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How to Get to Pokhara

Flights from Kathmandu take about 25 minutes; the road trip takes 6–7 hours. Here are your options, from flights to private cars and tourist buses.

Most international visitors arrive in Nepal at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and travel on to Pokhara by air or by road. Pokhara also has its own international airport, with a handful of regional flights.

By domestic flight (about 25 minutes)

Several airlines fly between Kathmandu and Pokhara every day, and it's the quickest and most comfortable way to get here. Flying from Kathmandu, sit on the right-hand side of the plane for views of the Himalaya. Flights can be delayed by cloud, especially during the monsoon.

By road (6–7 hours)

The Prithvi Highway follows the river valleys past hills, villages and terraced fields. It's a beautiful journey, although traffic and roadworks can slow things down.

  • Private car or jeep: the most comfortable and flexible option, as you can stop whenever you like. We're happy to arrange one for you.
  • Tourist bus: comfortable seats and set stops for meals. Buses leave early in the morning from Kantipath, near Thamel in Kathmandu.
  • Public bus and microbus: the cheapest option, from Kalanki and the New Bus Park (Gongabu). There's not much room for luggage, though.

From Chitwan

Tourist buses connect Sauraha (Chitwan) and Pokhara in about 5–6 hours. Our Pokhara to Chitwan tour can also run the other way round.

Getting around Pokhara

Lakeside is easy to explore on foot. Taxis wait along the main road, and private transport is included on all our tours.