Embarking from Lucknow’s bustling city to Nepal’s enchanting capital, Kathmandu, is a tale of exploration, diversity, and cultural immersion. Nestled within the folds of the Himalayas, this route offers more than just a physical passage; it’s a passage through time, landscapes, and cultures. From Lucknow’s vibrant streets to Kathmandu’s ancient temples, this travel narrative unveils the various facets of this cross-border journey.
This blog post serves as a guide, a window into the experiences and intricacies of travelling overland from Lucknow to Kathmandu. We’ll traverse the practical aspects of border crossings, the diversity of cultures, the encounters with locals, and the whispers of history that echo through these lands. As we embark on this virtual expedition, remember that while our knowledge is based on pre-existing information, the journey itself is an ever-evolving narrative that may have transformed since our last update.
There are four ways to reach Kathmandu from Lucknow:
Lucknow to Kathmandu by Flight:
Here are some details about traveling from Lucknow to Kathmandu by flight:
- There are no direct flights from Lucknow to Kathmandu. However, several airlines offer connecting flights, with a layover in Delhi or another city.
- The flight time is around 4-5 hours.
- The cost of a flight starts from ₹6,500.
- The airlines that offer connecting flights from Lucknow to Kathmandu include:
-Air India
-SpiceJet
-IndiGo
-Vistara
Lucknow to Kathmandu by Bus:
Here are some details about traveling from Lucknow to Kathmandu by bus:
- The distance between Lucknow and Kathmandu is around 445 kilometers.
- The journey takes 14-16 hours, depending on your bus type.
- Several bus operators run this route, including:
-United Manjushree Tours and Travels
-SITA TOURS AND TRAVELS
-Jain Shiv Shankar Travels
-Gajraj bus service
- The cost of a bus ticket starts from ₹1,500.
- The buses are usually sleeper buses with reclining seats and air conditioning.
- Some buses also have onboard toilets and food service.
Here are some tips for traveling from Lucknow to Kathmandu by bus:
- Book your bus ticket in advance, especially if traveling during the peak season.
- Choose a bus with good reviews and ratings.
- Bring some snacks and drinks with you, as the food options on the bus may be limited.
- Be prepared for delays, as traffic and weather conditions can affect the bus journey.
Lucknow to Kathmandu by Train:
There is no direct train to Kathmandu from Lucknow. However, you can take a train to Raxaul, the border town between India and Nepal, and then take a bus or taxi to Kathmandu. The train journey takes around 16 hours, and the cost of a train ticket starts from ₹1,000. The bus journey from Raxaul to Kathmandu takes around 4 hours, and the cost of a bus ticket starts from ₹500.
Here are the steps involved in travelling from Lucknow to Kathmandu by train and bus:
- Book a train ticket from Lucknow to Raxaul. You can book tickets online or at the railway station.
- Take the train to Raxaul. The train departs from Lucknow Charbagh Railway Station and arrives at Raxaul Railway Station.
- Once you arrive at Raxaul, book a bus or taxi to Kathmandu. There are many bus and taxi operators available at the railway station.
- The bus journey from Raxaul to Kathmandu takes around 4 hours. The bus will drop you off at the Kathmandu bus terminal.
The total cost of travelling from Lucknow to Kathmandu by train and bus will be around ₹2,000. The travel time will be about 20 hours.
Lucknow to Kathmandu distance by Road:
You can also drive to Kathmandu from Lucknow. The distance is around 445 kilometers and the journey takes around 16 hours. However, this option is not recommended as the roads are not in good condition.
Travelling by road from Lucknow to Kathmandu involves crossing the India-Nepal border and is a multi-step process. Please note that road conditions, border crossing requirements, and travel options can change, so verifying the details with up-to-date sources is essential before your journey. Here’s a general outline of the route:
Lucknow to Sunauli (India-Nepal Border):
- Lucknow to Gorakhpur:Start by travelling from Lucknow to Gorakhpur, the closest major city to the India-Nepal border. You can take a bus or hire a taxi for this leg of the journey. The travel time is around 6-8 hours, but it can vary depending on traffic and road conditions.
- Gorakhpur to Sunauli:You’ll need to proceed to Sunauli, the border town on the Indian side. This journey takes about 2-3 hours by road.
Crossing the Border:
- Immigration and Customs:At the Sunauli-Bhairahawa border crossing, you must complete exit formalities for India and enter Nepal. This process involves immigration checks and customs clearance. Ensure you have all necessary documents, such as your passport, visa, and required permits.
Bhairahawa to Kathmandu:
- Bhairahawa to Kathmandu: Once you’ve crossed Nepal, travel from Bhairahawa to Kathmandu. This journey can take around 6-10 hours, depending on road conditions, weather, and your chosen route.
Tips and Considerations:
- Visa and Permits: Ensure you have the appropriate visa for Nepal before embarking on your journey. Check the latest visa requirements and regulations from the official sources.
- Transportation:You can hire a taxi, take a bus, or use a combination of transportation methods. Buses are a common mode of transport for this route, with varying comfort levels and price ranges available.
- Road Conditions: Certain areas might be challenging, especially during monsoon season. Be prepared for potential delays due to weather or road maintenance.
- Currency and Essentials: Have local currency (Nepalese Rupees) for expenses. Carrying essentials such as water, snacks, and any required medications is also a good idea.
- Local Guidance: Talk to locals or fellow travelers who have recently made the journey for the latest information and advice.
The best way to reach Kathmandu from Lucknow depends on your budget and time constraints. If you are looking for the fastest way, flying is the best option. If you are on a budget, then taking the bus is the cheapest option. If you want to experience the journey, then taking the train or driving is a good option.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when planning your trip from Lucknow to Kathmandu:
- You will need to get a visa to enter Nepal. You can apply for a visa online or at the Nepal embassy in Lucknow.
- The currency in Nepal is the Nepalese rupee (NPR). You can exchange your currency at the airport or any bank in Nepal.
- The time difference between Lucknow and Kathmandu is 1.5 hours. Nepal is in GMT+5.45.
- The climate in Kathmandu is mild year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November).
I hope this helps!