The Most Epic Road Trip in Nepal

Nepal is not just about trekking and climbing. The country is also about riding through the most epic road trip in Nepal. From lush green valleys to rugged hills and peaceful rivers, every mile reveals a new story.

Whether you’re cruising through scenic highways or exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, the road trip experience in Nepal is truly unforgettable.

It’s a perfect way to discover the country’s diverse culture, natural beauty, and hidden gems, all while feeling the thrill of the open road.

The Route: From East to West (or South to North)

Nepal has beautiful riding destinations which stretch from East to West of Nepal. Among them, below is the list of some of the best roads, running from East to West, in Nepal.

1. BP Highway (Banepa–Sindhuli–Bardibas)

Among Nepal’s highways, the BP Highway is both important and major Highway of Nepal.

It links Banepa close to Kathmandu with Bardibas in the Terai region by travelling through Sindhuli Bazaar. This highway, built with Japanese support, spans 158 kilometres. 

The route has been completely paved with asphalt and utilizes modern solutions, including retaining walls, and numerous bridges.

It guarantees stability and safety due to the country’s hills. The highway makes driving smooth and pleasant, as the lanes are usually wide.

Although the road goes over mountains, the planners made it to avoid sharp turns and steep upsides.

Early in 2025, a section of the highway near Khurkot was washed away by flooding; however, the repair team quickly completed the repairs.

Overall, the BP Highway receives recognition for its well-maintained roadwork and strong construction, earning it a reputation as one of Nepal’s top highways.

2. Hemja–Baglung Highway (Runs from Pokhara to Baglung)

Hemja–Baglung highway links Pokhara’s neighbourhood Hemja with the city of Baglung in western Nepal. The distance is about 72 kilometres, and the road has been modernized with brand-new asphalt.

You notice that the highway is especially smooth and wide near Hemja because it has six lanes built to address heavy traffic there. You’ll find yourself with great views of the valley, hills, and forests, in Kaligandaki River valley.

Since the asphalt surface is smooth and in good condition, driving on the roads is peaceful and safe. It helps to connect remote hilly regions with Pokhara, which aids trading and tourism among the local community.

Motorcyclists and tourists like this road also because they don’t have to bother with rough or dusty paved highways. Here, the roads are in very good condition compared to the hilly highways of Nepal.

3. Charikot–Manthali–Ramechhap Highway

From Charikot in Dolakha, the highway goes via Manthali to Ramechhap, the main town of Ramechhap district.

Roughly 80–90 kilometres are needed to do this route, which forms part of the National Highway NH‑23. Almost all the road is improved and well-maintained, so it’s easy to travel along this road, regardless of the season.

Even though the highway passes through mountains, engineers implement effective drainage systems and robust foundations to prevent landslides and road damage.

The route is safe and beautiful, especially because you can see the peaceful jungle hills and nice terraced farms.

There are a few small patches of gravel in some village areas, but the rest of the road is very enjoyable for drivers.

Most of its business for the locals for trading and by tourists seeking Gaurishankar and similar trekking destinations.

4. Mugling–Narayanghat Road (Madan Ashrit Highway)

Mugling-Narayanghat highway is approximately 33 to 36 kilometres long and forms part of the essential Prithvi Highway network.

It has been newly widened and paved with a road surface, allowing it to support large trucks and buses with a smooth and broad path.

The route passes through many forests and valleys, thanks to careful planning that helps prevent erosion and flooding.

Since the highway was built, trading products from Kathmandu Valley to the south has become much easier because of the fast and gentle travel conditions.

Many travellers appreciate the well-made lanes and neat asphalt, which makes the road extremely safe and smooth. Travelling by night is safer today because certain portions of the road are well-marked and illuminated.

5. Dharan–Dhankuta–Hile Highway

This highway stretches a distance of nearly 50 kilometres from Dharan to the places of Dhankuta and Hile.

Because it is made with smooth asphalt, the road is a favourite choice for local car drivers and motorcycle riders.

Driving thoroughly, although full of curves, the road has a smooth surface, perfect for easy driving in the tea areas and pine woodlands. Maintaining the roads is important, and this keeps the number of potholes and surface cracks down.

Small bridges and retaining walls present on the highway keep it good in steeper areas.

Security and the quality of the road make it one of the most pleasant and picturesque routes to drive through eastern Nepal.

6. Butwal–Tansen–Pokhara Highway (Siddhartha Highway)

The Siddhartha Highway goes from Butwal in the Terai to Pokhara in the hills through Tansen, a trip that is about 181 kilometres long.

The road is completely constructed with asphalt and has been recently repaved, making it much better.

Even though the highway is in rocky and hilly areas, regular maintenance ensures the surface stays smooth and strong.

There are many parts where the road is wide enough for two vehicles and has safe shoulders. Since it links many big cities and hill areas, this route is central for both trade and tourism.

Because the road doesn’t have many potholes, people travelling to distant places find long trips more pleasant.

You can enjoy fantastic sights of hills, flowing rivers, and terraced land from the highway.

