

Victims of sexual assault often have their drinks 'spiked' before the assault. This happens in popular areas of Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Women are at particular risk, especially when alone and at night.

To protect yourself from drink spiking:

never accept food, drinks, gum or cigarettes from strangers
don't leave drinks unattended
if you aren't sure if a drink is safe, leave it
stick with people you trust when you're out

Get urgent medical help if you think you or a companion have had your drinks spiked.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

Cyber security when travelling overseas

To stay safe from terrorism:

be alert to possible threats, especially in public places and places frequented by foreigners
report any suspicious activity or items to the police
take official warnings seriously
follow the advice of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the area immediately if you can.

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities, such as trekking, paragliding, rafting or kayaking.

Paragliding accidents have caused serious injuries and deaths. Rivers can be unpredictable and dangerous, even for experienced kayakers and rafters.

Mountaineering can be dangerous. Some mountaineering expedition companies may hire inexperienced guides and save other costs in order to offer cheaper prices, including to climb Mount Everest. Carefully check a company's credentials and experience before you book.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

check if your travel insurance policy covers it
ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Trekking and mountaineering

With conditions, foreign tourists are permitted to enter Nepal for mountain trekking and mountaineering. All foreigners require a permit for trekking and mountaineering. Solo foreign trekkers are required to have a licenced trekking guide. Trekking is managed through the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) by:

Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN)
Nepal Tourism Board (NTB)

All foreign trekkers must have a valid TIMS card. This includes those not travelling with organised groups.

TIMS cards help authorities locate trekkers in case there's an emergency.

Get a TIMS card through:

authorised trekking companies
TAAN offices in Kathmandu or Pokhara
the NTB office in Kathmandu

Special regulations apply to mountaineering expeditions. All expedition members must have permits.

Get a licenced trekking guide through authorised trekking companies.

Trekking risks

Some trekking companies or guides may offer condensed treks. This is to attract travellers with limited time or budgets.

Shorter treks may not give you enough time to get used to high altitude. This may cause excessive physical strain and lead to significant health problems or death. See Health .

Make sure you have travel and medical insurance that covers:

the altitude you'll reach
altitude sickness
emergency evacuation by helicopter or other means

See Health

Research regulations that apply to trekking in the area, such as permits or registration. Confirm requirements through:

reputable companies in Nepal or Australia
an embassy or consulate of Nepal

Find out how long you need to safely complete your trek, especially at high altitudes.

A trek to Everest Base Camp should take at least 12 days from Lukla. This is the start and end points of treks in the Everest region.

Hire a trekking company with a good reputation and professional guides.

Don't trek alone. Solo foreign trekkers are required to have a licensed trekking guide.

Before you travel, check:

the security situation
route conditions
likely weather in the area

Be ready to change your plans.

For more information on trail conditions, check the Himalayan Rescue Association .

Let family or friends know about your plans. Tell them how long your trek will take and your route.

Medical evacuation

Sometimes trekkers are pressured into taking expensive helicopter evacuations. This can happen at the first mild signs of ill health, without having had a proper medical consultation.

In such cases, insurance companies have declined to pay for the evacuation. The trekker must then pay the cost.

Some people have reported cases of dishonest trekking guides deliberately serving contaminated food or water. The aim was to make travellers sick to justify their evacuation.

Individuals who arrange helicopter evacuations sometimes falsely claim to have checked with a trekker's insurance company.

Some travellers have been encouraged to provide false or misleading information to insurance companies about an evacuation.

If you become ill while trekking, confirm if your insurance covers evacuation costs. Do this yourself, if possible, before you agree to a helicopter evacuation.

Telecommunications

Telecommunications facilities are limited and can be unreliable, especially outside major cities and towns.

Mobile phone coverage doesn't exist in many rural and remote areas.

Essential supplies

Electricity supplies can be unreliable, including in Kathmandu. Unreliability increases during winter and in the lead up to the monsoon season.

Shortages of essential supplies can happen with limited notice. Essential supplies include:

Shortages can affect businesses, including hotels and guesthouses.

Climate and natural disasters

Nepal experiences earthquakes , landslides, floods and severe weather .

Major natural disasters can lead to:

injuries and deaths
disruptions to transport and essential services
damage to infrastructure
food shortages
health issues.

Be prepared for a major emergency. Keep an emergency kit that includes:

first aid supplies
water treatment tablets or stocks of bottled water.

If a natural disaster occurs:

keep your passport in a safe, waterproof location
monitor local media
keep in touch with friends and family
avoid unnecessary travel to affected regions.

Earthquakes

Nepal is in an active earthquake zone. Earthquakes and tremors are common.

Landslides, floods and avalanches

Landslides and floods resulting in deaths occur regularly in Nepal. This happens especially during the monsoon season, from June to September.

Major roads and all trekking areas can be affected.

Avalanches can happen at any time of year.

Severe weather

Storms and blizzards can occur with little or no warning, especially in the Himalayas.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

what activities and care your policy covers
that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away.

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

have a basic health check-up
ask if your travel plans may affect your health
plan any vaccinations you need.

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

General health advice
Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring any medication, check if it's legal in Nepal. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

what the medicine is
your required dosage
that it's for personal use

Health risks

Air pollution.

Air quality in Nepal varies, especially in winter. Some towns, including Kathmandu, experience high levels of seasonal smog and pollution.

Get medical advice if you're worried about air pollution.

Pollution levels in Kathmandu

Altitude sickness

If you travel to an area higher than 2,500m, you might develop altitude sickness .

Altitude sickness can be deadly. It can affect anyone, even if you're very physically fit.

Your risk of altitude sickness increases if you:

ascend too quickly
have had altitude sickness before
exercise or drink alcohol before you can adjust to the altitude
have health problems that affect your breathing.

If you'll be travelling above 2,500m, get advice from your doctor before you travel.

Insect-borne illnesses

Malaria is a risk in:

the Terai (plains) and Hill districts
Chitwan National Park.

Other insect-borne diseases are becoming more common, including in some areas of Kathmandu. These diseases include:

Japanese encephalitis

To protect yourself from disease:

make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
use insect repellent
wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis before you leave
consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.
Infectious diseases

HIV/AIDS is common.

Take precautions if engaging in activities that expose you to the virus.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

swine flu (influenza A H1N1)
bird flu (avian influenza)
leptospirosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

Highly contagious eye problems, such as conjunctivitis , are common after the monsoon season.

To protect yourself from illness:

drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
avoid ice cubes
avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
avoid contact with dogs and other mammals and birds.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Animals may carry rabies in Nepal. If a stray dog, monkey or other mammal bites you:

immediately wash the wound with soap and water
get urgent medical treatment.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical facilities and ambulances in Nepal are very limited, especially outside Kathmandu.

In Kathmandu, treatment at high-standard clinics is expensive. Up-front payment is usually needed.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

In tourist areas, it's common to be offered to buy drugs.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. Even if you're found with small quantities, authorities can convict and jail you.

Carrying or using drugs

Surrogacy laws

Commercial surrogacy has been illegal since 2015.

Going overseas for international surrogacy
Going overseas to adopt a child

It's illegal to take photos or videos of:

army barracks
checkpoints
military personnel.

It's illegal to convert people from their religion. Punishment can include jail.

If authorities suspect you're trying to convert people, you will likely be deported and banned from re-entering Nepal for years.

Same-sex relationships are legal. Nepali LGBTI+ people actively advocate for their rights. However, Nepal is a conservative and traditional society.

Some LGBTI+ travellers have reported harassment and discrimination. Avoid public displays of affection.

LGBTI travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law

Dual citizenship

Nepal doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport .

Dual nationals

Local customs

Dress codes are relaxed in tourist areas of Kathmandu and Pokhara. Other parts of the country are more conservative.

Dress modestly to avoid offending locals. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.

You need a visa to enter Nepal. Visas-on-arrival are available but travellers should check with the nearest Nepal Embassy for details and conditions.

You need a valid visa in your passport to leave Nepal.

Maximum stays

Australians in Nepal may be able to extend their visas. Please consult Nepal's Department of Immigration for updates.

Expired visas

You must have a valid visa in your passport to leave Nepal.

If your visa has expired, extend it at the Department of Immigration before you leave.

If you overstay your visa, authorities can detain you until you pay a fine. The amount of the fine is based on the number of days you overstayed.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Border measures

You no longer need to complete a pre-departure COVID-19 (PCR) test, show a vaccination certificate or quarantine on arrival in Nepal.

Nepal’s land borders are open to foreign nationals. Follow the Australian Embassy Facebook and Twitter accounts for regular updates.

Contact an embassy or consulate of Nepal for details.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for six months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than six months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

If you get an emergency passport, you must also transfer your visa to your new passport before leaving Nepal.

To do this, present the following to the Department of Immigration :

a police report
two current passport-sized photographs

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

LGBTI travellers

The local currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR).

Declare all amounts over $US5,000 or equivalent on arrival and departure. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You can't take more than $NPR5,000 in or out of Nepal.

You can change foreign currency for NPR at banks and exchange bureaus in major centres.

Credit cards are accepted at major hotels and commercial places.

ATMs are not common in remote places. Carry enough cash to cover your needs.

Local travel

Monsoon season.

The monsoon season generally occurs from June to September but can be unpredictable.

Expect travel disruptions and be prepared to change your plans.

Road travel can be dangerous, especially in the low-lying Terai (plains), where the risk of flooding is higher.

