The short answer
Raxaul in Bihar sits opposite Birgunj in Nepal, and is the closest crossing to Kathmandu by road. Direct trains arrive from Delhi, Kolkata and other cities, and from Raxaul the border formalities are quick when done in daylight. From Birgunj, Kathmandu is roughly 190 to 200 km by the Tribhuvan Rajpath or the Mahendra Highway route, often six to eight hours or more depending on traffic, and Chitwan is closer.
Many overland tours use Raxaul as the start for a Kathmandu, Chitwan and Pokhara circuit, and for Muktinath overland plans. Confirm vehicle permission and driver details when the plan includes road travel from the border.
Key facts
- Border
- Raxaul-Birgunj
- To Kathmandu
- About 190 to 200 km
- Nepal side
- Birgunj
- Good for
- Kathmandu, Chitwan, Pokhara
How it works
- Reach RaxaulBy train or road.
- Meet your driverNear the station.
- Cross to BirgunjImmigration.
- Drive northKathmandu or Chitwan.
- Break the journeyRest stops.
Insider tip
Start the Kathmandu drive early; the road has trucks and bends.
Avoid this
Do not plan a same-day connection after a late train arrival.
Related questions
Is Raxaul close to Patna?
Roughly a half-day by road.
Can I reach Chitwan same day?
Often yes with an early start.
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