Getting around · Nepal
Kathmandu to Gorkha
Tourist or local bus and private car — how to travel from Kathmandu to Gorkha, the historic hilltop palace town, in about 5 hours.
Gorkha, the historic seat of the dynasty that unified Nepal, is about a 5 hour drive from Kathmandu. You follow the Prithvi Highway west to Abu Khaireni, then turn north onto a smaller road climbing to the town. There is no flight, so travel is by bus or private car. The hilltop Gorkha Durbar fort rewards the journey with history and big mountain views.
At a glance
| Mode | Duration | Approx cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct/local bus | ~5 hrs | USD 6–12 | Best value; some changes at Abu Khaireni |
| Private car/jeep | ~5 hrs | USD 90–140 | Most comfortable; door to door |
| Via Bandipur | 1–2 days | Varies | Easy to combine on the same highway |
By tourist bus
A few direct buses run from Kathmandu to Gorkha, but options are limited compared with the Pokhara corridor. The reliable alternative is to take a westbound bus along the Prithvi Highway, get off at Abu Khaireni, and change to a local bus for the climb up to Gorkha. Allow around 5 hours in total.
By private car or jeep
A private vehicle is the most comfortable choice, especially since direct public services are sparse. It takes about 5 hours and lets you combine Gorkha with a stop at Bandipur, which lies on the same highway, or continue on to Pokhara afterwards.
Which option to choose
For value, take a highway bus and change at Abu Khaireni; for comfort and flexibility, hire a private car. Many travellers visit Gorkha and Bandipur together since both sit just off the main Kathmandu–Pokhara road.
Tips
- Combine Gorkha with Bandipur — they share the same highway corridor.
- Be ready for a climb of stone steps up to the Gorkha Durbar fort.
- Set out early; afternoon haze can hide the Manaslu and Himalchuli views.
Plan onward travel with getting around Nepal. It pairs naturally with the Kathmandu to Bandipur route on the way to the lakes, or with the full Kathmandu to Pokhara journey. Read about the palace-fort town in Gorkha before departing Kathmandu.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get from Kathmandu to Gorkha?+
Allow about 5 hours. You follow the Prithvi Highway west to Abu Khaireni, then turn north onto a smaller road that climbs to Gorkha town. Road conditions and traffic can stretch the journey.
How do I get from Kathmandu to Gorkha by bus?+
Direct buses run from Kathmandu to Gorkha, or you can take a Pokhara-bound bus and change at Abu Khaireni for a local bus up to Gorkha. Tourist buses are limited, so many travellers use local buses or a private car.
How much does it cost to get to Gorkha?+
A bus costs around USD 6 to 12 depending on the service, while a private car for the whole journey costs roughly USD 90 to 140. Local buses are the cheapest but slower.
Is there a flight to Gorkha?+
No. Gorkha is a hill town reached by road only. The nearest practical airport is in Pokhara or Bharatpur, both still a long drive away, so almost everyone arrives by bus or private vehicle.
Is Gorkha worth visiting?+
Yes. Gorkha is the cradle of modern Nepal, with the hilltop Gorkha Durbar palace-fort offering history and sweeping Himalayan views. It pairs well with Bandipur, which lies on the same highway.
