The short answer
It is the busiest and the shortest road route to Kathmandu from eastern and central India, with a rail link to Raxaul. Expect traffic, and plan for a long day on the road into the hills.
Key facts
- Rail head
- Raxaul, in Bihar
- Nepal side
- Birgunj, in Parsa
- To Kathmandu
- Roughly 5 to 8 hours by road
- Also leads to
- Chitwan, Janakpur, Lumbini
Insider tip
Start early. Birgunj can be jammed by mid-morning, and the highway through the hills slows with trucks.
Avoid this
Do not plan to reach Kathmandu after dark unless you must. Night driving on the mountain road is tiring and risky.
Related questions
Is there a train to Raxaul?
Yes, Raxaul has long-distance rail connections.
Can I reach Chitwan from here?
Yes, usually in 4 to 5 hours.
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