Planning a cross-border trip from India to Nepal? One of the most popular and budget-friendly ways to reach Nepal’s beautiful city of Pokhara from India is by road, and the Gorakhpur to Pokhara bus route is frequently chosen by backpackers, tourists, and pilgrims. Gorakhpur, located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Varanasi, and serves as a convenient transit point for entering Nepal via the Sunauli border. Pokhara, on the other hand, is a top tourist destination in Nepal, known for its tranquil lakes, adventure activities, and views of the Himalayan range. This guide covers everything you need to know about the Gorakhpur to Pokhara bus journey — including routes, timings, ticket prices, border procedures, and travel tips.

Is There a Direct Bus from Gorakhpur to Pokhara?

There are no official direct government buses from Gorakhpur to Pokhara, but the journey can be easily completed using semi-direct buses or a combination of local buses and shared vehicles. Many private travel operators offer tourist bus services that handle the entire journey, including border assistance. These buses are not "direct" in the strictest sense because they usually switch vehicles at the border or in Bhairahawa, but the booking is often done as a single ticket. You can also travel independently in stages — first from Gorakhpur to the Sunauli border, then cross the border on foot, and take a Nepali bus or jeep from Bhairahawa to Pokhara.

Gorakhpur to Pokhara Bus Route Overview

The typical route taken by buses traveling from Gorakhpur to Pokhara is as follows: Gorakhpur → Nautanwa → Sunauli (India-Nepal border) → Bhairahawa → Butwal → Pokhara. 1. Gorakhpur to Sunauli: 100 km, around 3 to 3.5 hours by bus. 2. Sunauli to Bhairahawa (Nepal): 5 km, typically covered by foot or rickshaw after crossing the border. 3. Bhairahawa to Pokhara: Around 200 km, about 6 to 7 hours by bus via Butwal. The total travel distance is approximately 285 to 310 kilometers, and the overall journey takes between 9 and 12 hours, depending on the bus type, road conditions, border wait times, and transfer delays.

Types of Buses Available

There are primarily two options for traveling from Gorakhpur to Pokhara by bus:

1. Semi-Direct Tourist Buses

Private travel agencies in Gorakhpur operate semi-direct buses that cater to foreign tourists and Indian travelers heading to Nepal. These buses usually take passengers from Gorakhpur to Sunauli, help them cross the border, and then provide a connecting vehicle from Bhairahawa or Butwal to Pokhara. These tourist buses may be slightly more expensive but offer added comfort, better seats, and assistance with border procedures. Departure Time: Typically early morning (5:00 AM – 8:00 AM). Travel Time: Around 10 to 12 hours. Fare: INR 1,200 to 2,000 depending on the operator and service quality. Booking: Available through travel agents in Gorakhpur or online travel platforms.

2. Independent Local Buses

If you’re on a budget and looking for a more flexible option, you can travel using local buses in segments. First, take a local bus from Gorakhpur Bus Stand to Sunauli. Once you cross the border on foot, take a rickshaw or taxi to the Bhairahawa bus park. From there, frequent local and express buses depart to Pokhara via Butwal. This method may involve more transfers but can be more economical. Travel Time: 11 to 13 hours total. Fare: INR 700 to 1,000 (total of all legs). Booking: Tickets are usually purchased on the spot; no advance booking required.

Where to Board the Bus in Gorakhpur?

Most buses leave from or near the Gorakhpur Bus Stand (near Gorakhpur Junction railway station). For semi-direct tourist buses, pickups may also be arranged from hotels or near popular landmarks. If you're using local buses, head to the State Transport Bus Terminal or inquire at local counters near the railway station.

Crossing the India-Nepal Border at Sunauli

The Sunauli border is open 24/7 and is the most commonly used land entry point into Nepal for travelers from Gorakhpur. Here's what you need to know: - For Indian Citizens: No visa required. Carry a valid government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar card, voter ID, or passport). - For Foreign Nationals: A valid passport and Nepal visa are required. You can obtain a visa on arrival at the border. Bring passport-size photos and USD for visa fees. Border processing can take 30 minutes to an hour depending on the crowd, so it's wise to start your journey early in the day.

Bhairahawa to Pokhara Bus Options

Once you’re in Nepal (Bhairahawa), you can catch a bus to Pokhara from the local bus park in Bhairahawa or Butwal. You’ll find both deluxe and standard buses operating on this route. Deluxe buses usually leave in the morning and early afternoon. Travel time from Bhairahawa to Pokhara is 6 to 7 hours, and the cost ranges from NPR 600 to 1,200, depending on the bus type. The roads are well-paved but can get slow due to hilly terrain after Butwal.

Travel Tips for Gorakhpur to Pokhara Bus Journey

  • Start Early: Begin your journey in the morning to avoid delays at the border and reach Pokhara before nightfall.

  • Carry Snacks and Water: Bus stops may be infrequent, especially in Nepal’s hill regions.

  • Keep Cash: Carry both Indian Rupees and Nepali Rupees. INR 100 notes are widely accepted in Nepal.

  • Border Essentials: Keep all your travel documents handy. Foreigners should fill out the arrival form and pay visa fees in USD.

  • Comfort Essentials: Bring a neck pillow, power bank, and travel blanket for a long road journey.

  • Book Tickets in Advance (for tourist buses): Especially during tourist season (October to January and March to May).

Why Take a Bus from Gorakhpur to Pokhara?

Taking a bus is one of the most economical and flexible ways to travel from Gorakhpur to Pokhara. It’s ideal for solo travelers, backpackers, students, and budget tourists. While flying may save time, buses provide a richer travel experience, allowing you to witness the rural landscapes of northern India and the Terai and hill regions of Nepal. Moreover, the bus journey allows easy access to local attractions like Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, which is just 25 km from Bhairahawa, making it a great optional stopover.

Conclusion

The Gorakhpur to Pokhara bus journey offers a scenic, adventurous, and cost-effective way to travel from northern India to the heart of Nepal. Whether you choose a semi-direct tourist bus or travel segment by segment using local transport, the road trip is filled with cultural experiences, diverse landscapes, and the excitement of crossing an international border. With proper planning, valid documents, and some patience, your journey from Gorakhpur to Pokhara by bus can be both smooth and memorable. So pack your bags, grab your ID, and get ready to explore the gateway to the Himalayas — one bus ride at a time.