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Nepal Road Trip

Kathmandu - Gorkha - Pokhara - Bāglung - Gaudakot - Tansen - Lumbini - Ratnanagar - Hetauda - Bhaktapur

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Historical sites Historical sites
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Comfort Comfort
Security Security
Wildlife Wildlife
Urban life Urban life
Culture Culture
Nepal Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages10 km969 h/stage3.2

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Nepal Road Trip in Nepal?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,638EUR drive & more 125EUR sleep & more 374EUR eat & more 336EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 835EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 2,473EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,520EUR drive & more 175EUR sleep & more 737EUR eat & more 504EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,416EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,936EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 5,040EUR drive & more 238EUR sleep & more 1,474EUR eat & more 672EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,384EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 7,424EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 3,150EUR drive & more 263EUR sleep & more 770EUR eat & more 336EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,369EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,519EUR
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Nepal Road Trip Itinerary

Experience the beauty of Nepal in a road trip from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur! This 14-day journey will take you through the towns of Gorkha, Pokhara, Bāglung, Tansen, Ratnanagar, and Bhaktapur, covering a distance of 969km. The best time of the year to drive this route is from October to December when the weather is mild and pleasant. Throughout your journey, you will be able to marvel at the stunning landscapes of Nepal, from the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas to the lush green terrains of the countryside. You will also be able to experience Nepal's rich cultural heritage, with historical sites, monuments, and temples all along the way. A few of the UNESCO Heritage Sites you will encounter include the Kathmandu Valley and the ancient city of Bhaktapur. However, please be aware that the roads in Nepal are not the best, so you should be prepared for a bumpy ride. Despite this, the Nepal Road Trip is an amazing experience that will provide you with memories to last a lifetime. It is suitable for all drivers and can be completed on a low budget.
number of days 14 number of days
route length 969 km route length
budget low budget
good for tourist good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level fair accident level

START Kathmandu

Distance 969 km Driving time 32.1 h Pace: slow 222.9 kWh Airports KTM
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Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is the starting point of the Nepal Road Trip. Located in the central part of the country, it is a bustling city with many things to see and do. The city boasts a mix of traditional and modern architecture, as well as colorful markets and lively bazaars. To make the most of your time in Kathmandu, make sure to visit some of its most popular attractions, such as the ancient Durbar Square, the impressive Pashupatinath Temple, and the beautiful Garden of Dreams. You can also explore the old city streets, take a cable car ride to the hilltop of Nagarkot, or even go rafting in the Trisuli River. If you are arriving by air, the closest international airport is Tribhuvan International Airport (IATA code: KTM). From here, you can easily rent a car and start your Nepal Road Trip. With a car, you can take your time and explore the country at your own pace. Kathmandu is the perfect starting point for a road trip in Nepal. With its unique blend of culture, history, and modern attractions, it is sure to provide a memorable experience. So, don’t forget to explore the city before embarking on your Nepal Road Trip.

1 Kathmandu - Gorkha

Distance 176 km Driving time 6.2 h Pace: slow 40.5 kWh View map Itinerary
UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site accommodation options dining venues scenic road sections of narrow road
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Embark on a road trip from Kathmandu to Gorkha and explore the cultural and historical sites of Nepal. This 176 km journey will take you fewer than 7 hours to complete, offering an amazing opportunity to explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites along the way. Start your journey from Kathmandu and visit the ancient temples, monasteries, and palaces of the city. Then, drive to Gorkha, the birthplace of the founder of modern Nepal. Explore the Gorkha Durbar, a palace complex with a museum and a temple, and the Manakamana Temple, a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Bhagwati. Don't forget to take a ride on the world's longest cable car from Gorkha to Manakamana. Along the way, make sure to take in the stunning views of the Himalayan mountains and the lush green landscapes of Nepal. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

2 Gorkha - Pokhara

Distance 110 km Driving time 3.8 h Pace: slow 25.2 kWh View map Itinerary
attractive landscape accommodation options dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road sections of narrow road
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Embark on a breathtaking road trip from Gorkha to Pokhara! This 110km journey takes less than four hours and is one of the most scenic routes in Nepal. As you drive, take in the picturesque landscapes of the Annapurna range, with its snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys. Along the way, you can take a break at the small village of Bandipur and explore its beautiful temples and quaint cobblestone streets. Further down the road, you can visit the historical city of Tansen and explore its ancient monuments and old bazaars. You'll also pass through some of the most stunning mountain passes in the country. As you approach Pokhara, you'll be able to admire the views of the stunning Fewa Lake and the Annapurna range in the distance. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

3 Pokhara - Bāglung

Distance 69 km Driving time 1.7 h Pace: modest 17.9 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road sections of narrow road
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Heading out on an exciting road trip from Pokhara to Bāglung? You’re in for a treat! This 69 km drive, taking less than 2 hours, will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Nepal. The journey starts in Pokhara, a stunning city surrounded by lakes and the Annapurna mountain range. Here you can visit the World Peace Pagoda and the International Mountain Museum, as well as the many cafes and restaurants that line the lakeside. As you drive along the Prithvi Highway, you will be surrounded by lush green hills and terraced rice fields. Be sure to take some pictures of the stunning views! Your final destination is Bāglung, a small town with a unique culture and history. Here you can visit the Bāglung Durbar, a beautiful palace built in the 18th century, and the nearby Bāglung Museum. This is just one of many stages of your road trip, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the “Itinerary” of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore the beauty of Nepal!

