Getting around · Daman
Tribhuvan Rajpath Road Trip
Nepal's first highway, a winding switchback drive from Kathmandu over Daman to the Terai.
The Tribhuvan Rajpath — Nepal's first highway, completed in the mid-1950s to connect Kathmandu with the Terai and India — is as much an attraction as the destination it leads to. This famously winding mountain road climbs over the hills via the Daman ridge before dropping to Hetauda, and its endless switchbacks, terraced valleys and big Himalayan views make the journey to Daman a road trip worth doing for its own sake.
The route
From Kathmandu the Rajpath climbs to the Thankot rim, crosses the hills and descends into the Palung valley before the final climb to Daman, then continues down a dramatic series of bends to Hetauda in the Terai. Allow three to four hours Kathmandu to Daman for around 80km — the slow pace is the point.
Highlights along the way
- The terraced Palung valley vegetable farms, greenest after the monsoon
- The ridge-top Daman view tower and its Himalaya panorama
- Spring rhododendron forests lining the higher bends
Driving tips
- Travel in daylight and dry conditions; the bends are no place to be caught after dark or in fog.
- The road suits confident or hired local drivers; many visitors take a car and driver.
- Carry snacks and water — services are limited between settlements.
Plan the logistics with how to get to Daman, and for the bigger picture on roads, buses and hired vehicles see our guide to getting around Nepal.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Tribhuvan Rajpath?+
The Tribhuvan Rajpath, or Tribhuvan Highway, is Nepal's first highway, completed in the mid-1950s to link Kathmandu with the Terai and India. It climbs over the hills via the Daman ridge before dropping to Hetauda, and is famous for its many switchbacks and sweeping mountain views.
How long does the drive over Daman take?+
Kathmandu to Daman on the Rajpath takes roughly three to four hours for around 80km, because the road is steep and winding. Continuing down to Hetauda adds a couple more hours. The slow pace is part of the experience; allow plenty of time and avoid driving the bends after dark.
Is the Tribhuvan Rajpath safe to drive?+
It is a well-known route but a demanding mountain road with countless tight switchbacks, drop-offs and occasional fog, so it suits confident drivers and good local drivers. Travel in daylight, in dry conditions where possible, and in a vehicle with reliable brakes. Many visitors hire a car and driver.
Why drive the Rajpath instead of the main highway?+
The faster Prithvi and Mugling routes carry most traffic, but the Tribhuvan Rajpath is the scenic, historic choice: quieter, far more spectacular, and the only way to reach Daman's ridge-top panorama. It is a road trip in its own right rather than just a way to get somewhere.
