Route · Chitwan & the Terai
Pokhara to Sauraha
Pokhara to Sauraha is about 150 km: 5 to 6 hours by road via Damauli, Mugling and Narayangadh, by private car or tourist bus. There are no direct flights; flying means changing in Kathmandu.
The road runs east along the Prithvi Highway past Damauli to Mugling, then south beside the Trishuli and Narayani to Narayangadh, and east to Sauraha. A private car allows stops at Bandipur, a short detour up the hill from Dumre, or at Devghat. It is the most comfortable option for families and small groups.
Tourist buses leave Pokhara's tourist bus park early each morning and arrive at the Sauraha bus park in the early afternoon. Seats are reserved and there are breakfast and lunch stops. It is good value and reliable, though buses do not stop for sightseeing on the way.
There is no direct flight between Pokhara and Bharatpur. You can fly Pokhara to Kathmandu, about 25 minutes, then Kathmandu to Bharatpur, about 20 to 25 minutes, but connection times usually make this slower and more expensive than the road. Check current status before you travel.
Worth a stop on the way
- Bandipur hill town, via Dumre
- Damauli and the Seti river
- Mugling junction
- Devghat confluence near Narayangadh
Local tip
Book a private car if you want to stop at Bandipur; it adds about two hours but breaks the journey well.
Questions
How far is Chitwan from Pokhara?
Sauraha, the main gateway to Chitwan National Park, is about 150 km from Pokhara by road. The drive takes 5 to 6 hours by private car and 6 to 7 hours by tourist bus, via Damauli, Mugling and Narayangadh.
Is there a flight from Pokhara to Chitwan?
No direct scheduled flight runs between Pokhara and Bharatpur. Flying means connecting through Kathmandu, which usually takes longer and costs more than driving. Most travellers go by road. Check current status before you travel, as routes do change.
Can I stop at Bandipur between Pokhara and Chitwan?
Yes. Bandipur is a Newar hill town about 8 km up a side road from Dumre on the Prithvi Highway. A stop of two to three hours, or an overnight stay, breaks the journey nicely. A private car is needed, as tourist buses do not make the detour.
What time do tourist buses leave Pokhara for Chitwan?
Most leave from Pokhara's tourist bus park early in the morning, usually around 7 to 7:30 am, and arrive in Sauraha in the early afternoon. Book a day ahead through your hotel or a travel agent, and confirm the departure time.