Delhi to Kathmandu - A Detailed Travel Guide 2024-25

Delhi to Kathmandu Different Routes & Distance

When you travel from Delhi to Kathmandu, there are multiple routes to choose from, depending on the mode of transport and your preference for the journey. While most people prefer flights for convenience, you can also take a road trip or even consider train options. Here’s a breakdown of the different routes and distances.

 

Via Uttar Pradesh (UP)

• • This is one of the most common routes for those traveling by road. You pass through Lucknow and then head towards the Sonauli border. This route covers around 1,200 km and takes about 22-25 hours by car or bus, depending on traffic. It’s a scenic route with a mix of highways and local roads.

Via Bihar

• Another option is going via Bihar, which takes you through Gorakhpur and then the Raxaul-Birgunj border. This route is approximately 1,160 km and takes about 20-22 hours. This route is often preferred by those traveling from eastern Uttar Pradesh or Bihar itself.

By Uttarakhand

• • If you’re looking for a scenic drive through the mountains, you can go via Dehradun and enter Nepal through the Banbasa-Mahendranagar border. This route is slightly longer, around 1,350 km, and takes about 24-26 hours. The views along this route are amazing, especially if you love mountains and nature.

Via West Bengal (Siliguri)

• • Though not a direct route from Delhi, some travelers heading to eastern Nepal or wanting a longer road trip can go via Siliguri in West Bengal. From Siliguri, you enter Nepal through the Kakarbhitta border. This route adds more kilometers but can be an option if you’re planning a multi-destination trip.

Via Agra

• • For those interested in a detour to visit Agra and the famous Taj Mahal, you can start from Delhi, pass through Agra, and then connect to the Uttar Pradesh or Bihar routes mentioned earlier. This makes the journey longer, around 1,300 km, but it’s a good option if you want to explore en route.

All these routes offer their unique experiences. Depending on your schedule and how much time you want to spend on the road, you can choose the best path for your trip from Delhi to Kathmandu.

 

 

Delhi to Kathmandu By Flight

Flying from Delhi to Kathmandu is the fastest and most convenient option, especially if you’re looking to save time. Multiple airlines operate flights between these two cities, offering daily services and a comfortable journey. Here’s a detailed guide to the flight routes, timings, types of flights, and other essential details.

 

1. Direct Flights

• Airlines: Several airlines operate direct flights from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. The popular airlines include IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, and Nepal Airlines.
• Flight Duration: A direct flight takes around 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes.
• Fares: The average one-way fare ranges from ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 depending on the time of booking and the season. Booking early can get you better deals.
• Booking Link: You can book your tickets through popular travel websites like MakeMyTrip, Cleartrip, or the airline’s own website.
  • IndiGo Booking: IndiGo Flights
  • Air India: Air India Flights
• Contact Links:
  • IndiGo: +91 9910383838
  • Air India: 1800 180 1407

2. One-Stop Flights

• Airlines: If you don’t mind a stopover, you can opt for one-stop flights. These usually connect via cities like Kolkata, Varanasi, or Lucknow. Airlines like SpiceJet, Go First, and FlyDubai offer such options.
• Flight Duration: These flights take around 4 to 7 hours, including layover time.
• Fares: One-stop flights may range from ₹8,000 to ₹15,000 depending on the duration and layover city.
• Booking Link: You can book these through the same travel portals or directly on airline websites.
  • SpiceJet: SpiceJet Flights
  • Go First: Go First Flights
• Contact Links:
  • SpiceJet: 6000000033
  • Go First: 1800 2100 999

3. Budget Flights

• Airlines: Budget airlines like IndiGo and Go First often have special fares for economy travelers. These no-frills airlines focus on getting you from Delhi to Kathmandu at the cheapest price possible.
• Flight Duration: These flights take about 1 hour 40 minutes.
• Fares: You can find tickets for as low as ₹4,500 during sales or off-season times.
• Booking Link: Check sites like Skyscanner or Kayak for budget options.
• Contact Links:
  • Skyscanner: Skyscanner Flights