7. Janakpur–Bardibas Highway

The connection in the southern Terai plains measures about 20.8 kilometres between Janakpur and Bardibas.

Despite the project being done earlier, the sections not yet asphalted will be finished in the near future.

Because the region is even, it is simple to keep a main road straight with few bends. Because of its importance for trade and for pilgrimage trips to Janakpur, the highway plays a vital role in the region.

Because of the improved surface and the absence of big potholes, the journey is smooth and enjoyable, even in the rain.

After finishing, the highway is meant to provide a steady and swift connection between these major towns.

8. East-West Highway Section on the Pathlaiya–Hetauda Road

This is a better section of the East-West Highway that is found near Adhabhar.

About 2 kilometres of the road have been built using a top layer of Dense Bituminous Macadam (DBM) and treated with 40-grade bitumen.

Thanks to its structure, this model section does not sink and can handle traffic pressure much better. The mid-2024 upgrade forms part of a pilot project for improving the East-West Highway.

This highway is easy to drive on due to its flat and wide paved road, which will provide long-term service.

It is smoothly traversed by buses and heavy trucks, which makes travel easy for them. It acts as an example for the rest of Nepal’s planned highway projects. 

9. Mugling–Hetauda via Kulekhani Alternates

Hetauda to Mugling via Kulekhani has been greatly upgraded and paved with blacktop over these last years.

Many tourists visit this road because it is a prime link that takes them from the Kathmandu Valley to southern Nepal.

Most of the roads are smooth, with very few rough spots found only in certain spots. The track goes through forests, and there are bridges and walls along sloping areas to stop landslides.

Because it is not as popular as the main highways and provides high-quality travel, it is preferred by a lot of drivers.

Motorcycle enthusiasts like the clean road and beautiful scenery along the path, so it is a popular road for drives up the hills.

10. Araniko Section of the Melamchi–Sundarijal–Kathmandu project

Recently, Melamchi’s roads from Sundarijal to Kathmandu improvement makes it among the smoothest roads in Kathmandu Valley.

Clean pave lanes, proper water drainage, and clearly marked areas are in this project section. Riding through the city is a breeze since there are not many potholes and rough spots on the road.

It makes it simple for people from both urban and rural areas to use main highways.

Both commuters, local businesses, and tourists travelling through the area are happy about the road. It is suitable to use roads for cars, motorcycles, and transportation for the public.

11. Lo Manthang to Jomsom

The road from Jomsom to Lo Manthang is one of the most stunning and adventurous roads in Nepal. It is about 95 kilometers long and takes around 6 to 8 hours by jeep, depending on the road condition and weather.

The route passes through beautiful villages like Kagbeni, Chhusang, and Tsarang, providing breathtaking views of deep canyons, cliffs, barren hills, and ancient caves. The Kali Gandaki River flows alongside the road, adding to the beauty of the journey.

This road is not just about scenic views it connects you to Lo Manthang, the forbidden Kingdom capital of Upper Mustang. The road is mostly off-road and gravel, but it is one of the best remote roads in Nepal for adventure lovers and cultural explorers.

It offers a rare chance to witness the Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries, and traditional lifestyle of the Mustang people. Despite its rough surface, the journey is comfortable in a 4WD vehicle.

With clear skies, panoramic mountain views, and wide-open valleys, this route is a dream for photographers and travelers who want to see a different side of Nepal, far from the busy trekking routes.

Recommended Other Routes in Nepal

While Nepal has still more epic road trip in Nepal, but we have made a list of some other routes that one might give it a try. 

• Kathmandu to Pokhara via Prithvi Highway (smooth and scenic).
• Kathmandu to Nagarkot for sunrise views.
• From Kathmandu to Rara Lake for offbeat travellers.
• Pokhara to Bandipur for cultural exploration.
• Jhapa to Ilam for tea garden tours.

Popular Road Trip Styles in Nepal

Nepal offers a variety of road trip styles, from adventurous off-road mountain drives to peaceful scenic routes through valleys and countryside. Whether you’re seeking high-altitude thrills or cultural village experiences, there’s a road trip for every traveler.

• Motorbike Tours: For adventurous travellers who want to feel closer to nature and explore offbeat routes.
• 4WD Jeep Adventures: Ideal for groups and rough terrain, offering comfort and access to remote areas.
• Cycling Road Trips: Popular among fitness enthusiasts, cycling tours offer a slow-paced travel experience and provide close interaction with local culture.

Best Season for Road Trips in Nepal

The best season for road trips in Nepal depends on each one preference. One can choose the season as per their needs, likes and dislikes of each season.

• Autumn (September to November) has clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and festive atmosphere.
• Spring (March to May) gives blooming rhododendrons and moderate weather.
• Avoid the monsoon season (June to August) due to heavy rain and landslides.
• Winter (December to February) is cold, especially in mountainous areas, but roads are less crowded.

Is a Road Trip in Nepal Safe?

Nepal’s road conditions vary greatly. Main highways and roads are generally safe and well. Mountain roads can be challenging, with narrow stretches and landslide risks, especially in the rainy season.

