The short answer
Leave early, reach the border by mid-morning, spend one to two hours on formalities, then continue to your first night. Keep the evening free in case of delays.
Key facts
- Start
- Early
- Formalities
- 1 to 2 hours
- Onward
- Same day
- Buffer
- Evening
How it works
- Leave earlyCross before noon.
- Complete exit formalitiesIndian side.
- Complete entryNepali side.
- Change moneyIf needed.
- Continue to your stayBefore dark.
Shaping the day
Leave early so you reach the border in the morning. Allow one to two hours for exit and entry formalities, then continue to your first night. Keep the evening free in case of delays.
If you arrive late, book a hotel near the border and cross the next morning. Avoid long night drives after crossing.
Making it smooth
Carry water, snacks, small notes and all documents in an easy-to-reach bag. Have your hotel and driver contacts saved, and arrange a pickup on the Nepal side.
Be patient with queues and polite with officials. Your operator can advise on the crossing, the hours and a realistic timetable.
Insider tip
Book your first hotel near the border if you arrive late.
Avoid this
Do not plan a long night drive after crossing.
Related questions
Can I cross at night?
Not advised.
How long do queues take?
Usually under an hour but varies.
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