Chitwan National Park and Chitwan
Chitwan is located in the south-central region of Nepal and is one of the country’s most popular travel destinations. The district is best known for Chitwan National Park, Nepal’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its rich biodiversity, wildlife safaris, and authentic jungle experiences.
Chitwan is well connected to the rest of Nepal by both road and air, making it easily accessible for domestic and international visitors.
Bharatpur – The Gateway to Chitwan
Bharatpur is the largest city in Chitwan District and the fourth-largest city in Nepal. It serves as the region’s commercial, educational, healthcare, and transportation hub, making it an important gateway for travelers exploring southern Nepal.
The city is served by Bharatpur Airport, the only airport in Chitwan District. The airport offers daily domestic flights from Kathmandu, Pokhara, and other major cities, providing a convenient alternative to road travel.
Sauraha – The Tourist Hub
Sauraha, located approximately 20 km from Bharatpur, is the main tourist gateway to Chitwan National Park. The journey from Bharatpur Airport to Sauraha takes around 30–40 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
Sauraha is home to a wide range of hotels, resorts, restaurants, and tour operators. It is the starting point for most jungle activities, including jeep safaris, canoe rides, birdwatching tours, nature walks, and visits to local Tharu villages. Whether you’re seeking wildlife encounters or a relaxing stay close to nature, Sauraha offers the perfect base for exploring Chitwan National Park.
How to Get to Chitwan National Park by Tourist Bus
Travelling by tourist bus is one of the easiest, most affordable, and most popular ways to reach Chitwan National Park from Kathmandu or Pokhara. Every day, comfortable tourist buses connect these major cities with Sauraha, the main tourist gateway to the national park.
Whether you are travelling on a budget or simply want to enjoy Nepal’s scenic countryside, the tourist bus is a convenient and reliable option.
Tourist Bus from Kathmandu to Chitwan National Park
Daily tourist buses depart from Sorhakhutte Tourist Bus Park, located about a 10-minute walk from Thamel, Kathmandu’s main tourist district. On Google Maps, you can easily find the departure point by searching for Tourist Bus Park or Sorhakhutte Tourist Bus Stop.
Several reputable tourist bus companies operate this route every day, giving travelers a choice of standard, deluxe, and luxury buses with comfortable seating and air conditioning.
Most buses leave around 6:30 AM and arrive in Sauraha after approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on road and traffic conditions. Along the way, buses usually stop once or twice for breakfast, lunch, and restroom breaks.
Tourist Bus Ticket Price
The price of a tourist bus ticket from Kathmandu to Chitwan typically ranges from NPR 1,000 to NPR 2,000, depending on the bus company and the level of comfort you choose.
You can purchase tickets through travel agencies in Thamel, online booking platforms, or directly from the bus operators. During Nepal’s peak travel seasons (October-November and March-April), it is highly recommended to book your ticket at least one day in advance, as buses often sell out.
If you plan to buy your ticket directly at the bus park on the day of departure, arrive before 6:00 AM to secure your seat.
Arrival in Sauraha
Tourist buses from Kathmandu normally arrive at the Sauraha Tourist Bus Park, the main bus station for visitors to Chitwan National Park.
From the bus station:
The center of Sauraha is approximately 1.5 km away (around a 10-20 minute walk).
The entrance to Chitwan National Park is within easy walking distance.
Most hotels, resorts, and safari operators offer complimentary pick-up services from the bus station if arranged in advance.
If you have booked a jungle safari or accommodation before arriving, it is worth asking your hotel or tour operator whether free transportation from the bus park is included.
Travelling by tourist bus is an excellent choice for visitors looking for an affordable, comfortable, and straightforward way to reach Chitwan National Park, making it the preferred transportation option for thousands of travellers every year.
Tourist Bus from Pokhara to Chitwan National Park
Travelling by tourist bus from Pokhara to Chitwan National Park is one of the most convenient and budget-friendly ways to reach Nepal’s famous wildlife destination. Daily tourist buses operate between Pokhara and Sauraha, the main gateway to Chitwan National Park, making the journey easy for both domestic and international travelers.