Choosing the right vehicle, driving carefully, and planning well can make your road trip safe and memorable. But still, Nepal has a lot to improve since many road accidents take place in Nepal and take the lives of innocent people.

Difficulty of the Road Trip in Nepal

The difficulty of the road trip in Nepal depends on which route you are choosing. Easy to moderate on main highways with good blacktop.

Moderate to difficult on hilly and mountainous roads like Upper Mustang, requiring a 4WD and driving experience. Some routes may have unpaved stretches or narrow roads.

How to Make a Road Trip Plan for Nepal

To get the best of road trip plan for Nepal, you can follow the below given suggestions:

• Get information on the road and its weather conditions before leaving
• Purchase permits in advance if you wish to visit restricted areas.
• Prepare your vehicle or bike for the mountain journey.
• Ensure you have the essentials: food, drinking water, warm clothes, maps, and a GPS device.
• Review the rules for driving and call the relevant emergency services where necessary.
• Be sure to stop at major towns like Jomsom and Kagbeni to rest and refuel.

What you will need for a trip?

Visitors should organize some things before taking the trip from Jomsom to Lo Manthang. The road is partly paved, but it is rugged and narrow in many sections. You will have to use:

• A 4-wheel-drive automobile or a machine suitable for long and bumpy roads.
• A reliable driving license issued by Nepal if you want to drive.
• Before entering the Upper Mustang region, you must obtain a Special Restricted Area Permit in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
• Essential things to carry include a helmet if you drive a motorbike, a first aid kit, and suitable warm clothing when it’s cold.
• Filling the tank and hydrating is hard along the route since service stations are few.

Driving Rules in Nepal

Just like other nations, Nepal has also some rules to drive in Nepal. One must follow these rules in order to drive safely as well as prevent causing accidents.

• While driving, place your vehicle on the left side of the road.
• It is necessary that every person in the front row of a vehicle wear a seatbelt.
• You will find that the speed on these roads is very slow, as it is generally just 30-40 km/h, due to their narrow size and numerous sharp corners.
• In hilly areas, it makes sense to use headlights even during daylight to boost safety.
• Pay attention to pedestrians, animals, and vehicles that are moving at a slow speed.
• Be cautious of landslides and road obstructions when the weather is wet.

Is Driving Your Own Car a Viable Option for Visiting Nepal?

Yes, driving your own car is possible in Nepal. Even so, there are some requirements first:

• If you wish to enter Nepal in your own vehicle from India or China, you will need a temporary import permit.
• It is necessary to have auto insurance that covers other nations.
• Indian passport holders can take their vehicles from India to Nepal only if they possess the documents as directed above and have a valid driver’s license.
• You will need to go through customs and pass immigration when you cross a border.
• People from outside Nepal may find it easier to rent a car within Nepal than to transport their own.

Is it possible to drive from India to Nepal as a traveller?

Many travellers opt to travel from India to Nepal by driving along the roads. Cars and other vehicles from India can cross Nepal if they have the necessary papers. Be aware of the rules at the borders and expect varying road conditions in Nepal.

Here are some of the most important border crossings used:

• Sunauli-Bhairahawa
• Raxaul-Birgunj
• Kakarbhitta-Biratnagar
• Rupaidiha- Nepalgunj

Cost of a Nepal Road Trip

The cost of a Nepal Road Trip depends on your itinerary and and type of road trip you want to do. So please make sure to allocate your budget before planning.

• Fuel costs approximately NPR 157- 200 per litre as of 2025. Please note it keeps changing.
• Motorbike rental costs around NPR 2,000-3,000 per day, while renting a 4WD jeep typically ranges from NPR 10,000 to NPR 20,000 per day.
• Accommodation and food can cost between NPR 1,000 and 3,000 per day, depending on the level of comfort you are looking for.
• Spendings on fitting your car to drive on toll roads, costs to fix unexpected breakdowns, and funds to set aside for emergencies.

Options for Getting Around Inside Nepal

Nepal has various choices for people that want to travel around Nepal. Most of them are taxi, car, rentals and local buses.

• Travellers in Nepal can utilize a variety of transportation options.
• Self-drive is a better choice for those with plenty of experience and good cars.
• Typically, local buses and microbuses are the most affordable option, but they tend to fill up quickly and travel at a slower pace.
• These are ideal when you’re on a trip with friends, as they make the ride feel more comfortable outside of the city streets.
• Riding a motorbike offers solo adventurers a great deal of freedom on the road.
• Domestic air travel allows you to cover big distances, but only at big airports.

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Road Trip

You can enjoy the best road trip in Nepal by following the below given suggestions:

• Always check weather and road updates before departure.
• Carry extra fuel and water, especially for remote routes.
• Drive slowly on mountain roads and use low gear while descending.
• Respect local traffic rules and customs.
• Keep emergency contact information and vehicle repair numbers readily available.
• Avoid night driving on narrow or risky roads.
• Stay hydrated and take breaks to avoid fatigue.