4. Business Class Flights

• Airlines: If you want to fly in style, Air India and Vistara offer business class services. These flights give you more legroom, priority boarding, and premium meals.
• Flight Duration: The journey remains the same, but the experience is more comfortable.
• Fares: Business class fares range from ₹18,000 to ₹30,000 depending on the airline and the season.
• Booking Link: You can book business class tickets through the airline websites or luxury travel sites like Travel Boutique Online.
• Contact Links:
  • Vistara: 9289228888

5. Charter Flights

• Type of Flight: For a more exclusive travel experience, you can book charter flights. These are ideal for families or groups who want a private flying experience. Companies like Club One Air and JetSetGo provide such services.
• Flight Duration: Around 1.5 hours, similar to commercial flights.
• Fares: Charter flights are expensive, costing anywhere between ₹3 lakh to ₹6 lakh depending on the aircraft type.
• Booking Link: Contact Club One Air or JetSetGo for charter bookings.
• Contact Links:
  • Club One Air: +91 124 498 4444
  • JetSetGo: +91 99998 84848

Additional Flight Information

• Baggage: Generally, airlines allow around 15-25 kg of checked baggage and 7 kg of hand baggage on flights from Delhi to Kathmandu.
• Airport Details: Make sure you reach Indira Gandhi International Airport at least 2-3 hours before departure for check-in and security formalities.

Flying from Delhi to Kathmandu is easy, quick, and with so many options, you can pick what suits your budget and schedule. Keep an eye on fare discounts, especially during festivals or off-season travel times!

 

 

Delhi to Kathmandu By Road

Traveling from Delhi to Kathmandu by road is an exciting journey, especially if you love scenic views and adventure. While the road trip takes more time than a flight, it offers a more immersive experience. You can choose between buses, private cars, and taxis, depending on your comfort and budget. Several routes and transportation modes are available for your road trip, and I’ll cover them all in detail.

 

1. Delhi to Kathmandu by Bus

• Government Buses: The most convenient option is the Delhi to Kathmandu direct bus service run by the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC). These buses leave from the Ambedkar Stadium Bus Terminal in Delhi and take around 30 hours to reach Kathmandu.
• Bus Type: These are AC Volvo buses with comfortable seating.
• Timings: Buses generally leave around 10:00 PM from Delhi and reach Kathmandu the next evening.
• Fares: The ticket price ranges from ₹2,300 to ₹2,700 per person.
• Booking Link: You can book tickets on the DTC website or through travel portals like RedBus.
  • RedBus Booking
• Contact Link:
  • DTC Helpline: +91 11 2331 9117
  • RedBus Customer Care: +91 44 6166 7166

2. Private Car

• Driving Your Own Vehicle: If you love long drives, taking your own car from Delhi to Kathmandu is an amazing option. The drive covers about 1,150 km and takes 22-24 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
• Routes: You can follow the Delhi-Agra-Lucknow-Gorakhpur-Sonauli-Kathmandu route. It’s a mix of highways and border roads.
• Road Conditions: The highways are in good condition, but once you cross into Nepal, expect some rough patches, especially during the monsoon season.
• Toll Costs: Expect toll fees of around ₹1,500-₹2,000 along the way.
• Contact for Rental Cars: If you don’t want to use your own vehicle, you can hire cars from rental companies like Zoomcar or Avis India.
  • Zoomcar: +91 80 6000 6000
  • Avis India: +91 124 472 4888

3. Private Taxi

• Type of Taxis: Several travel agencies offer Delhi to Kathmandu taxi services. You can hire Sedan or SUV taxis depending on the number of passengers and luggage.
• Timings: Taxis can take anywhere between 18 to 24 hours, depending on stops and border formalities.
• Fares: Taxi fares range from ₹18,000 to ₹25,000 for a one-way trip, depending on the type of vehicle and the number of passengers.
• Booking Link: Taxis can be booked through websites like Savaari or Gozo Cabs.
  • Savaari Taxi Booking
  • Gozo Cabs
• Contact Link:
  • Savaari Customer Care: 090 4545 0000
  • Gozo Cabs: 022 6789 0400

