The short answer
The usual overland route from Lucknow runs via Gorakhpur and the Sunauli border to Kathmandu, or by road via Bahraich to Rupaidiha for Nepalgunj and onward. A train to Gorakhpur followed by a bus or car to Sunauli and on to Kathmandu is the most common plan. The total journey is long, often a full day plus a night.
Flights from Lucknow to Kathmandu, where available, are far quicker. Choose overland only if you want to add Lumbini or Pokhara on the way.
Key facts
- Route
- Gorakhpur, Sunauli
- Alternative
- Rupaidiha, Nepalgunj
- Total
- Long, a day or more
- Combine
- Lumbini, Pokhara
How it works
- Train to GorakhpurFrom Lucknow.
- Car or bus to SunauliDaylight.
- Cross the borderImmigration.
- Stop at LumbiniOptional.
- Continue to Kathmandu or PokharaBy road.
Insider tip
Add Lumbini as a stop to break the journey.
Avoid this
Do not plan to reach Kathmandu in one day by bus without an early start.
Related questions
Is Gorakhpur far from Lucknow?
Several hours by train or road.
Which border?
Sunauli for the central route.
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- Pickup Points in IndiaGorakhpur, Raxaul, Jaynagar, Nepalgunj, Lucknow and more.
- Airports of NepalInternational and domestic airports with transfers.
- Domestic FlightsRoutes, aircraft, baggage, delays and booking.
- Vehicle Types and Road TransportCars, vans, buses, jeeps, taxis and bikes for each route.
- All Nepal guidesBrowse every place and theme.
