A trip between Gorakhpur, India, and Pokhara, Nepal links the vibrant Indian plains of Uttar Pradesh to the peaceful Himalayan foothills. Traversing through 280–300 kilometers (based on chosen paths) provides adventure lovers with cultural experiences and breathtaking landscapes. This guide will show you how to travel from Gorakhpur, India to Pokhara, Nepal through all possible transport modes.
How to Travel from Gorakhpur to Pokhara
Reaching the Sunauli Border
Your adventure begins in Gorakhpur. The video highlights that you can conveniently catch a direct bus right outside the Gorakhpur Railway Station that will take you straight to the Sunauli border. This makes the initial leg of your journey hassle-free.
Crossing the Indo-Nepal Border
Upon arrival at the Sunauli border, the process is quite straightforward. As an Indian national, you'll simply need to present your identity card to the Indian Army personnel to gain entry into Nepal. Good news – a passport is not mandatory for Indians! What's even better is that there are no fees involved in crossing the border on foot.
Currency Exchange and Getting a Local SIM
Once you've crossed into Nepal and reached Bhairawa, you'll find several money exchange counters. It's advisable to exchange your Indian Rupees for Nepalese Rupees here, as you're likely to get a favorable exchange rate. Additionally, if you plan on staying connected, you can easily purchase a local Nepali SIM card. The video mentions Ncell and Nepal Communication as the primary service providers.
Onward Transportation to Pokhara (or Kathmandu)
From Bhairawa, you have options to reach your final destination. You'll find both buses and taxi vans heading towards Pokhara and Kathmandu. If you're on a budget and have time, buses to Pokhara take approximately 12 hours and cost around ₹750 (Indian Rupees). For a faster journey, consider a taxi van which will get you to Pokhara in about 6 hours for around ₹950.
Arrival in Pokhara and Exploring
After your journey, you'll arrive in the beautiful city of Pokhara. The area around the stunning Phewa Lake is a popular spot for hotels and hostels. The video suggests trying to book directly with the hotel, as this might offer better rates.
Pokhara is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Some of the must-visit attractions include the famous Phewa Lake, the majestic World Peace Pagoda, and a sacred Shiva temple perched atop a mountain. For adrenaline junkies, Pokhara offers exciting activities like paragliding, hill climbing, and trekking in the surrounding Annapurna region.
Drive from Gorakhpur to Pokhara
- Travel Time: 6–8 hours
- Distance: 280–300 km via NH 29 and Siddhartha Rajmarg
Driving is the most flexible and scenic way to reach Pokhara. From Gorakhpur, head west on NH 29 toward the Sunauli/Belahiya border (about 90 km, 2–3 hours). After clearing immigration (bring your passport and visa if needed—Indians don’t require a visa for Nepal), continue on Siddhartha Rajmarg (H10) through Butwal and Tansen, winding into Pokhara’s valley.
- Tips: Start early to avoid border crowds. Roads can be narrow and winding after Sunauli, so drive cautiously. Fuel up in Gorakhpur or Butwal—options thin out later.
- Stops: Grab a chai at a roadside dhaba near Sunauli or stretch your legs in Butwal (~4 hours in).
- Taxi Option: Book a cab (sedans from $150, SUVs up to $190) through services like Bharat Taxi or Musafircab for a hassle-free ride.
Pros: Control your pace, enjoy the Himalayan views.
Cons: Border paperwork and mountain roads can slow you down.
Bus Journey Gorakhpur to Pokhara
- Travel Time: 8–12 hours (including transfers)
- Cost: $10–$15 total
- Route: Gorakhpur to Sunauli, then Sunauli to Pokhara
No direct bus runs from Gorakhpur to Pokhara, but you can piece it together affordably.
- Step 1: Gorakhpur to Sunauli: Catch a local bus or shared jeep from Gorakhpur’s bus stand to the Sunauli border (~2–3 hours, $2–$3). Buses leave frequently; ask for “Sunauli” or “Bhairahawa.”
- Step 2: Cross the Border: Walk across the India-Nepal border at Sunauli/Belahiya (15–30 minutes for immigration). Watch out for touts—stick to official buses or cabs.
- Step 3: Sunauli to Pokhara: From Belahiya (Nepal side), board a bus to Pokhara (~6–8 hours, $8–$12). Operators like Sanjog Travels run daily services (around 8:30 AM from Bhairahawa, near the border), or grab a microbus from the nearby stand.
- Tips: Carry Nepali rupees (NPR) for the Nepal leg—exchange in Gorakhpur or at the border. Pack snacks; stops are basic.
Pros: Cheap and authentic local experience.
Cons: Multiple transfers, less comfy, and border delays possible.
Train + Bus Combo Gorakhpur to Pokhara
Travel Time: 10–14 hours
Cost: $15–$25
Route: Train to Nautanwa, then bus/taxi to Pokhara
For a mix of rail and road, start with a train from Gorakhpur Junction to Nautanwa, near the border.
- Step 1: Train to Nautanwa: Several daily trains (e.g., Gorakhpur-Nautanwa Passenger) take ~1.5–2 hours ($1–$2). Check Indian Railways for schedules.
- Step 2: Nautanwa to Sunauli: A short 10-km rickshaw or taxi ride (~$2–$5) gets you to the border. Cross into Nepal.
- Step 3: Sunauli to Pokhara: Same as the bus option—take a bus from Belahiya (~6–8 hours, $8–$12).
- Tips: Trains are reliable but slow; book ahead via IRCTC if possible. Coordinate bus times to avoid waiting at the border.
Pros: Budget-friendly with a train twist.
Cons: Extra steps and timing can be tricky.
Fly (with a Catch) Gorakhpur to Pokhara
Travel Time: 3–5 hours (including transfers)
Cost: $60–$150
Route: Gorakhpur to Kathmandu, then Kathmandu to Pokhara
No direct flights connect Gorakhpur to Pokhara, but you can fly via Kathmandu.
- Step 1: Gorakhpur to Kathmandu: Flights from Gorakhpur Airport (GOP) to Tribhuvan International (KTM) aren’t daily—check with Air India or IndiGo for connections via Delhi (~$50–$120, 2–3 hours total).
- Step 2: Kathmandu to Pokhara: Book a quick domestic flight (Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines) from Kathmandu to Pokhara (25 minutes, $20–$50). Alternatively, a bus from Kathmandu takes 6–7 hours ($10).
- Tips: Book flights early—domestic Nepal flights fill up fast. Weather can delay schedules, so buffer your plans.
Pros: Fastest option if flights align.
Cons: Pricey and requires multiple bookings.
Conclusion:
Traveling from Gorakhpur to Pokhara by road is an accessible and rewarding experience. This guide, based on the insights from the video, provides you with the essential information to plan your trip smoothly. So pack your bags, get ready for scenic views, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Nepal!
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