4. Carpool or Shared Taxi

• Type of Service: If you’re traveling on a budget, you can also use carpooling or shared taxi services. These allow you to share the cost of a taxi with other travelers.
• Timings: The journey time remains the same, about 22-24 hours.
• Fares: Shared taxi fares range from ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 per person.
• Booking Link: You can find these services through BlaBlaCar or by contacting local taxi operators.
  • BlaBlaCar India
• Contact Link:
  • BlaBlaCar Helpline: +91 80 3951 2065

5. Tourist Buses

• Type of Bus: Various private operators offer luxury tourist buses from Delhi to Kathmandu. These are generally AC sleeper buses with more comfort than regular government buses.
• Routes: The buses follow similar routes through Lucknow or Gorakhpur to cross the Sonauli border.
• Timings: The trip takes around 26-30 hours, including stops at the border for immigration checks.
• Fares: Tourist bus tickets range from ₹2,500 to ₹3,500 per person.
• Booking Link: You can book these buses through platforms like Yatra or MakeMyTrip.
  • Yatra Bus Booking
• Contact Link:
  • Yatra Customer Care: 1860 500 0900
  • MakeMyTrip: 0124 462 8747

Popular Road Routes

1. Via Lucknow – Gorakhpur – Sonauli Border
   • This is the most popular and fastest route. The road conditions are generally good, and there are plenty of restaurants and fuel stations on the way.
   • Distance: Around 1,150 km.
   • Travel Time: 22-24 hours.
2. Via Agra – Kanpur – Raxaul Border
   • This route is often taken by travelers heading through Bihar and crossing the Raxaul-Birgunj border. It’s a bit longer but more scenic, especially around Bihar.
   • Distance: Around 1,200 km.
   • Travel Time: 22-26 hours.
3. By  Dehradun – Banbasa Border
   • If you prefer mountain views and a quieter route, you can take this road through Dehradun and enter Nepal through the Banbasa-Mahendranagar border. It’s a beautiful drive but a bit longer.
   • Distance: Around 1,350 km.
   • Travel Time: 24-26 hours.
4. Via Patna – Raxaul Border
   • This is another scenic route that passes through Patna and is ideal for those traveling from Eastern India or Bihar.
   • Distance: Around 1,150 km.
   • Travel Time: 20-24 hours.
5. Via Siliguri – Kakarbhitta Border
   • Although this route is longer, it is ideal for those wanting to visit both Nepal and nearby parts of West Bengal.
   • Distance: Around 1,500 km.
   • Travel Time: 30-35 hours.

Important Notes:

• Border Formalities: Make sure to carry your passport or voter ID card, as you’ll need these for immigration at the Sonauli, Raxaul, or other Nepal borders.
• Fuel Stops: Plan your fuel stops well, especially if you’re driving a private vehicle.
• Permits: For taxis and private vehicles, you may need to get permits to enter Nepal at the border.

Traveling Delhi to Kathmandu by road is an adventure in itself. Whether you choose a bus, taxi, or your own car, the journey will be filled with scenic landscapes and diverse experiences!

 

 

Delhi to Kathmandu By Train

Though there is no direct train from Delhi to Kathmandu, you can easily reach Kathmandu via train by combining it with a road journey from the nearest railway stations at the Indian-Nepal border. Several trains from Delhi connect you to border towns in India, from where you can take a bus or taxi to reach Kathmandu. I’ll break down the entire process for you, including train routes, timing, and other useful information.

 

1. Delhi to Raxaul Junction (Bihar)

• Train Route: The easiest way to travel from Delhi to Kathmandu by train is by first taking a train to Raxaul Junction, which is the nearest railway station to the Raxaul-Birgunj border between India and Nepal. From here, you can take a bus or taxi to Kathmandu.
• Popular Trains:
  • Satyagrah Express (15273): This is a daily train from Delhi Junction (DLI) to Raxaul Junction (RXL).
  • Train Timing: It departs from Delhi at 5:25 PM and arrives in Raxaul at around 8:45 PM the next day, taking about 27 hours.
  • Fares: ₹700 for sleeper class, ₹1,800 for AC 3-tier.
• Booking Link: You can book tickets on the IRCTC website or app.
  • IRCTC Booking
• Contact Link: IRCTC Helpline: 139

