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Varanasi to Kathmandu from $20: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Varanasi, India
to
Kathmandu, Nepal

How to Get from Varanasi to Kathmandu: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$20 - Train, BusBest price
352 kmDistance
54m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Varanasi to Kathmandu with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Buddha Air Ltd
Plane
Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$107-275
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
14h  30m
Estimated price
$20-32
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 352 km
Duration: 54m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
14h  30m
Estimated price
$20-32
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
20h  32m
Estimated price
$38-1070
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
17h  38m
Estimated price
$50-59
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  33m
Estimated price
$1071-1072
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Traveling From Varanasi to Kathmandu

Your journey from Varanasi to Kathmandu offers a stunning contrast between the spiritual serenity of the Ganges and the vibrant hustle of the Nepalese capital.

Best Neighbourhoods in Kathmandu

Kathmandu features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct cultural experiences.

Thamel
• Vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and restaurants.
• Shops offering trekking gear and local handicrafts.
Basantapur
• Home to the historic Durbar Square.
• Bustling with local vendors and street performances.
Patan
• Rich in art and tradition with stunning temples.
• Quieter atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls.

Best Times To Visit Kathmandu's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience in Kathmandu.

Swayambhunath Stupa
Visit early in the morning for stunning views and fewer crowds.
Boudhanath Stupa
Late afternoon offers a serene atmosphere and beautiful sunset.
Pashupatinath Temple
Weekday mornings are less busy, allowing for a more contemplative visit.

Kathmandu Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Kathmandu experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons, where spring and autumn are ideal for travel due to mild temperatures and clear skies. Understanding the weather patterns can greatly influence your travel plans, ensuring you enjoy everything the city has to offer.

Dining Recommendation in Kathmandu

For a delightful culinary adventure, try momo, a popular dumpling filled with seasoned meat or vegetables at places like 'Momo Hut,' where the lively atmosphere and rich flavors stand in stark contrast to the more traditional dishes of Varanasi. The use of unique local spices and the communal dining experience in Kathmandu truly elevate the enjoyment of this dish.

Varanasi - Kathmandu operators

Explore transport companies operating between Varanasi and Kathmandu, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
buddhaair.com

Plane from Varanasi Airport (VNS) to Kathmandu Airport (KTM)

Average Duration
25m
Estimated price
$1074-1075
Train
Contact phone
14646
Website
https://www.irctc.co.asia/en/operator/indian-railways

Train from Varanasi City to Raxaul Jn

Average Duration
11h 55m
Estimated price
$1079-2750

Train from Varanasi Jn to Nautanwa

Average Duration
7h 55m
Estimated price
$2755-2756

Train from Varanasi Jn to Gorakhpur

Average Duration
5h 15m
Estimated price
$2755-2753
Bus
Contact phone
02228916622
Website
http://www.shubhambus.com/

Bus from Gorakhpur to Civil Mall, Kathmandu

Average Duration
11h 15m
Estimated price
$27518-0

Bus from Bhairahawa to Kalanki Dhungeadda

Average Duration
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Varanasi to Kathmandu

Average Duration
20h 20m
Estimated price
$1077-0

Varanasi to Kathmandu: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Varanasi and Kathmandu offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Varanasi to Kathmandu by car, spanning a picturesque driving distance of 312 miles. The route offers breathtaking views of the diverse landscapes between India and Nepal. 💰 Experience the convenience and affordability of traveling by car, with prices ranging from $60 to $95 for the Varanasi to Kathmandu journey. Enjoy the flexibility to explore charming villages and hidden gems along the way.
Average price
$60 - $95
Useful tips for train travellers
• On the Varanasi to Kathmandu route, consider traveling with the Nepal Railways operator, which offers catering services that include local Nepali cuisine. Passengers can pre-order meals or purchase snacks from the onboard dining car, which typically serves chai (tea), dal bhat (rice with lentils), and various vegetable dishes.
• The journey offers several seating options through various operators. First Class provides spacious seating and air-conditioned compartments, while Business Class offers slightly less luxurious but comfortable seating. If you're on a budget, Economy Class is available, but be prepared for a more crowded environment. Operators like Indian Railways (indianrail.gov.in) and Nepal Railways (nepalrailways.com) typically have these categories available, but always check their respective websites for specific train segments and availability.
• Upon arrival at the Kathmandu station (Kamal Pokhari Railway Station), expect to find basic amenities. However, there are no long-term luggage storage facilities. You can use clean restrooms located in the waiting areas, but showers are generally not available. For navigating from the station, the fastest way to reach the city center is by taking a microbus from the nearby Machapokhari area. Look for the 'K’ bus route, which connects directly to the central districts. Make sure to have small change for the fare!
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from Varanasi to Kathmandu with the direct flight provided by Buddha Air Ltd, taking only 25 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Kathmandu and Varanasi range from $107 to $275, offering flexibility for travelers with different budget preferences.
Departure Point
Varanasi Airport
Arrival Point
Kathmandu Airport
🚌 Hop on a bus in Varanasi for a scenic journey to Kathmandu that takes approximately 20 hours and 32 minutes to reach your destination. 💰 Prices for the bus ride from Varanasi to Kathmandu typically range from $38 to $42, offering a budget-friendly option to travel between these two culturally rich cities.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus ticket in advance with one of the reputable operators like Greenline or Continental, as they offer comfortable services with AC and English-speaking staff; check their websites at greenline.com.np and continental.com.np for schedules and booking options.
• Pack snacks and beverages, as the journey from Varanasi to Kathmandu is quite lengthy (over 20 hours); local towns along the route may have limited options for food, and it's best to be prepared.
• Upon arrival at the Kathmandu bus station (New Bus Park), be ready for a bustling atmosphere; make sure to have local currency on hand for taxis or local transport, and consider downloading a map of the station layout, which can be found at travelblog.org

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Varanasi to Kathmandu.

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The distance between Varanasi and Kathmandu is approximately 352.4 km. The road distance is slightly longer at 501.8 km. It takes around 14 hours and 7 minutes to reach Kathmandu from Varanasi by taking a train and then driving. Alternatively, it takes about 7 hours and 33 minutes to drive from Kathmandu to Varanasi by car. If you prefer to travel by bus, it would take approximately 20 hours and 32 minutes to reach Kathmandu from Varanasi.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Varanasi to Kathmandu is by taking a combination of train and bus via Siddharthanagar. This option takes around 14 hours and 30 minutes and costs approximately $20-$35. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, which takes just 54 minutes and costs around $95-$270.
When traveling from Varanasi to Kathmandu the prices for a bus ticket range from $27 to $29.
To get from Varanasi to Kathmandu without using public transportation, you can opt to hire a private car or taxi for a direct drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 502.1 km and it takes around 7 hours and 33 minutes to reach Kathmandu from Varanasi by car. The prices for car rentals vary, ranging from $60 to $95, depending on the type of vehicle and the rental company.
To travel from Varanasi to Kathmandu without a car, you can take a combination of train and bus. The journey takes approximately 17h 38m and the cost is around $50-$60. First, you would take a train from Varanasi to the Indian border town of Gorakhpur, which takes about 6-7 hours. From there, you would then take a bus from Gorakhpur to Kathmandu, which takes about 11 hours.
The flight between Varanasi and Kathmandu typically takes around 25 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on various factors, but it usually ranges from $97 to $268.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Kathmandu. With over 1009 hotels available, travelers can find a variety of options to suit their needs and budget. Prices for hotels in Kathmandu start as low as $9 per night.

Trips from Varanasi