The short answer
Fly Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (about an hour) and drive 2.5 to 3 hours. The road from Kathmandu takes well over 12 hours, so most visitors fly one way.
Key facts
- Fly
- Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
- Drive
- 2.5 to 3 hours onward
- Road only
- Over 12 hours
How it works
- Fly Kathmandu to NepalgunjAbout an hour. Morning flights are safer.
- Drive to ThakurdwaraRoughly 2.5 to 3 hours on a mix of highway and rural road.
- Plan a bufferA missed flight can cost a day.
Insider tip
The flight is the point at which Bardia becomes realistic for a short trip.
Avoid this
Do not forget that flights can be delayed; keep spare time.
Related questions
Can I drive from Kathmandu?
It is 12 hours or more with many stops. Few do.
Is there a train near Nepalgunj?
On the Indian side, Nepalgunj Road is the nearest railhead. Ask your operator.
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