For Indian travelers looking to explore Nepal, Pokhara is one of the most scenic and peaceful destinations you can visit. If you’re starting your journey in Uttar Pradesh, knowing the Gorakhpur to Pokhara distance and planning your itinerary in advance can help you make the most of your time in this charming city.
In this guide, we’ll provide a practical 3-day travel itinerary, share key sightseeing spots, and explain how the Gorakhpur to Pokhara distance influences your travel timeline.
Quick Overview: Gorakhpur to Pokhara Distance
Before jumping into the itinerary, it’s important to understand the actual Gorakhpur to Pokhara distance:
By Road: Approx. 280–300 km
Travel Time: 8–10 hours (including border crossing at Sunauli)
Border Point: Sunauli-Bhairahawa (open 24/7)
Mode of Travel: Taxi, bus, or a combination of public transport
Due to hilly roads and time spent at immigration checkpoints, travel takes almost an entire day. This means you’ll likely reach Pokhara in the evening if you depart from Gorakhpur in the morning.
Day 1: Travel from Gorakhpur to Pokhara + Lakeside Stroll
Morning – Depart from Gorakhpur
Start early, preferably by 6:00 AM, to avoid delays at the border.
Take a private taxi or bus to the Sunauli border, which is about 100 km from Gorakhpur.
Complete immigration formalities at Sunauli and enter Bhairahawa, Nepal.
Continue your journey by road to Pokhara (via Butwal and Tansen).
Afternoon – Scenic Drive through Nepal
Enjoy the beautiful Himalayan foothills and lush forests along the way.
Stop for lunch at Butwal or Tansen – both offer great local food.
Expect to reach Pokhara by 4:00–6:00 PM, depending on traffic and stops.
Evening – Relax by Phewa Lake
After checking in to your hotel, head to Lakeside Pokhara.
Take a gentle walk along the lake, or enjoy a cup of tea with a view of the mountains.
Optional: Short boat ride on Phewa Lake (last boats go out before sunset).
Day 2: Explore the Best of Pokhara
The second day is all about experiencing the highlights of Pokhara. Since the Gorakhpur to Pokhara distance took most of your first day, now it’s time to explore!
Morning – Sarangkot Sunrise
Wake up early (~4:30 AM) and drive to Sarangkot Viewpoint.
Watch a breathtaking sunrise over the Annapurna range, including Machhapuchhre (Fishtail Mountain).
Optional: Try paragliding back down to Pokhara — one of the top-rated paragliding spots in the world!
Late Morning – Peace Stupa & Mountain Views
Visit the World Peace Pagoda located on a hilltop overlooking the lake.
Enjoy panoramic views of Pokhara city, Phewa Lake, and the Himalayas.
Consider renting a cycle or motorbike for easier access.
Afternoon – International Mountain Museum
Learn about the history of Himalayan mountaineering.
Great exhibits on Everest expeditions, Sherpa culture, and Nepalese geography.
Evening – Local Food & Lakeside Market
Try Nepali dishes like Dal Bhat, Momo, or Thukpa at a local restaurant.
Shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, or trekking gear at Lakeside.
Day 3: Adventure or Leisure + Return Planning
Depending on your interest, your third day in Pokhara can be as relaxing or adventurous as you like.
Option 1: Adventure Activities
Zip-lining: One of the world’s longest and steepest zip lines.
Ultralight flight: A once-in-a-lifetime experience flying above the Himalayas.
Trekking Day Hikes: Short treks like Davis Falls to Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave.
Option 2: Leisure Day
Take a boat to Tal Barahi Temple, situated on an island in Phewa Lake.
Visit Begnas Lake – a quieter, less touristy alternative to Phewa.
Relax with a spa or massage before your return journey.
Evening – Prepare for Return
You can either stay another night and leave early the next morning, or begin your journey back to Gorakhpur in the late afternoon.
Always factor in Gorakhpur to Pokhara distance when planning your return — especially if you have a train or flight to catch from Gorakhpur.
Important Travel Tips
Currency: Indian Rupees (INR) are accepted in Nepal, but it’s best to convert to Nepali Rupees (NPR) for smaller purchases.
Documents: Indian citizens can travel with Voter ID or Aadhaar Card. Passport is optional.
Network: Indian SIM cards won’t work in Nepal. Buy a local SIM in Bhairahawa or Pokhara.
Weather: The best time to travel is October to April for clear skies and good road conditions.
Final Thoughts
Covering the Gorakhpur to Pokhara distance is more than just traveling between two cities — it’s a gateway to adventure, nature, and cultural exchange. Whether you're watching the sunrise from Sarangkot, paragliding over Pokhara, or simply sipping tea by the lake, the journey is well worth it.
Use this 3-day itinerary as a starting point to create your own unforgettable Nepal experience. And remember, every minute spent crossing the Gorakhpur to Pokhara distance is rewarded with memories that will last a lifetime.