Landslides are common in mountainous areas, including the Kathmandu valley.

Airports may close. Air travel disruptions are common.

Monitor Nepal weather information for up-to-date information on conditions. Contact your travel provider about possible disruptions to your travel plans.

Travel from Nepal to India

Nepal’s land borders are open to foreign nationals. For information on the entry requirements for India please refer to the Smartraveller India specific travel advice.

Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of India for up-to-date information.

Travel advice for India
Indian Ministry of Home Affairs

Travel from Nepal to Tibet

Generally, only travellers in organised tour groups get visas and permits for the Tibetan region of China.

If you're planning to travel to Tibet:

check the travel advice for China
contact an embassy or consulate of the People's Republic of China

If you're in Nepal, contact the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Kathmandu.

Driving permit

To drive in Nepal, you need both:

a valid Australian driver's licence
an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Your travel and vehicle insurance could be void if you drive without an IDP.

If you stay for longer than six months, you need a Nepali driver's licence.

The minimum driving age is 18 years.

Road travel

You're more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Nepal than in Australia.

Driving can be dangerous due to:

crowded and poorly maintained roads
poor driving standards
aggressive drivers who ignore traffic laws.

Road travel is dangerous at night, especially in rural areas.

Landslides and flooding can damage or block rural roads. This is common during the monsoon season from June to September. Towns or areas are often cut off for days at a time.

Landslides and other disruptions can occur on the Mugling-Narayanghat highway, a section of the road between Kathmandu and Chitwan National Park, and the Prithvi Highway, the road between Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Road travel can be disrupted due to:

demonstrations and strikes
roadworks and infrastructure projects.

Significant delays on major roads within cities and towns, as well as on highways, are common.

Open drains and uncovered manholes are a risk to pedestrians and cyclists.

Locals often assume foreigners are at fault in car accidents, regardless of the situation. They may demand money. Crowds of onlookers can gather quickly after an accident and may turn hostile.

Car accidents resulting in injuries often lead to confrontations and road closures. Violence against drivers also happens.

If you plan to drive in Nepal:

learn local traffic laws and practices
monitor the media for road closures
always keep your car windows up and doors locked
avoid travel between cities after dark.

If you're involved in a traffic accident and are worried about your safety:

stay in your locked vehicle
phone 103 for the Traffic Police
wait for the police.
Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet. Helmets bought in Nepal may not meet Australian safety standards.

Only use registered taxis and authorised limousines. Arrange them through your hotel or resort.

Taxi drivers often refuse to use meters and overcharge travellers. Negotiate a fare with the driver before the trip.

Fuel shortages can make it hard to get local taxis and other forms of transport.

Public transport

Travel on public buses and vans is dangerous. These vehicles are overcrowded and poorly maintained.

There are frequent accidents with multiple deaths involving intercity buses.

Accidents involving private hire cars and jeeps travelling between cities regularly occur and can cause injuries or death. If you are concerned, ask your driver to slow down and drive safely.

Women are often harassed, including sexually, on public buses.

Transport and getting around safely

Check with your airline or tour operator for updates on your flight.

In normal circumstances, cancellations and delays are common, especially during:

tourist seasons when the airport is crowded
bad weather (especially throughout the monsoon season).

Check weather conditions before travelling. Bad weather conditions in mountainous and hill regions could further increase the risk to your safety and cause lengthy delays. Airfields such as Lukla's, in the Solukhumbu (Everest) region, are among the most remote and difficult to land on. These airfields are challenging for even the most technically proficient pilots and well-maintained aircraft.

All carriers from Nepal have been refused permission to operate air services to the EU due to safety concerns.

There have been several air accidents in Nepal over the last 10 years, including:

15 January 2023, a Yeti Airlines flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara with 72 people on board crashed shortly before landing. All 68 passengers and four crew were killed.
29 May 2022, a Tara Air flight from Pokhara to Jomsom with 22 people on board crashed shortly after take-off in bad weather. All 16 passengers and six crew were killed.
12 March 2018, a US Bangla Airlines flight from Bangladesh with 71 passengers on board crashed on landing at Kathmandu International Airport. Fifty-one passengers were killed.
26 February 2016, an Air Kasthamandap flight with 11 passengers on board crashed while flying between Nepalgunj and Jumla. Two crew members were killed.
24 February 2016, a Tara Air flight with 20 passengers on board crashed while flying between Pokhara and Jomsom. Twenty-three passengers were killed.

Check Nepal's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Tourism complaints

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

You can also lodge a complaint with the Nepal Tourism Board .

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

family and friends
travel agent
insurance provider

Traffic Police

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Kathmandu.

Australian Embassy, Kathmandu

300 metres north of Narayan Gopal Chowk Bansbari, Kathmandu Phone: (+977 1) 437 1678 Fax: (+977 1) 437 1533 Email: [email protected]

Website: nepal.embassy.gov.au Facebook: Australian Embassy, Nepal X: @AusAmbNP

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

+61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Nepal?

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

My Epic Indo-Nepal road trip – from Delhi to Kathmandu

Most of you know that I am a huge fan of road trips . The unexpected turns, the opportunities to spot hidden wonders along the way, the camaraderie of your companions – all of these make your journey more memorable. Consequently, your destination becomes more exciting and special. Naturally, when ScoutMyTrip provided me with an opportunity to do a cross-country road trip, I jumped up and accepted it before they changed their mind. My latest road trip was the one that a lot of you followed on my social channels. I call it the epic Indo-Nepal road trip .

A beautiful start to my Indo-Nepal Road Trip

2500 km over 7 days with awesome company, unexpected adventures and tons of new discoveries, this epic Indo-Nepal road trip is going to be on my mind for a long long time. One post is never going to do justice to this entire trip . This blog post is going to just give you a preview of destinations and experiences that we had along the way. A teaser of sorts to see those green monsters popping out of your heads (Yes, I can be a sadist at times! ). Consider this as a motivation for you to tank up and set out on a similar road trip. Let me start by introducing you all to my comrades of the Indo-Nepal road trip.

1 My Comrades during the Indo-Nepal Road Trip
2 Planning the route to Kathmandu from Delhi
3.1 Lucknow:
4 Unexpected discoveries and detours
5.1 1) Oyo Town House
5.2 2) Oyo Homes
5.3 3) Oyo Rooms
6 The food on the Indo-Nepal Road Trip
7 The Final destination
8 Travel Tips for planning your own road trip
9 Travel Tips for an Indo-Nepal Road trip

My Comrades during the Indo-Nepal Road Trip

We met as strangers or just online acquaintances but parted as friends with crazy names. When you are thrown together for 7 days, there is no other way it can be. My Indo- Nepal road trip gang consisted of 6 bloggers including yours truly and 2 captains who are founders of ScoutMyTrip. The captains took charge of the cars – a Scorpio and a Ford Eco-sport while the rest of us kept them entertained during the journey. Day one from Delhi was all about being polite, while on day two, the true attributes started to come to the fore. By the end of Day 3, each one of us got our unique name and identity and that is how I will introduce everyone now –

Captain One – Deepak, CEO of ScoutMyTrip. Known for his nonsensical lyrics and a distrust for any phone other than iphone. Captained the Scorpio and that too, in a flawless, expert manner.
Captain Two – Vineet Rajan, CMO of ScoutMyTrip. Classic case of “looks are deceiving”. Serious in looks but quirky with words. Known for his love for food. In charge of the Ford Ecosport (which he refused to part!).
Deepak Amembal – our patient and inspiring blogger. Known as Magic Eye and not surprising, given his skill with the camera!
Sudipto De – the eternal photobomber from Salt and Sandals . My partner in crime in Agra. A serious food connoisseur.
Saumya Rai – the Selfie Queen from Road to taste . The lovely hostess and guide for the city of Lucknow. Perpetually with a smile on her face.
Ankit Sharma – the Go Pro Man from Crazemag. You will never see him without his multiple contraptions. Really got lucky in Kathmandu with the Casino
Ayushi Anand – the silent killer from 365 days of bliss. Even the slightest motion of the Eco-sport was like a lullaby for her.

And then, there was me – nicknamed Indiana Jones in India and Nepali Jones when in Nepal. Not surprising, huh? I am sure there is plenty of nice things that my comrades have to say about me. However, I am too modest to put it all down here. 😉

Planning the route to Kathmandu from Delhi

2500 kilometers with a varied terrain did need some bit of planning. The ScoutMyTrip team had that sorted in terms of where the night halts had to be made, which route was to be taken, where would they need to fuel up and what are the caveats that one needed to take. Every morning was going to be an early one to ensure that we reached a particular halt well in time for us to explore it fully. Here is how it looked after it was planned –

Day 1 : Start from Delhi by 5 am and reach Lucknow by 1 pm
Day 2 : Leave Lucknow by 8 or 9 and reach Gorakhpur by noon.
Day 3: Exit Gorakhpur at 4 am to reach Kathmandu by 4 pm
Day 4 & 5 : Explore Kathmandu
Day 6: Leave Kathmandu by 5 am to reach Gorakhpur by 6 pm
Day 7 : Head to Agra and reach there by 3 pm
Day 8: Drive back to Delhi and head home

What fun is a road trip if you just stick to the plan? I mean, you have to have some adventures along the way to make crazy memories that make the whole deal sweeter. And that is exactly how this Indo-Nepal road trip became!

