If you’re planning a trip to Nepal, you may wonder about the best way to get from Kathmandu to Pokhara. While many different transportation options are available, the best way to get from Kathmandu to Pokhara is by taking a bus.
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Kathmandu to Pokhara flight
The Kathmandu to Pokhara flight is a short but scenic one. The flight takes off from Kathmandu and heads west towards the mountains. Pokhara is nestled in a valley between the mountains, and the flight provides great views of the snow-capped peaks.
There is no quicker or more comfortable way to travel between Kathmandu and Pokhara than by plane. If you’re short on time, flying is highly recommended. Numerous flights leave each day from Tribhuvan Airport’s domestic terminal and take only around 30 minutes.
The flight over the Himalayas is incredibly scenic, especially if you sit on the plane’s right side. You’ll arrive feeling energetic and with plenty of time for activities the same day, which can’t really be said if you make the trip overland where you will be weaving through cars in a (quite polluted) valley.
Flights to and from Pokhara run daily, with the last flight leaving around 3:30 PM3:30 PM. Costs vary depending on the season and how you purchase your tickets. If you buy your tickets online, you can pay around $125 for a one-way flight.
Kathmandu to Pokhara by car
No matter what transportation model you choose to get from Kathmandu to Pokhara, you’ll be on the same road. The main factor that will affect your journey is traffic around the Kathmandu Valley, which can vary depending on the time of day.
The benefit of taking a private vehicle is telling the driver when and where to stop. Smaller vehicles can usually manoeuvre through traffic faster than larger buses. There are generally 3 ways you can go to Pokhara from Kathamndu by road: by private transfer, tourist bus, and local bus.
Kathmandu to Pokhara by private transfer
Kathmandu to Pokhara by private transfer is one of the most convenient ways to travel between these two popular Nepali cities. The journey takes just over six hours by car, and you can relax and enjoy the scenery as you travel in comfort.
There are many pros to taking a private transfer from Kathmandu to Pokhara. One of the main advantages is having a much more comfortable and convenient journey. You will be able to avoid the hassle and crowds of public transport, and you will also benefit from door-to-door service.
You will also be able to choose where you stop for food on the way. Where local busses and tourist busses will often stop at local eateries – some of which are not necessarily very hygienic, you can choose your stops when travelling by private transfer. I can recommend stopping at Hamlet restaurant as it is one of the best ones on the route.
You can book a private transfer via Viator or GetYourGuide. You can also book transfers via 12GoAsia, where prices start at $86.
Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus
Nepal’s tourist buses are a great way to see the country. The buses from Kathmandu to Pokhara are a comfortable way to travel. The buses are clean, air-conditioned and modern, with luggage racks for larger suitcases. It is recommended to book tickets in advance as the number of seats available and their prices may change depending on the number of tourists visiting the country.
You can easily book a tourist bus via 12GoAsia. Prices start at $4.50
Kathmandu to Pokhara by local bus
Kathmandu to Pokhara by local bus is an adventure in itself. The ride takes you through Nepal’s most stunning scenery, including gorgeous rivers. You’ll also get a chance to meet some of the friendly locals. Local busses are often very busy and very full. Local busses also won’t have airconditioning which might be a bit of a con when travelling in hot weather.
You can book a local bus via 12GoAsia, where prices start from $3.30
Travelling from Kathmandu to Pokhara: Frequently Asked Questions
If you want to travel from Kathmandu to Pokhara, you might have some questions about flights or buses. To help you decide on the best kind of transport, some frequently asked questions about travelling from Kathmandu to Pokhara.
What’s the most popular airline for non-stop flights from Kathmandu (KTM) to Pokhara (PKR)?
Many airlines fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara, but the most popular is Buddha Air. Buddha Air leaves from the domestic terminal at Kathmandu International Airport. They operate propeller planes from Kathmandu to Pokhara. The flight itself takes about 30 minutes.
Where do tourist buses from Kathmandu to Pokhara leave from?
The tourist buses from Kathmandu to Pokhara leave from Surakhutte near Thamel on Swayambhu Marg. If you are travelling from Lalitpur, you will find busses leaving Lagankhel.
Do local and tourist buses depart from the same station in Kathmandu and Pokhara?
Yes. The same bus station in Kathmandu and Pokhara serves local and tourist buses.
Is travelling from Kathmandu to Pokhara on a scooter a good idea?
No, it is not a good idea. The drive can take 6 to 8 hours. Prithvi Highway only has one lane on each side, with a sheer drop to a river bed on the right. Drivers can be incredibly aggressive in overtaking, which causes many horrible accidents. If you are not used to driving in other South Asian countries, I would not recommend doing the trip from Kathmandu to Pokhara on a scooter.
Is there any tourist bus available from Kathmandu to Pokhara at night?
There are tourist buses available from Kathmandu to Pokhara at night. You can catch one of these buses to make your way to Pokhara.
VIP busses leave Kathmandu at 8 PM8 PM and arrive in Pokhara at 5 AM5 AM.
How much does it cost to fly from Kathmandu to Pokhara?
The cost of flying from Kathmandu to Pokhara varies depending on the airline and time of year. Tickets can cost anything from $125 to $200.
Do residents get a discount on flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara?
Yes. If you have a student (resident) visa, you can get steep discounts on flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara. Please contact your employer for more information and the name/number of a trustworthy travel agent.