Nepal is India’s neighbour located on India’s shoulder. It borders UP (Uttar pradesh) , UK (Uttrakhand), Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim. So, as an Indian citizen you have many options to visit Nepal from any of these state borders.
There are certain requirements to enter Nepal from India with your own vehicle. I covered these requirements in another blog here
Your entry depends on which Nepal city you prefer to travel. If it is Kathmandu then Bihar or UP is your entry point. If you are travelling to Pokhara in west then you can enter via Sanauli border. Whereas, if you want to travel east of Nepal then Sikkim or West Bengal is your entry point.
Route Overview: New Delhi to Pokhara via Sunauli Border
Embarking on a motorcycle journey from New Delhi to Pokhara, Nepal, offers an exhilarating experience through diverse terrains and cultures. Here’s an updated route plan with visual aids to guide your adventure.
- Total Distance: Approximately 1,100 km
- Estimated Riding Time: 20–22 hours (excluding breaks)
- Recommended Duration: 2–3 days for a comfortable ride
- Preferred Border Crossing: Sunauli–Belahiya (open 24/7)
🗺️ Detailed Route Breakdown
Day 1: New Delhi → Lucknow (~540 km, 7–9 hours)
- Route: New Delhi → Yamuna Expressway → Agra → Lucknow Expressway → Lucknow
- Tolls: Multiple toll booths; ensure sufficient cash or FASTag balance
- Highlights:
- Agra: Home to the iconic Taj Mahal
- Lucknow: Known for its rich history and cuisine
Day 2: Lucknow → Sunauli Border (~300 km, 6–7 hours)
- Route: Lucknow → Gorakhpur → Sunauli
- Road Conditions: Generally good; some stretches may have moderate traffic
- Highlights:
- Gorakhpur: Visit the Gorakhnath Temple
- Sunauli: Major border crossing into Nepal
Border Crossing at Sunauli–Belahiya
- Operating Hours: 24/7
- Requirements for Indian Riders:
- Valid driving license
- Vehicle registration documents
- Vehicle insurance papers
- Bhansar permit (vehicle entry permit)
- Bhansar Permit:
- Obtainable at the border
- Fee: Approximately NPR 150–500, depending on vehicle type
- Validity: Typically 7 days
- SIM Card:
- Consider purchasing a local SIM (e.g., Ncell) for better connectivity
Day 3: Belahiya → Pokhara (~180 km, 6–7 hours)
- Route: Belahiya → Butwal → Tansen → Pokhara via Siddhartha Highway (NH47)
- Road Conditions:
- Mountainous terrain with sharp curves
- Sections prone to landslides, especially during monsoon
- Exercise caution and check local advisories
- Highlights:
- Tansen: A picturesque hill town with rich cultural heritage
- Pokhara: Gateway to the Annapurna Circuit, known for Phewa Lake and mountain views
Additional Tips
- Fuel: Fuel stations are available along the route, but it’s advisable to refuel before entering remote areas
- Currency: Carry some Nepalese Rupees (NPR) for expenses in Nepal
- Weather: Check weather forecasts, especially during monsoon season (June–September)
- Accommodation: Plan overnight stays in cities like Lucknow or Gorakhpur for rest
- Health: Carry a basic first-aid kit and stay hydrated
Embark on this journey with preparation and caution, and you’ll experience the diverse beauty spanning from India’s plains to Nepal’s mountainous landscapes. Safe travels