Exploring the pit stops

Kudos to our Captains, no matter when we started our day, they ensured that they reached us at our destination halts well in time, giving us enough time to explore. The record was our return drive on Day 7 from Gorakhpur, where we completed the Lucknow-Agra stretch in 2.5 hours as against a stated time of 4 hours. Each of our pit-stops was a cultural and culinary delight. Each one of them merits a separate post. However, to give you a quick preview, this is what it looked like in Lucknow and Agra.

Lucknow, one of our destinations along the Indo-Nepal road trip

The City of Nawabs is where I earned my first nickname as we set about discovering the famous Bara Imambara with its famous Bhool Bhulaiya (the labyrinth). How was I to resist a challenge of running through those mazes to discover the unknown? The architectural beauty of the whole complex was just awe-inspiring.

This followed by a Tonga ride through the heritage Lucknow landed us at the Chota Imambara , which had a mausoleum of a Princess designed as a mini Taj Mahal. The evening lights cast a beautiful reflection of the main building in the fountains facing it. An absolute pleasure to capture through your lens.

The Chota Imambara in the evening lights

Along the way, we even discovered the other gems like the Rumi Darwaza and the cursed Satkhanda – a story that you will have to wait up for. Lucknow enthralled us so much that our first deviation to the original plan happened here – where we decided to spend the first half of Day two exploring more of Lucknow and then head to Gorakhpur, via Ayodhya.

Day two did indeed dawn with us discovering the British era of Lucknow at the Residency – a place that I truly felt like Indiana Jones. Complete with its crumbling walls and stories trapped within, I had to be rushed out of the complex lest I end up spending an entire day here.

Agra was our halt on the way back from Kathmandu and we were to reach it by 3 pm. However, having started late, the google maps showed us an ETA of 6 pm. The ScoutMyTrip team took it on as a personal challenge to reach us at Agra fort by 4 pm, which I shall always be thankful for.

Taj Mahal as seen from Roshanara's pavilion in Agra Fort.

Discovering the place where the story of Taj actually started was truly an immersive and satisfying experience. The lives of Mughals, their palaces and their glory is just so evident in what remains of the Red Fort. Sighting the Taj from the windows of the chambers of Emperor Shahjahan made me realize how he must have gazed wistfully at his beloved during his last days.

Our Day 8, the last day was a perfect end to the whole journey with a sunrise at the Taj Mahal , followed by a boat ride in the Yamuna to capture its perfect reflection.

I know you want more details on each of these, and you can well, click on the highlighted words for links to those posts.

Unexpected discoveries and detours

Our unplanned stopover at Faizabad - on the Indo-Nepal road trip

Day 3 was all about visiting Ayodhya, enroute to Gorakhpur. However, we discovered a small town called Faizabad and that is where our plan changed. A quick visit to the Gulab Bari – the tomb of Nawab Shuja- ud -Daula was an amazing offbeat addition to our trip. From then, we did go through Ayodhya but got lost in the smaller lanes. Thus, we just moved on to Gorakhpur.

The Road to Kathmandu that lead to our first detour.

Little did we realize that this was a start to all our unexpected detours. The roads to Kathmandu were blocked owing to road repairs and we were forced to take not one, but three detours . This frankly, was the most adventurous part of the trip with enough drama – with and within the cars and the crazy off-roading experiences. Google maps gave up on us to literally say “I don’t know what you are saying, do what you want” . Though the detours were long, the views along the way were just amazing. And though we landed at Kathmandu by 10 pm. we were on a high, having enjoyed every moment of the ride on this Indo Nepal Roadtrip.

Hanging Bridge or the Nepalese bridge, enroute to Kathmandu

The ride back to India was a little smoother as we attempted a different route advised by the locals at Oyo rooms Kathmandu. Though we did manage it easier, I still think that the adventure that we had owing to our detours was far more exciting and fun!

Fun Stays at Oyo rooms

Our stays in each of our planned cities were powered by Oyo Rooms. There were basically three categories of Oyo rooms that we stayed in –

1) Oyo Town House

This was a plush property in Delhi, from where we started our journey. The cute, contemporary interiors of a room with a view set the right tone for the rest of our trip. Having come from Bengaluru, I found it extremely welcoming and I did spend a considerable amount of time unwinding and relaxing here.

2) Oyo Homes

This is a novel concept that the Oyo rooms have introduced – a home stay in a nice residential location, with a host that really looks after you. The Oyo Homes that I experienced was in Agra. Besides the location, I particularly loved the tasteful interiors.

3) Oyo Rooms

Our Lucknow, Gorakhpur and Kathmandu stays were in the Oyo rooms. Between the two, I particularly am partial to the Kathmandu Oyo rooms for its comfortable rooms, plush interiors, breakfast on the roof-top and the warm Nepali hospitality. We were greeted in a traditional manner and treated to simple yet tasty Nepali cuisine on the day we arrived. Their staff was extremely polite, courteous and helpful. Adding to our comfort at Kathmandu were the facilities that the Oyo rooms offered – the good Wi-Fi connection and 24 hours of hot water. The last one is extremely important after a long day on the road.

The food on the Indo-Nepal Road Trip

The famous Sharma ki Chai and Makhan Pav in Lucknow

When you travel with foodies, there is no escaping the best in each destination. While it was easy at the key pit-stops, it was the road journey that was an adventure. Along the Agra-Lucknow stretch, there were just no restaurants along the road. Luckily the distance being short, we did not really mind it. The Gorakhpur – Kathmandu stretch had plenty of Nepali restaurants where we sampled the Chowmein and fried rice. We even managed a lovely Nepali lunch at one of these places on our way back from Kathmandu.

The Veg Chowmein in one of the restaurants along our roadtrip to Nepal

The one thing that helped us along the way was the information that the ScoutMyTrip team had already gathered. We were prepared for which stretch we would be able to find food and where we would not. The same went with information on the petrol bunks – food for the car! An information point that is essential for every road-tripper – for food for the car is more important than your own.

The Final destination

Tappa Dance a Nepali dance with varying rhythms

There is just so much to share about Nepal – our final destination. The food, the culture, the history and places that we saw. However, I must stop here. This needs complete justice and this shall be my next post ! With this slideshow as a teaser, I conclude my account of just the road trip part of my Nepal journey. I am sure by now you know why it was epic. Do I see some green heads? Do you want to also, try out this Indo-Nepal road trip? Message in, let me know!

Travel Tips for planning your own road trip

Start with planning a route to your desired destination.
Once the mapping is done, check places along the way where you can make a night halt
Avoid night driving, start early
Do a little research on the road conditions, food joints and fuel stations along the way
Get a travel insurance
Ensure that you have serviced your car well before the trip. Check the tyre pressures and tank up before you start. Check this post for one Travel tips on Planning Road Trip s.
The best place to start your planning is through ScoutMyTrip – where they do not just suggest a road trip, but also, help you get all the information on roadside assistance, road conditions, suggested detours, hotels etc.
You can either book your stay well in advance or try booking it on the go through the Oyo Rooms app. That way you can be a little more flexible on where you want to make your night halt.

Travel Tips for an Indo-Nepal Road trip

Aim to cross the border in the morning as you will avoid the long queues.
You will need a permit for the car once you cross-over to the Nepal side. For this, you will need to pay INR 1300 for a permit for 5 days.
The documentation for the permit would be your car registration book, car insurance, Driver’s license and Driver’s ID card.
There is no visa required for Indians to enter Nepal. However, do keep your passport handy.
There are plenty of agents around the border who can help get you the car permit. They generally charge INR 100 for the same. You can go through them but ensure you pay them after they have got you all the required documents.
You can avail the local SIM of Nepal at the border itself. Ncell is the company recommended for the same as their network through Nepal is quite strong.
For the Local Sim, you will need to shell out INR 175. The Sim will be issued against a Government ID card and 3 passport sized photographs.
On return, you are liable to be checked by the Indian border security force. Again, keep your permits and IDs handy. Your luggage too, will be inspected.
They say that INR currency of denomination 500 and 2000 are not allowed within Nepal. However, I am not sure if this is true. To be on a safe side, carry only notes of denomination 100. Remember INR is accepted well anywhere in Nepal.

P.S: I was invited by ScoutMyTrip to join in for this epic Indo-Nepal Road Trip. However, my opinions are unbiased and based on my own experience!

Popularly referred to as a Restless Ball of Energy. My Mom refuses to entertain my complaints about my equally restless daughter & assures my husband that I was born with a travel bug.

I am a Post-Graduate in Marketing by qualification and a travel blogger by passion. Besides travel, I enjoy photography and if you don’t find me at my desk, I would be out playing badminton or swimming or just running. I believe in planning for every long weekend through the year. And when I cannot travel physically, I travel virtually through this travel blog. My travel stories have also, got published on various websites and magazines including BBC Travel, Lonely Planet India and Jetwings. I have recently published my first book – When Places Come Alive – a collection of stories that are based on legends, landscapes, art and culture of a place which is available in both ebook and paperback format.

108 thoughts on “My Epic Indo-Nepal road trip – from Delhi to Kathmandu”

Food connoisseur…. Ahem Ahem. Awesome read 🙂

Thanks Sudipto…Didn’t it just refresh our drive?

Relived the entire trip again! lovely write up. Special thanks for the awesome DJ and navigation skills displayed by you for making this trip even more adventurous!

