Pokhara is located in the Gandaki Province of central Nepal and can be reached by domestic flights, intercity buses, private vehicles, or a combination of international travel and local transport. Travelers from Dhaka usually enter Nepal via Kathmandu and then travel to Pokhara. Since Pokhara is the headquarters of Kaski District, there is no separate transport system from the district headquarters to Pokhara; local travelers can go directly to Lakeside from the city's airport or main bus terminal.
Step 1: Travel from Dhaka to Kathmandu by air
For most travelers departing from Bangladesh, flying from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) in Dhaka to Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu is the most convenient way to travel. Depending on the airline and operating schedule, non-stop flights can take approximately 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes. You should check flight availability, connection options, and ticket prices for your intended travel dates.
After arriving in Kathmandu, visitors can travel to Pokhara by domestic flight, tourist bus, or private vehicle. Allow sufficient time for immigration, baggage collection, and travel between flights or terminals.
Step 2a: Kathmandu to Pokhara by domestic flight
Domestic flights between Kathmandu and Pokhara are one of the fastest transport options. Scheduled flight times are usually around 25-30 minutes , although the total travel time can be longer if airport formalities and ground transportation are included.
- Departure: Kathmandu Domestic Airport Terminal.
- Arrival: Pokhara International Airport (PKR).
- Flight duration: approximately 25-30 minutes.
- Estimated airfare: Approximately 5,000–15,000 Nepalese rupees or more for a one-way trip, depending on nationality, airline, fare class, and booking date.
- From the airport to the lakeside: It usually takes about 20–40 minutes by road, depending on traffic and the location of the accommodation.
- Estimated budget for taxi: around 800–1,500 Nepalese rupees or more, depending on the operator and availability.
Nepal's flight schedule is subject to change due to operational constraints and visibility. Avoid scheduling international flights too close to domestic flights.
Step 2B: Kathmandu to Pokhara by tourist bus
Tourist buses are a popular alternative overland transportation. These services usually depart from the tourist bus drop-off area near Sorkhat in Kathmandu or from other operator-specified pickup points. Be sure to confirm the correct boarding location when purchasing your ticket.
- General route: Kathmandu → Prithvi Highway Corridor → Mugling area → Pokhara.
- Distance by road: Approximately 200 kilometers, depending on the specific terminal and route.
- Travel time: Often takes 7-10 hours or more due to traffic jams, road repairs, and road conditions.
- Estimated fare: Around 1,000–2,500 Nepalese rupees or more per person for tourist bus service.
- Arrival: Pokhara Tourist Bus Stop and Bus Park; exact location may vary by company.
Comfortable tourist buses may have reclining seats, air conditioning, and designated rest areas. Road conditions and journey times can vary significantly, so travelers should not rely on a specific arrival time.
Step 2C: Kathmandu to Pokhara by private car
Private cars or rented vehicles can be used to start the journey at a convenient time and have the opportunity to take breaks along the way. Travelers can arrange for a vehicle through registered transport companies, hotels or established travel agencies. This route usually follows the same highway routes as intercity buses.
Estimated budget for a private car: Around 12,000–25,000 Nepalese rupees or more for a one-way trip, depending on the type of car, availability, included costs, and negotiation. Get a written price list that includes tolls, parking, driver fees, and any other additional charges.
Traveling by road from Dhaka
Entering Nepal from Bangladesh by land requires crossing India, making the process considerably more complicated than by air. Depending on the authorized border crossing, travelers may need an Indian visa or transit permit, a Nepali visa, and transportation arrangements across multiple jurisdictions.
A possible geographical route is to travel from Dhaka to northern Bangladesh, enter India through an authorized checkpoint, proceed to the India-Nepal border near Panitanki-Kakarvitta, and then head west through Nepal to Pokhara. This is not a single direct bus service, and the viability of this route depends on immigration regulations, operational checkpoints, vehicle permits, and available connections.
There is no direct passenger train service from Dhaka to Pokhara . Travelling by rail requires first travelling to India and then to Nepal by road, and completing the applicable visa and border procedures. Travellers should independently check current international rail services, rather than assuming that direct tickets will be available.
Transportation from Pokhara Airport and Bus Terminal
Upon arrival in Pokhara, the most common tourist destination is the lakeside near Fewa Lake. Airport taxis, hotel private vehicles, local taxis, and some public transport services can connect arriving travelers to their accommodations.
- Airport Taxi: A rough budget estimate is around 800–1,500 Nepalese rupees or more to Lakeside.
- Taxi from Central Bus Stop: Approximately 300-800 Nepalese Rupees or more depending on the terminal, distance, traffic, and bargaining.
- Local buses: Usually inexpensive, costing a few dozen Nepalese rupees for short journeys within the city. Routes and fares should be confirmed locally.
- Motorcycle or scooter rental: Approximately 800–1,800 Nepalese rupees or more per day, depending on the condition of the vehicle and rental terms.
- Private car with driver: Fares vary depending on the duration and plan of the trip; negotiate the full fare before starting the journey.
Travelers arriving at Prithvi Chowk or other central transport hubs can seek a taxi to Lakeside, Hallan Chowk or the shores of Fewa Lake. These places are quite useful when negotiating accommodation arrangements. Lakeside is also a convenient hub for arranging trips to Sarangkot, Devi Falls, World Peace Pagoda and other nearby attractions.
Nepal Visa Information for Bangladeshi Travelers
Bangladeshi passport holders can apply for a Nepal tourist visa upon arrival at designated entry points, including Tribhuvan International Airport. Under Nepal's SAARC agreement, the first eligible tourist visa for up to 30 days in a calendar year may be issued free of charge. Fees may apply for additional travel and longer stays. Travelers should carry a valid passport and appropriate travel documents and confirm the latest requirements with the Nepalese Embassy in Dhaka before travel. (visa 1)