How to Get from Patna to Pokhara | Travel Routes, Distance & Tips

Pokhara is one of Nepal’s most beautiful tourist destinations, famous for its lakes, mountain views, and peaceful atmosphere. Travelers from Bihar, especially Patna, often choose the land route to Pokhara as it is economical and scenic. Among all land routes, Raxaul–Birgunj is considered the safest and easiest border crossing to reach Pokhara from India.

Overview of the Patna to Pokhara Route

The most convenient way to travel from Patna to Pokhara by road is via Raxaul (India) and Birgunj (Nepal). This route is well-connected, frequently used by travelers, and has good transportation facilities on both sides of the border.

Route:
Patna → Raxaul → Birgunj → Pokhara

Step 1: Patna to Raxaul

From Patna, you first need to reach Raxaul, a major border town in Bihar. Raxaul is easily accessible by:

Train from Patna Junction
Bus (government or private)
Taxi or private cab

The journey from Patna to Raxaul generally takes 6–7 hours, depending on traffic and transport type.

Step 2: Raxaul to Birgunj Border Crossing

After reaching Raxaul, you need to cross the India–Nepal border into Birgunj. This border crossing is:

Safe and traveler-friendly
Open for tourists and locals
Equipped with immigration and basic facilities

Carry a valid ID proof such as an Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, or Passport for a smooth crossing.

Step 3: Birgunj to Pokhara

Once you enter Birgunj (Nepal), you can continue your journey to Pokhara using:

Local buses
Tourist buses
Private taxis

From Birgunj, the road journey to Pokhara takes approximately 6 hours, passing through scenic hills, rivers, and towns of Nepal.

Travel Time Summary

Patna to Raxaul: 6–7 hours
Birgunj to Pokhara: Around 6 hours

Total travel time: Approximately 12–14 hours (excluding waiting time at the border)

Why Choose Raxaul–Birgunj Route?

Safest and easiest land border crossing
Regular transport availability
Cost-effective travel option
Popular route for Indian travelers to Nepal

1. Patna → Raxaul → Birgunj → Pokhara (Most Popular & Safest)

This is the best and most commonly used route.

Why choose this route?

Well-connected by train and road
Safe and smooth border crossing
Frequent buses and taxis available
Ideal for first-time travelers

Travel Options

Patna to Raxaul: Train / Bus / Taxi
Raxaul to Birgunj: Walk or e-rickshaw
Birgunj to Pokhara: Tourist bus or taxi

⏱ Birgunj to Pokhara travel time: ~6 hours

2. Patna → Gorakhpur → Sunauli → Pokhara (Very Easy & Comfortable)

This is another easy and popular route, especially for those who prefer good roads and tourism services.

Route Details

Patna → Gorakhpur → Sunauli (Border) → Pokhara

Benefits

Smooth highways
Organized immigration at Sunauli
Tourist buses available from Bhairahawa
Less hilly travel initially

⏱ Sunauli to Pokhara: 7–8 hours

✔ Best for families and senior citizens

3. Patna → Muzaffarpur → Sitamarhi → Janakpur → Pokhara (Cultural Route)

This route is perfect if you want to explore Nepal’s culture along the way.

Highlights

Visit Janaki Mandir in Janakpur
Less crowded border crossing
Scenic countryside roads

Travel Style

Bus or taxi from Janakpur to Pokhara
Slightly longer but peaceful

⏱ Janakpur to Pokhara: 8–9 hours

✔ Best for travelers who enjoy sightseeing

4. Patna → Raxaul → Birgunj → Kathmandu → Pokhara (Comfort with Break)

If you want a more relaxed journey, this route allows a stopover.

Why choose this?

Break journey in Kathmandu
Luxury buses available
Ideal for long trips

Route

Patna → Raxaul → Birgunj → Kathmandu → Pokhara

⏱ Kathmandu to Pokhara: 6–7 hours

✔ Best for leisure travelers

5. Budget-Friendly Route (Lowest Cost Option)

If you are traveling on a budget:

Train: Patna → Raxaul
Local bus: Birgunj → Pokhara

This option is affordable and widely used by locals.

Required Documents for Easy Travel

Aadhaar Card / Voter ID / Passport
No visa required for Indian citizens
Keep photocopies of documents

👉 Best overall route:
Patna → Raxaul → Birgunj → Pokhara

👉 Most comfortable route:
Patna → Gorakhpur → Sunauli → Pokhara

👉 Best scenic & cultural route:
Patna → Janakpur → Pokhara

Final Thoughts

If you are planning a road trip from Patna to Pokhara, the Raxaul–Birgunj border route is the best choice. It offers convenience, safety, and reliable transportation options. With proper planning and valid documents, you can enjoy a smooth and memorable journey to Pokhara.

Summary: Patna to Pokhara Easy Routes

Traveling from Patna to Pokhara is simple and convenient by road using India–Nepal border crossings. The Raxaul–Birgunj route is the safest and easiest option, with smooth connectivity and regular buses and taxis. From Birgunj, Pokhara is around a 6-hour journey by road.

Another easy and comfortable option is the Gorakhpur–Sunauli route, known for good roads and tourist-friendly services. Travelers who prefer scenic and cultural experiences can choose the Janakpur route, which offers peaceful travel and sightseeing opportunities.

For budget travelers, local buses from Birgunj or Sunauli are affordable and reliable. Families and first-time travelers are advised to choose routes with better facilities and frequent transport options.

Overall, with valid ID proof and basic planning, reaching Pokhara from Patna is safe, economical, and enjoyable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Pokhara is easily accessible from Patna through well-connected road routes. Choosing the Raxaul–Birgunj crossing ensures a hassle-free journey, while alternative routes like Sunauli provide added comfort. With proper documents, the trip is safe, scenic, and budget-friendly.