Thanks Deepak. I also relived it while writing this post. It sure was one amazing journey. I am completely game for another one now! And yes, with sharpened navigation skills 😉

Loved reading about your experience. Wonderful pictures 🙂

Thank you Purba.

Love the sunrise and the group picture 🙂

Thanks Maitreni

This sounds awesome and looks like you guys had lots of fun. Nice to see the people behind some of the blogs I follow.

Indeed Soumya. It was fun all through. And I would so do it all over again!

Nice summary and stunning pics. Love the way you described Google Maps inability to aid in navigation 😀

Thank you so much Neeraj. Google Maps did retort that way! Ask my co-passengers! It was one crazy moment! I do hope to do another road trip and this time, you must be a part of it!

Faizabad used to be my maternal home. Now grand parents aren’t around so I’m using the past tense but reading this post made me happy. Happy for you and the wonderful trip that you could be a part of. Happy cos you touched Gorakhpur long with Faizabad. That’s where my roots are. 🙂 and Nepal is on my list of places to visit. I’m sure coming back to read more.

Thanks Parul. It is nice to know that you are from that part of the world. Faizabad was a really pleasant surprise. I wish I could have explored some more but then, well you cannot do it all in one trip. Leaving this for another time. Maybe I will connect with you on a virtual tour of this town. And yes, stay tuned as I share more from the trip. Cheers

I haven’t been on many extensive roadtrips since I’m prone to car sickness but this looks like one I couldn’t pass up! The Taj Mahal is something you must see in person in all its glory!

Thanks Shane. This roadtrip was just so much fun. I agree that you might have issues with the roads here but maybe a small medicine should help. 🙂

The post was quite interesting. It felt like I was making a journey to Kathmandu myself. The pictures and descriptions of places to visit in Lucknow and Faizabad were good pointers. And Kathmandu in pictures looks splendid. I have known Agra since I have lived in Mathura for 9 years and Agra was the popular spot to visit whenever relatives descrnded.

Thank you so much. I am sure you know the corners of Agra that I could not explore. I really hope to be able to do that sometime in the future. At the moment, I was just content with the Red Fort and Taj.

Loved the to read. Amazing pics.

Omg looks amazing. I would.love.to go there too. The sharma.di chai looks good, this is like a traditional breakfast treat?

Sharma ki Chai has been around for over 50 years and I believe, it is the one breakfast stop that all Lucknow people are proud of. Thankful to Saumya for having shown us the place. Thank you, Monika, for stopping by.

This was indeed an epic trip and I can see you all had a gala and adventurous trip. Scoutmytrip is definitely an idea whose time has come and all the best to the captains in their unique venture. The shots of Taj Mahal are stunning, Indiana Jones 🙂

Thank you Sandy and Vijay. The trip was really fun. I am going to remember it for a long time.

Amazing! A trip that has always been on my mind! How amazing! Would love to read furher about border crossing documentations and such.

Thank you. Coincidence that you mention this as I just updated my post with the relevant information. I had missed out on it earlier. Happy to share more if you have any specific queries.

Wow just reading your travel tale is enough to give me wanderlust. Now I feel like going on a road trip. It surely is an epic journey. I specially loved all the beautiful Lucknow architecture you shared … And the food looks so yummyy

Thank you Rajlakshmi. The food, especially in Lucknow and Agra, was just yummy. The trip was indeed a memorable one and if this has evoked wanderlust, you have to stop whatever you are doing, and get into a car and head out now! 🙂

Road trips are always a good idea. And it looks like you’ve had some great time, with such a nice bunch of people and one great journey. Love those temples along the way, and the Hanging Bridge is just amazing. Great photos! 🙂

Road trips are fun always. I hope you too, can manage a nice one like this. Thank you so much for stopping by

I missed so much fun! I had to turn down the offer when Vineet called me as I was already traveling in Jammu and the notice was short. I love road trips a lot and it was so hard to say no! Anyways, nice reading about your journey! Hope some trip will make us meet soon 🙂

Thank you Reshma. Pity you could not make it this time but am sure we are going to catch up on some other trip. Cheers

Oh my- first up I had no clue this was so easily doable via road – WOW!! opened up w whole new trip for me that I am just raring to go on! Waiting for the rest of the trip to unfold Ami – your pics, anecdotes and writing style are all too good to miss!!!

Thank you so much. Your compliments just made my day.

Looks like such a fun road trip! Looking forward to the next part; I’m especially curious to see how Durbar Square looks after the earthquake a couple of years ago.

Coming up Henry. Though I must warn you, after the earthquake it was a little heart breaking.

Whoa! It looks like an epic road trip indeed! Your pictures speak for itself how much fun you had! Can’t wait to read your posts related to the individual destinations!

Thank you Anamika. Stay tuned, next part coming up shortly.

I have never been to North India and now I wish to see places..Awesome read and you make me feel its completely do able…

Of course it is doable and more importantly, so much fun. Just go for it Suja.

I love road trips as well, but have never done one this long! This sounds so amazing though and seems like you had the best time. I may have to try and do this route one day!

Yes of course, this was fun and quite an adventure. Since you love road trips, I would recommend the same to you. Thank you Tarah for dropping by

This sounds like an incredible trip! And how nice that you were able to travel with a group of bloggers. The food looks amazing. And of course Agra is completely stunning!

Thank you Stella. My comrades were actually one of the key reasons to have enjoyed the trip so much. The places of course, were just amazing!

I can tell you had a mind-blowing road trip to Nepal. It’s on my wish list now 😀

It sure was and I do hope you plan yours soon.

7 days of road-trip covering 2 countries? Whoa! That’s one heck of a trip. I really have to head to Nepal. Looking forward for your upcoming post on Nepal itself!!!

Thanks Bhushavali. It was a fun trip. First post out on it 🙂

So thats where Kathmandu is! I always hear about it but have never even looked it up to see where it is geographically. Now I know haha. Anyways, what a trip!! So much you conquered in just a little over a week which is just how I like to do it! Those bed surprisingly look super comfy which I feel is never really a thing over seas. I’ll be going on a road trip soon, but here in the US!

Oh, road trips are always so much fun. And now that you are off for one, all I can say – Take as many detours as you can. They are so much fun!

Oh wow, that was a week long road trip. I would certainly do it considering all the amazing sites and views you’ll see along the way. I did multiple-country road trips in Europe twice and it was fun. Love the photos! 😉

Thank you so much Joy. I had an absolute blast as you can see 🙂 Road trips are just fun – right?

Nepal has been on list for a while now. A road trip across country sounds fun and adventurous when you have great companions. Lucknow looks majestic as expected. We would love to explore it sometime soon.

It sure is a recommended trip – just as long as you have the appetite for adventure. 🙂

A wonderful road trip! I never thought India to Nepal was possible through a road trip. And taking a road trip seems amazing, I am soon going to plan one.

It most definitely is fun and doable. You should head there. Thanks for stopping by.

I had been following you guys for this across country road trip – Indeed an epic Journey and a lifetime experience. You guys got the wonderful names for sure -Indiana Jones and Nepali Jones are really perfect. Loved all your shots. I hope to take this road trip someday for sure.

Thank you so much. Nice to know that you were active with us as we went along the trip. I do hope you can get down to your own roadtrip soon. Cheers

What a road trip. It looks you guys covered a lot of distance in a day. I also you guys had a lot of time explore Lucknow, a place I have yet to visit , Having a vehicle in Kathmandu really helps to see the sights. All in all great going!

Thanks Nisha. All the destinations, enroute and otherwise were just amazing. A road trip gives you so much more to explore.

Dear Ami, You won’t believe me but i was thinking for the road trip from Ahmedabad to Kathmandu and still not able to finalize the trip. This post gave me the motivation to complete this trip. International road trips are always fun and i am still waiting to complete my first trip. I will surely take your tips whenever i plan the trip on paper.

Thank you Niraj. I am sure you will have a good time. You can always let me know if you need more information or just try the road trip experts – Scout my trip. 🙂

Lovely photos! That sounds like an amazing road trip, detours and all. Waiting to read about the Rumi Darwaza and the cursed Satkhanda 🙂

Soon guys. Lucknow posts pending for now. Stay tuned!

I have been on a lot of road trips in India and most of them have been similar. It was great reading this 🙂

Road trips just become fun when you have adventures and stop overs and lots of good company. Glad you have also experienced this. Thanks Vedante for stopping by

Indo Nepal trip sounds so fascinating! It’s amazing the way you have described all the places that lie on the route! These days Indians have been hitting Nepal and Bhutan like never before. This blog post will be immense help to many travelers!

Thank you Ambuj. It was quite an adventure and one that I will remember for a long long time!

That is such a fun road trip Ami. Looking forward to your other posts and awesome clicks of Agra 🙂 (among other places)

Thanks Swati. You have been privy to a few of the previews. Agra will be coming up shortly. New posts on Nepal up though.

Such an exciting read as we are planning to travel from nepal to india overland! So, excited after reading this! We will have mroe time so is there anywhere else you suggest stopping?

Plenty of places to shop around – Thamel, the Durbar Squares …just bargain well wherever you do. Have fun on your road trip. Cheers

Three detours! Wow, you guys really must have had a great time to not get angry about that. Looks like the Oyo stays were superb!

Ooh we had a blast which is why we were so cool about the detours. But then, what is a road trip without those ….don’t you agree!

