The short answer
The Prithvi Highway links Kathmandu to Pokhara via the Trishuli and Marsyangdi valleys. It is a two-lane road with many bends, heavy truck traffic and occasional landslides in monsoon, so average speeds are modest. Road work and widening projects have improved sections but also cause delays.
A good driver, an early start and a flexible schedule are the main safety measures. Check the road status the day before, avoid travelling after dark and keep a spare day when you have a tight flight to catch.
Key facts
- Type
- Two-lane hill highway
- Risk
- Trucks, landslides
- Average
- 25 to 40 km/h
- Best
- Daylight
How it works
- Check the road statusPhone your driver or hotel.
- Leave earlyDaylight driving.
- Pack for delaysWater, snacks, charger.
- Wear seat beltsAlways.
- Keep a buffer dayEspecially in monsoon.
Insider tip
Ask your driver about recent landslides or diversions.
Avoid this
Do not schedule an international flight on the same day as a long drive.
Related questions
Is the road paved the whole way?
Yes, but surfaces vary with weather.
Is it safe for tourists?
Generally yes with an experienced driver.
Plan your Nepal trip in 60 seconds
Answer four short questions. We show trips that fit, and a planner can send a route and price. Free, no payment.
Trips that match this guide
Keep reading
More guides to explore
- Distances and Travel TimesKathmandu to Pokhara, Trishuli, Kushma, Muktinath and more.
- Routes from IndiaRoutes from Varanasi, Patna, Lucknow and Ayodhya.
- Nepal from South and West IndiaBangalore, Chennai, Kerala, Hyderabad, Pune, Ahmedabad and more.
- Flights from India and the UAEBuddha Air from Kolkata and Varanasi; UAE to Pokhara.
- All Nepal guidesBrowse every place and theme.
