The short answer
Yes. An overland pilgrimage from Raxaul takes roughly ten days and links Kathmandu, Pokhara and Muktinath. Confirm itinerary details with us.
It suits travellers who prefer the road, want to see the country and have time, and who are comfortable with long drives.
Key facts
- Length
- About 10 days
- Route
- Raxaul, Kathmandu, Pokhara, Muktinath
- Best for
- Budget-conscious road travellers
How it works
- Days 1 and 2: Raxaul to KathmanduCross at Raxaul-Birgunj and drive through the hills. Visit Pashupatinath and Boudhanath on arrival.
- Days 3 to 5: PokharaLake, Sarangkot sunrise and a rest day. Fly or drive to Jomsom the next morning.
- Days 6 to 8: MuktinathJeep or helicopter to the temple, bathe at the spouts and return to Jomsom or Pokhara.
- Days 9 and 10: ReturnBack to Kathmandu or the border by road, with a buffer day for weather.
How the route flows
After crossing the border at Raxaul and Birgunj, the route heads to Kathmandu for temples and rest. From there, it continues to Pokhara by road or flight, and then to Jomsom and Muktinath by road or a short flight.
Time spent on the road is substantial, so plan overnight stops and rest. A mix of road and flight sections can reduce the longest drives.
Preparing for the road and the height
Choose a reliable vehicle and driver, avoid night driving and keep a spare day for weather. Muktinath is high, so plan slow days, water and a warm layer, and ask your doctor if you have health conditions.
Discuss the road sections with us before you book, because conditions change with the season. Carry documents, small notes and any medicines.
Insider tip
It is long, but it shows Nepal on the ground.
Avoid this
Do not book without discussing the road sections.
Related questions
Is ten days too long?
It is long, but it shows Nepal on the ground, and the road gives you time to settle.
Is it suitable for seniors?
With a private vehicle and rest days, yes. Ask your doctor before going above 3,000 m.
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
- Mugling JunctionThe Prithvi Highway junction: times, food, rest stops and side trips.
- 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.
- All Nepal guidesBrowse every place and theme.
