Getting around · Nepal
Kathmandu to Pokhara
Tourist bus, private car or a 25-minute flight along the 200km Prithvi Highway — how to travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
The quickest way from Kathmandu to Pokhara is a 25 to 30 minute flight. By road the two cities are about 200km apart along the Prithvi Highway, and the journey takes roughly 6 to 8 hours by tourist bus or 5 to 7 hours by private car. This is Nepal's busiest tourist corridor, so you have plenty of choice.
At a glance
| Mode | Duration | Approx cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | 25–30 min | High (varies) | Fastest; saves a day; weather delays possible |
| Tourist bus | 6–8 hrs | USD 10–25 | Best value; assigned seats and rest stops |
| Private car/jeep | 5–7 hrs | USD 90–150 | Flexible; stop for photos and food |
| Local bus | 7–9 hrs | USD 5–8 | Cheapest; crowded and slow |
By tourist bus
Tourist buses leave Kathmandu in the morning, usually from the Sorhakhutte or tourist bus park area, and follow the Trishuli River valley west to Pokhara. Expect assigned seats, air-conditioning on deluxe coaches and a couple of rest stops for food. Book a day ahead in peak season. The ride is scenic but slow, so settle in and enjoy the river views.
By private car or jeep
A private car or jeep with driver is the most flexible option. You leave when you like, stop for photos at viewpoints and lunch where you choose, and you can break the trip at Bandipur or near Gorkha. It costs much more than the bus but suits families and groups, especially with luggage.
By air
Daily flights connect Kathmandu and Pokhara in about 25 to 30 minutes. Flying saves nearly a full day and is ideal if your schedule is tight, but mountain weather can cause delays or cancellations, so avoid booking a tight onward connection.
Which option to choose
Fly if time is short, take the tourist bus for the best value, or hire a private vehicle for comfort and stops. A popular plan is to fly one way and bus the other so you experience both the speed and the scenery.
Tips
- Book tourist buses and flights a day or two ahead in October–November.
- Sit on the right side of the bus for the best river and valley views.
- Allow buffer time around flights in case of weather delays.
Plan onward travel with getting around Nepal. Many travellers continue from Pokhara to the jungle on the Pokhara to Chitwan route, or arrive overland via Kathmandu to Chitwan. Explore what awaits in Pokhara and back in Kathmandu.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get from Kathmandu to Pokhara?+
By road it is about 200km and takes roughly 6 to 8 hours by tourist bus, or 5 to 7 hours by private car, depending on traffic and road conditions on the Prithvi Highway. A direct flight takes only 25 to 30 minutes.
How much does the bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara cost?+
A tourist bus typically costs around USD 10 to 25 depending on the operator and comfort level, with luxury or deluxe coaches at the higher end. Local buses are cheaper but slower and more crowded.
Is there a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara?+
Yes. Several airlines fly the route daily, taking about 25 to 30 minutes. Fares vary widely but are far higher than the bus. Flights save almost a full day, though mountain weather can cause delays.
Is the tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara worth it?+
For most travellers, yes. It is cheap, comfortable enough, runs to a fixed schedule with rest stops and follows the scenic Trishuli River valley. The main downside is the length of the journey on a winding, sometimes congested highway.
What is the best way to travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara?+
Take the tourist bus for value, a private car or jeep for flexibility and stops, or fly to save a day. Many travellers fly one way and take the bus the other to see the scenery once.
