The short answer
Plan on roughly 3.5 to 5 hours for the drive from Kathmandu, depending on traffic and road work. The road follows the Trishuli river valley, with long stretches of tunnels, trucks and cliff-side bends, so a steady pace is better than a rushed one.
Leave early to beat the city traffic, and treat Mugling as your lunch stop. If you leave after 10 am, expect trucks and slower going. In monsoon, landslides can add an hour or more.
Key facts
- Time
- About 3.5 to 5 hours
- Road
- Prithvi Highway
- Traffic
- Trucks, roadwork
- Best start
- Before 7 am
How it works
- Leave before 7 amAvoids the heaviest traffic.
- Follow the Trishuli valleyThe road hugs the river in many places.
- Stop at a roadside cafeMid-way tea or snack.
- Arrive at Mugling for lunchChoose a busy restaurant.
- Check the road aheadAsk your driver about delays.
Insider tip
Fill up on water and snacks before leaving; stops are limited between towns.
Avoid this
Do not drive this road at night in heavy rain.
Related questions
Can I do Kathmandu to Pokhara in one go?
Yes, but a stop at Mugling or Bandipur makes the day much easier.
Is the road safe?
Generally yes with an experienced driver; avoid bad weather.
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