How To Get From Kathmandu To Pokhara?

Pokhara, a paradise-like destination for travel freaks, lies west of Kathmandu. The awesome panorama of Annapurna, Machhapuchhre, and Dhaulagiri can be seen right from the streets of Pokhara, adding beauty to the city. Likewise, the pristine beauty of Himalayan lakes like Phewa and Begnas makes Pokhara a “must-visit” place in Nepal.

Despite being quite far from Kathmandu, Pokhara is the second-busiest and most vibrant city in Nepal. Located within the Kaski district.

Thousands of international and national tourists travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara each day. Even then, new travellers find it daunting to find a way to Pokhara. That’s why we created this article, which explains all the Kathmandu to Pokhara routes and transportation to get from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

Kathmandu To Pokhara Distance

Pokhara is almost at the centre of Nepal’s map. How Far Is Kathmandu to Pokhara? It’s just about 200 km (124 miles) west of Kathmandu.

You might be wondering how can I get to Pokhara from Kathmandu. Well, this article covers all the information regarding how to get from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

How to Get from Kathmandu to Pokhara?

Basically, there are two ways to travel to Pokhara: airways and roadways. However, there are different vehicle options that you can choose from.

Flight From Kathmandu to Pokhara

Despite being quite close to Kathmandu, the poor quality of the road and winding terrain make driving to Pokhara longer than you expect. That’s why many tourists prefer an easier escape with a 30-minute flight to the Pokhara airport.

A KTM to Pokhara flight can be taken from the domestic terminal of Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. You can book your flight ticket from the airline company’s online flight booking system or visit the Tribhuvan Airport itself.

Additionally, you can also contact a travel agency to make advance flight bookings. They might be able to help you if there is a surge in flight ticket bookings or if there is unavailability.

Kathmandu To Pokhara Flight Online Booking

Almost 10 flights from different private airline companies of Nepal fly from the capital to Pokhara each day. You can book the flights from 7 am to almost 3 pm. The most common airlines that fly regularly to Pokhara are Buddha Air, Simrik Airlines, and Yeti Airlines.

You can visit these airlines’ official websites and confirm your online booking of your Kathmandu-Pokhara flight. Once the booking has been made, you will receive an e-copy of the confirmation and the ticket will be provided to you at the airport checkpoint.

If that’s not possible, you can go directly to the Kathmandu airport and buy your Pokhara flight ticket from the counter. More than half a dozen airlines have a counter that sells instant tickets. 

Kathmandu To Pokhara Flight Cost

The one-way price of the Pokhara flight from Kathmandu ranges from $70 to $125 for foreigners. For Indians, the flight cost ranges between NPR 4000 to 6000, and for Nepalese, it ranges around NPR 3000-5000. These prices vary depending on your time of booking, festivals, weather, season, and many other factors.

Note: Last-minute booking or getting a ticket directly from the counter might come out to be expensive. 

Some third-party websites also allow booking the Kathmandu to Pokhara flight. However, for the cheapest flight to Pokhara from Kathmandu, we recommend directly visiting the airline’s website in Nepal. The third-party website lets you compare the Kathmandu to Pokhara flight fare and pick the best deal.  

Kathmandu To Pokhara from Helicopter

Want something more luxurious and fun than a casual flight from Kathmandu? Then, you have the option of flying in a chartered helicopter. This is the quickest and most luxurious way to get to Pokhara from Kathmandu. Also, there are no chances of delay/ cancellation, giving you the thrill of a mountain flight.

A cozy helicopter flight with your loved ones, accompanied by the stunning view of snowy mountains and verdant hills, is definitely breathtaking. The Kathmandu to Pokhara helicopter flight time is about 20 minutes.

Note: Upon request, Himalayan masters can arrange your charter flight for 5 people (weight limit is 500 kg).

The Helicopter charter to Pokhara costs about US $2500 for a one-way flight (almost US $500 per person). If you are a solo traveller or a group of fewer than 3 people, you can find other groups to share the Helicopter cost to lower the price.

Although luxurious, many tourists don’t choose this option as the Pokhara helicopter charter is expensive. 

Kathmandu To Pokhara by Road 

The 200 km winding road on the hillside takes you to Pokhara. The only roadway connecting Kathmandu and Pokhara is the Prithvi Highway.

Driving from Kathmandu to Pokhara takes between 6 to 8 hours and is undeniably scenic. Although slow, the drive that follows the Trishuli River will be rejuvenating.

There are many transportation options to Pokhara, such as by local/public bus or private vehicle, from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

Kathmandu To Pokhara by Local Bus

Many people ask about the road from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Compared to the past days, the road situation has improved a lot. However, there might be some traffic jams due to road construction.