I would have loved to take this road trip with you! I am happy to see that you included Agra in your itinerary. It’s nice to see the Taj Mahal with a blue sky behind it. When I was there it was foggy and the atmosphere was grey.

I am sure we would have had fun Joanna. Maybe some day we will have a trip together. I was lucky with the weather all right. It sure was perfect for photography. Thanks for stopping by

Beautiful!!! Looks like such an amazing place to visit. Def adding to my bucket list.

And I pretty sure that you will not be disappointed. Thanks for dropping by.

I wonder when I could pull off an Indo-Nepal trip. It must be a one of a kind experience. Yours seems to be awesome. If I could do it, I have all the information I need from your blog! Thanks!!!

Thanks. It was really amazing and yes, will be happy to share info that can help yours equally amazing!

Hi..i am from lucknow and we are planning to go to nepal by our car and want to explore kathmandu,pokhara,lumbini..plz guide which place to go first so that we save on time and distance. Thanks

Lumbini followed by Pokhra and then Kathmandu. That should be a good plan

I always wanted to go from India to Nepal by land. Do they have trains or buses?

Buses are available from India – at least I saw quite a few pass through the border. However, there are no trains for sure.

Great post..I live in Lucknow, so you could have dropped by. Wonderful.

Indeed. And what a time we had in Lucknow.

This seems like an awesome road trip, Ami. Thanks for the amazing idea!

Thank you. It definitely was an awesome one!

Can u plz tell me the best time for this road trip

It is great throughout the year 🙂

Hi, It’s a very nice blog! I’m planning the same road trip to Nepal with my friends in November first week. And this blog really helped. We are going all the way from Gwalior (MP) to Kathmandu via Lucknow! I’ve booked the same OYO hotel 8612 for two days stay in Kathmandu. I would like to know the tariff and hidden charges of this hotel. I asked the same to OYO but they said it depends on the property. The booked price for this hotel showing in INR 4663. Do we need to pay this amount in INR or NPR or how much extra charges (service charges if any or VAT something) Please help me with this.

Any more suggestions you wish you inform, you are welcome!

Many thanks

Thanks Vikash for dropping by. These clarifications are best answered by OYO rooms as they tend to have their prices revised and updated. I hope they get back to you soon. All the best for your journey and have fun.

This is amazing road trip. Kudos to you guys..!! Can you guide us all where we do we need to apply for car permit.? Is it prior to journey or as we approach the border.? And are there any restriction on the type of vehicle (diesel, petrol or age of car)?

You need to apply at the Border -rather after crossing the border. The documents are as mentioned in the post. There is no restriction on the vehicle.

Great pics, i love reading your blogs. This is amazing. Road trips are always special.

I am just back from a solo road trip from Kolkata to Bhutan driving 2,096 K.M in 6 days. It was my first time driving experience in hills and it was amazing to drive in Bhutan snd i took my car to Chelela pass which is the highest point and close to Bhutan China border.

Do you have any plans for road trip to Myanmar and Thailand?

Chelele pass is beautiful. We did a road trip there too. As of now, no plans for Myanmar but hope to get there soon.

This blog has everything that anyone who wishes to go on a road trip from India to Nepal. Likewise, most of the visitors who wish to visit Nepal and India at the same time can get enough information through this blog. In My opinion, enough India/ Nepal visa information could make a nice addition to this blog for the people from other nations except for India and Nepal. Anyway, keep up on your awesome work.

Would love to help you with your queries on the Nepal Visa. Since the roadtrip was from India, I assume that you are already on an Indian visa or are an Indian.

Very well organized photoblog. It was an awesome read. Thanks for your effort for sharing this interesting trip. Keep up on your awesome work.

Thank you Shane. That makes my day

The article was fantastic. It has been an awesome read and included every detail during the road trip from India to Nepal. However, if anyone is in a hurry to visit Nepal, Direct bus from Delhi to Kathmandu or Pokhara is also available. Anyway, keep up on your awesome work. Cheers!

Thank you. Yes, there are buses also, available in case someone does not want to drive.

I am loving this post and planning for Nepal via same route. we are road traveler by heart. Is it necessary to hire a travel expert for nepal ? we have traveled Gujrat , Madhya Pradesh , Rajasthan and South India without travel expert. what do you suggest for Nepal?

You don’t really need a travel expert but you will benefit from one as they make the travel seamless with their experience. In any case, you will still have a good time

Hi, got exited about the trip after reading your post and planning for the same. Need to know that how much should we carry in hard currency while travelling to Nepal per traveller and also credit cards were accepted over there or not.

Credit cards are accepted and you can even withdraw from the ATMs there. However, preference remains cash. As to how much to carry, that would depend on your budget.

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The Best Routes for Travel to Nepal from India by Road

Are you planning to travel from India to Nepal? Taking the road route through India is possible, but you need to know the disadvantages and challenges before starting on this journey. Here is our guide Travel to Nepal from India by Road.

Have you purchased travel insurance ? I am sure you know that travel can be a risky business nowadays. Taking a holiday involves an element of risk that may not be present in your day-to-day life. Read here How to Buy The Best Travel Insurance: A beginners’ guide . To protect yourself in illness or injury situations while abroad, please purchase travel insurance .

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

How to travel to Nepal from India by road?

India and Nepal have six border crossings and these two neighbouring countries have a great relationship in terms of travelling. Indians don’t need visas to travel to Nepal and if you are going through the land route you may need an identity card issued by the government. Almost 17% to 20% of foreign travellers to Nepal are Indians. As an Indian, you can stay indefinitely once you register yourself in the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu after 6 months of your residence. The relationship between India and Nepal has made travel to Nepal from India by road as easy as crossing borders inter-state.

Documents required to enter Nepal from India by road.

Before Covid, the Sunauli or border between India and Nepal has never been closed as the countries are maintaining an open border system. As per the treaty of 1950, the treaty of Peace national treatment is given to the citizens of both countries.

Most Indian vehicles and citizens and residents near the border didn’t even need legal documents to cross the border. But as per the rule, these are the documents you must carry to travel to Nepal from India Indian Citizens must carry a valid photo ID issued by the government Foreigners travelling to Nepal through India should carry a valid passport. Post-Covid the rules have changed as it is mandated to produce a valid COVID negative report like RT-PCR, True NAAT, WHO accredited test that has been taken within 72 hours of crossing the border.

How to go Nepal by road

The best way to travel to Nepal from India by road is either by bus or private car. There is also a third option to travel to Nepal from India by road is a train. If you want to choose public transport there are direct buses from Delhi to Kathmandu for travel to Nepal from India by road. Though Getting private cars or owned cars is the most popular practice by Indians travelling to Nepal.

India to Nepal travel restrictions: Tips to remember for travel to Nepal from India by Road for Indians

At the border crossing make sure to collect the permit while paying for the toll. As of now, travelers from India to Nepal are no longer required to provide a Covid negative report by RT-PCR or any other reputable institution taken within 72 hours of crossing the border.

However, it is still recommended to follow all necessary safety protocols and guidelines to ensure the safety of oneself and others while traveling during the pandemic.

India to Nepal bus ticket price

The bus ticket price from India to Nepal can vary depending on the starting location in India, the destination in Nepal, the type of bus, and the time of year. Generally, the price range for a one-way bus ticket from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Kolkata or Varanasi to Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital city, can range from INR 1000 to INR 3000 or more.

However, prices may be higher during peak travel season or for more luxurious buses with added amenities. It’s best to check with bus companies and ticket booking websites for specific prices and schedules.

Where can you cross to Nepal from India?

Banbasa Border: Banbasa border is in the state of Uttarakhand in North India. The Banbasa border can be accessed by Indians and Nepalese unrestricted. These are the best routes for Delhites, or anyone from the North-western states like Haryana, Punjab or any of the international travellers arriving in Delhi. It takes approximately 6 to 7 hours from Delhi to reach by private car and the picturesque serene view of the border with mountain ranges in the backdrop and the dam while crossing the bridge is extremely heartwarming. Birgunj-Raxaul Border: The Birgunj-Raxaul border is the most accessible option for those who are travelling from Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Odisha. The Raxaul border crossing in the state of Bihar leads you to the central part of Nepal, Birganj. Birganj is 8 hours from Kathmandu and 6 hours from Pokhara. To reach Kathmandu or Pokhara you will easily get buses or shared jeeps for $4 to $5 that is around 450 INR to 550 INR. Panitanki border: Panitanki border is in the Siliguri district, West Bengal and from the Siliguri Bus terminal you will find buses, shared jeeps or renting cars. Buses are available from Jalpaiguri, Sikkim and Kalimpong as well. The Panitanki Kakarbhitta border is open from 6 Am to 7 Pm from the Nepal side. From New Jalpaiguri, the Panitanki Kakarbhitta border is only a 45-minute drive. There are two other borders that are mostly used by large vehicles and very rarely by travellers Jamunaha-Nepalgunj border and gauripantha-Dhangadhi. The Nepalgunj border is yet to open as per the latest news due to COVID.

How to collect permits for vehicles for travel to Nepal?

Because of the easy access through the road, Indian travellers get a lot of duration for access to the vehicle management and stay period in Nepal. Indians can acclaim a Nepalese number plate while crossing the border and the duration to keep the vehicle is generally 30 days.