Where to Catch the Tourist Bus in Pokhara
Most tourist buses depart from the Lakeside Tourist Bus Park, located around a 20-minute walk from the Lakeside area, where the majority of hotels and restaurants are situated. On Google Maps, you can search for Tourist Bus Park Pokhara to find the departure point.
Several well-known tourist bus companies operate this route every day, offering standard, deluxe, and luxury buses with comfortable seating and air-conditioned options.
Bus Schedule and Travel Time
Tourist buses from Pokhara usually depart at 7Am, 8:30 AM and take approximately 3 to 5 hours to reach Sauraha, depending on road and traffic conditions.
During the journey, buses normally stop once or twice for meals, refreshments, and restroom breaks, allowing passengers to travel comfortably while enjoying the scenic countryside of central Nepal.
Tourist Bus Ticket Price
A tourist bus ticket from Pokhara to Chitwan National Park generally costs between NPR 1,000 and NPR 2000, depending on the bus company and the type of service you choose.
Tickets can be booked through travel agencies in Lakeside, online travel platforms, or directly from the bus operators. If you are travelling during Nepal’s peak tourist seasons (October-November and March-April), it is advisable to reserve your seat in advance, as buses can fill up quickly.
If you plan to purchase your ticket at the bus park on the day of departure, arrive before 07:00 AM to ensure availability and allow enough time for boarding.
Arrival in Sauraha
Tourist buses from Pokhara arrive at the Sauraha Tourist Bus Park, the main arrival point for visitors heading to Chitwan National Park.
From the bus station:
Sauraha town center is approximately 1.5 km away, about a 15-20 minute walk.
The entrance to Chitwan National Park is within easy walking distance.
Many hotels, resorts, and safari companies provide complimentary pick-up services from the bus station when arranged in advance.
Travelling by tourist bus from Pokhara is a comfortable, affordable, and popular option for reaching Chitwan National Park. It offers a scenic overland journey and is the preferred choice for many travelers exploring Nepal’s two most visited destinations—Pokhara and Chitwan.
Sauraha(Chitwan National Park) Tourist Bus Station
Tourist Bus from Chitwan National Park to Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini
If you are planning to continue your journey after visiting Chitwan National Park, travelling by tourist bus is one of the most convenient and affordable options. All tourist buses depart from the Sauraha Tourist Bus Park, the only tourist bus station in Chitwan for visitors travelling to other major destinations in Nepal.
From Sauraha, you can take a daily tourist bus to Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lumbini, making it easy to continue your Nepal adventure.
Daily Bus Schedule
Tourist buses from Sauraha operate once each morning on the following schedule:
Kathmandu: Departure at 7:30 AM
Pokhara: Departure at 7:30 AM
Lumbini: Departure at 9:00 AM
As buses leave early in the morning, it is recommended to arrive at the bus station at least 30 minutes before departure to allow enough time for boarding.
Booking Your Ticket
During Nepal’s peak tourist seasons (October-November and March-April), tourist buses are often fully booked. To guarantee your seat, it is best to reserve your ticket one day in advance through your hotel, a local travel agency, or your safari operator.
If you are travelling during the quieter months, tickets are usually available on the day of departure. You can simply visit the Sauraha Tourist Bus Park early in the morning and purchase your ticket directly, although advance booking is still recommended for peace of mind.
Ticket Prices
The average fare for a tourist bus from Chitwan National Park (Sauraha) is:
Kathmandu: NPR 1,000–2,000
Pokhara: NPR 1,000–2,000
Lumbini: NPR 1,000–2,000
Ticket prices vary depending on the bus company and whether you choose a standard, deluxe, or luxury service.
Travel Tip
Many hotels and resorts in Sauraha can arrange tourist bus tickets for their guests and may also provide complimentary transportation to the bus station. Booking through your accommodation is often the easiest and most convenient option, especially during the busy travel season.
With reliable daily departures and comfortable services, the tourist bus remains the most popular way to travel from Chitwan National Park to Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini, offering an affordable and hassle-free way to explore more of Nepal.
