The short answer
Nepal's oldest highway, built in the 1950s to link the Indian border near Raxaul to Kathmandu through the hills via Hetauda, Daman and Chitlang. It is slower than the main highway but scenic and historic.
Key facts
- Built
- 1950s
- Links
- Raxaul border area to Kathmandu
- Via
- Hetauda, Daman, Thankot
- Speed
- Slow, winding
How it works
- Know the historyIt was one of the first road links through the hills, built to open up the capital to the plains.
- Plan a long dayAllow extra hours compared with the Mugling or Narayanghat highways.
- Start earlyThe road is easiest and safest in daylight.
- Check the current conditionSections change after monsoon; ask your driver or tour operator.
- Pack car sickness remediesThe road has many curves.
Insider tip
It is better for a scenic drive than for a time-critical journey.
Avoid this
Do not take it at night in heavy rain; landslides and fog are common.
Related questions
Is the Rajpath open all year?
It is usually open but can be affected by landslides in monsoon; ask before you go.
Can I drive an Indian car on it?
Indian-registered vehicles need the proper border permit. See the border entry guide.
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