If you are considering taking a vehicle for travel to Nepal from India by road these are what you need to know according to the Embassy of India :

Any Indian vehicle including two-wheelers can temporarily obtain a stay duration in Nepal with custom payment in border crossing. Even with payment, any Indian registered vehicle is allowed to stay in Nepal only 30 days in a whole year. You can obtain a day pass at the customs near the Indo-Nepal border and the day pass is only valid for 24 hours. The vehicle must return within one day and if you want to extend the pass you must visit the customs before the validity ends. You can also obtain a pass for a specific number of days with a fixed payment for each day. You must collect and keep the pass with you all the time as it may be demanded by government authorities or police. Here is the details what to do and what not

Covid- Regulation to maintain in Nepal tourism.

For Indian travellers for travelling to Nepal from India by road is not restricted if the individuals are vaccinated or not at the local level. Nepal has opened most of its borders since October for Indian travellers and this is the covid restrictions according to news :

Vaccination requirements: Negative PCR is required if you are travelling to Nepal by air. But Nepal tourism is open for both vaccinated and non-vaccinated travellers.

For Indian travellers, a negative test report was taken within 72 hours before crossing. Lockdown In effect: As far as local travel is concerned Nepal is partially locked down which is not going to restrict most of the activities for Indian travellers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can i go to nepal by road from india.

There are several border crossings between India and Nepal that allow for travel by road. The most popular ones are the Sunauli-Bhairahawa border crossing and the Raxaul-Birgunj border crossing.

Can we go to Nepal by car from India?

Yes, it is possible to travel to Nepal from India by car. However, there are certain requirements and procedures that need to be followed, such as obtaining necessary permits and crossing the border at designated checkpoints.

What documents are required to travel to Nepal from India by road?

To travel to Nepal from India by road, you will need a valid passport, a visa for Nepal (which can be obtained at the border), and a permit for your vehicle (if you are driving). It is also recommended to carry proof of insurance and vehicle registration documents.

Can you cross the border from India to Nepal?

Yes, it is possible to cross the border from India to Nepal by road. There are several border crossings between the two countries, including the Sunauli-Bhairahawa border, the Raxaul-Birgunj border, and the Banbasa-Mahendrenagar border. However, it is important to check the current border regulations and entry requirements before making the journey.

Which countries are allowed to travel to Nepal?

Nepal is allowing travellers from most countries except 8 South African countries i.e. Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique, Malawi and Hongkong. Nepal has banned travellers from arriving from or through these countries.

Can foreigners travel to Nepal from India by road?

Foreigners except from 8 SAR countries and Hongkong can travel to Nepal from India by road with the right documents, passport and visa. Only Indians are allowed to travel to Nepal without a visa.

Do Indians need Visa to travel to Nepal from India by road?

Indians do not need visas to cross the Nepal border, but they do need a negative Covid report for entry to Nepal.

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After crossing nepal border,we do not want to run car but want to park for 4 days. Question is can we do this then where and what will be parking fee

Hi Narinder Pal Singh, thank you for your comment. I’m not sure which border you are referring to, but personally, I find it difficult to locate parking spots online in Nepal. In such situations, I usually prefer to drive straight until I come across a mall, as they usually have parking lots available. Additionally, I would also ask locals for recommendations on safe overnight parking areas. I hope this information is helpful to you.

Can I travel by my private car from Kolkata to Nepal ? Is road is open National Highway 19

I am sorry i don’t know how to drive from Kolkata to Nepal.

@Niels, Did you cross from Panitanki (I also hold a danish pas)? @Hassan What authorities (what number) should I use? There is only a little info on the web.

Hello Khem For, general enquiries related to the Panitanki Indian-Nepal land border, please call +91-3592-220 809 or send an email to [email protected] .

Sir can you tell me about the road conditions from butwal to Kathmandu ]

Hello Samir, The journey from Butwal to Kathmandu is a long one, taking a minimum of 9 to 10 hours. However, the road conditions are not ideal, with numerous potholes and bumps along the way. This makes the busy stretch of the East-West Highway a potential hazard for accidents.

Sir Wanted to know, how is road conditions from Nepalganj to other parts of Nepal

Where can I, as a Danish citizen, enter Nepal and exit? I wish to enter from the east side near Mechinagar or close to is side of Nepal. I know Gorakhpur but is there other places? All the best Niels Adrian Petersen

Hi there. I hope that Visitors from Denmark won’t have any problem getting into Nepal or India using the land border. The nearest border crossing checkpoint from Mechinagar is Kakarbhitta or Raniganj. Please always double check information with authorities to avoid any delays or unpleasant experiences.

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A road trip with a purpose to Nepal and back under 60k

Journeys are not planned, they just happen; the only investment being the traveller's passion. A long journey was on their mind for a long time. But the trio who set out on it never thought it would create a canopy of greenery across India. A car than started from Thrissur drove 9,184 km through 14 states, spent 18 days on the road and made it to Nepal and back. All along, they planted saplings, with a message for a greener tomorrow. All at a cost of Rs 60,000!

Thrissur natives and friends Akhil Subhash, Amal Krishna and Shibin Gopi were the travellers. The Maruti Swift that started from Kerala touched Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and New Delhi and reached the destination, Nepal, and returned. They encountered many people, saw awe-inspiring sights, savoured numerous local flavours, and planted more than 300 saplings in a journey that will ever remain green in their memories.

Akhil works in a private firm in Dubai. He wanted to take his mother on an all-India tour. But her health issues made him think of friends instead. Amal, a relative and photographer, was between jobs and got on the tour wagon without hesitation. Friend and employee in a private pharmaceutical company Shibin Gopi too decide to join in.

The trio started brainstorming about the travel. A mere sightseeing trip seemed meaningless. Thus the idea of planting saplings all over India was born. 'BhoomiMaa,' an environment friendly drive, became a big part of the trip. One car, three guys and many saplings thus set out to be part of India.

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Itinerary was not planned in advance – plan was to go where the heart wanted. The car was fully serviced, all four tires replaced, new fog lights installed. 'BhoomiMaa' stickers were pasted on the rear. The car was blesses at the Bhoomimatha Temple in Cherpu, Thrissur, as suggested by Shibin.

Isha Yoga Centre in Coimbatore was the first stop. The authorities denied permission to plant sapling in the premises initially citing security reasons. But once they came to know about the trio's 'BhoomiMaa' drive, permission was granted and saplings planted with the help of Gayatri from the centre.

The next stop was Bangalore. They stayed overnight at a dormitory near Salem railway station. It was a decent place; had a good night’s sleep. Left for Bangalore the next morning and met a few friends on the way who helped plant sapling by the roadside. Missed sunrise getting to Nandi Hills, but it stood in all its might. It was foggy even after sunrise, as though clouds had descended on the hill, covering the tree houses and buildings for guests. Left Nandi half-hearted. A long journey was ahead and Hampi – the ruins of the Great Vijayanagara Empire – was the next destination.

The drive towards Hampi was dangerous and adventurous. The road was straight as a ramrod lying in the middle of paddy fields. Roads were bad in patches and barely had street lights. Fear of the unknown and the dark created some discomfort. We stopped at Jungle Tree, where the hospitality of the hotel staff allayed all our fears.

A few saplings were planted in the hotel property with help from the staff the next morning and we left for Hampi after breakfast. The sights in Hampi begin from the Viroopaksha Temple. Remains of palaces, temples, huge idol, monoliths, innumerable stone pillars, chariots, rivers peppered with boulders, coracles, Tungabhadra reservoir… Hampi reminded us it can't be covered in a single day.

Back in hotel, route was set for Aurangabad. Drove a long stretch and decided to spend night at a hotel to avoid driving tired. Took a room at Hotel Janpath on the Karnataka border around 10pm and slept dreaming about Hampi. Rose at 6am the next day and left for Aurangabad and reach around noon.

Ellora Caves that made its way into the UN heritage sites list was the first stop. Among the hundreds of caves here, only 34 are open for public. Religious symbols of Hindus, Jains and Buddhists can be seen here. The artistry in stone inside the caves several kilometres long astonishes you with their intricate nature and antiquity.

The Kailasanadha Temple structure here is the largest monolith ever found. The genius of architecture here is astonishing. It was supposedly built over generations, standing tall as one of the best works on stone in India. It was a feast for the cameras. We left Ellora at eight at night.

We were all hungry and had to drive a long way to find a dhaba. Ordered roti, eggs and chicken masala and ate to the heart’s content for a reasonable price. Thanked the dhaba guys and decided to spend the night in a hotel off the Dhule Highway.

We left Aurangabad for Pushkar in Rajasthan, a non-stop drive. Met some farmers on the way and spoke with them in a language they could understand; a people full of love. Here is where we met Sohanlal and family. They helped us plant some samplings on the roadside. They served us tea and promised to nurture the plants.

Their energy gave a zing to out drive to Pushkar. A pilgrim destination –temple premises here hosts events from moustache competition to camel mela. It is land of numerous temples, the Pushkar Lake and lovely cuisine. Bathing in the Pushkar is a main pilgrim attraction.

The camel fest and Brahma Temple made in marble are world famous. It is a half hour trek through the foots of Ratnagiri Hills to the temple of Savithri, Brahma’s first wife. Apteswar Temple, supposedly built by Brahma to appease Shiva, a temple for Varaham, Rangji Temple – a marvel of Rajput and Mughal architecture – are all part of Pushkar's charm. Sapling were planting at a heritage home here run by Scottish woman Anna.