4 Bāglung - Gaudakot

Distance 95 km Driving time 3.8 h Pace: slow 21.9 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road sections of narrow road
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Are you ready for a thrilling road trip? The stage starts in Bāglung, Nepal and ends in Gaudakot, a journey of 95km that will take you less than 4 hours. This is one of the stages of a much larger tour, so make sure to make the most of it! In Bāglung, you can visit the famous Bhimdatta Temple, located in the center of the city, and explore its beautiful architecture. You can also visit the nearby Bhimdatta National Park, where you can observe many species of birds and animals in their natural habitat. Once you reach Gaudakot, you can visit the ancient Gaudakot Palace, built in the late 18th century. It is a beautiful palace with many intricate carvings and sculptures. You can also explore the nearby Gaudakot Forest, where you can find some of the rarest species of flora and fauna. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please visit the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get your car ready and enjoy this amazing road trip!

5 Gaudakot - Tansen

Distance 63 km Driving time 2.6 h Pace: slow 14.4 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road sections of narrow road
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Gaudakot to Tansen! This 63km drive is sure to take your breath away with its stunning views of the Himalayas and lush greenery. The journey will take you fewer than 3 hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore the area. Start your journey in Gaudakot and explore the historical temples, shrines, and monasteries. Then, drive along the winding roads of the Palpa district and visit the ancient palace of Tansen Durbar. Admire the spectacular views of the hills, valleys, and forests as you drive. As you arrive in Tansen, take in the stunning views of the Himalayas and the ancient temples. Don't forget to visit the famous Rani Mahal, the palace of the former rulers of the Palpa district. Explore the local markets and enjoy some delicious local cuisine. This is just one of the many stages of your road trip, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for a thrilling adventure and drive from Gaudakot to Tansen!

6 Tansen - Lumbini

Distance 75 km Driving time 2.4 h Pace: slow 17.1 kWh View map Itinerary
UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site accommodation options dining venues scenic road
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Embark on a road trip from Tansen to Lumbini, a journey of 75 km in less than 3 hours. You'll get to experience the beauty of rural Nepal and visit some of the most interesting sites. The first stop is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Rani Mahal. This 18th century palace is an impressive example of Newari architecture and is a must-see for anyone interested in the cultural history of Nepal. Continue your journey to the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini. Here you'll find the famous Ashoka Pillar, erected by Emperor Ashoka in 249 BC, and the Mayadevi Temple, a sacred site for Buddhists. You can also explore the many monasteries and temples that are part of the Lumbini Garden. This is just one stage of a larger tour. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

7 Lumbini - Ratnanagar

Distance 150 km Driving time 4.3 h Pace: slow 34.6 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road sections of narrow road
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The road trip from Lumbini to Ratnanagar is a great opportunity to explore the beauty of Nepal. The journey of 150 km will take you less than 5 hours, and you will be able to visit some of the most interesting places in the country. Start your trip in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, and visit the temple complex, the Ashokan Pillar, the museum, and the Garden of the Enlightened One. Then, continue your journey to Chitwan National Park, where you can spot some of the rare species of animals and birds, and explore the lush forests. Finally, reach Ratnanagar, a small town known for its tranquil atmosphere and its many temples. Here, you can visit the temples of Pashupatinath and Manakamana, as well as the Bhimsen Tower. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Have a safe journey!

8 Ratnanagar - Hetauda

Distance 61 km Driving time 1.5 h Pace: modest 15.8 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road sections of narrow road
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Are you looking for an exciting road trip? Look no further! This stage of your journey starts in Ratnanagar, Nepal and ends in Hetauda, only 61km away and a drive of fewer than two hours. On your way, you will pass through Manahari, a delightful little village. Here, you can visit the Manahari Devi Temple, a centuries-old temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga. You can also explore the nearby Manahari Cave, which is believed to hold many secrets and legends. At the end of your journey, you will reach Hetauda. Here, you can explore the Hetauda Museum, which houses many artifacts from the ancient Malla period. You can also visit the nearby Hetauda Lake, where you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. This is just one of the stages of your journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

9 Hetauda - Bhaktapur

Distance 154 km Driving time 5.0 h Pace: slow 35.4 kWh View map Itinerary
UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site accommodation options dining venues sections of narrow road
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Get ready for an exciting road trip from Hetauda to Bhaktapur! This 154 km journey will take you through the beautiful landscapes of Patan, and will take you fewer than 5 hours. Along the way, you will come across some incredible UNESCO Heritage sites. Make sure to take some time to explore these historical sites. One of the highlights of this journey is the ancient city of Patan, which is known for its rich culture, architecture, and art. You can also visit the majestic Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other attractions along the route include the Patan Museum, the Golden Gate, and the Nyatapola Temple. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

10 Bhaktapur - Kathmandu

Distance 17 km Driving time 0.8 h Pace: slow 3.9 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site dining venues
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Embark on a 17km road trip from Bhaktapur to Kathmandu and explore some of the most interesting places in Nepal. Start your journey from Bhaktapur, a city of temples and monuments, and make your way to Stupa Bodhnath, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you drive, take in the breathtaking views of the Himalayas on the horizon. It will take you less than an hour to reach your destination. Once you arrive, explore the stupa and take in the peaceful atmosphere. Afterwards, continue your journey to Kathmandu, the bustling capital city of Nepal. As you drive, you'll pass by several historical sites, including the Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy the views of the city as you drive and explore the various attractions it has to offer. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" section of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip experience!

