Gorakhpur to Pokhara Distance: A Complete Travel Guide

If you're planning a trip from Gorakhpur (India) to Pokhara (Nepal), you're in for a scenic and memorable journey. Gorakhpur, located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most convenient gateways to Nepal. Pokhara, on the other hand, is a beautiful lakeside city known for its natural beauty, adventure sports, and views of the Annapurna mountain range.

This article will guide you through the distance, travel options, routes, travel time, and essential tips for your journey from Gorakhpur to Pokhara.

How Far is Pokhara from Gorakhpur?

The distance between Gorakhpur and Pokhara is approximately:

• By Road: Around 280 to 300 kilometers depending on the route taken.
• By Air: There is no direct flight from Gorakhpur to Pokhara, but indirect flights are possible via Kathmandu.

The road distance can vary slightly depending on border crossing points and road conditions.

Best Routes to Travel from Gorakhpur to Pokhara

There are a few common routes travelers take when going from Gorakhpur to Pokhara. The most used border crossing is Sunauli-Bhairahawa.

1. Via Sunauli Border and Siddharthanagar

Route: Gorakhpur → Sonauli (India-Nepal border) → Bhairahawa → Butwal → Tansen → Pokhara

• Total Distance: Approx. 280–300 km
• Estimated Travel Time: 8 to 10 hours by road, depending on traffic and border formalities.
• Road Condition: Generally good, but mountain roads near Pokhara can be winding.

This is the most popular and convenient route for travelers.

Modes of Transport from Gorakhpur to Pokhara

There are several ways to travel between the two cities, depending on your budget, comfort, and travel style.

1. By Taxi or Private Car

Hiring a private car or taxi from Gorakhpur to Pokhara is the most comfortable way to travel.

• Duration: 7 to 9 hours
• Cost: ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 (INR), depending on the vehicle and operator
• Pros: Direct, comfortable, flexible stops
• Cons: Slightly expensive

You can book cars in Gorakhpur or through travel agencies that offer cross-border transport.

2. By Bus

There are both direct and indirect buses available from Gorakhpur to Pokhara.

• Option 1: Take a bus to Sunauli border → Cross the border on foot → Catch a Nepali bus or jeep to Pokhara
• Option 2: Some private operators offer direct tourist buses from Gorakhpur to Pokhara
• Duration: 10 to 12 hours
• Cost: ₹800 to ₹1,500
• Pros: Budget-friendly
• Cons: Longer duration, possible crowding

Note: Check for bus timings in advance, especially during monsoon or festival seasons.

3. By Train and Bus Combination

There is no direct train to Pokhara, but you can combine train and road travel.

• Step 1: Take a train to Gorakhpur
• Step 2: Travel by road to Sunauli
• Step 3: Enter Nepal and take a bus to Pokhara

This is a common route for Indian travelers coming from cities like Delhi, Lucknow, or Varanasi.

4. By Air (Indirect Flights)

There are no direct flights from Gorakhpur to Pokhara. However, you can take:

• Flight from Gorakhpur to Kathmandu (via Delhi or another city)
• Then a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara
• Time: Total around 6–8 hours including layovers
• Cost: ₹6,000 to ₹15,000 (depending on airline and timing)
• Pros: Fastest option if time is limited
• Cons: Expensive and indirect

Documents Required for Indian Travelers

For Indian citizens, no visa or passport is required to enter Nepal. However, you must carry any one of the following:

• Voter ID card (mandatory if flying)
• Aadhaar card (accepted at land borders)
• Passport (optional but useful)

If you're traveling by air (via Kathmandu), carry a valid passport or voter ID as identity proof.

Travel Tips for Gorakhpur to Pokhara Journey

• Start early in the morning to avoid long queues at the border and reach Pokhara before nightfall.
• Carry Nepali currency or exchange at the border.
• ATMs and mobile networks work well in Nepal, especially in cities.
• Download offline maps or use apps like Google Maps or Maps.me for navigation.
• Border is open 24/7, but crossing during daylight hours is advisable.
• Watch out for road conditions during monsoon (July–September) as landslides can delay travel

Why Visit Pokhara?

Pokhara is one of the most loved destinations in Nepal. Some major attractions include:

• Phewa Lake – Boat rides with mountain views
• Sarangkot – Sunrise point with views of Annapurna range
• World Peace Pagoda
• Paragliding, Zipline, and Adventure Sports
• Trekking Gateways – Start point for Annapurna Base Camp, Ghorepani, etc.

Conclusion

The distance from Gorakhpur to Pokhara may seem long, but the journey is full of beautiful landscapes, cultural experiences, and the excitement of entering a new country. Whether you choose to travel by road, bus, or flight, the journey is worth it. Just plan your route, keep essential documents handy, and get ready to experience the beauty of Nepal’s most scenic city.