Ajmer, surrounded by Aravali mountains, was the next stop. The name of the city is derived from Ajayyameru, its name during the rule of Prithviraj Chauhan. It’s a peaceful place that takes away all the fatigue of the travel. It’s the home of Sufism that has stood as the source of a spiritual experience surpassing religious boundaries for hundreds of years. It is the land of the emperor of Sufism in India, Khwaja Mounuddin Chisti. The Ajmer Dargah is visited not only by Muslims but people of all religions.

Next destination was Jaipur, the pink city known for its precious stones business. City Palace, Hawa Mahal and Amber Fort are but a few of its ancient architecture. Men with huge headgears and long mustaches are a common sight here. The people riding camels in their colourful attires reminded us of the postcards of Jaipur.

We had reached the heartland of India and the sights were overwhelming. The next stop was Manali, heaven's valley. We went through Haryana, not wasting time by stopping at smaller attractions. Stopped in Haryana for the night and left early morning for Himachal Pradesh through Punjab.

The roads were in poor condition in many places. We stopped at some areas and planted saplings with the help of locals in Haryana and Punjab. Reached Manali at 9.30pm after a long drive. Snow, Devadaru trees (Cedrus Deodara) and Biyas River are Manali’s 'beauty secret.' The cuisine of the Himalayan valley is a beauty too. The Hadimba Devi Temple nestled among Devadaru trees is hundreds of years old. Some women were found earning an income by posing hares with tourists here.

First snowfall was a great moment. With temperatures hovering around minus 28 at night, the town had many stores selling locally made warm clothes. We did not have to buy much of it since we had them on us already. Clouds mingled with the mountains as we made our way through Rohtang Pass. The only vehicles on the road here were that of the visitors and the Indian Army. Saplings couldn’t be planted in Manali because of the adverse weather. Reached Kasol passing Solang Valley and stayed at Mahendra Singh’s home stay. His aide Pankaj helped with planting of saplings here. The hot, spicy taste of noodles and chat masala in cold conditions still lingers on.

We left the snow-clad mountains for New Delhi. It took us more time than planned to reach Delhi foggy conditions made driving difficult and poor light made stopping impossible. It was the most arduous drive of the entire trip. We followed buses all along. Nothing but the tail lights of the vehicle ahead was visible. The fog made it impossible to gauge the width of the road. Around 2am, we saw an ‘exit’ sign and took it and stopped somewhere we thought was safe.

We waited for the fog to lift. But it didn’t happen and decided to continue the trip on day ten. Drove for three hours and stopped because of poor vision. Waited for another couple of hours and decided to drive again despite the prevailing bad conditions. It was after noon we reached Delhi.

Planting the sapling in a metro raised one big question – where! Who shall we contact? Googled some names. Finally decided to approach Delhi Malayalee Association. Spoke with president Chandran over phone who sounded elated about the plan. He asked us to meet at their office around 4pm. Chandretan and Mohanetan helped us plant the sapling in their office premises and offered other help.

We stayed at a hotel near the railway station. The market in front of the station is a sight in itself. Locals and foreigners throng this place where you can find reasonably priced goods. It’s a crowded but fun place.

Agra, home of eternal love, was the next stop. The high-speed drive on Yamuna Expressway was a delight. No jams and wide lanes made driving fun. Reached Agra quickly, spent the night at Nature Resort, where the rooms were tidy and cheap.

Visited Taj in the morning. Mughal architecture in its full glory! Poets have showered praise on this monument Tagore once called ‘a teardrop on the cheek of eternity’. We have all read that 20,000 people worked 22 years to complete the monument, but its enormity can be gauged only when you stand in front of it. Shutterbugs would love this place.

Got a call from home when we were about to leave for Lucknow – Akhil's mother was unwell, but nothing serious. The travel plan was cut short to return quickly. Nepal now became the one last stop. Got Akhil's Nepali friend Deependra Kumar on phone and told him about the new plans. The meeting point was Bithamore on Indo-Nepal border. Roads after Punjab and Delhi, leading to Nepal were mostly poor. Fog made it more difficult. We didn’t have much information on roads and weather, but stopped nowhere.

We were determined to make it not matter what. The car was doing 60kmph at times. The line in the middle of the road was the only thing visible. Reached Sitamarhi in Bihar around 3.30am and stopped to sleep in a lodge. Bihar was supposedly an unfriendly place. But the people here treated us well. We had good food at a reasonable price. Sitamarhi borders Nepal and is where King Janaka got Sita from the field. Farming is the prime occupation here. Paddy, wheat, corn, vegetable and lentils are cultivated here. A village charm seen only in movies. Samir and Usri helped us plant saplings here. Janaki Mandir, Janaki Kunt built by King Janakan in her memory, Draupati's birthplace Dhekuli and temples that remind of Ramayana and Mahabharata are all here in Sitamarhi.

Reached Nepal border around 2pm. Deependra reached only by 4.30pm. But his place was only an hour away. The Maliwara-Bithamore road was unpaved. We came to a warm reception at Deependra’s home. Couldn’t spend much time at his place because we had to return home quickly and planted a few saplings on his property.

Coming back home

We bid farewell to Deependra and Nepal and set course back home. We were all tired. Some sleep was necessary. We took a room at a dhaba and slept our fatigue away. The next stop after Agra was Hyderabad. But we took a room near Sagar to rest some more. We left for Hyderabad early next morning. The village road was a strip in the midst of fields full of tall sugarcanes. Stopped at a tea stall and had scrambled eggs with jiggery tea – a unique combination.

The return was quicker. We reached Bangalore the next morning from Hyderabad. That’s when our sponsor partner Dubai Smacks Media's owner Sujith called. He said Malayalam FM radio station in Dubai talked about the trip and the message of environment friendly living received many positive responses from listeners. We felt proud and happy.

At Bangalore, we put up at a home stay run by a Malayali in Indira Nagar. We could smell Kerala on the road to Palakkad. Once we reached Kadamkod, a hotel named ‘Meenchatti’ made us stop. We were offered rice and fish curry on plantain leaf. Taking a cue from the car and our attires, the hotel owner asked us about our travel. We got inside the car again content with one of the best fish curry meals ever had.

We stopped at Kuzhalmantham Police Station. SI Anoop and ASI Divakaran were friendly. They congratulated us on the mission to make India greener. They joined us in planting some saplings near the station. By then over 300 saplings were planted in India and Nepal. All three of us reached our homes in the shade of memories that will forever remain green.

The trio travelled across India with the message of a greener world. Everything has been captured on camera. They are now working to make a short film of the trip. New destinations are also on the anvil.

For the love of travelling

Everyone loves a good journey. Every land, own and foreign, awaits us with a carnival of sights. Most people procrastinate for lack of money or time. But regular travellers say unplanned trips are necessary. It won't happen if you wait for the right time and budget, says Amal Krishna. Most travels don’t go as planned either.

Make sure the vehicle is serviced well if you take your own car. Keep essential tools ready in case some minor repairs are required. Read first-hand reports of travels; this can help save ourselves from unforeseen issues. Medical kit, biscuits and dry fruits should be carried depending on the kind of trip. Punctuality is essential. We made sure to rise early and move early. Download apps necessary before start. They will help find cheap places to stay and eat.

Google Maps was a great aid. No stays were booked in advance. We took bare minimum clothes and ate at roadside stalls rather than expensive restaurants. Don’t wait for money and time. Plan something and leave! The experiences that travels give are priceless. Our expenses including fuel, food and stay cost us only about Rs 60,000, said Amal.

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Sydney gets a drenching as heavy rain, severe weather forecast for NSW today and tomorrow

It has been a wet and wild day across New South Wales with more extreme weather expected over the weekend.

In Sydney more than 160 millimetres of rain has fallen since 9am on Thursday, its heaviest in 4 years.

More than 45 flood alerts remain active across New South Wales on Friday night after intense rainfall saturated the state with the worst to come overnight.

7:13 AM 7:13 AM Fri 5 Apr 2024 at 7:13am Sydney cops heaviest rainfall in 4 years
7:01 AM 7:01 AM Fri 5 Apr 2024 at 7:01am Six injured in wet-weather crash
6:24 AM 6:24 AM Fri 5 Apr 2024 at 6:24am BOM issues flood warning for Hawkesbury and Nepean rivers

Live updates

Where to find emergency assistance and information.

By Luke Royes

For emergency assistance, contact SES in NSW or QLD on 132 500

If your life is at risk, call Triple-0 (000) immediately

For the latest weather updates visit the Bureau of Meteorology in NSW here

ABC Emergency contains planning and advice, an incident map and more

If you're not sure what to do when there's a flood, here's the best way to plan

Tune in to your local ABC Radio Station

Sydney cops heaviest rainfall in 4 years

By David Hirst

Here's a few facts and figures from our weather boffin Tom Saunders:

Sydney has already received its heaviest rain total in 4 years with more than 160mm since 9am yesterday (highest 48-hour total)
The heaviest rain today has been on the Mid North Coast. Taree with more than 100mm since 9am
A deluge will arrive overnight across parts of Sydney and the Illawarra, Blue Mountains and Hunter leading to severe flash flooding and rapid river rises, including up to 220mm in 6 hours on the Illawarra Escarpment
The torrential falls are part of a broader rain event which is soaking eastern Australia, and has triggered flood watches and warnings from southern Queensland to the NSW South Coast
More than 40 flood watches are current for NSW
The band of torrential rain is moving south and will clear from Sydney by about 8am, clear the Illawarra by late morning and clear from the South Coast by the evening

Six injured in wet-weather crash

Reporting by Adriane Reardon from the ABC South East NSW newsroom.