  Kathmandu

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The end of the Nepal Road Trip is Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. This vibrant city is full of culture, history, and natural beauty. It is the perfect place to end the journey and take in all the sights. Kathmandu is home to many important historical monuments and sites, such as the Pashupatinath Temple, the Swayambhunath Stupa, and the Boudhanath Stupa. All three are important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists and Hindus, and are worth a visit for their beauty and spiritual significance. Kathmandu is also home to many parks, including Shivapuri National Park, Phulchoki Nature Park, and Royal Chitwan National Park. These parks are great for taking in the natural beauty of Nepal and enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching. For those who wish to stay in Kathmandu, there are many accommodations to suit all budgets and tastes. From luxury hotels to budget hostels, Kathmandu has something for everyone. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Tribhuvan International Airport (IATA: KTM). From there, it’s a short drive to the center of Kathmandu. At the end of the Nepal Road Trip, Kathmandu is a must-see destination. With its rich culture, stunning monuments, and beautiful parks, it’s the perfect place to end the journey.

Nepal Road Trip at a glance

Hopefully, the presented journey idea has become an ideal inspiration for your future travels.
The plan we’ve prepared can be used as a foundation that you can recreate in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with original tourist attractions.
If travelling by car is your plan when exploring highlights around Nepal, there are a number of vital road rules to follow and a list of things to bear in mind to turn your trip into pure pleasure. These tips will surely become useful for holidayers who opt for car hire or renting a camper in Nepal.
When on a tour around Nepal, there are numerous road regulations to be bore in mind. Alcohol is best to be avoided at any cost when Nepal is your road trip destination. Travellers should remember that the legal alcohol limit is low and cannot exceed 0‰. You should move at a maximum speed of 60km/h around the city streets. 60km/h is the maximum car speed in rural areas. In Nepal, you can drive at the speed limit of 60km/h on motorways. Having a first aid kit and fire extinguisher in your car and driving with your headlights on at daytime heavily increase the safety.
The majority of holidaymakers wonder about the costs of the whole trip. The total expenses during the whole adventure may vary depending on the budget option of your choice. Check out the available budget possibilities.
We estimate that the cheapest option when it comes to fuel to cover the planned 969km while travelling around Nepal may cost around 125 EUR. Economy accommodation options may cost holidayers roughly 374 EUR. Those who want to benefit from this option will spend more or less 336 EUR on food and restaurants. Travellers will have to pay approximately 1,638 EUR if they go for the budget car rental offer as well. Thus, going for car rental will increase the expenses of the road trip from roughly 835 EUR to about 2,473 EUR.
When it comes to the standard offer, you have to spend the maximum of 125 EUR to cover the planned stages of the trip. Cost amounting to 737 EUR can be expected by all holidaymakers who are looking for standard overnight stays. The slightly increased standard in comparison to the budget option entails expenditures amounting to about 504 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the tour in a standard rental vehicle can expect a cost of approximately 2,520 EUR. Drivers who would like to rent a car will pay about 3,936 EUR for the whole Nepal Road Trip, whereas those who are not interested in vehicle rental will spend about 1,416 EUR.
The highest level of comfort of the premium option will come up to the expectations of the most demanding tourists. Drivers who would like to rent a car will pay more or less 7,424 EUR for the whole tour, whereas those who are not interested in car hire will spend roughly 2,384 EUR. The premium car rental will be a cost of approximately 5,040 EUR. If you are interested in the highest comfort of the trip, you should expect the average cost of roughly 238 EUR when it comes to gasoline. Holidayers who are interested in top services in all aspects of their road trip should expect to pay about 1,474 EUR for hotels and approximately 672 EUR for restaurants and food.
Our tour will also be perfect for all camper fans, as it can be easily adjusted to their expectations. When it comes to this means of transport, you will pay up to roughly 3,150 EUR. If you are wondering about the gasoline costs for the whole itinerary, they will amount to more or less 263 EUR. Camper fans should expect to pay more or less 336 EUR for expenses connected with food and around 770 EUR for accommodation.
The section Road Trip Costs presents all the above-mentioned details in a straightforward manner.
The period between October and May is perfect to explore the part of Nepal mentioned in our Nepal Road Trip. If Nepal Road Trip has inspired you, check out other thrilling adventures that are available on our website. We hope that the broad spectrum of travel opportunities will definitely cater to the needs of the most demanding holidayers.

Facts for safer driving in Nepal

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0
max speed urban max speed urban 60 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 60 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 60 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls no
seat belts seat belts yes

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