2. Delhi to Gorakhpur Junction (Uttar Pradesh)

• Train Route: Another option is to take a train from Delhi to Gorakhpur Junction, which is close to the Sonauli border. From Gorakhpur, you can catch a bus or taxi to Kathmandu.
• Popular Trains:
  • Gorakhdham Express (12555): This is a popular daily train from New Delhi (NDLS) to Gorakhpur Junction (GKP).
  • Train Timing: It departs from New Delhi at 4:15 PM and arrives in Gorakhpur at around 6:45 AM the next day, taking about 14.5 hours.
  • Fares: ₹500 for sleeper class, ₹1,500 for AC 3-tier.
• Booking Link: You can book tickets through the IRCTC website or app.
• Contact Link: IRCTC Helpline: 139

3. Raxaul or Gorakhpur to Kathmandu by Road

• After reaching either Raxaul Junction or Gorakhpur Junction, you can easily take a bus or shared taxi to reach Kathmandu.
• Raxaul to Kathmandu: From Raxaul, you can take a bus or taxi to Kathmandu, which is about 135 km away. The journey takes around 5-7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
  • Buses: Government and private buses are available at the border crossing at Birgunj.
  • Taxi: Taxis are also available for a more comfortable and direct route. The taxi fare is usually around ₹2,000 to ₹3,500 for a one-way trip.
• Gorakhpur to Kathmandu: From Gorakhpur, you’ll need to cross the Sonauli border and travel approximately 300 km to Kathmandu. Buses and shared taxis are available at the Sonauli border.
  • Buses: You can take a government or private bus from the Sonauli bus terminal. The journey takes around 8-10 hours.
  • Taxi: Taxis cost around ₹3,000 to ₹5,000, depending on the type of vehicle.

4. Other Train Options to the Nepal Border

• Delhi to Jaynagar (Bihar): You can also take a train to Jaynagar in Bihar, which is another border town near Nepal. From Jaynagar, you can take a bus or shared taxi to Kathmandu.
  • Popular Trains: The Garib Rath Express (12204) runs from Anand Vihar Terminal (ANVT) in Delhi to Jaynagar.
  • Train Timing: It departs from Delhi at 3:55 PM and arrives in Jaynagar at 1:40 PM the next day, taking about 22 hours.
  • Fares: ₹900 for AC 3-tier.

5. Cost Breakdown for Train and Road Journey

• Train Fare (Delhi to Raxaul or Gorakhpur): ₹500 to ₹1,800 depending on the class.
• Bus Fare (Raxaul/Gorakhpur to Kathmandu): ₹500 to ₹1,000.
• Taxi Fare (Raxaul/Gorakhpur to Kathmandu): ₹2,000 to ₹5,000.
• Total Estimated Cost: Around ₹1,000 to ₹6,000, depending on your choice of transport.

Important Notes:

• Border Formalities: Make sure to carry a valid ID, such as a passport or voter ID card, for border immigration formalities.
• Train Tickets: Book your train tickets in advance, especially during festival seasons or holidays, as trains to these border stations are often fully booked.
• Buses and Taxis: After reaching the border stations, you can easily find buses or taxis heading towards Kathmandu, but it’s a good idea to arrange these in advance if possible.

Though Delhi to Kathmandu by train requires a bit more effort and time, it’s a great budget option if you’re up for an adventure. You’ll get to enjoy the scenic journey through the heartland of India and experience a mix of train and road travel!

 

 

Conclusion

Travelling from Delhi to Kathmandu offers several exciting options, whether you choose the convenience of a flight, the scenic route by road, or the budget-friendly train and road combination. Each route has its own charm, with flights being the fastest, roads offering adventure through beautiful landscapes, and trains providing a more economical journey. Depending on your preference, budget, and time, you can select the best way to experience this vibrant cross-border journey.

 

No matter which route you take, the journey from Delhi to Kathmandu will leave you with unforgettable memories! So, plan your trip, book in advance, and get ready to explore the charm of Nepal’s capital city. Safe travels!

 

 

 

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