The short answer
By road, Delhi to Kathmandu is roughly 1,100 to 1,200 km depending on the border chosen, and is usually split across two days. Gorakhpur to the Sunauli border is about 100 km, and from Sunauli to Kathmandu is about 270 to 300 km. Patna to Birgunj is another common route, followed by about 140 to 150 km of highway into Kathmandu.
Trains to Gorakhpur or Raxaul followed by a road transfer are the most comfortable option for many Indian travellers. The flight from Delhi takes under two hours but is more expensive. Check the border you plan to use; see the border pages for hours and documents.
Key facts
- Delhi to Kathmandu road
- Roughly 1,100 to 1,200 km
- Gorakhpur to Sunauli
- About 100 km
- Sunauli to Kathmandu
- About 270 to 300 km
- Delhi flight
- Under 2 hours
How it works
- Decide modeSee air or road.
- Pick the borderSee which border.
- Book the trainSee IRCTC tips.
- Cross earlyAim to cross in daylight.
- Drive onwardSee border to Kathmandu.
Insider tip
Break the trip into a train leg and a road leg; it is less tiring than one long drive.
Avoid this
Do not cross borders late at night; hours and safety vary.
Related questions
Is Gorakhpur or Raxaul better?
Gorakhpur suits Lumbini and Pokhara, Raxaul suits Kathmandu and Chitwan.
How many days from Delhi?
Two days is comfortable by train plus road.
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