India to Nepal Road Trip Itinerary: Routes, Permits & Travel Tips

Published on Jun 10, 2025

Planning an India to Nepal road trip is a perfect way to explore the Himalayas, local cultures, and scenic countryside at your own pace. India and Nepal share a friendly open-border policy, making road travel simple and exciting for Indian travelers. From lush plains to towering mountains, the drive offers a wide range of experiences for both adventurers and peace seekers.

In this blog, we will provide a detailed Nepal road trip itinerary, cover the best routes, permits, vehicle documents, and practical travel tips for an enjoyable Nepal India tour.

Why Take a Road Trip from India to Nepal?

• Seamless Cross-Border Travel: Indian citizens can enter Nepal without a visa, simplifying the journey.
• Freedom and Flexibility: A road trip allows you to discover hidden villages, scenic stops, and places that are off the beaten path.
• Budget-Friendly Adventure: Compared to flights or package tours, driving yourself is economical and offers more control over expenses.
• Scenic Landscapes: Experience a gradual change from the bustling Indian plains to the peaceful beauty of Nepal’s hills and valleys.

Best Time for India to Nepal Road Trip

Season	Months	Description
Winter	Nov – Feb	Cold in Nepal, ideal for clear mountain views
Spring	Mar – May	Blooming flowers, great for treks and sightseeing
Summer/Monsoon	Jun – Sep	Lush greenery but roads may be slippery
Autumn	Oct – Nov	Best season: pleasant weather and festivals

Recommended: October to March for best weather and road conditions.

India to Nepal Road Routes

1. Delhi to Kathmandu via Gorakhpur & Sonauli

• Distance: Approx. 1,150 km

• Driving Time: 20–24 hours

• Route: Delhi → Kanpur → Lucknow → Gorakhpur → Sonauli Border → Bhairahawa → Kathmandu

2. Varanasi to Kathmandu via Sonauli

• Distance: Approx. 450 km

• Driving Time: 10–12 hours

• Route: Varanasi → Gorakhpur → Sonauli → Butwal → Kathmandu

3. Patna to Kathmandu via Raxaul

• Distance: Approx. 300 km

• Driving Time: 8–10 hours

• Route: Patna → Muzaffarpur → Raxaul → Birgunj → Hetauda → Kathmandu

4. Siliguri to Kathmandu via Kakarbhitta

• Distance: Approx. 450 km

• Driving Time: 11–13 hours

• Route: Siliguri → Panitanki → Kakarbhitta → Itahari → Dhulikhel → Kathmandu

Required Permits and Travel Documents

For Indian Citizens

• Valid ID: Voter ID or Passport (Aadhar is not accepted at land borders)

• No Visa Needed

• Vehicle Documents:

  • Registration Certificate (RC)

  • Driving License

  • Insurance valid in Nepal

  • Pollution Under Control (PUC)

  • Entry permit from Nepal customs at border

For Foreign Nationals

• Passport & Visa: Required

• Visa on Arrival: Available at Sonauli, Raxaul, Kakarbhitta, and other major entry points

Vehicle Entry and Permits

If you're taking your own car or bike:

• Obtain a Temporary Vehicle Permit at the border

• Pay applicable road tax and entry fee (based on vehicle type and duration)

• Display the permit on your windshield

Tip: Hire a local agent at the border to assist with paperwork and save time.

7-Day Nepal Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Delhi/Varanasi to Sonauli Border

• Start early to cover long distance

• Overnight stay in Gorakhpur or Sonauli

Day 2: Enter Nepal – Drive to Kathmandu

• Clear immigration and customs

• Drive through Butwal and Narayanghat to reach Kathmandu

Day 3: Kathmandu Sightseeing

• Pashupatinath Temple

• Boudhanath Stupa

• Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)

• Durbar Square

Day 4: Kathmandu to Pokhara (200 km / 6-7 hours)

• Scenic drive with views of Trishuli River

• Evening walk at Phewa Lake

Day 5: Pokhara Exploration

• Sunrise at Sarangkot

• Boating at Phewa Lake

• Davis Falls, Gupteshwor Cave, World Peace Pagoda

Day 6: Return to Kathmandu

• Leisurely drive back

• Shopping in Thamel

Day 7: Return to India

• Start early to reach border town by evening

Budget Breakdown (Approx.)

Item	Cost (INR)
Fuel (round trip)	6,000 – 10,000
Hotels (6 nights)	6,000 – 12,000
Food & Local Transport	3,000 – 5,000
Permits & Entry Fees	1,000 – 2,000
Miscellaneous	2,000
Total	18,000 – 31,000

Travel Tips for a Smooth Nepal India Tour

• Cash: Keep both NPR and small INR denominations (INR ?100 or less).

• Connectivity: Buy a local SIM card like Ncell or NTC.

• Fuel: Fill up in major towns. Fuel stations are sparse in hilly areas.

• Food: Try local Nepali dishes like momo, thukpa, and dal bhat.

• Driving: Be cautious on mountain roads and avoid night travel.

• Navigation: Google Maps works well; download offline maps.

Safety and Health

• Carry a basic medical and first aid kit

• Get travel insurance that covers cross-border travel

• Carry photocopies of important documents

• Stay hydrated and take regular breaks

FAQs: India to Nepal Road Trip

Q1. Do Indian citizens need a visa to enter Nepal?

Ans. No. Indian citizens can travel visa-free with a valid passport or voter ID.

Q2. Can I drive my own car or bike to Nepal?

Ans. Yes, but you need proper documents and must get a temporary permit at the border.

Q3. Which is the best border crossing for the road trip?

Ans. Sonauli and Raxaul are the most popular and well-connected borders.

Q4. Are there any toll charges on the Indian side?

Ans. Yes, Indian highways have tolls. Use FASTag for a smoother experience.

Q5. Is it safe to travel in Nepal by road?

Ans. Yes, it's generally safe, but be cautious on hilly routes and during monsoons.

Conclusion

An India to Nepal road trip is not just a vacation—it’s an experience packed with culture, nature, and unique encounters. With proper planning, updated documents, and a solid Nepal road trip itinerary, this journey can be one of the most rewarding adventures of your life.

Whether it’s your first Nepal India tour or one of many, hit the road with confidence and curiosity. The open highways and the welcoming mountains of Nepal await you.

Need help planning your India to Nepal road trip? Contact our travel experts today to book your customized Nepal India tour package!