The major stops along the highway are Maleku, Mugling, Aanbu Khaireni, Dumre, and Damauli. In summary, the road from Kathmandu to Pokhara is quite good, and the drive to Pokhara will be fun.

Each day, a few dozen public buses leave for Pokhara from Kalanki and Machhapokhari Buspark, Kathmandu. The bus is available from early morning to late evening (for the night ride).

This is the cheapest form of transportation, and the Kathmandu to Pokhara Bus fare costs you about $5 to $7. If you want Pokhara deluxe bus, the price can go up to $20. A single bus has almost 40 seats.

The biggest problem for tourists is finding these public buses. You can get a daily bus to Pokhara from Kathmandu at the Gongabu Bus Park or Kalanki. You can also take a taxi or public bus from Thamel to Gongabu/Kalanki and then get on the bus at any time of the day.

Although cheap, a public bus to Pokhara isn’t the most comfortable option.

What can you expect from the bus to Pokhara?

Here’s what to expect from the bus to Pokhara:

• Seats are small and often dirty.
• Buses are mostly crowded-carrying people beyond their capacity.
• The spaces between the seats are very small, and you won’t find enough leg space.
• You would travel with the sound of loud music.
• All aisles are literally filled with dirty luggage.
• The buses stop at local restaurants whose food and bathroom might be disappointing. 
• Well, it’s not all bad news. A public bus means melodious local music and a chance to witness the Nepalese lifestyle (and maybe make a few new friends as well). 

So, we suggest you travel on a tourist bus, which is way more comfortable and cleaner.

Kathmandu To Pokhara by Hiace 

Hiace is just like the smaller public bus that accommodates 12-15 people at a time. It has larger leg space and a smoother ride than the big public bus. With fewer passengers, Hiace feels cozy and clean. However, other issues of a private bus remain the same while you are travelling to Pokhara in a Hiace.

A Kathmandu to Pokhara Hiace counter is available in Kalanki and Gongabu Bus Park. There are also a few Pokhara Hiace counters in Koteshwor. The cost of Hiace to Pokhara is $6 to $8.

Kathmandu To Pokhara Tourist Bus

Travelling to Pokhara on a tourist bus is not only comfortable but also a safer option. These luxury buses cost a few more dollars more than a local bus with much better facilities.

Here’s why we recommend a tourist bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara.

• Flexible and comfortable seats
• Enough space for the legs
• Provide bottled water on the bus
• Stop more frequently for views and rest
• Food at better restaurants and restrooms
• Travelling in an air-conditioned bus 
• Onboard Wi-Fi and charging plugs in each seat

How do you book Kathmandu to Pokhara tourist bus? 

There are many ways you can book the Kathmandu to Pokhara tourist bus. 

Firstly, you fill out the Himalayan Masters booking form, and we will arrange a tourist bus of your choice. 

There are many websites like Nepalvehiclerental, Nepalvehiclebooking, Yatranepal, Greenline, etc., where you can book bus tickets to Pokhara online. 

You can directly go to Kalanki, Koteshwor or Gongabu Bus Park and find the Pokhara tourist bus counter to get your tickets.

You can also travel without tickets if you get to Kalanki and catch a bus there.

Cost of Tourist Bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Tickets for the Pokhara tourist bus now cost more than $10. However, the price may increase or decrease slightly depending on the type of tourist bus. 

VVIP/Greenline

This is the most expensive yet luxurious way to travel to Pokhara. Greenline has air-conditioned buses with onboard Wi-Fi, a charging plug, a free buffet lunch and bottled water.

The Kathmandu to Pokhara Bus Fare for a Greenline Bus is about $25 (approximately NPR 3000). While similar buses cost about $10, Greenline charges higher for its brand value and trust. It’s up to you if you feel like paying such a price. 

Super-Deluxe

Nepal has been improving its tourist services, so you can now find a super-deluxe bus with first-class service.

They offer the highest level of luxury with very comfortable reclining seats (limited passenger capacity). Most importantly, they have an in-bus washroom, minibar, and separate smoking room.

A Super-deluxe bus from Kathmandu to Pokhara Bus Fare is about $15 (without any food and drinks). However, the price can vary according to the service provider. 

VIP/Tourist Bus

The other Pokhara tourist bus offers VIP service. The Wi-Fi and AC are often not working, but you will have plugs. The seats are as comfortable as the Greenline buses, and they stop at a decent place for food and rest. It’s a good deal for the money, i.e. about $10-15.

Kathmandu to Pokhara Night Tourist Bus

Almost all Kathmandu-Pokhara tourist buses depart early in the morning. Driving for 8 to 9 hours just to get to Pokhara adds one extra day to your Nepal visit.

