The short answer
Approximate road distances from Kathmandu: Bhaktapur about 15 km, Nagarkot about 30 km, Dhulikhel about 30 km, Gorkha about 140 km, Chitwan (Sauraha) about 150 to 170 km, Pokhara about 200 km, Lumbini about 270 to 300 km, and Janakpur about 220 km depending on the route. These are rounded and vary by road choice.
Time matters more. Bhaktapur, Nagarkot and Dhulikhel are within about one to two hours. Chitwan and Pokhara are usually five to eight hours. Lumbini is a full day by road. For the longer ones, the choice between road and a short flight is the key planning decision.
Key facts
- Near valley
- Bhaktapur, Nagarkot, Dhulikhel: under 2 hr
- Mid range
- Gorkha, Chitwan: 4 to 6 hr
- Long
- Pokhara: 6 to 8 hr
- Full day
- Lumbini, Janakpur
How it works
- Start from KathmanduUse the rounded numbers above to sort your list.
- Sort by timeGroup places that are under two hours.
- Decide road or airUse road or flight.
- Check each legSee Chitwan, Gorkha and Lumbini.
- Add a bufferPlan an extra hour per long leg.
Insider tip
Check distances on a map app on the day, but rely on your driver's time estimate.
Avoid this
Do not quote these as exact; they are guide numbers.
Related questions
Which is the nearest hill station to Kathmandu?
Nagarkot and Dhulikhel are both close; see how to choose.
How far is Pokhara?
Roughly 200 km by road, usually six to eight hours.
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