Getting Chitwan National Park via Public Bus from all over Nepal
Travelling to Chitwan by Public Bus
Travelling by public bus in Nepal is the most budget-friendly way to reach Chitwan National Park, but it offers much more than just saving money. For many travelers, it is an opportunity to experience everyday life in Nepal, meet local people, and enjoy an authentic cultural adventure beyond the usual tourist route.
Unlike tourist buses, public buses are primarily used by local residents. They travel through towns and villages, making frequent stops to pick up and drop off passengers along the way. As a result, journeys are usually slower and less predictable than travelling on a tourist bus.
What to Expect
Public buses in Nepal are generally safe and inexpensive, but they can be crowded, especially during weekends, public holidays, and festivals. Departure times are often flexible, and delays are common due to traffic, road conditions, or frequent passenger stops.
Comfort is more basic than on tourist buses, so travelers looking for a faster and more relaxed journey may prefer a tourist bus instead.
A Unique Cultural Experience
One of the highlights of travelling by public bus is the chance to interact with local people. Nepalis are widely known for their hospitality and genuine curiosity toward visitors. It is common for fellow passengers to smile, start a conversation, ask where you are from, or recommend places to visit.
If you are not used to this level of friendliness, the attention may feel unusual at first. However, these conversations are a normal part of Nepali culture and are usually meant as a warm welcome rather than an intrusion. Many travelers find these spontaneous interactions become some of their most memorable experiences in Nepal.
Is a Public Bus Right for You?
If your priority is comfort, fixed schedules, and direct transportation, a tourist bus is the better option. However, if you enjoy independent travel, cultural immersion, and authentic local experiences, travelling by public bus is a rewarding way to discover Nepal beyond the typical tourist trail.
For adventurous travelers, a journey on a Nepali public bus is more than just transportation—it’s an opportunity to experience the country’s culture, hospitality, and everyday life firsthand.
Getting to Chitwan National Park from Bharatpur
Chitwan National Park is located in the south-central region of Nepal, and Bharatpur serves as the district’s main city. As the fourth-largest city in Nepal, Bharatpur is a major transportation hub with excellent road connections to Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lumbini, and other parts of the country.
If you are travelling to Chitwan National Park by road from another region of Nepal, your journey will usually end in Bharatpur before continuing to Sauraha, the main tourist gateway to the national park.
Distance from Bharatpur to Sauraha
Sauraha, where the main entrance to Chitwan National Park is located, is approximately 20 km from Bharatpur. Depending on your budget and travel style, you can reach Sauraha by taxi, tuk-tuk, or local bus.
By Taxi
A taxi is the fastest and most convenient option, especially if you are travelling with luggage or in a group. The journey takes around 30 to 40 minutes, and the fare is typically around NPR 1,000-1500, depending on the pickup location and time of day.
By Tuk-Tuk
For a more affordable private ride, you can hire a tuk-tuk (auto-rickshaw). The fare generally ranges from NPR 600 to NPR 800, making it a good option for couples or small groups who want a balance between cost and convenience.
By Local Bus
If you’re travelling on a budget or would like to experience local transportation, taking the local bus is the most economical choice.
Step 1: Bharatpur to Sauraha Chowk
From Bharatpur, take a local bus heading toward Sauraha Chowk. The journey covers approximately 12 km, takes around 20–30 minutes, and costs about NPR 50 per person.
Step 2: Sauraha Chowk to Sauraha
From Sauraha Chowk, transfer to a local Magic Van or microbus for the final 6 km to Sauraha. These vehicles operate frequently throughout the day, and the fare is also around NPR 40 per person.
The bus will take you into the center of Sauraha, close to the entrance of Chitwan National Park. If you have already booked accommodation, simply tell the driver the name of your hotel, and they will usually stop at the nearest point.
Travel Tip
Local buses and shared vehicles can be found along the East-West Highway in Bharatpur and operate regularly throughout the day. They are the cheapest way to reach Sauraha and offer a great opportunity to experience everyday travel in Nepal.
Whether you choose the comfort of a taxi, the convenience of a tuk-tuk, or the affordability of local buses, getting from Bharatpur to Chitwan National Park is straightforward and suitable for every type of traveler.