If that’s not possible, you can travel to Pokhara at night. Few public and tourist buses offer night rides to Pokhara.

A Jagadamba Travel tourist bus leaves from Balaju every 8 pm. This will be a quiet, comfortable night bus to Pokhara, where you can sleep peacefully and wake up at Pokhara the next morning.

Travelling By Private Car

You will share the space with unknown groups even when travelling in the most luxurious tourist bus. If you want a solo ride or have a group of 2-4 people, you can book a private car to Pokhara.

The private cars of the model, such as Swift Desire, Skoda Rapid, Ford Classic, Fiat Linea, etc., are available in Nepal. You can get a private car right from the Thamel. You can also ask your travel agency, i.e., Himalayan Masters or hotel manager, to help you book. 

Private cars usually accommodate four passengers and a driver. One can expect to pay $115 to $130 for a car. An air-conditioned car or an SUV can cost up to $150. The rate for private cars is not fixed, and your bargaining skills are handy.

Riding private is obviously safe and comfortable. If you can pay the cost, then it’s better than a flight to Pokhara. The distance from Kathmandu to Pokhara by car is the same as that on the roadways.

Private Jeep

A private car can only accommodate 4 people at a time. If you have a large group, i.e. 8-9 people, you can book a Jeep. The Jeep is very comfortable while driving on off-roads and hilly, winding roads. Booking a Jeep in Nepal costs $250, one-way.

Sharing that rate among 8-9 people still becomes higher than travelling in a tourist bus. However, the comfort and safety are worth it. You can stop at any place you like to rest and decide where you wanna eat. Also, one gets to add a new destination to visit between Kathmandu and Pokhara.

Kathmandu to Pokhara Bus Time

Unlike public buses, the number of tourist buses leaving Pokhara and going to Kathmandu by bus is limited. Most of these tourist buses leave the Valley between 7 and 9 am. It’s hard to find Pokhara to Kathmandu by bus after 11 am, so we suggest that you book the tickets beforehand and catch the bus in the morning. If not, you will have to catch a night bus.

Places For Stopover Between Kathmandu and Pokhara

A long ride from Kathmandu to Pokhara can sometimes be boring. But you could easily spice things up by adding one or more of these places as your destination. Making these shortstops is interesting, especially while travelling in a private vehicle.

Manakamana Temple

Halfway between Kathmandu and Pokhara lies an important Hindu goddess, Bhagwati temple. The sacred temple of Manakamana can be visited after an 8-minute cable car ride from Kurintar. Located in the verdant hills over the Trishuli River on the side of the Prithivi highway, this visit will add less than one hour to your Pokhara drive.

Gorkha

The historic town of Gorkha connects the Prithivi Highway to Aanbu Khaireni. Gorkha is the ancestral home of Prithivi Narayan Shah. There are many historic temples, museums, and places to visit in Gorkha. Also, you get to view the Manaslu and Himalchuli range on a clear day. 

Bandipur

A stunning hilltop, Bandipur, lies a few kilometres away from Dumre. This Newari town of Bandipur is about a 25-minute ride from the hilltop, and the ride above the winding hills is very interesting. You can visit the local museum, temple, library, silkworm factory, and typical Newari homes. This visit adds about two hours to your Pokhara tour.

Trishuli Rafting

Take your Pokhara ride to a new level with an adventurous twist of Trishuli rafting. You can stop your vehicle at the Charaudi River and dive into the Trishuli River. You will be rafting for 2 to 3 hours to Kuringhat and enjoy every upset, S-bend, surprise, and ladies’ delight. Whitewater river rafting is the true form of wilderness in Nepal, and you shouldn’t miss it.

Remember Himalayan Masters

I hope this article covered everything you needed to know. You can contact Himalayan Masters for all treks and travel tickets to Nepal, and we provide the best service at the most reasonable price. 

Frequently Asked Questions

At what time will we reach Pokhara on a tourist bus?

The bus drops you at Pokhara Tourist Bus Park on Rastra Bank Chowk at around 3:00 am if we leave around 7 am from Kathmandu. Since the tourist bus is quite slow compared to private vehicles, the journey is longer.

Where in Pokhara will the bus/ Hiace drop?

The public bus/shuttle to Pokhara drops you at Prithvi Chowk. From Prithivi Chowk, you can take a taxi or public bus to your hotel. However, the tourist buses drop you at Rastra Bank Chowk, which is about 15 minutes walking distance from the Lakeside.

Is the drive to Pokhara safe?

Yes, driving to Pokhara is very safe. Our drivers are experienced in dealing with winding, hilly roads. Tourist buses drive slowly and safely. Hiace might be a bit risky due to their high speed; otherwise, you will be fine.