Six people, including two children, have been taken to hospital with injuries following a crash in wet weather south of Mudgee in the NSW central west.

Emergency services were called to the two-vehicle crash on the Castlereagh Highway, about 2pm today, where a ute and four-wheel drive had collided.

The male passenger in the ute, believed to be in his 60s, was flown to hospital with serious injuries, while the male driver, 55 was taken to Mudgee Hospital.

The driver of the four-wheel drive, a 34-year-old man, was also flown to hospital with serious injuries, while his 32-year-old female passenger was flown to hospital with critical injuries.

Two children in the back-seat, aged two and six, sustained minor injuries and taken to The Children’s Hospital at Westmead for observation.

A crime scene has been established and an investigation is underway.

Flooding at Parramatta River in Sydney's west

ABC photographer Timothy Ailwood is at Parramatta River. He's just filed this pic.

Storm damage to create 'significant work' for SES

NSW SES chief superintendent Dallas Burnes has this afternoon given an update on ABC News 24.

Mr Burnes said storm damage was going to "create more significant work for us".

He said the majority of call-outs had been for leaking roofs and fallen trees and there had been about half a dozen rescues.

Mr Burnes urged people to stay indoors tonight.

"If it's at nighttime and the road is flooded? Do not cross that roadway. You do not know what is under it. "The flood rescues we've undertaken today, the majority related to cars entering floodwater. That puts our volunteers' lives at risk."

Rain and thunderstorms continue in southern Queensland

A south-west Queensland town has shut its flood levee ahead of major flooding, as the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) forecasts heavy falls for the south-east of the state into the weekend.

Senior forecaster Laura Boekel said rain and thunderstorms would continue today and tomorrow, with possible falls of up to 100 millimetres.

"It's very important to note that in some parts of the south and south-east, we're seeing moisture of the soil and the catchments quite high, so that means catchments, rivers, creeks can respond quite rapidly," she said.

"We could see responses from moderate rainfall this weekend."

BOM issues flood warning for Hawkesbury and Nepean rivers

The people at the Bureau of Meteorology have certainly had a busy day. They've just released another weather update.

Major flooding possible at Menangle and North Richmond from Saturday morning
Moderate flooding possible at Windsor and Putty Road from overnight Friday
Minor flooding likely at Camden Weir, Wallacia Weir, Penrith, Sackville and possible at Lower Portland from Friday evening

Rainfall totals of up to 150mm have been observed in the Hawkesbury Nepean catchment since 9am on Thursday.

Further heavy rainfall is forecast through the catchment for the remainder of Friday and into Saturday.

Minor flooding is likely along the Hawkesbury, Nepean and Colo Rivers from overnight Friday. With the forecast rainfall, further river level rises and moderate to major flooding is possible from Saturday morning along the Hawkesbury and Nepean Rivers.

Transport update for commuters

This is the latest from the Transport Management Centre.

Motorists and public transport passengers are advised to plan ahead and allow plenty of extra travel time due to severe weather in Sydney and surrounding areas.

Wakehurst Parkway is closed in both directions due to flooding between North Narrabeen and Oxford Falls.
Oxford Falls Road is closed in both directions due to flooding between Wakehurst Parkway and Aroona Road.
Other roads where motorists are advised to take extra care due to water on the road include: The Pacific Highway at Pymble, Centenary Drive at Strathfield, Pittwater Road at North Manly and Euston Road at St Peters

On public transport:

Passengers who need to travel on the Sydney Trains network are advised to allow plenty of extra travel time due to severe weather damaging equipment at Redfern, as well as slower boarding times.
Trains are running on all lines but there are some delays and gaps in service.
Plan ahead and avoid travel where possible.
Buses are supplementing trains between Campbelltown and Macarthur, and between Riverstone and Richmond.
Passengers are advised to listen to announcements and check information displays for service updates.
Buses are replacing ferries between Parramatta and Rydalmere due to the weir overflowing.

Parramatta River overflowing

This is the latest from the ABC's Elinya Chenery.

Heavy rainfall has caused minor flooding in Sydney's west this afternoon.

The Parramatta River is overflowing in low lying areas after the water level raised above 2 metres in height.

Areas affected by the flooding include the Parramatta Ferry Wharf and footbridges across the river.

Authorities say further flooding is expected in the area in the coming hours.

Communities on Mid North Coast without power

Some communities along parts of the Bellingen River on the NSW Mid North Coast are completely isolated by flood water and without power.

Residents in the localities of Thora and Darkwood are affected, and NSW SES crews will be undertaking welfare checks.

"We've got some communities there that are completely isolated by floodwater," NSW SES spokesperson Andrew Edmunds said on the ABC statewide drive program.

"They may find themselves without power, water and other essential services."

Isolated residents in those communities are being urged to contact the NSW SES on 132 500 if they need assistance with supplies.

NSW SES advises people not to go outside

The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is advising people to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel as significant rainfall impacts much of the NSW east coast.

A severe storm warning is in place for communities from Gosford in the north, to Batemans Bay in the south, across to Goulburn, with damaging winds and very heavy rain possible. Meanwhile, residents on the Bellingen River at Thora and Darkwood have been advised to prepare for isolation.

Residents in these communities may find themselves cut off by flood water and without power, water and other essential services.

NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Sean Kearns said conditions were likely to worsen over the next few hours.

"There's potential for very large downpours of rain between the Blue Mountains and Narooma, which could lead to life-threatening flash flooding," Assistant Commissioner Kearns said.

The NSW SES said it had responded to more than 800 incidents in the last 24 hours.

Prepare to evacuate alert in Chipping Norton

The NSW SES has issued a prepare to evacuate and watch and act notice for people in low lying areas of eastern parts of Chipping Norton.

Those in the following area are being told to prepare to evacuate due to predicted dangerous flooding:

All properties in the following streets in Chipping Norton:
Newbridge Road between Riverside Road and east to Georges River
Riverside Road between Childs Road and Newbridge Road
Davy Robinson Drive
Rickard Road
Arthur Street

You should monitor the situation and prepare to evacuate so that you can safely evacuate when instructed to do so by NSW SES. There's more detail on Facebook here .

More than 100 flights cancelled at Sydney Airport

The wild weather has not surprisingly caused issues at Sydney Airport with more than 100 flights cancelled through domestic arrivals and departures.

A Sydney Airport spokesperson urged passengers to check with their airline regarding the status of their flight.

Is public transport in Sydney affected by the weather?

Sydney Trains and Ferries asked commuters to take "extra care" as surfaces can be slippery when wet
Transport for NSW is advising to allow for extra travel time on the T1, T2, T3, T8 and T9 train lines due to weather damaging equipment at Redfern
Transport for NSW says there are no significant delays on Sydney's bus network

Hundreds of sandbags at the ready in Gosford

SES NSW volunteers fill sandbags in Gosford while seated under tents.

Hundreds of sandbags are ready and waiting for collection at the NSW SES Gosford depot on the Central Coast in preparation for more rain to come.

Members of the community volunteered their time to help fill the bags today, along with those from the Terrigal Rugby Union Club.

Gosford has received more than 70 millimetres so far today, according to data from the Bureau of Meteorology.

BOM updates flood warning

The Bureau of Meteorology has updated its Flood Watch which now includes major flooding on:

Myall River
Lower Hunter River
Upper Nepean River
Hawkesbury and Lower Nepean River
Georges and Woronora River
Macquarie River to Bathurst

Click here for regular Flood Watch updates from the BOM .

Major delays on state's rail networks

Transport for NSW says there are "major delays" across the Sydney Trains and NSW Trainlink networks because of the heavy rain.

Passengers are advised to avoid non-essential travel.

Buses may supplement some services.

If you do need to travel though, Transport for NSW advises you to allow plenty of extra time.

Flooding impacts Newell Highway

Flooding continues to impact the Newell Highway in the state's north, which remains closed between Boggabilla and Moree.

Motorists travelling north from Moree can take a diversion using the Carnarvon Highway and the Barwon Highway to Goondiwindi.

The southbound diversion is the same in reverse and is also suitable for all vehicles.

The alternate route between the two towns is about 2.5 hours long.

Hawkesbury SES commander says it's a 'waiting game' at the moment

By Millie Roberts

Jessica Kidd from the Sydney newsroom spoke to Kevin Jones from the Hawkesbury SES just then.

He said the volunteers were busily checking equipment and making sure everything was "good to go" as the unit prepared for rain in the Hawkesbury expected tonight.

"We're really at the moment just playing a bit of a waiting game, waiting for the rain to come," he said. "It seems to have not been as bad as they were predicting up on the north coast, but as it comes further south it looks like … there's still a chance that it's going to be a bit more intense."

Mr Jones said the local community is "definitely much more aware" on this occasion after going through "so many floods", which has helped with preparations today.

Power restored to hundreds of buildings in Sydney's CBD

Ausgrid says power has been restored to hundreds of businesses and homes after "significant rainfall" caused a major power outage.

It said 1,300 customers were affected after a substation flooded on Goulburn and Pitt streets.

Power has now been restored to more than 1,250 customers after the water was pumped offsite.

It said the "bulk" of affected customers have their lights back on, but a small number may still be out at this point in time.

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