Reaching Nepal by Air
Flying to Nepal offers the most efficient and convenient travel option, with various airlines operating flights from major cities across the globe. The primary international gateway to Nepal is Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, with a second international airport in Pokhara expected to open soon.
Direct flights to Kathmandu are available from several Indian cities like Varanasi, Kolkata, and New Delhi, taking approximately 1-1.5 hours. Airlines such as Nepal Airlines, IndiGo, Air India, and Buddha Air operate these routes. Additionally, there are direct flights from international destinations including Thailand, Hong Kong, China, Singapore, Japan, Turkey, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Bangladesh, South Korea, Malaysia, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. Major airlines servicing these routes include Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines,Cathay Pacific/Dragonair, Air Asia, Bhutan Airlines, Etihad, and Malaysia Airlines.
Booking your flight well in advance is advisable, especially during the peak trekking season from October to November. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you can find various transportation options to reach the city center, located just 6 km away. Choices include public buses (operational until 6 pm), local bus services, and metered or pre-paid taxis available around the clock.
For domestic travel within Nepal, there is an extensive network of flights and helicopter charters, ensuring quick and comfortable journeys. Recreation Holidays can assist in arranging all your domestic travel needs for a seamless experience.
Reaching Nepal by Train
The primary railway connection between India and Nepal is from Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh to Janakpur via the Sunauli border. Trains such as Chauri Chaura Express, Kashi Express, and Sapt Kranti Superfast Express connect various Indian cities to Gorakhpur. From there, buses and taxis are available for the approximately 6-hour journey to Kathmandu.
Reaching Nepal by Road
Nepal shares borders with China to the north and India to the south, east, and west, offering multiple entry points by road. The Kodari Pass is the main entry from China, while key entry points from India include Mahendra Nagar, Birgunj, Kakarbhitta, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Dhangadi, and Belhiya.
For travelers from Delhi or Varanasi, the Sunauli border near Bhairahawa is the most convenient crossing, with daily air-conditioned buses and private car hire options available. The Raxaul border, accessible from Patna, leads to Birgunj in central Nepal and is ideal for travelers from West Bengal or Bihar, with bus and car services readily available.
Other popular crossings are Panitanki and Banbasa, leading to Kakarbhitta and Bhimdatta in Nepal, respectively. Panitanki is preferred for travelers from North East India, while Banbasa is suitable for those traveling from Delhi and Uttarakhand. With six border crossings with India, road travel is an economical and scenic way to reach Nepal. For travelers from Delhi or Varanasi, the Sunauli crossing near Bhairahawa is the most convenient. Daily direct air-conditioned buses are available from both cities, and private cars can also be hired.
Another well-known crossing is the Raxaul border, accessible from Patna, leading to Birgunj in Central Nepal. Travelers from West Bengal or Bihar can choose this route, with available bus services and rental car options.
The next two commonly used crossings are Panitanki and Banbasa, which lead to Kakarbhitta and Bhimdatta in Nepal, respectively. Panitanki is ideal for those traveling from North East Indian towns like Gangtok or Sikkim, while Banbasa is suitable for travelers coming from Delhi and Uttarakhand.