The short answer
From Gorakhpur or Nautanwa, buses and shared vehicles go to Sunauli, where you cross into Bhairahawa. From Bhairahawa, regular buses run to Pokhara and Kathmandu. Pokhara is usually seven to nine hours from Bhairahawa by road, and Kathmandu eight to ten hours or more, depending on traffic and the route.
Tourist-class buses are more comfortable than local ones. Private cars are quicker and allow stops at Lumbini or Tansen.
Key facts
- Border
- Sunauli
- To Pokhara
- About 7 to 9 hr from Bhairahawa
- To Kathmandu
- 8 to 10+ hr
- Better seats
- Tourist class
How it works
- Reach SunauliFrom Gorakhpur.
- Cross to BhairahawaImmigration.
- Buy a ticketTourist class if possible.
- Eat before the rideLight meal.
- Arrive and restAt hotel.
Insider tip
Book a seat on a morning bus after crossing early.
Avoid this
Do not take a night bus if you can avoid hill roads in the dark.
Related questions
Is Pokhara closer than Kathmandu?
Yes from this border.
Is Lumbini on the way?
Close to Bhairahawa; add a stop.
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